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The Cadillac Series #2
The Red-Hot Chili Cook-Off
In small-town Cadillac, Texas, Carlene Lovelle and her cousins' fancy panty business, Bless My Bloomers, is booming. But irony strikes when Carlene discovers another woman's silk bikini underwear in her husband's briefcase. Lenny Joe hasn't just crossed the line, he's left it in his dust, so Carlene's taking her revenge to the kitchen.
For ten years, Lenny Joe's team has dominated Cadillac's Red-Hot Chili Cook-Off. But with Carlene's Bless My Bloomers team now in the ring, it's anyone's game—and when there's pride and food involved, things are bound to get messy.
For ten years, Lenny Joe's team has dominated Cadillac's Red-Hot Chili Cook-Off. But with Carlene's Bless My Bloomers team now in the ring, it's anyone's game—and when there's pride and food involved, things are bound to get messy.
320 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2014
4328 people are currently reading
1667 people want to read
About the author
Carolyn Brown
181 books4,114 followersHi! I'm twenty five years old and movie star gorgeous. The camera added thirty plus years and a few wrinkles. Can't trust those cameras or mirrors either. Along with bathroom scales they are notorious liars! Honestly, I am the mother of three fantastic grown children who've made me laugh and given me more story ideas than I could ever write. My husband, Charles, is my strongest supporter and my best friend. He's even willing to eat fast food and help with the laundry while I finish one more chapter! Life is good and I am blessed!
Reading has been a passion since I was five years old and figured out those were words on book pages. As soon as my chubby little fingers found they could put words on a Big Chief tablet with a fat pencil, I was on my way. Writing joined reading in my list of passions. I will read anything from the back of the Cheerio's box to Faulkner and love every bit of it. In addition to reading I enjoy cooking, my family and the ocean. I love the Florida beaches. Listening to the ocean waves puts my writing brain into high gear.
I love writing romance because it's about emotions and relationships. Human nature hasn't changed a bit since Eve coveted the fruit in the Garden of Eden. Settings change. Plots change. Names change. Times change. But love is love and men and women have been falling in and out of it forever. Romance is about emotions: love, hate, anger, laughter... all of it. If I can make you laugh until your sides ache or grab a tissue then I've touched your emotions and accomplished what every writer sets out to do.
I got serious about writing when my third child was born and had her days and nights mixed up. I had to stay up all night anyway and it was very quiet so I invested in a spiral back notebook and sharpened a few pencils. The story that emerged has never sold but it's brought in enough rejection slips to put the Redwood Forest on the endangered list. In 1997 Kensington bought two books for their Precious Gems line. Two years and six books later the line died with only four of those books seeing publication. But by then Avalon had bought a book and another, and another. Ten years later the list has grown to thirty nine. Last year Sourcebooks bought the Lucky Series which is in the bookstores now. They've also bought The Honky Tonk Series which will debut with I LOVE THIS BAR in June and will be followed by HELL, YEAH, MY GIVE A DAMN'S BUSTED, and HONKY TONK CHRISTMAS.
Folks ask me where I get my ideas. Three kids, fifteen grandchildren, two great grandchildren. Note: I was a very young grandmother! Life is a zoo around here when they all come home. In one Sunday afternoon there's enough ideas to keep me writing for years and years. Seriously, ideas pop up at the craziest times. When one sinks its roots into my mind, I have no choice but to write the story. And while I'm writing the characters peek over my shoulder and make sure I'm telling it right and not exaggerating too much. Pesky little devils, they are!
I have a wonderful agent, Erin Niumata, who continues to work magic and sell my work. I'm very lucky to have her and my editors who continue to believe in me.
Happy reading!
Reading has been a passion since I was five years old and figured out those were words on book pages. As soon as my chubby little fingers found they could put words on a Big Chief tablet with a fat pencil, I was on my way. Writing joined reading in my list of passions. I will read anything from the back of the Cheerio's box to Faulkner and love every bit of it. In addition to reading I enjoy cooking, my family and the ocean. I love the Florida beaches. Listening to the ocean waves puts my writing brain into high gear.
I love writing romance because it's about emotions and relationships. Human nature hasn't changed a bit since Eve coveted the fruit in the Garden of Eden. Settings change. Plots change. Names change. Times change. But love is love and men and women have been falling in and out of it forever. Romance is about emotions: love, hate, anger, laughter... all of it. If I can make you laugh until your sides ache or grab a tissue then I've touched your emotions and accomplished what every writer sets out to do.
I got serious about writing when my third child was born and had her days and nights mixed up. I had to stay up all night anyway and it was very quiet so I invested in a spiral back notebook and sharpened a few pencils. The story that emerged has never sold but it's brought in enough rejection slips to put the Redwood Forest on the endangered list. In 1997 Kensington bought two books for their Precious Gems line. Two years and six books later the line died with only four of those books seeing publication. But by then Avalon had bought a book and another, and another. Ten years later the list has grown to thirty nine. Last year Sourcebooks bought the Lucky Series which is in the bookstores now. They've also bought The Honky Tonk Series which will debut with I LOVE THIS BAR in June and will be followed by HELL, YEAH, MY GIVE A DAMN'S BUSTED, and HONKY TONK CHRISTMAS.
Folks ask me where I get my ideas. Three kids, fifteen grandchildren, two great grandchildren. Note: I was a very young grandmother! Life is a zoo around here when they all come home. In one Sunday afternoon there's enough ideas to keep me writing for years and years. Seriously, ideas pop up at the craziest times. When one sinks its roots into my mind, I have no choice but to write the story. And while I'm writing the characters peek over my shoulder and make sure I'm telling it right and not exaggerating too much. Pesky little devils, they are!
I have a wonderful agent, Erin Niumata, who continues to work magic and sell my work. I'm very lucky to have her and my editors who continue to believe in me.
Happy reading!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 298 reviews
June 14, 2019
Carolyn Brown once again had me laughing my head off with A Heap of Texas Trouble! It was a wonderful mix of family, friends and love!
I felt the acute sting of betrayal, right along with Carlene when she finds out her husband of five years, Lenny, has been cheating on her! Yes she’s hurt, but Carlene doesn’t plan on just lying down and taking it! I was thrilled that Carlene had her family’s support, her mother, aunts and Cousin Patrice. Cousin Alma Grace is another story, and I wanted to strangle some sense into that woman for a lot of the book! All the rest of the family is in Carlene’s corner, ready to hide the body if she decides to kill that scumbag Lenny! Carlene opts for a much tamer revenge: win the Red-Hot Chili Cook-Off and steal the much prized trophy away from Lenny, and hilarity ensues!
There are several story threads in this book, and every one of them were highly entertaining. There’s romance for the cousins, Carlene, Patrice, and Alma Grace; even though it wasn’t the complete focus, all of them are a sweet treat! Carlene’s mother and two sisters head the team to win the Chili Cook-Off even though none of them are much good at cooking, (the results are pretty funny and scary at the same time) they pull together to search for the perfect Chili recipe. Agnes and Violet take opposing sides in Carlene’s breakup, but it wouldn’t take much to keep enmity burning between them.
I think this is the funniest book of the series and I was giggling all over the place while reading this story! Agnes Flynn, the crafty old lady and loyal friend, (thankfully she’s on Carlene’s side!) is back, and her wars with Violet, the other old crone in town, always make me laugh! Aunt Tansy’s psychic powers assisted by her inspirational bird, Dakshani, were funny as hell! Kitty, Lenny’s horrible mother, was a pain in the butt for all of Carlene’s family, but the confrontations were priceless!
A Heap of Texas Trouble can be read and enjoyed as a stand-alone, but I would definitely read it before The Yellow Rose Beauty Shop to appreciate some of the history of the Agnes/Violet wars. I read the series out of order and now I’d like to go back and re-read The Yellow Rose Beauty Shop. If you want a book to make you laugh and warm your heart, A Heap of Texas Trouble is definitely your story!
A copy was kindly provided by Sourcebooks Casablanco in exchange for an honest review.
I felt the acute sting of betrayal, right along with Carlene when she finds out her husband of five years, Lenny, has been cheating on her! Yes she’s hurt, but Carlene doesn’t plan on just lying down and taking it! I was thrilled that Carlene had her family’s support, her mother, aunts and Cousin Patrice. Cousin Alma Grace is another story, and I wanted to strangle some sense into that woman for a lot of the book! All the rest of the family is in Carlene’s corner, ready to hide the body if she decides to kill that scumbag Lenny! Carlene opts for a much tamer revenge: win the Red-Hot Chili Cook-Off and steal the much prized trophy away from Lenny, and hilarity ensues!
There are several story threads in this book, and every one of them were highly entertaining. There’s romance for the cousins, Carlene, Patrice, and Alma Grace; even though it wasn’t the complete focus, all of them are a sweet treat! Carlene’s mother and two sisters head the team to win the Chili Cook-Off even though none of them are much good at cooking, (the results are pretty funny and scary at the same time) they pull together to search for the perfect Chili recipe. Agnes and Violet take opposing sides in Carlene’s breakup, but it wouldn’t take much to keep enmity burning between them.
I think this is the funniest book of the series and I was giggling all over the place while reading this story! Agnes Flynn, the crafty old lady and loyal friend, (thankfully she’s on Carlene’s side!) is back, and her wars with Violet, the other old crone in town, always make me laugh! Aunt Tansy’s psychic powers assisted by her inspirational bird, Dakshani, were funny as hell! Kitty, Lenny’s horrible mother, was a pain in the butt for all of Carlene’s family, but the confrontations were priceless!
A Heap of Texas Trouble can be read and enjoyed as a stand-alone, but I would definitely read it before The Yellow Rose Beauty Shop to appreciate some of the history of the Agnes/Violet wars. I read the series out of order and now I’d like to go back and re-read The Yellow Rose Beauty Shop. If you want a book to make you laugh and warm your heart, A Heap of Texas Trouble is definitely your story!
A copy was kindly provided by Sourcebooks Casablanco in exchange for an honest review.
October 30, 2016
DNF at 27%
I was all over this premise. It sounded fun and fluffy and I was waiting for the perfect time to start it because I was certain I would love it.
There were several POVs within the first 5%. But then throw in a lot of family members {all who eventually got a POV}, a lot of praying and mentions of God, and a push for one of MCs to stay with her cheating husband and I started to lose interest. At the point I made it to, there wasn't a lot of progression of the plot and I just couldn't force myself to continue.
Overall, it was confusing and quite disappointing. From the reviews, it seems like I'm in the minority, so obviously people who saw something I didn't.
**Huge thanks to Sourcebooks for providing the arc free of charge**
I was all over this premise. It sounded fun and fluffy and I was waiting for the perfect time to start it because I was certain I would love it.
There were several POVs within the first 5%. But then throw in a lot of family members {all who eventually got a POV}, a lot of praying and mentions of God, and a push for one of MCs to stay with her cheating husband and I started to lose interest. At the point I made it to, there wasn't a lot of progression of the plot and I just couldn't force myself to continue.
Overall, it was confusing and quite disappointing. From the reviews, it seems like I'm in the minority, so obviously people who saw something I didn't.
**Huge thanks to Sourcebooks for providing the arc free of charge**
June 16, 2022
Cadillac, TX is one town that I would love to visit. The residents are real, the feuds made me laugh, and Carlene, Alma Grace, Patrice and their mothers are all women that I would love to be meet. Family, friends, laughter and romance made this a very enjoyable afternoon read.
October 12, 2020
Bless My Bloomers lingerie shop (items made for normal size women). Three small town Texas mothers in their late 50's with their three late 20's daughters. Agnes, the feisty 80-year old from the first book in the series. That small town that lives for gossip and spreads it faster than the speed of light. And, that famous Red Hot Chili Cook-Off, entered by "men only." Are you seeing red too with that "men only" bit? Well, the three mothers did and were determined to get a team of women into the competition. It did not matter that none of those women had a "cooking gene" among them. They would not only enter, but win. There were times that I had to put the book down, take my glasses off and wipe my eyes because I was laughing so hard. How could anyone mess up chili? Oh yeah, they could. It was hysterical. And, it all started when one of the "happily" married daughters finds a pair of sexy red panties in her husband's briefcase. Not only did she recognize that little thong, she designed and sold it at her shop. Oh my, what a snowball effect that event triggers. A fun read.
November 17, 2017
This was another hilarious trip to Cadillac, Texas, home of the Red-Hot Chili Cook-Off. It's a small town with quirky characters, feuds, and an active gossip vine, as well as deep family and friendship ties. It starts out with a band when Carlene found a pair of fancy red panties in her husband's briefcase. They weren't hers, but she knew exactly who they belonged to. I loved her confrontation with Lenny as she told him exactly what she thought of him. That scene set the stage perfectly for the rest of the book as Carlene, her cousins, their mothers, and their friends exact the perfect revenge.
First, we have Carlene and her cousins, Alma Grace and Patrice. Together they own and run Bless My Bloomers, a fancy lingerie shop. Each of them is unique, with their own personalities. Carlene is tall, curvy, and the one with the design ideas. She has some body image issues for herself but uses her talents to make all her customers feel good. Patrice is the straight-shooting, foul-mouthed one who is ready to help Carlene bury the body if that's what she wants. She does the books for the shop and helps with customers when they are busy. Alma Grace is the quieter one, who is active in her church and believes that prayer will fix anything. She's praying that Carlene and Lenny will find their way back together. She's the one who mainly waits on the customers.
It's a riot to see just how fast the news spreads around town. Everyone wants to know what is going to happen next. Carlene just wants to get on with her life, but when Lenny gets petty and nasty, and his momma goes after Carlene too, she's ready to fight back. The best way she can think of is to steal his title as chili king by beating him at the chili cook-off. At this point, Carlene's mother and aunts get into the act. Family sticks together, and Gigi and her sisters (the cousins' mothers, Sugar and Tansy) take over the planning for Red Hot Bloomers team. There are several scenes involving their attempts to come up with the perfect recipe that had me laughing hysterically. Cayenne pepper, outdated meat, side effects in church, and finally a need for a distraction made this a riotous storyline.
This is just the beginning of the feudin' and fussin'. Carlene's marital woes spill over onto Alma Grace. The "holier-than-thou" people on the Easter committee at church push Alma Grace out claiming she's tainted by association with Carlene, not to mention that scandalous panty shop. Lenny's mom Kitty spreads rumors that Alma Grace's daddy was flirting with her, which riles up Sugar. There are confrontations over Easter eggs, angel's wings and halos, and a hilarious scene involving a cat, a psychic bird, and a jeweled leash. Agnes and Violet, from the first book, continue their feud with several more encounters.
It isn't all bad though. Patrice and her boyfriend, Yancy, grow closer as they deal with one crisis after another. Alma Grace meets a sweet and sexy cop who has quite an effect on her. I loved seeing her find a man of her own who was just right for her. Now that she's free, police chief Jack finally lets Carlene know that he's had feelings for her since high school. A growing friendship and Jack's determination not lose out this time shows promise for a much happier future for Carlene. I loved the scenes between these two, as Jack is sensitive to his timing. I also liked the way that he loved her just as she was. There are also some marvelous scenes between the sisters and their husbands. I especially enjoyed the one where the men came to the assistance of their sick wives, so sweet and romantic.
The culmination of it all was the chili cook-off itself. I loved the buildup of the intensity as the contest grew closer. The sisters' attempts to find the right recipe were fun, with some interesting consequences. I especially enjoyed the lead up to the final one. I also loved seeing them take on the previously all-male competitors and the support they got from the other women of the town. I laughed out loud as people would "invest" in the team they wanted to win and how each hoped that their "investment" would pay off. The contest itself had its own drama. I loved the comments of the judges about the Bloomers' chili. There was also a very public confrontation involving Lenny where his actions come back to bite him in the butt, with the impetus coming from an unexpected source. The announcement of the winner was very satisfying. I loved the follow-on party and all the little scenes with the main characters.
First, we have Carlene and her cousins, Alma Grace and Patrice. Together they own and run Bless My Bloomers, a fancy lingerie shop. Each of them is unique, with their own personalities. Carlene is tall, curvy, and the one with the design ideas. She has some body image issues for herself but uses her talents to make all her customers feel good. Patrice is the straight-shooting, foul-mouthed one who is ready to help Carlene bury the body if that's what she wants. She does the books for the shop and helps with customers when they are busy. Alma Grace is the quieter one, who is active in her church and believes that prayer will fix anything. She's praying that Carlene and Lenny will find their way back together. She's the one who mainly waits on the customers.
It's a riot to see just how fast the news spreads around town. Everyone wants to know what is going to happen next. Carlene just wants to get on with her life, but when Lenny gets petty and nasty, and his momma goes after Carlene too, she's ready to fight back. The best way she can think of is to steal his title as chili king by beating him at the chili cook-off. At this point, Carlene's mother and aunts get into the act. Family sticks together, and Gigi and her sisters (the cousins' mothers, Sugar and Tansy) take over the planning for Red Hot Bloomers team. There are several scenes involving their attempts to come up with the perfect recipe that had me laughing hysterically. Cayenne pepper, outdated meat, side effects in church, and finally a need for a distraction made this a riotous storyline.
This is just the beginning of the feudin' and fussin'. Carlene's marital woes spill over onto Alma Grace. The "holier-than-thou" people on the Easter committee at church push Alma Grace out claiming she's tainted by association with Carlene, not to mention that scandalous panty shop. Lenny's mom Kitty spreads rumors that Alma Grace's daddy was flirting with her, which riles up Sugar. There are confrontations over Easter eggs, angel's wings and halos, and a hilarious scene involving a cat, a psychic bird, and a jeweled leash. Agnes and Violet, from the first book, continue their feud with several more encounters.
It isn't all bad though. Patrice and her boyfriend, Yancy, grow closer as they deal with one crisis after another. Alma Grace meets a sweet and sexy cop who has quite an effect on her. I loved seeing her find a man of her own who was just right for her. Now that she's free, police chief Jack finally lets Carlene know that he's had feelings for her since high school. A growing friendship and Jack's determination not lose out this time shows promise for a much happier future for Carlene. I loved the scenes between these two, as Jack is sensitive to his timing. I also liked the way that he loved her just as she was. There are also some marvelous scenes between the sisters and their husbands. I especially enjoyed the one where the men came to the assistance of their sick wives, so sweet and romantic.
The culmination of it all was the chili cook-off itself. I loved the buildup of the intensity as the contest grew closer. The sisters' attempts to find the right recipe were fun, with some interesting consequences. I especially enjoyed the lead up to the final one. I also loved seeing them take on the previously all-male competitors and the support they got from the other women of the town. I laughed out loud as people would "invest" in the team they wanted to win and how each hoped that their "investment" would pay off. The contest itself had its own drama. I loved the comments of the judges about the Bloomers' chili. There was also a very public confrontation involving Lenny where his actions come back to bite him in the butt, with the impetus coming from an unexpected source. The announcement of the winner was very satisfying. I loved the follow-on party and all the little scenes with the main characters.
November 4, 2019
Spotlight & Mini Review!
The Shop on Main Street
By Carolyn Brown
Steel Magnolias meets The Ya Ya Sisterhood from New York Times bestseller Carolyn Brown
Carlene Lovelle, owner of Bless My Bloomers lingerie shop, has everything she's ever wanted: a loving husband, a successful small town business, and great friends who never disappoint.
However, that all changes when Carlene finds a pair of sexy red panties in her husband's briefcase.She knows exactly who those panties belong to—they were purchased from her very own shop.
Carlene is shocked. Her marriage is over, her life in a tailspin. She's humiliated, upset and heartbroken, but it's time to move on to the anger stage of grieving.
Carlene finds that she has all she needs as the ladies of this small town rally around and teach her that revenge is a dish best served red-hot.
(Previously published as The Red-Hot Chili Cook-Off and A Heap of Texas Trouble.)
Purchase Links:
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2NajmUd
B&N: http://bit.ly/2NbT0ky
IndieBound: http://bit.ly/2NcZDTQ
Apple: https://apple.co/2NcB0Xt
Kobo: http://bit.ly/2Na7uBJ
BAM: http://bit.ly/2Na8fL5
Author Website: www.carolynbrownbooks.com
Rafflecopter:
Link: http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/disp...
Thank you @Sourcebookscasa
for a complimentary copy which
I voluntarily reviewed. All
opinions expressed are my own.
*REVIEW* 💛💛💛.5
Although I did enjoy reading The Shop On Main Street, I was confused and frustrated by it at times. Carlene is a woman scorned, basically, and she has to put her life back together. Through the help of friends, things progress in interesting and chaotic ways. The story is entertaining and engaging with fun moments, definitely reminiscent of Steel Magnolias and Fried Green Tomatoes. I felt the plot could have been tighter and better developed. This story is not bad, but I don't think it lived up to its full potential. It's a testament to friends, love, loss, trust and hope. The story is charmingly southern.
The Shop on Main Street
By Carolyn Brown
Steel Magnolias meets The Ya Ya Sisterhood from New York Times bestseller Carolyn Brown
Carlene Lovelle, owner of Bless My Bloomers lingerie shop, has everything she's ever wanted: a loving husband, a successful small town business, and great friends who never disappoint.
However, that all changes when Carlene finds a pair of sexy red panties in her husband's briefcase.She knows exactly who those panties belong to—they were purchased from her very own shop.
Carlene is shocked. Her marriage is over, her life in a tailspin. She's humiliated, upset and heartbroken, but it's time to move on to the anger stage of grieving.
Carlene finds that she has all she needs as the ladies of this small town rally around and teach her that revenge is a dish best served red-hot.
(Previously published as The Red-Hot Chili Cook-Off and A Heap of Texas Trouble.)
Purchase Links:
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2NajmUd
B&N: http://bit.ly/2NbT0ky
IndieBound: http://bit.ly/2NcZDTQ
Apple: https://apple.co/2NcB0Xt
Kobo: http://bit.ly/2Na7uBJ
BAM: http://bit.ly/2Na8fL5
Author Website: www.carolynbrownbooks.com
Rafflecopter:
Link: http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/disp...
Thank you @Sourcebookscasa
for a complimentary copy which
I voluntarily reviewed. All
opinions expressed are my own.
*REVIEW* 💛💛💛.5
Although I did enjoy reading The Shop On Main Street, I was confused and frustrated by it at times. Carlene is a woman scorned, basically, and she has to put her life back together. Through the help of friends, things progress in interesting and chaotic ways. The story is entertaining and engaging with fun moments, definitely reminiscent of Steel Magnolias and Fried Green Tomatoes. I felt the plot could have been tighter and better developed. This story is not bad, but I don't think it lived up to its full potential. It's a testament to friends, love, loss, trust and hope. The story is charmingly southern.
April 2, 2014
I want to move to Cadillac,Texas and have Miz Agnes on my side when things get sticky. Just like Carlene Lovelle did when her dirt bag husband cheated on her with a hussy that bought her red lingerie from Carlene at the Bless Me Bloomers boutique that Carlene owns with her two cousins. When cousin Patrice finds out what that that lying cheating husband of Carlene's did she is ready to take him out to the back forty and bury him where no one can find him. And cousin Alma Grace just starts praying that Lenny can mend his cheating ways. But Carlene is having none of that, she is going to get even and beat him at the Chili Cook-off and take his reign as King of the Chili Cook-off by becoming the first women's team in all of Cadillac history to beat him.. And when the sister Fannin find out what Carlene's cheating husband has done, war is declared and these mamas to Carlene, Patrice and Alma Grace shoot first and take names later. And Miz Anges just adds fuel to the fire.
This book had me laughing out loud and cheering for Carlene and her posse to take down a lying cheating husband. If you never read anything this month, go out and get this book that will cure the winter blues and bring a spring into your step...
I give this books a 5++++ Stars...
This book had me laughing out loud and cheering for Carlene and her posse to take down a lying cheating husband. If you never read anything this month, go out and get this book that will cure the winter blues and bring a spring into your step...
I give this books a 5++++ Stars...
August 28, 2023
Discovering a pair of hot as sin sexy red panties in her husband's briefcase is enough to rock Carlene's world and that of the rest of small town, Cadillac, Texas. An old feud, new chances, importance of friendship, family and a contest for the ages heat up the end of summer for three cousins and their mamas. I keep saying just how Carolyn Brown's stories take me to a good place. I am nostalgic for places and people that don't really exist. It's like slipping into a comfy pair of worn jeans and my favorite shirt, grabbing a tall glass of iced lemonade, and walking barefoot across the grass on a firefly studded summer night listening to the kids play and my neighbors chat over the fences in the gloaming hour. And yes, I live in a small old town where generations of families gossip, snipe, support, and live together (not sure if its a blessing or a curse or both, haha) so there is a ring of authenticity to her heartwarming and humorous tales that I can't resist.
The Shop on Main Street (A Heap of Texas Trouble, Red Hot Chili Cook Off) is book two in the Cadillac, Tx series that is more women's fiction than contemporary romance though it straddles that fence. It can be read standalone just like any of the books, but there is also a flow of an ongoing story thread from the earlier story. I also want to point out that there was a title change just in case someone might not realize this one and the first book had other titles and covers. The Red-Hot Chili Cook-Off was renamed A Heap of Texas Trouble.
Carlene learns her husband has cheated on her with a sexy young thing from his business and has been lying for months about all his business trips and late appointments. Actually, he's been lying for years and she just didn't want to see it. Lenny's mama, Kitty, never liked big boned and curvy down to earth Carlene for her son and neither of them approved of Carlene's business, Bless My Bloomers, hand-crafted lingerie for all size women that she shares with her two cousins. Alma Grace is big into her prayers and is now praying that Carlene will get back with her husband while her other cousin, Patrice, tells her she needs to move on. And Josie the old gal who helps her sew her creations offers the wry wisdom of age.
The town is consumed with gossip of what will happen next. Carlene wonders that as well. However, when Lenny gets nasty with his demands and petty meanness and Kitty goes after her too, Carlene decides to hit her cheating husband where it hurts- the chili cook-off. Lenny and his team always win and there has never been a women's team in the competition. Well there is now. Carlene, her cousins, and their mamas are going to take Lenny down.
But Carlene isn't the only one with troubles. Alma Grace is pushed out of her work as the Easter concert coordinator by Kitty's friends saying she's tainted by association with her nearly divorced cousin and her sinful panty shop, her mama is riled by the rumors that Kitty flirted with her husband, she and Patrice fight over what is best for Carlene, and her life seems to be all topsy turvy since Carlene found those panties. Is that a bad thing? Now she has met Rick, Patrice and Yancy are better than ever, and Carlene has sexy Jack now speaking up that he always was into her, but he was too late by the time he got back from the Army and he isn't missing out on a second chance. It's one spicy hot pot of chili that might decide it all.
Alright, this was a fun and feisty story of three girl cousins living in a lively small town that makes gossip and fussing an Olympic sport. These Texas gals kick up their heels and the fun is on. I loved all the colorful characters, the sassy dialogue and the antics. Underlying it all is the importance of family, friendship, and community when all is said and done.
I liked seeing the secondary plot line of love in its many facets for Carlene, Alma Grace, and Patrice as they learn to love worthy men and not settle for less, as they revel in the love of their parents for each other and for their children, and the love of friends, and love for their community.
The cook-off, the church Easter program, and the lingerie shop all made a splendid setting for the story. Bringing back the old feuders, Agnes and Violet from the first story and letting the gals from Claudy's restaurant and their ongoing stories get cameos was great, too. I've already read the third book in the series and it keeps the fun going along.
In summary, these are the best escape reads and I love diving in for the sassy humor, the small town quirky characters, and the antics of everyone including the main characters and their attempts to live, love, and be happy.
The Shop on Main Street (A Heap of Texas Trouble, Red Hot Chili Cook Off) is book two in the Cadillac, Tx series that is more women's fiction than contemporary romance though it straddles that fence. It can be read standalone just like any of the books, but there is also a flow of an ongoing story thread from the earlier story. I also want to point out that there was a title change just in case someone might not realize this one and the first book had other titles and covers. The Red-Hot Chili Cook-Off was renamed A Heap of Texas Trouble.
Carlene learns her husband has cheated on her with a sexy young thing from his business and has been lying for months about all his business trips and late appointments. Actually, he's been lying for years and she just didn't want to see it. Lenny's mama, Kitty, never liked big boned and curvy down to earth Carlene for her son and neither of them approved of Carlene's business, Bless My Bloomers, hand-crafted lingerie for all size women that she shares with her two cousins. Alma Grace is big into her prayers and is now praying that Carlene will get back with her husband while her other cousin, Patrice, tells her she needs to move on. And Josie the old gal who helps her sew her creations offers the wry wisdom of age.
The town is consumed with gossip of what will happen next. Carlene wonders that as well. However, when Lenny gets nasty with his demands and petty meanness and Kitty goes after her too, Carlene decides to hit her cheating husband where it hurts- the chili cook-off. Lenny and his team always win and there has never been a women's team in the competition. Well there is now. Carlene, her cousins, and their mamas are going to take Lenny down.
But Carlene isn't the only one with troubles. Alma Grace is pushed out of her work as the Easter concert coordinator by Kitty's friends saying she's tainted by association with her nearly divorced cousin and her sinful panty shop, her mama is riled by the rumors that Kitty flirted with her husband, she and Patrice fight over what is best for Carlene, and her life seems to be all topsy turvy since Carlene found those panties. Is that a bad thing? Now she has met Rick, Patrice and Yancy are better than ever, and Carlene has sexy Jack now speaking up that he always was into her, but he was too late by the time he got back from the Army and he isn't missing out on a second chance. It's one spicy hot pot of chili that might decide it all.
Alright, this was a fun and feisty story of three girl cousins living in a lively small town that makes gossip and fussing an Olympic sport. These Texas gals kick up their heels and the fun is on. I loved all the colorful characters, the sassy dialogue and the antics. Underlying it all is the importance of family, friendship, and community when all is said and done.
I liked seeing the secondary plot line of love in its many facets for Carlene, Alma Grace, and Patrice as they learn to love worthy men and not settle for less, as they revel in the love of their parents for each other and for their children, and the love of friends, and love for their community.
The cook-off, the church Easter program, and the lingerie shop all made a splendid setting for the story. Bringing back the old feuders, Agnes and Violet from the first story and letting the gals from Claudy's restaurant and their ongoing stories get cameos was great, too. I've already read the third book in the series and it keeps the fun going along.
In summary, these are the best escape reads and I love diving in for the sassy humor, the small town quirky characters, and the antics of everyone including the main characters and their attempts to live, love, and be happy.
April 5, 2014
Across the street from Miss Clawdy's Cafe (featured in The Blue-Ribbon Jalapeno Society Jubilee) in Cadillac, Texas you will find 'Bless My Bloomers', a custom 'under-britches' store owned by cousins Carlene, Alma Grace and Patrice the southern heroines of Carolyn Brown's latest novel, The Red-Hot Chili Cook-Off.
The story kicks off when Carlene Lovelle discovers a lacy red pair of panties in her husband's briefcase, the same pair Carlene sold the week before to a size 4 twenty-something planning a weekend away in Vegas with her 'sugar daddy'. Furious, Carlene confronts her cheating husband, Lenny, and his mistress, at his car dealership, where she stomps all over a showroom Corvette before installing her self in one the bedrooms above Bless My Bloomers. Carlene's extended family rally around her, with Patrice willing to poison him, her mother offering to shoot him and Josie dispensing wise advice, though pious Alma Grace can't help but pray fervently for a reconciliation before she loses her position on the church committee, branded sinful by association.
When it becomes clear that Lenny has no plans to repent for his despicable behaviour, Carlene decides the best way to punish him is to deprive him of the thing he loves most - first place in the town's annual chili cook-off.
Scandal, sniping and sly acts of revenge ensue, seasoned generously with hilarity, as everyone takes sides in the battle for top honours in the cook-off. The cousins and their mother's (aka the Fannin sisters) are united in their desire to produce the prize winning recipe and dethrone 'King' Lenny and they discover they have plenty of support from the women of Cadillac.
The cast of quirky characters thrive on gossip and grudges tempered by fierce loyalties and unconditional love. Carlene, Patrice and Alma Grace are very different from one another but bound (and sometimes strangled) by the tightest of family ties following the example set by the cousins indomitable mother's: Sugar, Gigi and Tansy. I couldn't help but love them all for their smarts, sass, quick wit and crazy.
A lively, warm-hearted story of family, love, feuds and food, The Red-Hot Chili Cook-Off had me laughing out loud and cheering for The Red-Hot Bloomers in their bid to win that trophy.
March 27, 2014
Four stars: A hilarious look at life in a small Southern town.
Carlene has no idea that the sexy pair of red bikini panties and matching bra that she sells to the giggling girl whose sugar daddy is taking her to Vegas, will soon come back to haunt her. A couple of weeks later, Carlene finds that very same pair of skimpy panties in her husband's briefcase just after he returns from a supposed business trip to Vegas. Carlene confronts her cheating husband and immediately moves out. She takes up residence in the upper floor of her business, Bless My Bloomers, that she co owns with her two cousins. Carlene will soon learn that blood is indeed thicker than water as her aunts and cousins rally around to support her. They decide that the ultimate revenge on the cheating, no good sumbitch is to beat him in the Chili Cook-Off which he has won for the last five years. What follows is a chaotic whirlwind of planning as the ladies plot to get the ultimate revenge. Will Carlene and the rest of the gals from Bless My Bloomers win the all men's chili cook-off?
What I Liked:
*A Carolyn Brown book never ceases to make me smile. This one is no exception as the reader is once again transported to Cadillac, Texas. A small town where everyone knows everyone, there are no secrets and gossip is always the dish of the day. Come sit a spell and watch as the fireworks explode when a group of women set out to take revenge on a cheating husband. It is going to be one heck of a cat fight.
*I always appreciate that Carolyn's characters are genuine and full of plenty of flaws. The batch of characters in this book are certainly an eclectic mix. There is the curvy Carlene whose husband has been cheating on her, Alma Grace, Carlene's cousin and the resident bible thumper, Patrice the foul mouthed, straight shooting cousin and co owner of Bless My Bloomers. Along with the three cousins,who are more like sisters, are their pampered Southern Bell Mothers, the Fannin Sisters: Sugar, Gigi and Tansy. These three ladies are true Southern Belles. The sharp tongued, foul mouthed, troublemaking Agnes returns as well, and she is still feuding with the pain in the ass Violet. This is a group of women who aren't afraid to speak their minds, and they aren't above a cat fight or two. These gals will make you giggle with their antics.
*Carlene is the character I connected with the most. She is slapped in the face with her husband's infidelity, but after her initial blow up, she handles the situation with grace and courage. She spends very little time wallowing in sorrow and self pity. I liked how she quickly pulled herself up by her bootstraps, strapped on her big girl panties and found a way to get her revenge without getting nasty. I also admired the way she embraced her full figure and curves. She is a sexy size sixteen and instead of hiding her curves, she opens a lingerie shop that caters to larger women, and all the others in between. Time and time again, those who are out to hurt her call her fat, but she holds her head high. I loved her spirit and I liked watching her get her revenge.
*I enjoyed the camaraderie between the women. This book reminded me a bit of Steel Magnolias and The Ya Ya Sisterhood. You have a group of women who are life long friends, three sisters, and their daughters and a few others. They have each other's backs and they will go to battle for one another. That means plenty of chaos, a few fist fights and some other situations that will make you laugh. Throw in the hilarious Agnes and you have a recipe for chaotic fun, oh and you might learn a thing or two about making chili.
*I liked the romance in this one. Actually there are two romances, but I liked the slow burner between Jack and Carlene. It is just the hint of relationship that starts out with an attraction and a strong friendship. It is just getting its roots by the end of the story, and I am most eager to see how it will flourish. I thought that it was just right considering Carlene's circumstances.
*The chili cook off is the highlight of the book. I loved watching the ladies plot, plan and fight their way into the all men's Chili Cook Off. It was hilarious watching them try to make chili. I don't think I would have wanted to taste many of their test batches! I liked that big blow up at the cook off, and the antics that followed. It was the perfect climax to the book.
*I liked that this book is a companion book to The Blue-Ribbon Jalapeño Society Jubilee. This book can be read as a stand alone. It takes place in the same town and a few of the characters from book one make an appearance, but this story centers on an entirely new group of women. So don't feel like you have to read the first book, jump in and grab this one if you are looking for a laugh. I would recommend both books if you like reads with plenty of spitfire women and hilarious chaos.
And The Not So Much:
*The eighty year old, red haired Agnes is without a doubt one of my favorite characters in the series. I was disappointed that she didn't have a larger part. I kept waiting for her to show her face, and she finally makes an appearance about half way. She is always loads of fun when she is shooting off her mouth or picking a fight with Violet. I loved the scenes she was in, and I found that I was eagerly looking forward to her next scene. We need more Agnes!
*This book has a huge cast of characters. Between the Fannin Sisters and there three daughters, Josie, Agnes, the husbands, boyfriends and all the rest of the folks in town, it was a lot to keep track of. Early on, I struggled keeping everyone straight, but I kept my focus on Carlene and by the end I had everyone organized. Be patient with this one in the beginning because there is a lot of people coming and going and a lot going on.
*Alma Grace was a character that bugged me in the beginning. She is the girl who is constantly praying and expecting God to intervene and make everything right. My biggest issue was that she kept insisting that Carlene pray about her marriage and work everything out. Thankfully, she finally shows some character and pulls some crazy stunts and she sees the light as far as Carlene and husband are concerned.
*I was a bit disappointed that I didn't get to catch up with the gals at Clawdy's, aside from Agnes. I kept hoping that they would make an appearance, but they don't. Hopefully, next time around I can visit them and see how things are going in their world.
*As much as I like visiting Cadillac, Texas. It is a place I would not like to live. The folks in the town are always gossiping, spying and tattling on one another. It would take extreme patience to live in that town, though I wouldn't mind eating at Clawdy's and shopping at Bless My Bloomers.
The Red Hot Chili Cook Off is a look at life in a small Southern Town and what happens when a husband cheats on his wife and her friends and family rally around her. Be prepared for plenty of sparks and heat as the women set out to win the all male Chili Cook Off. This is a hilarious book that will make you chuckle. I am eager to visit Cadillac again for the third and final book in this series.
Favorite Quotations:
"Some men are just born stupid. Some don't get infected until later in life, but they'll all get a case of it sometime. It's in their DNA and that can't be helped."
"I need a drink, a cupcake and sex in that order."
"Honey, experience is what you get when you didn't get what you wanted. And every experience in life gets us ready for what's comin' at us in the future. So don't count it as wasted. Count it as lesson learned and, next time around, learn from it and maybe you'll get what you wanted all along."
"She sat up. Nothing hurt except her pride. "I thought I was in hell when I saw your face."
"Violet don't have any idea when to shut her mouth. I swear that woman's got a magic mirror in her house and when she looks in it she sees Marilyn Monroe or Betty Boop instead of an old, chubby woman who's trying to outrun wrinkles and age," Agnes declared."
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own and I was not compensated for this review.
Posted@Rainy Day Ramblings.
March 30, 2014
I always do like Brown's books, they are just sweet.
In this one we have Carlene who designs lingerie and has her own store. Her cousins work there too. The wild one, and the religious one (who got on my nerves before she finally finally got that maybe some things are meant to break.)
Right so all seems good so far, but no, Carlene's husband Lenny is such an ass! And the book begins with her finding underwear that are not hers. I loved what she did next. Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned.
So the book is about her moving on. People telling her what to do, the whole town butting in. The women entering the Chili cook-off and would I steer you guys wrong...yes romance at the end too.
It is book 2 but you can just jump in.
Fun, sassy, and showing that you should follow your heart...and head.
In this one we have Carlene who designs lingerie and has her own store. Her cousins work there too. The wild one, and the religious one (who got on my nerves before she finally finally got that maybe some things are meant to break.)
Right so all seems good so far, but no, Carlene's husband Lenny is such an ass! And the book begins with her finding underwear that are not hers. I loved what she did next. Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned.
So the book is about her moving on. People telling her what to do, the whole town butting in. The women entering the Chili cook-off and would I steer you guys wrong...yes romance at the end too.
It is book 2 but you can just jump in.
Fun, sassy, and showing that you should follow your heart...and head.
September 11, 2016
I really liked Jack, “Yancy called me a while ago right before I finished my shift at the station. He told me about the cat. So you are allergic to cats? How about dogs?” She shook her head. Official business was finding out if she was allergic to dogs? “Good because I’ve got a couple of big old golden retrievers living in my backyard and house. We have a pretty good friendship going and I’d hate to have to get rid of them.” He grinned." What I kind of didn't like about the book, was that too much was going on, and it jumped from one sister to another I just wished the author had focused on one sister and her man, it was confusing at times to keep up.
January 7, 2021
It reads like it’s been written by a high school Junior who thinks they’re a great writer but is actually so severely lacking in social interaction they don’t know what actual humans sound like when they speak to one another.
Devastatingly bad. I’m so sad trees died for this. Not even so bad it’s good, just wow bad.
Devastatingly bad. I’m so sad trees died for this. Not even so bad it’s good, just wow bad.
April 3, 2014
I laughed, I cried til I peed my pants. I want to move to Cadillac TX (near where my mom lives, no joke) so I can shop at Bloomers and meet all these crazy nuts! Totally entertaining but not predictable. Thanks Carolyn, for another great read.
December 8, 2020
Awful. After 30% I skimmed through the chapters to the end. A stupid story from beginning to end...ugh!
October 22, 2016
Throughout this entire story, I was either smiling, laughing softly, chuckling loudly, or just flat out laughing hysterically! I've read many of Ms Brown's books, but this one, jumps to my all time favorite. The characters have such diverse personalities, unique voices, yet the same Southern charm, and deep down devotion to God (sometimes with hilarious results), family and friends who are more like family, came shining through.
Not only were there moments of absolute hilarity, but the dialog was smart, moved along smooth and quickly, without feeling contrived or forced. The interchange of the different character groups was also seamless, which made the story flow perfectly from beginning to end. I envisioned this town, with these people and their lives with such clarity...they were very real to me...I thoroughly enjoyed the time I spent with them. That's just how good of a writer this author is...she completely transported me to live in Cadillac, TX for a short time. I'm sorry I had to leave when the story ended.
This book was provided by the Publisher and Netgalley, I voluntarily am providing my honest review.
Not only were there moments of absolute hilarity, but the dialog was smart, moved along smooth and quickly, without feeling contrived or forced. The interchange of the different character groups was also seamless, which made the story flow perfectly from beginning to end. I envisioned this town, with these people and their lives with such clarity...they were very real to me...I thoroughly enjoyed the time I spent with them. That's just how good of a writer this author is...she completely transported me to live in Cadillac, TX for a short time. I'm sorry I had to leave when the story ended.
This book was provided by the Publisher and Netgalley, I voluntarily am providing my honest review.
October 29, 2020
Carolyn Brown Never Disappoints!
Loved the story’s and characters. Loved the relationships between characters. Great message concerning appropriate body image. And the story line was so entertaining I found myself laughing out loud.
Loved the story’s and characters. Loved the relationships between characters. Great message concerning appropriate body image. And the story line was so entertaining I found myself laughing out loud.
December 25, 2022
A *rare* miss from this author: I loved the first book in the series but this one was disjointed and didn't really hang together very well.
December 27, 2022
Ultimately a ridiculous book. Didn’t realize it was the second in a series until just now but that makes sense. Took it from a little free library in HP and dropped it in a little free library in BK. Circle of life 🙏
September 23, 2020
Girl power
Love the way the ladies stick together through thick and thin. I love me some Agnes. Funny and enjoyable, heartwarming, lovely story
Love the way the ladies stick together through thick and thin. I love me some Agnes. Funny and enjoyable, heartwarming, lovely story
November 26, 2016
Discovering a pair of hot as sin sexy red panties in her husband's briefcase is enough to rock Carlene's world and that of the rest of small town, Cadillac, Texas. An old feud, new chances, importance of friendship, family and a contest for the ages heat up the end of summer for three cousins and their mamas. I keep saying just how Carolyn Brown's stories take me to a good place. I am nostalgic for places and people that don't really exist. It's like slipping into a comfy pair of worn jeans and my favorite shirt, grabbing a tall glass of iced lemonade, and walking barefoot across the grass on a firefly studded summer night listening to the kids play and my neighbors chat over the fences in the gloaming hour. And yes, I live in a small old town where generations of families gossip, snipe, support, and live together (not sure if its a blessing or a curse or both, haha) so there is a ring of authenticity to her heartwarming and humorous tales that I can't resist.
A Heap of Texas Trouble is book two in the Cadillac, Tx series that is more women's fiction than contemporary romance though it straddles that fence. It can be read standalone just like any of the books, but there is also a flow of an ongoing story thread from the earlier story. I also want to point out that there was a title change just in case someone might not realize this one and the first book had other titles and covers. The Red-Hot Chili Cook-Off was renamed A Heap of Texas Trouble.
Carlene learns her husband has cheated on her with a sexy young thing from his business and has been lying for months about all his business trips and late appointments. Actually, he's been lying for years and she just didn't want to see it. Lenny's mama, Kitty, never liked big boned and curvy down to earth Carlene for her son and neither of them approved of Carlene's business, Bless My Bloomers, hand-crafted lingerie for all size women that she shares with her two cousins. Alma Grace is big into her prayers and is now praying that Carlene will get back with her husband while her other cousin, Patrice, tells her she needs to move on. And Josie the old gal who helps her sew her creations offers the wry wisdom of age.
The town is consumed with gossip of what will happen next. Carlene wonders that as well. However, when Lenny gets nasty with his demands and petty meanness and Kitty goes after her too, Carlene decides to hit her cheating husband where it hurts- the chili cook-off. Lenny and his team always win and there has never been a women's team in the competition. Well there is now. Carlene, her cousins, and their mamas are going to take Lenny down.
But Carlene isn't the only one with troubles. Alma Grace is pushed out of her work as the Easter concert coordinator by Kitty's friends saying she's tainted by association with her nearly divorced cousin and her sinful panty shop, her mama is riled by the rumors that Kitty flirted with her husband, she and Patrice fight over what is best for Carlene, and her life seems to be all topsy turvy since Carlene found those panties. Is that a bad thing? Now she has met Rick, Patrice and Yancy are better than ever, and Carlene has sexy Jack now speaking up that he always was into her, but he was too late by the time he got back from the Army and he isn't missing out on a second chance. It's one spicy hot pot of chili that might decide it all.
Alright, this was a fun and feisty story of three girl cousins living in a lively small town that makes gossip and fussing an Olympic sport. These Texas gals kick up their heels and the fun is on. I loved all the colorful characters, the sassy dialogue and the antics. Underlying it all is the importance of family, friendship, and community when all is said and done.
I liked seeing the secondary plot line of love in its many facets for Carlene, Alma Grace, and Patrice as they learn to love worthy men and not settle for less, as they revel in the love of their parents for each other and for their children, and the love of friends, and love for their community.
The cook-off, the church Easter program, and the lingerie shop all made a splendid setting for the story. Bringing back the old feuders, Agnes and Violet from the first story and letting the gals from Claudy's restaurant and their ongoing stories get cameos was great, too. I've already read the third book in the series and it keeps the fun going along.
In summary, these are the best escape reads and I love diving in for the sassy humor, the small town quirky characters, and the antics of everyone including the main characters and their attempts to live, love, and be happy.
I received this book from Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.
A Heap of Texas Trouble is book two in the Cadillac, Tx series that is more women's fiction than contemporary romance though it straddles that fence. It can be read standalone just like any of the books, but there is also a flow of an ongoing story thread from the earlier story. I also want to point out that there was a title change just in case someone might not realize this one and the first book had other titles and covers. The Red-Hot Chili Cook-Off was renamed A Heap of Texas Trouble.
Carlene learns her husband has cheated on her with a sexy young thing from his business and has been lying for months about all his business trips and late appointments. Actually, he's been lying for years and she just didn't want to see it. Lenny's mama, Kitty, never liked big boned and curvy down to earth Carlene for her son and neither of them approved of Carlene's business, Bless My Bloomers, hand-crafted lingerie for all size women that she shares with her two cousins. Alma Grace is big into her prayers and is now praying that Carlene will get back with her husband while her other cousin, Patrice, tells her she needs to move on. And Josie the old gal who helps her sew her creations offers the wry wisdom of age.
The town is consumed with gossip of what will happen next. Carlene wonders that as well. However, when Lenny gets nasty with his demands and petty meanness and Kitty goes after her too, Carlene decides to hit her cheating husband where it hurts- the chili cook-off. Lenny and his team always win and there has never been a women's team in the competition. Well there is now. Carlene, her cousins, and their mamas are going to take Lenny down.
But Carlene isn't the only one with troubles. Alma Grace is pushed out of her work as the Easter concert coordinator by Kitty's friends saying she's tainted by association with her nearly divorced cousin and her sinful panty shop, her mama is riled by the rumors that Kitty flirted with her husband, she and Patrice fight over what is best for Carlene, and her life seems to be all topsy turvy since Carlene found those panties. Is that a bad thing? Now she has met Rick, Patrice and Yancy are better than ever, and Carlene has sexy Jack now speaking up that he always was into her, but he was too late by the time he got back from the Army and he isn't missing out on a second chance. It's one spicy hot pot of chili that might decide it all.
Alright, this was a fun and feisty story of three girl cousins living in a lively small town that makes gossip and fussing an Olympic sport. These Texas gals kick up their heels and the fun is on. I loved all the colorful characters, the sassy dialogue and the antics. Underlying it all is the importance of family, friendship, and community when all is said and done.
I liked seeing the secondary plot line of love in its many facets for Carlene, Alma Grace, and Patrice as they learn to love worthy men and not settle for less, as they revel in the love of their parents for each other and for their children, and the love of friends, and love for their community.
The cook-off, the church Easter program, and the lingerie shop all made a splendid setting for the story. Bringing back the old feuders, Agnes and Violet from the first story and letting the gals from Claudy's restaurant and their ongoing stories get cameos was great, too. I've already read the third book in the series and it keeps the fun going along.
In summary, these are the best escape reads and I love diving in for the sassy humor, the small town quirky characters, and the antics of everyone including the main characters and their attempts to live, love, and be happy.
I received this book from Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.
April 3, 2014
Carolyn Brown's The Red-Hot Chili Cook-Off is another delightful fun-filled adventure in her Cadillac, Texas series. In this outing, a pair of red panties sets the small town on its ear when Carlene Lovelle, her cousins and their mamas decide to exact their revenge on Carlene's cheating soon-to-ex husband by claiming this year's Red-Hot Chili Cook-Off trophy. Hilarity ensues, rumors are flying and sides are chosen, but through it all, family and friends provide Carlene with plenty of support as she picks up the pieces of her life.
Alma Grace and Patrice know something is wrong when they arrive at work before their cousin Carlene. Both are flabbergasted at Carlene's news that her husband Lenny has been cheating on her for months and she is planning to divorce him. Patrice is staunchly loyal and offers encouragement but both are stunned (and annoyed) when Alma Grace tries to convince Carlene to give Lenny the benefit of the doubt and save her marriage. Of course the girls' mamas, Gigi, Tansy and Sugar are on hand to lend moral support, but things really heat up when Carlene's horrid mother-in-law stirs up trouble with Carlene's Aunt Sugar. The women are soon immersed in their quest for the perfect chili recipe but there is plenty of time for romances to unexpectedly bloom for two of the cousins.
Alma Grace, Patrice and Carlene are as close as sisters but the three women are completely different from one another. Alma Grace is deeply religious and super involved in church activities. Using scripture to prove her point, she prays for Carlene to forgive Lenny and honor her wedding vows. Patrice is a fun-loving party girl who lives her life exactly like she wants and could care less about what people think of her. Carlene's struggles with her body image are resurrected when she discovers Lenny's infidelities and she is the most affected by the strife with her cousins.
The town is scandalized by the upcoming divorce and the rumor mill is working overtime with all of the shenanigans going on. Gossip spreads faster than wildfire and longtime feuds heat up as everyone takes sides in the upcoming chili cook off battle. Cheating husband Lenny's fall from grace is long overdue and the final revenge for his misdeeds comes from a surprising source.
The Red-Hot Chili Cook-Off is a lively and zany addition to the Cadillac, Texas series. The characters are vibrant and engaging, the story is endearingly off beat and full of down home folksy charm. A wonderfully heartwarming and highly entertaining novel that old and new fans of Carolyn Brown are going to love.
Although The Red-Hot Chili Cook-Off is the second novel in the Cadillac, Texas series, it can be read as a standalone story.
Alma Grace and Patrice know something is wrong when they arrive at work before their cousin Carlene. Both are flabbergasted at Carlene's news that her husband Lenny has been cheating on her for months and she is planning to divorce him. Patrice is staunchly loyal and offers encouragement but both are stunned (and annoyed) when Alma Grace tries to convince Carlene to give Lenny the benefit of the doubt and save her marriage. Of course the girls' mamas, Gigi, Tansy and Sugar are on hand to lend moral support, but things really heat up when Carlene's horrid mother-in-law stirs up trouble with Carlene's Aunt Sugar. The women are soon immersed in their quest for the perfect chili recipe but there is plenty of time for romances to unexpectedly bloom for two of the cousins.
Alma Grace, Patrice and Carlene are as close as sisters but the three women are completely different from one another. Alma Grace is deeply religious and super involved in church activities. Using scripture to prove her point, she prays for Carlene to forgive Lenny and honor her wedding vows. Patrice is a fun-loving party girl who lives her life exactly like she wants and could care less about what people think of her. Carlene's struggles with her body image are resurrected when she discovers Lenny's infidelities and she is the most affected by the strife with her cousins.
The town is scandalized by the upcoming divorce and the rumor mill is working overtime with all of the shenanigans going on. Gossip spreads faster than wildfire and longtime feuds heat up as everyone takes sides in the upcoming chili cook off battle. Cheating husband Lenny's fall from grace is long overdue and the final revenge for his misdeeds comes from a surprising source.
The Red-Hot Chili Cook-Off is a lively and zany addition to the Cadillac, Texas series. The characters are vibrant and engaging, the story is endearingly off beat and full of down home folksy charm. A wonderfully heartwarming and highly entertaining novel that old and new fans of Carolyn Brown are going to love.
Although The Red-Hot Chili Cook-Off is the second novel in the Cadillac, Texas series, it can be read as a standalone story.
August 30, 2015
Reviewed by Aubrey
Book provided by NetGalley
Originally posted at Romancing the Book
Brown once again writes a story that captivates you and makes you laugh. The author’s sense of humor shines through the pages. The characters are larger than life but at the same time believable and down to earth. I would love to work at Bless my Bloomers with Carlene. The store is at the center of a lot of the action of the book whether it is when the store is open for business or the women with their mamas are discussing how to come up with the winning chili.
If my husband (that I don’t have but for the purpose of my review I have one) cheated on me me I would totally want the people that Carlene had backing her up. Alma Grace is the uptight cousin who believes praying will solve everything and Patrice is the no-nonsense cousin who rules with her heart and her head equally. Not to mention the three cousins’ mothers are all sisters who are quirky and funny as a trio. The six women together decide they are going to enter the Chili cook-off that has never had women enter before. The hilarity that ensues is priceless. Who knew that cooking chili would be so much fun or hilarious.
I would recommend this book to anyone that loves stories about small towns and families. It was so sweet and I did not want to finish it at all. Carolyn Brown has quickly become one of my favorite authors. I really hope that she gets to write more in this series. I think one reason I love it so much is that the mothers played an equal role. They were not hated or not even talked about. Their mothers were their best friends, the same way my mother is my best friend. Family connections were strong in this book.
Book provided by NetGalley
Originally posted at Romancing the Book
Brown once again writes a story that captivates you and makes you laugh. The author’s sense of humor shines through the pages. The characters are larger than life but at the same time believable and down to earth. I would love to work at Bless my Bloomers with Carlene. The store is at the center of a lot of the action of the book whether it is when the store is open for business or the women with their mamas are discussing how to come up with the winning chili.
If my husband (that I don’t have but for the purpose of my review I have one) cheated on me me I would totally want the people that Carlene had backing her up. Alma Grace is the uptight cousin who believes praying will solve everything and Patrice is the no-nonsense cousin who rules with her heart and her head equally. Not to mention the three cousins’ mothers are all sisters who are quirky and funny as a trio. The six women together decide they are going to enter the Chili cook-off that has never had women enter before. The hilarity that ensues is priceless. Who knew that cooking chili would be so much fun or hilarious.
I would recommend this book to anyone that loves stories about small towns and families. It was so sweet and I did not want to finish it at all. Carolyn Brown has quickly become one of my favorite authors. I really hope that she gets to write more in this series. I think one reason I love it so much is that the mothers played an equal role. They were not hated or not even talked about. Their mothers were their best friends, the same way my mother is my best friend. Family connections were strong in this book.
May 20, 2020
The second book in the Cadillac Texas series continues to bring many laughs and some tears from the antics of the towns leading citizens. Carlene Lovelle, one of the owners of Bless My Bloomers Shop, discovers some sexy underwear in her husband, Lenny Joe's briefcase. To make matters worse, she designed them herself for a customer. Determined to divorce the scoundrel, Carlene wants to hurt Lenny as bad as he has hurt her. Being the big winner for several years of the Red Hot Chili Cookoff, Carlene's mother, Gigi and her aunts Sugar and Tansy, known as the Fannin sisters, are determined to beat Lenny Joe's team, especially since there has never been a women's team to enter. Will Carlene's broken heart begin to mend with the help of cousins Alma Grace and Patrice and their mothers or will new Chief of Police and old friend Jack be the glue that puts her heart together again? What kind of mischief will Agnes get into this time? Will she come up against the biggest thorn in her side Violet? Author Carolyn Brown never disappoints and continues to be my favorite author!
October 21, 2015
Fun story. But I have lived in small, rural Texas towns all my adult life, and belonged to one Baptist church or another since birth -- even sung in the choir / worship band of most of them -- and I have never, ever known people who acted like these, with their kicking people out of the choir because a cousin "sinned" or getting in a fist fight at the church. I know Brown did it to be funny, but it annoyed me. Nor have I ever known an elderly rural Texas woman who would ever consider a gold fingernail anything other than pure-D tacky. If there was one, you can be sure all the other folks would be gossiping about how tacky it was. So that didn't ring true for me. But overall, I liked the story. I enjoyed the characters and the dialog and most of the antics were fun. I will be looking up more stories about Cadillac, Texas.
August 6, 2016
Carlene, owner of a lingerie shop in a small town in North Texas discovers a pair of red undies she designed in her husband's briefcase. They are not hers, but she knows exactly who she made them for. This begins the crazy, but fun antics of her family to get back at her cheating husband Lenny.
This was so much fun. It reminded me a bit of Steel Magnolias and The Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood. The sisters are hilarious, the cousins have a great relationship and the men in their lives (minus Lenny) are sweet, supportive and understanding of their craziness. I really enjoyed this book. It was laugh-out-loud funny, fast paced and reminiscent of many Texas ladies I knew when I lived there.
This was so much fun. It reminded me a bit of Steel Magnolias and The Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood. The sisters are hilarious, the cousins have a great relationship and the men in their lives (minus Lenny) are sweet, supportive and understanding of their craziness. I really enjoyed this book. It was laugh-out-loud funny, fast paced and reminiscent of many Texas ladies I knew when I lived there.
December 15, 2016
No matter what she write, Carolyn Brown's books always make me smile. Even if this one wasn't one of my favorites, it still made me feel good.
Like book 1, don't expect romance. Even if three characters find love in the end, this series is women's fiction and is more about family and friends.
You have three cousins and their mamas. A pair of red panties will trigger a chain of events, like the old ladies living upstairs of a lingerie store where their girls work, and trying to cook chili to win an annual contest (but it end up being so abrasive it drive the animals away and can burn the ground), plenty of fights (including one with Easter's eggs). Add to the mix a lot of prayers and sitting at Mass and a great deal of girl power.
Like book 1, don't expect romance. Even if three characters find love in the end, this series is women's fiction and is more about family and friends.
You have three cousins and their mamas. A pair of red panties will trigger a chain of events, like the old ladies living upstairs of a lingerie store where their girls work, and trying to cook chili to win an annual contest (but it end up being so abrasive it drive the animals away and can burn the ground), plenty of fights (including one with Easter's eggs). Add to the mix a lot of prayers and sitting at Mass and a great deal of girl power.
March 18, 2014
This book is a fun romp through the world of the dignified South, where a group of women opening a lingerie shop is only slightly less scandalous than a woman divorcing a cheating jerk of a spouse.
A fun summer read that doesn't take itself too seriously, I would recommend The Red-Hot Chili Cook-Off to anyone that wants a story that is easy to pick up. It does, however, telegraph the ending in the first few chapters and felt pretty predicable. Still, it held my interest and I devoured the entire thing a few days.
3.5 stars out of 5
A fun summer read that doesn't take itself too seriously, I would recommend The Red-Hot Chili Cook-Off to anyone that wants a story that is easy to pick up. It does, however, telegraph the ending in the first few chapters and felt pretty predicable. Still, it held my interest and I devoured the entire thing a few days.
3.5 stars out of 5
September 15, 2019
This was a decent little book, but one thing Carolyn Brown could have done was put a family tree in the beginning of the book. I got confused as to who belonged to who as this was a mother, father, daughter, grandma, niece nephew family book. As others have pointed out, the writing is not great, it's a little rambling. But the characters are so special that it still gets 3 stars. I'm glad the author has a new book coming out in October returning to this town.
September 5, 2017
I tried to like this book. I tried to finish it too. I made it almost halfway before giving up. I found all of the characters annoying. There really wasn't a single character out of the 7 or 8 women who I liked even a little bit. There was too much dialogue and people kept entering the room at different times so it seemed there was a lot of repetition. I just didn't enjoy anything about it.
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