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A Taste of Trouble
When Liv Crawford decided to pursue her dream of owning her own bakery, it was no surprise that she forgot to add “maintaining a serious relationship” to her business plan. Not when she believes a cupcake can fix anything, even loneliness.
Jake Miller isn’t concerned about being lonely. He’s cast aside his playboy lifestyle to pursue something more meaningful, his passion for photography. So, when his boss asks him to pursue a beautiful woman and coerce her to his office for a disguised meeting—no matter what it takes—in exchange for the opportunity to turn his hobby into a career, he jumps at the chance. At first sight, Liv awakens his long-buried desire for commitment, but his secret mission could ruin his hopes of keeping her.
Despite Liv’s commitment to swear off relationships to run her bakery, Jake quickly becomes her number one distraction. Yet, even her misgivings can’t tame the heat as they straddle the line between love and ambition.
Jake Miller isn’t concerned about being lonely. He’s cast aside his playboy lifestyle to pursue something more meaningful, his passion for photography. So, when his boss asks him to pursue a beautiful woman and coerce her to his office for a disguised meeting—no matter what it takes—in exchange for the opportunity to turn his hobby into a career, he jumps at the chance. At first sight, Liv awakens his long-buried desire for commitment, but his secret mission could ruin his hopes of keeping her.
Despite Liv’s commitment to swear off relationships to run her bakery, Jake quickly becomes her number one distraction. Yet, even her misgivings can’t tame the heat as they straddle the line between love and ambition.
216 pages, ebook
First published February 18, 2013
8 people are currently reading
296 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
March 19, 2013
Guilty pleasure reading at its finest!
Liv Crawford is hard at work making her dream of owning her own bakery come true when Jake Miller walks into her life. But getting Cupcake! ready for its grand opening is proving to be riddled with unexpected troubles and expenses. She doesn't have time for a meaningful relationship, but a playboy like Jake could certainly provide a little stress relief between problems.
Jake, however, has more than one thing motivating his interest in Liv, a tangled mess that could ruin his professional life if he makes the wrong move. When his boss sent him to get Liv to meet with him he didn't expect to start feeling the same way about her as he does his passion for photography. Can two people motivated by their passions overcome the obstacles to find a lasting desire for one another?
Woah buddy... let me tell you. This is one of those books I didn't really want to write a review for. Because it's THAT good. The kind of read that's just like a cupcake. You've got your filling cake part and the luciously sweet icing to make it a balanced read that's difficult to put down. Cheesy analogy? Yeah. But it fits. Gordon is fast becoming a favorite author of mine because she creates a scene and then populates it with characters in such a way you don't forget them. They play in your head like a movie. Liv and Jake seemed like they'd be really cliche in the blurb but manage to be very likable and skate that line between being tropey and unique, in a good way. There's chemistry oozing off the pages and a well built cast of secondary characters support them through the romance.
If you love your romances with a nice bit of heat I am certain I'm not the only reader who will be telling her friends and followers to read this for 'the icing scene'. Just thinking about it makes me want to make a batch of buttercream. And that's all you need to know. ;)
If you need a fun but not totally light and giggly romance to read over a weekend this is just the kind of book I think you'll enjoy. It's sexy and a little sad at just the right moments and ultimately leaves you with a well earned HEA for a couple that you'll be rooting for from that first spark of chemistry between them.
Notes: ARC received via publisher.
Liv Crawford is hard at work making her dream of owning her own bakery come true when Jake Miller walks into her life. But getting Cupcake! ready for its grand opening is proving to be riddled with unexpected troubles and expenses. She doesn't have time for a meaningful relationship, but a playboy like Jake could certainly provide a little stress relief between problems.
Jake, however, has more than one thing motivating his interest in Liv, a tangled mess that could ruin his professional life if he makes the wrong move. When his boss sent him to get Liv to meet with him he didn't expect to start feeling the same way about her as he does his passion for photography. Can two people motivated by their passions overcome the obstacles to find a lasting desire for one another?
Woah buddy... let me tell you. This is one of those books I didn't really want to write a review for. Because it's THAT good. The kind of read that's just like a cupcake. You've got your filling cake part and the luciously sweet icing to make it a balanced read that's difficult to put down. Cheesy analogy? Yeah. But it fits. Gordon is fast becoming a favorite author of mine because she creates a scene and then populates it with characters in such a way you don't forget them. They play in your head like a movie. Liv and Jake seemed like they'd be really cliche in the blurb but manage to be very likable and skate that line between being tropey and unique, in a good way. There's chemistry oozing off the pages and a well built cast of secondary characters support them through the romance.
If you love your romances with a nice bit of heat I am certain I'm not the only reader who will be telling her friends and followers to read this for 'the icing scene'. Just thinking about it makes me want to make a batch of buttercream. And that's all you need to know. ;)
If you need a fun but not totally light and giggly romance to read over a weekend this is just the kind of book I think you'll enjoy. It's sexy and a little sad at just the right moments and ultimately leaves you with a well earned HEA for a couple that you'll be rooting for from that first spark of chemistry between them.
Notes: ARC received via publisher.
February 18, 2013
I thoroughly enjoyed this story! My first time reading Gina Gordon, but definitely NOT my last! I can totally see her being added to my favorite authors list.
Liv has a dream of owning her own bakery. Baking is her passion and she believes that a cupcake can fix anything. She has no time for romantic entanglements. She has a great group of friends to support her, no need for a man, right? She has diligently lived her life to make her professional dreams come true.
Meantime, she is making ends meet by working at a local bar, and in walks Jake. The chemistry between them is instant and fun to read. But I have to say, I really liked the direction the author went with this..... no spoilers though! Not your typical sequence of events. I'll just say, I give Jake some major brownie points here.
But unfortunately, Jake has a hidden agenda that could probably ruin any chance they may have for anything long term. Combine that with a sudden turn of REALLY BAD LUCK that seems to have befallen Liv, and I could not put this book down.
I felt this story was well written and thoughfully executed. It was romantic and sad. Sweet and memorable. I laughed and I cried. I felt the emotions of the characters and that was a special treat. The sexy parts were very well done, and I admit, I have a new favorite scene to add to my best sex scenes ever list! :)
I loved the conclusion, but would've liked a bit more on the epilogue. Perhaps a novella? I'd totally buy it!
Liv has a dream of owning her own bakery. Baking is her passion and she believes that a cupcake can fix anything. She has no time for romantic entanglements. She has a great group of friends to support her, no need for a man, right? She has diligently lived her life to make her professional dreams come true.
Meantime, she is making ends meet by working at a local bar, and in walks Jake. The chemistry between them is instant and fun to read. But I have to say, I really liked the direction the author went with this..... no spoilers though! Not your typical sequence of events. I'll just say, I give Jake some major brownie points here.
But unfortunately, Jake has a hidden agenda that could probably ruin any chance they may have for anything long term. Combine that with a sudden turn of REALLY BAD LUCK that seems to have befallen Liv, and I could not put this book down.
I felt this story was well written and thoughfully executed. It was romantic and sad. Sweet and memorable. I laughed and I cried. I felt the emotions of the characters and that was a special treat. The sexy parts were very well done, and I admit, I have a new favorite scene to add to my best sex scenes ever list! :)
I loved the conclusion, but would've liked a bit more on the epilogue. Perhaps a novella? I'd totally buy it!
February 17, 2013
3.75 stars
A very 'sweet' love story, an enjoyable read.
The main characters of this book were very realistic, in behaviour and lifestyles which I appreciate.
Jake the not quite so perfect hero, has a crooked nose and a small scar - to me that makes him perfect, and he knows how to mess things up !
Olivia, is following her dreams of opening her own bakery, all is going well then she meets jake and he gets under her skin.
She didn't plan on having a guy about, she needs to concentrate on her bakery........ jake planned on meeting Olivia, he should have been honest 'tut tut tut' but we have to have some angst in a book, also it appears someone is causing trouble for her bakery.
A happy and sexy book, ill never look at a piping bag the same again!!!!
For all those that have to know yes there is a HEA.
**i received this book from netgalley for an honest review**
A very 'sweet' love story, an enjoyable read.
The main characters of this book were very realistic, in behaviour and lifestyles which I appreciate.
Jake the not quite so perfect hero, has a crooked nose and a small scar - to me that makes him perfect, and he knows how to mess things up !
Olivia, is following her dreams of opening her own bakery, all is going well then she meets jake and he gets under her skin.
She didn't plan on having a guy about, she needs to concentrate on her bakery........ jake planned on meeting Olivia, he should have been honest 'tut tut tut' but we have to have some angst in a book, also it appears someone is causing trouble for her bakery.
A happy and sexy book, ill never look at a piping bag the same again!!!!
For all those that have to know yes there is a HEA.
**i received this book from netgalley for an honest review**
February 21, 2013
**Copy kindly provided by the author via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
Entangled is by far one of my favorite publishers and Gina Gordon is quickly becoming on of my favorite authors. This is the 2nd book I've read by her in a single sitting, and I can't wait to read more by her.
Gina Gordon does an amazing job conveying the sexual tension and chemistry between Olivia and Jake. God I love a good romance that mixes sexy time and food. Jake was super ubber sexy, besides the one epic flaw, he would make an awesome boyfriend. I really like how she incorporates friends and family in her stories. There were a few spacing errors but nothing to detrimental. I do wish the epilogue had included the dinner.
I would definitely recommend this book to those who love romance, food, friends, and a little suspense.
Entangled is by far one of my favorite publishers and Gina Gordon is quickly becoming on of my favorite authors. This is the 2nd book I've read by her in a single sitting, and I can't wait to read more by her.
Gina Gordon does an amazing job conveying the sexual tension and chemistry between Olivia and Jake. God I love a good romance that mixes sexy time and food. Jake was super ubber sexy, besides the one epic flaw, he would make an awesome boyfriend. I really like how she incorporates friends and family in her stories. There were a few spacing errors but nothing to detrimental. I do wish the epilogue had included the dinner.
I would definitely recommend this book to those who love romance, food, friends, and a little suspense.
September 21, 2014
***This book was provided by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I really liked the main characters in this book. Jake and Liv were fun to read about, and I liked that we got to see their lives apart from each other. Their friends were a blast, and I think they made the story even better.
Jake was supposed a playboy, but the man had a heart of gold and found himself falling for Liv almost immediately. Though it wasn’t part of his plan, he embraced it instead of running away. Jake was a sexy and up for anything; he was just a fun character to read.
While I did like Liv overall, there were a few times when I wondered why Jake didn’t just give up. She was so closed off to him, and it seemed he couldn’t get her to open up no matter what he did. I do think that as you get closer to the end of the book, Liv’s actions make more sense. And it helps that she’s able to open up to her friends. It lets you know it’s issues with men she has, not necessarily with opening up.
One of my favorite scenes in the book took place between Liv and her grandfather, in which this tidbit was shared:
Not all dreams are practical; some are just meant to be dreams. A memory that keeps us going when we need a reminder that good things do happen, even if only for a little while.
I recommend this if you are looking for a cute, quick read!
I really liked the main characters in this book. Jake and Liv were fun to read about, and I liked that we got to see their lives apart from each other. Their friends were a blast, and I think they made the story even better.
Jake was supposed a playboy, but the man had a heart of gold and found himself falling for Liv almost immediately. Though it wasn’t part of his plan, he embraced it instead of running away. Jake was a sexy and up for anything; he was just a fun character to read.
While I did like Liv overall, there were a few times when I wondered why Jake didn’t just give up. She was so closed off to him, and it seemed he couldn’t get her to open up no matter what he did. I do think that as you get closer to the end of the book, Liv’s actions make more sense. And it helps that she’s able to open up to her friends. It lets you know it’s issues with men she has, not necessarily with opening up.
One of my favorite scenes in the book took place between Liv and her grandfather, in which this tidbit was shared:
Not all dreams are practical; some are just meant to be dreams. A memory that keeps us going when we need a reminder that good things do happen, even if only for a little while.
I recommend this if you are looking for a cute, quick read!
March 7, 2013
A Taste of Trouble Gina Gordon is one of those sweet, fun, sigh-worthy romances that are a great escape! Liv Crawford has high ambitions! She has decided to open her own bakery, has saved and worked hard to get the money she needs, has done her due diligence, crossed every T, dotted every I, but she never counted on Jake Miller coming into her life. Liv is damaged, she doesn't trust love. Jake's meeting Liv was by design, for some reason, his boss is dangling the "corner office" carrot if he gets Liv to an important function. Jake never realized he would fall in love with Liv in the process.
Meanwhile, Liv's new bakery endeavor has hit every road block imaginable and Jake has been a bright note and pleasant diversion who she refuses to admit is more than that to her heart. What happens when Jake must fulfill his promise to his boss? Do they have a relationship to salvage? Can Liz trust Jake?
The entire cast of characters were well- defined, the storyline, a definite romance! Great light and relaxing read! Entangled Publishing has another hit!
This copy was provided by NetGalley and Entangled Publishing, LLC in exchange for my honest review.
Meanwhile, Liv's new bakery endeavor has hit every road block imaginable and Jake has been a bright note and pleasant diversion who she refuses to admit is more than that to her heart. What happens when Jake must fulfill his promise to his boss? Do they have a relationship to salvage? Can Liz trust Jake?
The entire cast of characters were well- defined, the storyline, a definite romance! Great light and relaxing read! Entangled Publishing has another hit!
This copy was provided by NetGalley and Entangled Publishing, LLC in exchange for my honest review.
February 15, 2013
This book tell the story of Liv who is in the midst of establishing her own bakery shop, a dream that she hold dear to her heart, found herself to be attracted to Jake, whom she met at the bar where she is working . Unknown to her, Jake is on a mission; to deliver her to his boss in return of a position that he has wished for. But, he has no idea the reason behind the mission. As he gets to know her, he found himself with the dream girl that he has always wished for. However, the circumstance of their friendship is based on a lie and as each day passes, it is getting harder for him to confess and asked for her forgiveness.
This story is about the importance of truth in a relationship and the way it can wreck (almost!) a relationship if it is not handle properly. Jake, undeniably was at wrong for his intention at the beginning, but I can see how miserable he was as the story progress for the secret that he is carrying. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book!
This story is about the importance of truth in a relationship and the way it can wreck (almost!) a relationship if it is not handle properly. Jake, undeniably was at wrong for his intention at the beginning, but I can see how miserable he was as the story progress for the secret that he is carrying. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book!
March 19, 2013
Lame romance. Lame plot. Really lame dialogue. Just because the girl owns a cupcake shop doesn't mean that she has to infuse cupcakes into her dialogue... For example:
"Holy cupcake, that was hot!"
I found myself skimming most of it. There was some hope with this book with the sabotage, but the way it was resolved... lame.
Lame. Lame. Lame. Lame. Lame. Lame. Lame. Lame. Lame. Lame. Lame. Lame. Lame. Lame. Lame. Lame. Lame.
** ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review **
"Holy cupcake, that was hot!"
I found myself skimming most of it. There was some hope with this book with the sabotage, but the way it was resolved... lame.
Lame. Lame. Lame. Lame. Lame. Lame. Lame. Lame. Lame. Lame. Lame. Lame. Lame. Lame. Lame. Lame. Lame.
** ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review **
February 18, 2013
I've never read anything by this author before so when I got a change at getting a ARC I went for it. I ended up enjoying the story very much. In the middle of the book it did drag a little but quickly picked up. I did feel it lefts some things unanswered, but that didn't affect the story.
March 17, 2013
Absolutely Loved it!!! Waiting a couple extra weeks for it to be released on KOBO was well worth the wait!! As a pastry chef myself, I was really looking forward to reading this book by my favorite Canadian author and she didn't disappoint!!! Can't wait for whats next!!!
March 21, 2013
I loved the fact that this story was set in my hometown. I enjoyed the book and look forward to reading more of Gina's books.
November 19, 2017
DNF at 12%.
Got tired of the main characters spending ALL their time imagining sex with each other. I'm sorry, you're grown ass people and you can't keep a handle on your thoughts? I get being attracted to someone, but I have never reduced another human being to sex the way these two did.
So many warning bells with the former boss, it was too obvious. And I'm over the tried trope of "I have a secret that will screw up the relationship if it ever got out/it gets out".
So many better books out there. Save yourself from this awfulness.
(Poor Toronto. What did my home city ever do to deserve such treatment?)
Got tired of the main characters spending ALL their time imagining sex with each other. I'm sorry, you're grown ass people and you can't keep a handle on your thoughts? I get being attracted to someone, but I have never reduced another human being to sex the way these two did.
So many warning bells with the former boss, it was too obvious. And I'm over the tried trope of "I have a secret that will screw up the relationship if it ever got out/it gets out".
So many better books out there. Save yourself from this awfulness.
(Poor Toronto. What did my home city ever do to deserve such treatment?)
March 7, 2013
“This city better watch out, because the new cupcake queen has just been crowned.”
With a lot of determination and talent, Liv is ready to start her own adventure. And with the help of a mentor and a lot of cash, Liv’s dream of owning a bakery is finally coming to fruition. After working her way successfully through the ranks of her mentor’s bakery and being a part-time bartender, Liv is ready to branch out on her own. The pressure is on to make her sweet treats the best, but with supportive friends surrounding her, Liv is ready for the challenge. What Liv hadn’t anticipated was to get involved in a different kind of venture altogether – a more personal one. Just as her business is about to open its doors, the man of her dreams steps in and refuses to let her hesitancy sway him. He’s everything Liv never thought she was missing in her life and for the first time ever she is contemplating letting another man into her heart. And just when Liv thought she was safe to give in to that temptation, the sweet smell of personal and professional success quickly turns sour. Now she must decide if any of it is worth picking up the pieces.
“For the love of all cupcakes, please don’t let this man take my heart.”
Jake is on the hunt for a prestigious promotion and nothing and no one is going to get in his way, but he didn’t count on a sweet smelling slip of a woman to be his downfall. If only she wasn’t the “mission” his boss wanted him to complete in order to land the job, then falling into bed with her wouldn’t be a problem. Just when Jake thinks things can’t get anymore complicated, the “spark” his grandfather told him about is exactly what he finds with Liv. The woman of his dreams just couldn’t have come into his life at a worse time or under worse circumstances. The more Jake gets to know Liv, the worse the temptation becomes to give in to the chemistry between them, but the lies are mounting. Now Jake has to figure out a way of how to have his cake and eat it too before it’s too late.
Deception, sex, cupcakes, and chemistry – quite an intriguing combination and wow did it work for this story! Between the underlying saboteur plotline, the effects of a deadbeat dad, a misunderstood womanizer, and getting all hot and bothered by Jake and Liv’s sexually charged encounters, the pages just seem to fly while reading. Add in a humorous group of friends and many delicious references to cupcakes with a naughty tip on how to use frosting for things other than just eating it and you have the recipe for a fantastic read!
It was refreshing to read a male lead that is sweet and romantic instead overbearing and extremely alpha, which seems to be all the craze these days. This is not to say Jake’s character isn’t instinctive in both protection and possession of Liv and he takes care to prove it throughout the story. And I liked that the lust wasn’t immediately acted upon, so the buildup was that much more for when it finally happened. Both characters are likable and possess a depth that is nicely drawn out in the story. The road to Jake and Liv’s HEA is definitely not a cakewalk, but neither is it as confrontational as I would have expected. A couple events left me wanting a bit more after all was revealed. It just seemed to be that the people involved got off a little too easy. Aside from that, I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know the two main characters and their eccentric friends and wouldn’t mind stories on them.
In the mood for a scrumptious read with just A Taste of Trouble ? Then this one's for you! But beware you may experience a craving for cupcakes (among other things) while enjoying this story.
With a lot of determination and talent, Liv is ready to start her own adventure. And with the help of a mentor and a lot of cash, Liv’s dream of owning a bakery is finally coming to fruition. After working her way successfully through the ranks of her mentor’s bakery and being a part-time bartender, Liv is ready to branch out on her own. The pressure is on to make her sweet treats the best, but with supportive friends surrounding her, Liv is ready for the challenge. What Liv hadn’t anticipated was to get involved in a different kind of venture altogether – a more personal one. Just as her business is about to open its doors, the man of her dreams steps in and refuses to let her hesitancy sway him. He’s everything Liv never thought she was missing in her life and for the first time ever she is contemplating letting another man into her heart. And just when Liv thought she was safe to give in to that temptation, the sweet smell of personal and professional success quickly turns sour. Now she must decide if any of it is worth picking up the pieces.
“For the love of all cupcakes, please don’t let this man take my heart.”
Jake is on the hunt for a prestigious promotion and nothing and no one is going to get in his way, but he didn’t count on a sweet smelling slip of a woman to be his downfall. If only she wasn’t the “mission” his boss wanted him to complete in order to land the job, then falling into bed with her wouldn’t be a problem. Just when Jake thinks things can’t get anymore complicated, the “spark” his grandfather told him about is exactly what he finds with Liv. The woman of his dreams just couldn’t have come into his life at a worse time or under worse circumstances. The more Jake gets to know Liv, the worse the temptation becomes to give in to the chemistry between them, but the lies are mounting. Now Jake has to figure out a way of how to have his cake and eat it too before it’s too late.
Deception, sex, cupcakes, and chemistry – quite an intriguing combination and wow did it work for this story! Between the underlying saboteur plotline, the effects of a deadbeat dad, a misunderstood womanizer, and getting all hot and bothered by Jake and Liv’s sexually charged encounters, the pages just seem to fly while reading. Add in a humorous group of friends and many delicious references to cupcakes with a naughty tip on how to use frosting for things other than just eating it and you have the recipe for a fantastic read!
It was refreshing to read a male lead that is sweet and romantic instead overbearing and extremely alpha, which seems to be all the craze these days. This is not to say Jake’s character isn’t instinctive in both protection and possession of Liv and he takes care to prove it throughout the story. And I liked that the lust wasn’t immediately acted upon, so the buildup was that much more for when it finally happened. Both characters are likable and possess a depth that is nicely drawn out in the story. The road to Jake and Liv’s HEA is definitely not a cakewalk, but neither is it as confrontational as I would have expected. A couple events left me wanting a bit more after all was revealed. It just seemed to be that the people involved got off a little too easy. Aside from that, I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know the two main characters and their eccentric friends and wouldn’t mind stories on them.
In the mood for a scrumptious read with just A Taste of Trouble ? Then this one's for you! But beware you may experience a craving for cupcakes (among other things) while enjoying this story.
February 20, 2013
Reviewed for Confessions From Romaholics
To see review at Confessions
I loved Gina Gordon’s first book for “Entangled” and was delighted to accept from the publicist her second book , which makes cooking all hot and sexy once again. In this case, it’s baking and one special lady who believes cupcakes make the world all better
In this case, it’s baking and one special lady who believes cupcakes make the world all better
In “A Taste of Trouble”, we follow two individuals who meet but one of them has ulterior motives and is trying to keep it secret from the other. Liz Crawford is on the road to opening her own cupcake bakery. She’s bought the place; now she has to prepare to pass the health and safety inspection and then she’s home free. Before the grand opening of the bakery, however, she’s going to spend some time at the “Mac Lean”, her best friend Patti’s family bar. Patti’s family has become her second family and they want the best for her, but think she needs that “special guy” in her life and, by chance, she meets him at the bar.
During the night, a drunk, rude, regular customer is abusive because he thinks he had lousy service. Jake steps in before things get to ugly. Jake and Liz have an instant attraction but Jake has an ulterior motive. Jake’s boss wants to meet Liz and won’t say why except that he tried before and she turned him down. Jake works for a media communications firm so this request seems to come out of left field but the position of vice president is being dangled in front of Jake and it would be the crowning achievement of his career. Complicating the boss’s request is that Jake is falling for Liz himself and is questioning his judgment as he watches the woman he’s falling for have everything go wrong for her.
Liz, meanwhile, is having the worst week of her life. Everything seems to be going wrong for her business and if it wasn’t for Jake, and her friends, she would be a mess; but someone is working against her.
I love Austin (Ozzie), I thought Patti would be one to push more but she took a caring friend role and Ozzie was the one to tell her to get down and dirty with her guy. She followed his “recipe for success” and the result is “baking that is hot and sexy. Who knew that with a little imagination, you can forget your troubles for a few hours?
4 couples (more like 4.5 couples)
To see review at Confessions
I loved Gina Gordon’s first book for “Entangled” and was delighted to accept from the publicist her second book , which makes cooking all hot and sexy once again. In this case, it’s baking and one special lady who believes cupcakes make the world all better
In this case, it’s baking and one special lady who believes cupcakes make the world all better
In “A Taste of Trouble”, we follow two individuals who meet but one of them has ulterior motives and is trying to keep it secret from the other. Liz Crawford is on the road to opening her own cupcake bakery. She’s bought the place; now she has to prepare to pass the health and safety inspection and then she’s home free. Before the grand opening of the bakery, however, she’s going to spend some time at the “Mac Lean”, her best friend Patti’s family bar. Patti’s family has become her second family and they want the best for her, but think she needs that “special guy” in her life and, by chance, she meets him at the bar.
During the night, a drunk, rude, regular customer is abusive because he thinks he had lousy service. Jake steps in before things get to ugly. Jake and Liz have an instant attraction but Jake has an ulterior motive. Jake’s boss wants to meet Liz and won’t say why except that he tried before and she turned him down. Jake works for a media communications firm so this request seems to come out of left field but the position of vice president is being dangled in front of Jake and it would be the crowning achievement of his career. Complicating the boss’s request is that Jake is falling for Liz himself and is questioning his judgment as he watches the woman he’s falling for have everything go wrong for her.
Liz, meanwhile, is having the worst week of her life. Everything seems to be going wrong for her business and if it wasn’t for Jake, and her friends, she would be a mess; but someone is working against her.
I love Austin (Ozzie), I thought Patti would be one to push more but she took a caring friend role and Ozzie was the one to tell her to get down and dirty with her guy. She followed his “recipe for success” and the result is “baking that is hot and sexy. Who knew that with a little imagination, you can forget your troubles for a few hours?
4 couples (more like 4.5 couples)
April 2, 2013
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review. I rated it 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Reviewed for TwoLips Reviews LLC
4 1/2 kisses, 1 pepper M/F, oral sex
Olivia “Liv” Crawford's dream of opening her own bakery is about to come true. She's found the perfect location, signed the lease, and all that's left before opening her dream, Cupcake!, are the renovations.
A public relations executive at Weston Communications, Jake Miller has a dream of his own, turn his hobby – photography- into a career. Given an opportunity to become a VP, a promotion Jake believes will help him make his dream come true, Jake’s mission is to get Olivia Crawford to take a meeting with his boss.
Working her last night as a bartender at McLean’s Bar and Grill, Liv can’t take her eyes off the gorgeous hunk of a man who’s just walked in. Caught off guard by the bartender’s beauty, Jake finds himself distracted all night. Only Liv doesn’t do relationships, or believe in a happy ever after. She also doesn’t believe she can juggle both a career and a man.
Jake manages to get Liv to let him in her life. Now he just has to keep his secret mission of getting her to take a meeting with his boss from ruining everything.
A Taste of Trouble, by Gina Gordon, is fantastic! I thought the world building was excellent and the character development was perfect. The story’s pace is fast and has just a hint of wit and humor, which helped make the book more believable. I considered Live and Jake good friends by the middle of the story.
I enjoyed how Ms. Gordon developed the characters as the story progresses. At first, Jake appears to be the ultimate player, he’s charming, has killer looks, and a body to die for. However, I soon discovered there’s more to Jake than meets the eye; he’s confident but has a vulnerable side which makes him endearing. I fell in love with him.
Liv is a great heroine; she’s strong willed, self assured, and has a wall built around her heart. I enjoyed learning about Liv and how she always took charge of her life. She had to overcome a lot of setbacks, but refused to give up. The sex scenes between Liv and Jake are explosive and contained a lot of emotion.
I loved A Taste of Trouble and would recommend it to everyone, especially those with a sweet tooth. This is the first book I’ve read by Ms. Gordon and I plan to read more of her books. Now I’m craving a Cupcake!
Reviewed for TwoLips Reviews LLC
4 1/2 kisses, 1 pepper M/F, oral sex
Olivia “Liv” Crawford's dream of opening her own bakery is about to come true. She's found the perfect location, signed the lease, and all that's left before opening her dream, Cupcake!, are the renovations.
A public relations executive at Weston Communications, Jake Miller has a dream of his own, turn his hobby – photography- into a career. Given an opportunity to become a VP, a promotion Jake believes will help him make his dream come true, Jake’s mission is to get Olivia Crawford to take a meeting with his boss.
Working her last night as a bartender at McLean’s Bar and Grill, Liv can’t take her eyes off the gorgeous hunk of a man who’s just walked in. Caught off guard by the bartender’s beauty, Jake finds himself distracted all night. Only Liv doesn’t do relationships, or believe in a happy ever after. She also doesn’t believe she can juggle both a career and a man.
Jake manages to get Liv to let him in her life. Now he just has to keep his secret mission of getting her to take a meeting with his boss from ruining everything.
A Taste of Trouble, by Gina Gordon, is fantastic! I thought the world building was excellent and the character development was perfect. The story’s pace is fast and has just a hint of wit and humor, which helped make the book more believable. I considered Live and Jake good friends by the middle of the story.
I enjoyed how Ms. Gordon developed the characters as the story progresses. At first, Jake appears to be the ultimate player, he’s charming, has killer looks, and a body to die for. However, I soon discovered there’s more to Jake than meets the eye; he’s confident but has a vulnerable side which makes him endearing. I fell in love with him.
Liv is a great heroine; she’s strong willed, self assured, and has a wall built around her heart. I enjoyed learning about Liv and how she always took charge of her life. She had to overcome a lot of setbacks, but refused to give up. The sex scenes between Liv and Jake are explosive and contained a lot of emotion.
I loved A Taste of Trouble and would recommend it to everyone, especially those with a sweet tooth. This is the first book I’ve read by Ms. Gordon and I plan to read more of her books. Now I’m craving a Cupcake!
March 14, 2013
This review and others can be found at my blog, My Written Romance. Just click here.
I am sitting here at my desk at work, on my lunch break, writing this review and all I want is a cupcake. Foodie books always do that to me.
This book was a lot of fun to read. There was some great chemistry between Liv and Jake right throughout the book, which leads to some pretty sexy scenes in the carpark and the bar itself. They don’t jump straight into bed, but they nearly get there a few times except for roadblocks that seem to pop up in front of them.
Keeping secrets in real life, and definitely in romanceland, never leads to anything good, my dears. You can sense Jake’s frustration and desire to come clean about his secret warring with his need for validation. Jakey boy, as good as your intentions were, the outcome….not so good.
Both Liv and Jake want the other, but they are also trying to balance their attraction to each other with their career goals and achieving them. I did like that neither threw away their life outside of the relationship in order to be with the other (although maybe Jake could have done without the whole false pretences bit with their initial meeting).
When the secret is revealed, whoa! I did NOT see the arrival of Liv’s long lost daddy dearest coming at all – really well done, Gina Gordon. I did have an inkling as to who Liv’s saboteur was, but it didn’t ruin the story from me.
After that day, I wouldn’t have begrudged Liv the opportunity to lock herself away for a week with a full fridge of Ben & Jerry’s and a couple of casks of wine. But she did her best to pick herself up and keep going. Being a romance, there is a HEA (and a well-done one at that), but what I liked was that there was no instant forgiveness – there was a bit of soul-searching and thinking about what each wanted. I also really liked that she didn’t instantly become besties with her father just because he said sorry.
I liked Liv and Jake’s friends, and I kind of hope that Brian at least gets his own story. This was a sweet romance with a little dash of spice, and has made me curious to read more of Gina Gordon’s work.
I am sitting here at my desk at work, on my lunch break, writing this review and all I want is a cupcake. Foodie books always do that to me.
This book was a lot of fun to read. There was some great chemistry between Liv and Jake right throughout the book, which leads to some pretty sexy scenes in the carpark and the bar itself. They don’t jump straight into bed, but they nearly get there a few times except for roadblocks that seem to pop up in front of them.
Keeping secrets in real life, and definitely in romanceland, never leads to anything good, my dears. You can sense Jake’s frustration and desire to come clean about his secret warring with his need for validation. Jakey boy, as good as your intentions were, the outcome….not so good.
Both Liv and Jake want the other, but they are also trying to balance their attraction to each other with their career goals and achieving them. I did like that neither threw away their life outside of the relationship in order to be with the other (although maybe Jake could have done without the whole false pretences bit with their initial meeting).
When the secret is revealed, whoa! I did NOT see the arrival of Liv’s long lost daddy dearest coming at all – really well done, Gina Gordon. I did have an inkling as to who Liv’s saboteur was, but it didn’t ruin the story from me.
After that day, I wouldn’t have begrudged Liv the opportunity to lock herself away for a week with a full fridge of Ben & Jerry’s and a couple of casks of wine. But she did her best to pick herself up and keep going. Being a romance, there is a HEA (and a well-done one at that), but what I liked was that there was no instant forgiveness – there was a bit of soul-searching and thinking about what each wanted. I also really liked that she didn’t instantly become besties with her father just because he said sorry.
I liked Liv and Jake’s friends, and I kind of hope that Brian at least gets his own story. This was a sweet romance with a little dash of spice, and has made me curious to read more of Gina Gordon’s work.
August 30, 2013
Reviewed by: Crystal B
Book provided by: the publisher for review
Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
I choose A Taste of Trouble by Gina Gordon because it features a bakery. I have read several books that have a setting of a bakery or diner in the past and they are usually pretty good reads. This one certainly did not let me down. Gina Gordon has created charming, delightful, and charismatic character that I bonded with right away.
Liv Crawford is a lady I would like to run into at her shop CUPCAKE!, sit down, and have a cupcake and a chat. I admired her ambition and strength to be able to save and struggle until she is able to see her dream come true. I truly what to cheer Liv on and support her decisions. She has a wonderful support system in the form of her two best friends and her best friend’s boy friend. Liv keeps running into road blocks when trying to open her bakery. Lots of mysterious things go wrong. Is her luck really just this bad or is someone up to no good? I’m not going to spoil it, I’ll you let find out for yourself which it is.
Liv certainly doesn’t have time for a relationship or at least she doesn’t think she has time. When she meets Jake Miller she unwilling agrees to date him. Oh my the chemistry between these two is just absolutely wonderfully written!
Jake Miller works in public relations and hasn’t really taken time for a relationship. He has been to busy with his career to find a serious relationship or to even care if he were to find someone special to spend his life with. That all changes when he meets Liv.
Liv has trust issues and has never wanted to get involved in a relationship due to things that happened in her past. Jake has a huge secret that he is not ready to reveal. It turns out his secret is bigger then even Jake knows. I so enjoyed watching this relationship grow and change as they each revealed more to each other.
I really liked Ms. Gordon’s writing style and her ability to put together a story that kept me interested. There is some sweet romance, some sizzle and sparks, a little mystery, and some humor. What more could I possible ask for in a book, she covered a lot of my favorite bases.
Book provided by: the publisher for review
Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
I choose A Taste of Trouble by Gina Gordon because it features a bakery. I have read several books that have a setting of a bakery or diner in the past and they are usually pretty good reads. This one certainly did not let me down. Gina Gordon has created charming, delightful, and charismatic character that I bonded with right away.
Liv Crawford is a lady I would like to run into at her shop CUPCAKE!, sit down, and have a cupcake and a chat. I admired her ambition and strength to be able to save and struggle until she is able to see her dream come true. I truly what to cheer Liv on and support her decisions. She has a wonderful support system in the form of her two best friends and her best friend’s boy friend. Liv keeps running into road blocks when trying to open her bakery. Lots of mysterious things go wrong. Is her luck really just this bad or is someone up to no good? I’m not going to spoil it, I’ll you let find out for yourself which it is.
Liv certainly doesn’t have time for a relationship or at least she doesn’t think she has time. When she meets Jake Miller she unwilling agrees to date him. Oh my the chemistry between these two is just absolutely wonderfully written!
Jake Miller works in public relations and hasn’t really taken time for a relationship. He has been to busy with his career to find a serious relationship or to even care if he were to find someone special to spend his life with. That all changes when he meets Liv.
Liv has trust issues and has never wanted to get involved in a relationship due to things that happened in her past. Jake has a huge secret that he is not ready to reveal. It turns out his secret is bigger then even Jake knows. I so enjoyed watching this relationship grow and change as they each revealed more to each other.
I really liked Ms. Gordon’s writing style and her ability to put together a story that kept me interested. There is some sweet romance, some sizzle and sparks, a little mystery, and some humor. What more could I possible ask for in a book, she covered a lot of my favorite bases.
February 28, 2013
I was a fan of Gina Gordon after reading Recipe for Satisfaction, so I had to check out this novel to see if it was just as good. Unfortunately, although this was fun to read and had its high points, it didn’t attract me as much as her other book.
One thing that bugged me was how Gina made too big of a deal about what Jake was keeping from Liv. I think she meant for it to be this big thing that would end them, yet she didn’t put enough emphasis on the issue for it to even be a big issue. Yes, he runs into her based on ulterior motives, and ultimately holds back because of it, but she doesn’t go into how that would affect Liv. I don’t know how to say it without ruining the “big” surprise (which I kind of saw coming), but let me just say that as big of a lie of omission that it was supposed to be for the characters, it fell flat for me. If anything, it definitely gave me a bigger love for cupcakes and their magic, but as far as the plot goes, it wasn’t the best.
The main focus here seemed to be Liv launching her cupcake business and going through the pitfalls of all that. It is pretty stressful to open your own small business and I could see the angst and troubles there. The issue with Jake’s secret was really a secondary, if not tertiary subplot in all this. I think both characters took the whole thing too seriously and I would’ve liked it if it was all revealed earlier on because it turned into something bigger than what it really was. And, in regards to Liv’s problems with her business, it was really obvious what was happening, but not in a bad way.
A Taste of Trouble is your average romance novel and although entertaining and steamy at times, it was a bit lacking for my taste. I liked the characters and the romance was great, I guess it was the plot or subplot, rather, that was a turnoff for me. You know how I am about my plots. Either way, it wasn’t a waste of time for me to read and I enjoyed it enough, it just wasn’t the best.
One thing that bugged me was how Gina made too big of a deal about what Jake was keeping from Liv. I think she meant for it to be this big thing that would end them, yet she didn’t put enough emphasis on the issue for it to even be a big issue. Yes, he runs into her based on ulterior motives, and ultimately holds back because of it, but she doesn’t go into how that would affect Liv. I don’t know how to say it without ruining the “big” surprise (which I kind of saw coming), but let me just say that as big of a lie of omission that it was supposed to be for the characters, it fell flat for me. If anything, it definitely gave me a bigger love for cupcakes and their magic, but as far as the plot goes, it wasn’t the best.
The main focus here seemed to be Liv launching her cupcake business and going through the pitfalls of all that. It is pretty stressful to open your own small business and I could see the angst and troubles there. The issue with Jake’s secret was really a secondary, if not tertiary subplot in all this. I think both characters took the whole thing too seriously and I would’ve liked it if it was all revealed earlier on because it turned into something bigger than what it really was. And, in regards to Liv’s problems with her business, it was really obvious what was happening, but not in a bad way.
A Taste of Trouble is your average romance novel and although entertaining and steamy at times, it was a bit lacking for my taste. I liked the characters and the romance was great, I guess it was the plot or subplot, rather, that was a turnoff for me. You know how I am about my plots. Either way, it wasn’t a waste of time for me to read and I enjoyed it enough, it just wasn’t the best.
March 11, 2013
REVIEW: A TASTE OF TROUBLE is the latest contemporary romance release from author Gina Gordon. The focus of the storyline centers on Liv Crawford as she endeavors to start up her own cupcake bakery after achieving success with her mentor’s competing business. In the meantime Liv meets Jake Miller and their attraction to one another is immediate and something about Liv tugs at Jake. But things begin to spiral out of control when everything starts to fall apart the closer to opening day and Liv begins to suspect someone close is undermining the entire process.
A Taste of Trouble takes the reader on a roller coaster ride for two people who know what they want but have to make a decision about life choices and, in the bargain each will lose something and someone close to their heart. We watch as Liv is betrayed not once but twice by two people she considers more than friends; and Jake learns the truth about his latest assignment when it compromises both his ethics and his heart.
A Taste for Trouble is an interesting storyline. I was frustrated along with Liv knowing that someone so close would stoop so low. There was a twist in the storyline when Liv discovered the secrets from the past were not quite what she was led to believe and the ball was now in her court if she wanted to pursue a relationship with someone she had grown to hate as a child. If you like a romantic storyline, without too many complications, A Taste of Trouble is a nice read. There is also the potential for future storylines as we meet a few of Jake’s buddies who are his current go-to men when his relationship begins to fall apart.
Copy supplied by the author.
see all of my reviews at : thereadingcafe.com
A Taste of Trouble takes the reader on a roller coaster ride for two people who know what they want but have to make a decision about life choices and, in the bargain each will lose something and someone close to their heart. We watch as Liv is betrayed not once but twice by two people she considers more than friends; and Jake learns the truth about his latest assignment when it compromises both his ethics and his heart.
A Taste for Trouble is an interesting storyline. I was frustrated along with Liv knowing that someone so close would stoop so low. There was a twist in the storyline when Liv discovered the secrets from the past were not quite what she was led to believe and the ball was now in her court if she wanted to pursue a relationship with someone she had grown to hate as a child. If you like a romantic storyline, without too many complications, A Taste of Trouble is a nice read. There is also the potential for future storylines as we meet a few of Jake’s buddies who are his current go-to men when his relationship begins to fall apart.
Copy supplied by the author.
see all of my reviews at : thereadingcafe.com
February 24, 2013
Liv is on her path to achieving her dream - owning her own cupcake shop. She is determined to get it off the ground and has decided to focus all her attention to succeeding, until Jake walks into her life and her attention drifts over to him. Jake, with his handsome good looks and mischievous grin, is all set to win the promotion his boss has offered him. However, he was not expecting to be attracted to Liv. Although he tries to stay away and keep it just business, he can't help but delay in telling her the truth because he wants her for himself.
A Taste of Trouble was a sweet, romantic read. The writing was entertaining and the story was interesting even if I felt that it dragged in places. The connection between Jake and Liv was palpable and their chemistry very hot. I found Liv to be an enjoyable character to get to know and her development throughout the story, although a bit predictable, was enjoyable as well. Now Jake is another story. I wanted to love him as I usually do my heroes, but his lies kept me from getting to that point. Although he redeemed himself a little there at the end, I thought he had ample opportunity to come clean to Liv and he just didn't want to.
This is the first book I've read by Gina Gordon but I don't think it will be last. I enjoyed the different emotions she brought to the page, the characters' interactions and their sexual chemistry along with the bit of mystery she added to the story, so I'll be looking for more from her.
I received this book from Entangled Publishing through NetGalley in exchange of my honest opinion.
A Taste of Trouble was a sweet, romantic read. The writing was entertaining and the story was interesting even if I felt that it dragged in places. The connection between Jake and Liv was palpable and their chemistry very hot. I found Liv to be an enjoyable character to get to know and her development throughout the story, although a bit predictable, was enjoyable as well. Now Jake is another story. I wanted to love him as I usually do my heroes, but his lies kept me from getting to that point. Although he redeemed himself a little there at the end, I thought he had ample opportunity to come clean to Liv and he just didn't want to.
This is the first book I've read by Gina Gordon but I don't think it will be last. I enjoyed the different emotions she brought to the page, the characters' interactions and their sexual chemistry along with the bit of mystery she added to the story, so I'll be looking for more from her.
I received this book from Entangled Publishing through NetGalley in exchange of my honest opinion.
March 2, 2014
Actual rating: 2.5 (rounded up to 3 because it was better than a 2)
I don’t know what it was about this book that I just didn’t connect with. Overall A Taste of Trouble was entertaining enough, but I just didn’t really care about what was going on. It was really easy to figure out who everyone was, so the big reveals regarding someone’s identity and what was happening with Liv’s bakery, really weren’t surprising to me. Normally, the fact that I can figure things out ahead of time doesn’t detract from the story, but it did here. I was really struggling with continuing the book.
I think most of the problem was that I didn’t really understand Liv and Jack. They were supposed to be one thing, but were entirely different. Jack was supposed to be a player, but he fell for Liv in an instant. Liv was supposed to be smart and savvy, yet she came off as naïve and guarded. I really didn’t feel a connection to either character.
I really wish I had liked this more. It was pretty well written, I just didn’t understand what was going on. Jack’s motivations seemed so convoluted and bizarre. The plot just didn’t work for me and that turned me off on the characters as well. I’ll definitely try reading more by Gina Gordon though and I hope that the experience is better than this one.
Arc provided via Netgalley for an honest review.
I don’t know what it was about this book that I just didn’t connect with. Overall A Taste of Trouble was entertaining enough, but I just didn’t really care about what was going on. It was really easy to figure out who everyone was, so the big reveals regarding someone’s identity and what was happening with Liv’s bakery, really weren’t surprising to me. Normally, the fact that I can figure things out ahead of time doesn’t detract from the story, but it did here. I was really struggling with continuing the book.
I think most of the problem was that I didn’t really understand Liv and Jack. They were supposed to be one thing, but were entirely different. Jack was supposed to be a player, but he fell for Liv in an instant. Liv was supposed to be smart and savvy, yet she came off as naïve and guarded. I really didn’t feel a connection to either character.
I really wish I had liked this more. It was pretty well written, I just didn’t understand what was going on. Jack’s motivations seemed so convoluted and bizarre. The plot just didn’t work for me and that turned me off on the characters as well. I’ll definitely try reading more by Gina Gordon though and I hope that the experience is better than this one.
Arc provided via Netgalley for an honest review.
March 22, 2013
I first read Recipe for Satisfaction so I thought I would give this a go. I did like it for the most part. It was an easy read with a good foundation.
You felt the chemistry between Jake and Liv right away but her stubbornness to open up and let anyone in got on my nerves a bit and can she have like the worst luck ever. Yikes!
Now let's talk about their friends. I think the interaction with their friends may be my favorite parts of the book. Yes their was some naughty baking/sex scenes but there was something magical about her friends. How for the life of me she couldn't get her head out of her ass sooner killed me a bit. And all because of one man who disappointed her then of course that means that all men were bad. Right ok I could see that if she had been let down before by others or didn't have any other good examples in her life but even her grandparents showed a great example of a solid couple but all she had was tunnel vision in her stubbornness.
In the end all worked out and of course a cupcake saved the world once cupcake at a time.
For more review go to Live Read and Breathe
Live Read and Breathe Giveaway
You felt the chemistry between Jake and Liv right away but her stubbornness to open up and let anyone in got on my nerves a bit and can she have like the worst luck ever. Yikes!
Now let's talk about their friends. I think the interaction with their friends may be my favorite parts of the book. Yes their was some naughty baking/sex scenes but there was something magical about her friends. How for the life of me she couldn't get her head out of her ass sooner killed me a bit. And all because of one man who disappointed her then of course that means that all men were bad. Right ok I could see that if she had been let down before by others or didn't have any other good examples in her life but even her grandparents showed a great example of a solid couple but all she had was tunnel vision in her stubbornness.
In the end all worked out and of course a cupcake saved the world once cupcake at a time.
For more review go to Live Read and Breathe
Live Read and Breathe Giveaway
April 8, 2013
3.5 stars
A Taste of Trouble by Gina Gordon was a fun weekend popcorn read. It had everything I expect in a fun romantic read - a heart damaged heroine, a great group of pushy friends (on both sides), a reforming ladies man, and plenty of conflict romantically and otherwise. I enjoyed getting to know Liv and Jake and their respective friends. While definitely supporting characters, Liv’s friends especially stole my heart, but Jake’s friends did as well. The plot and pacing and the quality of writing was good.
The best part was once the characters gave in to the electricity sparking between them. Although, isn’t that true of most contemporary romance novels? The scenes were steamy, and sticky, without being pornographic. But Gordon took her time in getting them to bed which I appreciate.
If you enjoy steamy contemporary romances with the support of a great friends to knock some sense into the main characters ala Bridget Jones Diary and the like you will likely enjoy A Taste of Trouble by Gina Gordon.
I received an electronic ARC of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
A Taste of Trouble by Gina Gordon was a fun weekend popcorn read. It had everything I expect in a fun romantic read - a heart damaged heroine, a great group of pushy friends (on both sides), a reforming ladies man, and plenty of conflict romantically and otherwise. I enjoyed getting to know Liv and Jake and their respective friends. While definitely supporting characters, Liv’s friends especially stole my heart, but Jake’s friends did as well. The plot and pacing and the quality of writing was good.
The best part was once the characters gave in to the electricity sparking between them. Although, isn’t that true of most contemporary romance novels? The scenes were steamy, and sticky, without being pornographic. But Gordon took her time in getting them to bed which I appreciate.
If you enjoy steamy contemporary romances with the support of a great friends to knock some sense into the main characters ala Bridget Jones Diary and the like you will likely enjoy A Taste of Trouble by Gina Gordon.
I received an electronic ARC of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
August 21, 2013
Thanks to Netgalley for letting me read this one.
I don't know why it took me so long to read this book but I rather enjoyed it. Liv works at a bakery and her dream is to open her own cupcake store. So, she goes for it while doing the bakery by day and bartending at night. As she's getting ready to open her store she meets Jake. Is it accidental or has he been sent there by an evil force? Hmm ... must read.
He's sent by an evil force however he really genuinely likes Liv. So he asks her out. And they make out. And it's hot. He helps her clean a refrigerator which is even more hot. Then weird things start happening with her store. She has problems getting a loan, the inspector is a huge asshole and her flyers and cards all get ruined when they get wet. Jake helps out and saves the day a few times but something is going on. I guessed it pretty early on.
And then Liv finds out who sent Jake to infiltrate her life. She's not happy. I don't blame her. She gets angry, they break up. Then ... Well I'm not going to tell you. GET THE BOOK and find out for yourself.
I don't know why it took me so long to read this book but I rather enjoyed it. Liv works at a bakery and her dream is to open her own cupcake store. So, she goes for it while doing the bakery by day and bartending at night. As she's getting ready to open her store she meets Jake. Is it accidental or has he been sent there by an evil force? Hmm ... must read.
He's sent by an evil force however he really genuinely likes Liv. So he asks her out. And they make out. And it's hot. He helps her clean a refrigerator which is even more hot. Then weird things start happening with her store. She has problems getting a loan, the inspector is a huge asshole and her flyers and cards all get ruined when they get wet. Jake helps out and saves the day a few times but something is going on. I guessed it pretty early on.
And then Liv finds out who sent Jake to infiltrate her life. She's not happy. I don't blame her. She gets angry, they break up. Then ... Well I'm not going to tell you. GET THE BOOK and find out for yourself.
June 19, 2013
Liv had a dream to become a bakery owner. Never did she dream of a happily ever after with a man; not after being hurt by the man in her life that she should have been able to count on, her father. That was when Jake came into the picture. The hottest man she had ever see came through the door at the bar she was working at. Jake turned out to be quite the distraction to Liv, the hopefully up and coming bakery owner. Liv had been through so much hurt and pain from loved ones, she could not handle having her heart-broken again. That was when she realized the people around her were not who she thought they were.
A great love story, this book was filled with sex and cupcakes, what a great combo. If I had to critique, the only thing I would have loved to see was a copy of the cupcake recipes that were talked about in the book. A recommended read.
Rating: 4.5
Heat Rating: Hot/Wild Ride
Reviewed By: Rae
Courtesy of My Book Addiction And More
A great love story, this book was filled with sex and cupcakes, what a great combo. If I had to critique, the only thing I would have loved to see was a copy of the cupcake recipes that were talked about in the book. A recommended read.
Rating: 4.5
Heat Rating: Hot/Wild Ride
Reviewed By: Rae
Courtesy of My Book Addiction And More
June 4, 2013
The twists in this book were crazy but awesome. I did not expect them at all. I love Liv (and yes 99% of the time a cupcake can fix everything lol) and Jake.
Liv has always wanted to open up her own bakery and when that dream is finally coming true, things (good and bad) keep getting in the way. Jake wants to be a photographer so badly that he is putting up with a job that is going to cause him anger and sadness before that can happen.
This book gets 2 thumbs up for not having Liv and Jake just jump right in bed or up against the wall right away. Dont get me wrong, some books that works for, but this one was perfect and Gina is definitely on my list of fantastic authors.
Make sure you're AC and fans are working while reading this book :)
**Disclosure-I was given this book in exchange for an honest review**
Liv has always wanted to open up her own bakery and when that dream is finally coming true, things (good and bad) keep getting in the way. Jake wants to be a photographer so badly that he is putting up with a job that is going to cause him anger and sadness before that can happen.
This book gets 2 thumbs up for not having Liv and Jake just jump right in bed or up against the wall right away. Dont get me wrong, some books that works for, but this one was perfect and Gina is definitely on my list of fantastic authors.
Make sure you're AC and fans are working while reading this book :)
**Disclosure-I was given this book in exchange for an honest review**
August 1, 2013
This was an ok book. Wasnt the best book ever but i enjoyed the twists in thia book.
It was really obvious who was saboutagong Liv buisness from the start. I would have been a bit surprised about the fire if i hadnt read a spoiler that told me that her shop burnt down. The fact that Shelton was her father was a big surprise though. I dont no if it was just me but i was really surprised.
I was a bit disappointed with Livs mum and grandparents because she and her friends kept saying her camily were crazy but i didnt read anything weird about her family. In fact there seemed be to be minimal communication. So that was a let down. I was really hoping to laugh at her family.
Overall this was a good book. Wasnt the best by far, but im still glad i read this book.
It was really obvious who was saboutagong Liv buisness from the start. I would have been a bit surprised about the fire if i hadnt read a spoiler that told me that her shop burnt down. The fact that Shelton was her father was a big surprise though. I dont no if it was just me but i was really surprised.
I was a bit disappointed with Livs mum and grandparents because she and her friends kept saying her camily were crazy but i didnt read anything weird about her family. In fact there seemed be to be minimal communication. So that was a let down. I was really hoping to laugh at her family.
Overall this was a good book. Wasnt the best by far, but im still glad i read this book.
February 19, 2013
A Taste of Trouble is a sweet contemporary romance by “new to me author” Gina Gordon. It is a well written tale of life, love and priorities. Liv has been working and planning for years to open her own bakery and is now getting to do just that. Jake is working a job he tolerates to get to a job he has passion for. When they meet the chemistry is off the charts. There are several threads running through this story that keep you plastered to every page. I will definitely be checking out future works by Gina Gordon.
I’d like to thank Entangled Publishing & NetGalley for giving me the chance to read and review.
I’d like to thank Entangled Publishing & NetGalley for giving me the chance to read and review.
April 20, 2013
This is my second book from Gina Gordon and it did not disappoint.
Liz Crawford is starting her own business and would rather not get involved with anyone. She was hurt once in her life and has a hard time trusting and believing in love.
Jake Miller is trying to climb the corporate ladder and it is all he is focused on until he meets Liz as a suggestion from his boss. His boss believes she is the next raising star and Jake needs to arrange a meeting for him. Little did they know how their hearts would feel and what was in store for them.
This story has romance, heartbreak and great friends!
Thank you NetGalley and Entangled Publishing, LLC for another great read.
Liz Crawford is starting her own business and would rather not get involved with anyone. She was hurt once in her life and has a hard time trusting and believing in love.
Jake Miller is trying to climb the corporate ladder and it is all he is focused on until he meets Liz as a suggestion from his boss. His boss believes she is the next raising star and Jake needs to arrange a meeting for him. Little did they know how their hearts would feel and what was in store for them.
This story has romance, heartbreak and great friends!
Thank you NetGalley and Entangled Publishing, LLC for another great read.
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