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Love, Lies and Lemon Cake #1
Love, Lies and Lemon Cake
Faye Dobson has lost her sparkle. Living on film star fantasies and vague memories of a marriage that once was, she can’t help feeling that life is passing her by. She dreams of being whisked to Paris for dinner, making three wishes at the Trevi fountain and having sex under the stars. But the wrinkles are multiplying, her husband’s passion is for plumbing, and the nearest she’ll get to Rome is a take-away pizza.
So when Faye meets Dan the gorgeous Australian surfer guy working in the local deli she can’t help but wonder what it would be like to see the world. He is blonde, tanned, ten years younger and bakes the most amazing lemon cake. Unlike her husband Dan actually listens to Faye, his smile makes her feel fizzy inside, and when he smiles... Oh. My. God.
But is Faye being silly? What would Dan see in someone like her? Even if he did have feelings for her, could she give everything up to be with him?
A laugh-out-loud, bittersweet comedy about taking your life back before it’s too late.
So when Faye meets Dan the gorgeous Australian surfer guy working in the local deli she can’t help but wonder what it would be like to see the world. He is blonde, tanned, ten years younger and bakes the most amazing lemon cake. Unlike her husband Dan actually listens to Faye, his smile makes her feel fizzy inside, and when he smiles... Oh. My. God.
But is Faye being silly? What would Dan see in someone like her? Even if he did have feelings for her, could she give everything up to be with him?
A laugh-out-loud, bittersweet comedy about taking your life back before it’s too late.
304 pages, Paperback
First published June 24, 2014
547 people are currently reading
1733 people want to read
About the author
Sue Watson
48 books1,536 followersSue Watson was a TV Producer at the BBC until she wrote her first book and was hooked.
Now a USA Today bestselling author, Sue has sold almost 2 million books and explores the darker side of life, writing psychological thrillers with big twists. Originally from Manchester, she now lives with her family in leafy Worcestershire where much of her day is spent writing – and procrastinating. Her hobby is eating cake while watching diet and exercise programmes from the sofa, a skill she’s perfected after many years of practice.
For up-to-date offers and news of Sue's latest books, click the 'Follow' button next to her photo on Amazon.
Sue would love to meet you on FaceBook at https://www.facebook.com/suewatsonbooks
And on Instagram @suewatsonbooks
Now a USA Today bestselling author, Sue has sold almost 2 million books and explores the darker side of life, writing psychological thrillers with big twists. Originally from Manchester, she now lives with her family in leafy Worcestershire where much of her day is spent writing – and procrastinating. Her hobby is eating cake while watching diet and exercise programmes from the sofa, a skill she’s perfected after many years of practice.
For up-to-date offers and news of Sue's latest books, click the 'Follow' button next to her photo on Amazon.
Sue would love to meet you on FaceBook at https://www.facebook.com/suewatsonbooks
And on Instagram @suewatsonbooks
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 197 reviews
October 16, 2016
This was such a fun book to read, it actually made me laugh out loud in places, there is some hilarious moments in this romp of a book. I am about the same age as Faye, so I really related to her in this book. It was a perfect read as I was looking for something light, funny and feel-good. I found it in Love, Lies and Lemon Cake.
What's the book about?
Faye Dobson has lost her sparkle. Living on film star fantasies and vague memories of a marriage that once was, she can’t help feeling that life is passing her by. She dreams of being whisked to Paris for dinner, making three wishes at the Trevi fountain and having sex under the stars. But the wrinkles are multiplying, her husband’s passion is for plumbing, and the nearest she’ll get to Rome is a take-away pizza.
So when Faye meets Dan the gorgeous Australian surfer guy working in the local deli she can’t help but wonder what it would be like to see the world. He is blonde, tanned, ten years younger and bakes the most amazing lemon cake. Unlike her husband Dan actually listens to Faye, his smile makes her feel fizzy inside, and when he smiles... Oh. My. God.
But is Faye being silly? What would Dan see in someone like her? Even if he did have feelings for her, could she give everything up to be with him?
My Review:
Faye is in a dead end marriage, with a husband who would rather clear the S-Bend in a toilet than passionately make love to his wife, she's not a happy woman. But all that is about to change! Faye meets the hunky Dan, the Australian golden boy working in the local deli, soon she is going in there for much more than just German sausage and dips. Australian sausage?
It's such a fun, easy read, there are some hilarious laugh out loud scenes in this book that are just so witty and brilliantly written. Faye's character is really well done, very real, a woman you can relate to as she goes on this mad journey of finding herself and living her dreams at forty-something. It was a joy to read, honestly, really good.
Faye works at the local hair salon and some really funny moments go on there when talking with the girls who are loving the fact that Faye has her eye on the fit bloke from the Deli with the Aussie accent. Faye herself is a bit unsure if a bloke like that could like a woman like her, her self-esteem has vanished thanks to her husband who wouldn't notice her if she fell on him from a great height.
We journey with Faye, I can't share much more but this is great chick-lit, there are some deeper moments in it, it's not silly but genuinely funny and will leave you feeling really happy on the inside. It's pure escapist fiction at it's very best.
Does Faye embark on things with Dan? Could it happen for real? You will have to read the book to find out dear reader, oh yes, I am not telling.
Highly recommended. 4 easy stars from me for this great book. Sue Watson is a talented writer who manages to impart some magic and sparkle into this book.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
What's the book about?
Faye Dobson has lost her sparkle. Living on film star fantasies and vague memories of a marriage that once was, she can’t help feeling that life is passing her by. She dreams of being whisked to Paris for dinner, making three wishes at the Trevi fountain and having sex under the stars. But the wrinkles are multiplying, her husband’s passion is for plumbing, and the nearest she’ll get to Rome is a take-away pizza.
So when Faye meets Dan the gorgeous Australian surfer guy working in the local deli she can’t help but wonder what it would be like to see the world. He is blonde, tanned, ten years younger and bakes the most amazing lemon cake. Unlike her husband Dan actually listens to Faye, his smile makes her feel fizzy inside, and when he smiles... Oh. My. God.
But is Faye being silly? What would Dan see in someone like her? Even if he did have feelings for her, could she give everything up to be with him?
My Review:
Faye is in a dead end marriage, with a husband who would rather clear the S-Bend in a toilet than passionately make love to his wife, she's not a happy woman. But all that is about to change! Faye meets the hunky Dan, the Australian golden boy working in the local deli, soon she is going in there for much more than just German sausage and dips. Australian sausage?
It's such a fun, easy read, there are some hilarious laugh out loud scenes in this book that are just so witty and brilliantly written. Faye's character is really well done, very real, a woman you can relate to as she goes on this mad journey of finding herself and living her dreams at forty-something. It was a joy to read, honestly, really good.
Faye works at the local hair salon and some really funny moments go on there when talking with the girls who are loving the fact that Faye has her eye on the fit bloke from the Deli with the Aussie accent. Faye herself is a bit unsure if a bloke like that could like a woman like her, her self-esteem has vanished thanks to her husband who wouldn't notice her if she fell on him from a great height.
We journey with Faye, I can't share much more but this is great chick-lit, there are some deeper moments in it, it's not silly but genuinely funny and will leave you feeling really happy on the inside. It's pure escapist fiction at it's very best.
Does Faye embark on things with Dan? Could it happen for real? You will have to read the book to find out dear reader, oh yes, I am not telling.
Highly recommended. 4 easy stars from me for this great book. Sue Watson is a talented writer who manages to impart some magic and sparkle into this book.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
June 18, 2014
I was sent a copy of the book for review though Net Galley, as always, all opinions are my own.
This book made me laugh out loud so many times my husband had to stop and ask me what I was reading. It’s a light-hearted comedy about Faye Dobson who is struggling to find the person she always wanted to be as her longtime marriage comes to an end. She finds love in a seemingly unlikely place (the local deli) with Dan, a hunky Australian surfer 10 years her junior. As the story progresses she struggles to work past her insecurities and self doubt, her inability to filter her mouth (which is what always had me laughing out loud,) and move on with her life.
While this book targets a slightly older audience I think many women can identify with Faye and her feelings that there should be more to life. It’s a great reminder that you can’t just sit back and be unhappy, but instead you need to grab life by the horns and make it everything you always wished it would be.
This book made me laugh out loud so many times my husband had to stop and ask me what I was reading. It’s a light-hearted comedy about Faye Dobson who is struggling to find the person she always wanted to be as her longtime marriage comes to an end. She finds love in a seemingly unlikely place (the local deli) with Dan, a hunky Australian surfer 10 years her junior. As the story progresses she struggles to work past her insecurities and self doubt, her inability to filter her mouth (which is what always had me laughing out loud,) and move on with her life.
While this book targets a slightly older audience I think many women can identify with Faye and her feelings that there should be more to life. It’s a great reminder that you can’t just sit back and be unhappy, but instead you need to grab life by the horns and make it everything you always wished it would be.
December 5, 2014
Brilliant story! You will be in stitches from the very first chapter and, if you're anything like me, you will feel every emotion right along with the main characters.
A laugh-out-loud triumph!
A laugh-out-loud triumph!
June 16, 2019
Il pregio di questo libro è quello di essere molto scorrevole ma alla fine non ti lascia poi molto.
Faye risulta un po' pesante, le colleghe di lavoro completamente fuori dalle righe e imbarazzanti...
Il marito viene abbandonato in un attimo e non ci viene più detto nulla di lui, e anche il finale mi ha lasciata con parecchi interrogativi.
So che c'è un seguito ma come al solito le CE non lo hanno pubblicato quindi boh
Ma alla fine non è che mi interessi più di tanto...
Faye risulta un po' pesante, le colleghe di lavoro completamente fuori dalle righe e imbarazzanti...
Il marito viene abbandonato in un attimo e non ci viene più detto nulla di lui, e anche il finale mi ha lasciata con parecchi interrogativi.
So che c'è un seguito ma come al solito le CE non lo hanno pubblicato quindi boh
Ma alla fine non è che mi interessi più di tanto...
June 5, 2014
Have you ever woken up one day and thought is this it ? Is this what my life has come too ? Faye is in a loveless marriage and now that her daughter has flown the nest, she has been sleeping in her daughter's bedroom. One day whilst cleaning the closet, Faye comes across an old backpack filled with postcards, mementos of what she wanted to do with her life including a purple Filofax titled "The Living List". With dreams in mind, it seems that fate is hinting to Faye about the next step in her life especially when she meets the handsome Aussie deli guy Dan. Not only a talented sandwich maker and foodie, he is also what some would call the next "Top Baker" with his delicious Lemon Cake recipe. What starts as a simple flirtation between Faye and Dan leads to something more as the two get talking but is Faye ready to up and leave her life and her husband Craig and experience once and for all - her living list or is Dan - just a fleeting fling and a Ryan Gosling fantasy and is what Faye experiencing - the usual mid-life crisis moment ?
Love, Lies and Lemon Cake is a fun story that targets the singles over 40 category and shows that you are never too old to hang loose and do what you want, no matter what those around you may say.
July 11, 2014
Received with thanks from Net Galley
What a fantastic book. It starts with Faye dreaming about being whisked off her feet by someone wonderful. She's been unhappily married for a long while. She had dreams of going travelling as a young girl- and finding her rucksack with a red dress she never got to wear, a list of things she wanted to do and a postcard of people dancing in New York she finally tells herself that women in their 40's still deserve to lead the sort of life they want.
Her boss and friend allows her to move in and the beautician provides some really comic moments.
She meets Dan in the local deli. He's Australian and provides a glimpse of the sort of adventure she always dreamed of. She starts buying lunch every day and there is a spark between them despite the age gap.
He is keen to tick off some of her 'goals' and they have some great times together.
It was a really heartwarming book that should serve as a reminder to us all- that if we have unfulfilled dreams that we can still make them happen.
What a fantastic book. It starts with Faye dreaming about being whisked off her feet by someone wonderful. She's been unhappily married for a long while. She had dreams of going travelling as a young girl- and finding her rucksack with a red dress she never got to wear, a list of things she wanted to do and a postcard of people dancing in New York she finally tells herself that women in their 40's still deserve to lead the sort of life they want.
Her boss and friend allows her to move in and the beautician provides some really comic moments.
She meets Dan in the local deli. He's Australian and provides a glimpse of the sort of adventure she always dreamed of. She starts buying lunch every day and there is a spark between them despite the age gap.
He is keen to tick off some of her 'goals' and they have some great times together.
It was a really heartwarming book that should serve as a reminder to us all- that if we have unfulfilled dreams that we can still make them happen.
June 19, 2015
I read Sue’s last book Fat Girls and Fairy Cakes and made an instant decision when finished. Not only was I going to recommend it, I was absolutely convinced that if Sue Watson met me she would become my BFF! As it turned out we have since struck up an online friendship and she is one of the funniest women I have met recently. Her personality and humour shone through in a major way with her writing and had me laughing out loud. When I realised she had a new book out, I decided it would be a good time to get started.
With a rather lug cuppa and a few Jaffa Cakes I started to read. I need to point out that my week wasn’t going so well and at this particular point I felt like I could cry. Nothing was going right and murdering my husband had crossed my mind more than once! I figured that reading could let me escape for a few hours. What I hadn’t planned on was this book literally turning my rubbish mood into a great one. Faye Dobson, the lead character, opens the book describing a rather saucy scene involving a sun lounger in the sun washed hills of LA and a rather suave looking Ryan Gosling attending to her every need, before being rudely interrupted by her husband Craig. I knew without a doubt that this book was the perfect tonic. Faye was a brilliant character, and instantly I loved her. Her life has become somewhat mundane what with her eldest daughter Emma now living away from home and her life that remains involves looking after her husband and working.
Some of the scenes and one liner’s that emerged from just the first few chapters had me belly laughing. Sue has a wonderful knack of telling it just how it is. Faye’s dreams have along the way got lost with her day to day chores and responsibilities. Luckily for Faye a new Deli has opened up just down the road from the hairdressers and it has the most delicious man serving behind the counter. Dan the deli man as a character is just the sort of man that most women would love to have as a distraction first thing on a Monday morning commute (shame I’m not a hairdresser). In addition to Dan we meet Faye’s boss Sue who is just desperate to find a new man after her husband ran off with somebody younger, and the absolutely hilarious young girl Mandy who has all manner of ideas for Faye to try (including a legendary Vajazzle incident!).
This book is the modern day Shirley Valentine with a much funnier main character. Although it may not be everybody’s cup of tea it was certainly mine. Sue’s latest release is a wonderful journey packed full of just what the title says, Love, Lies and Lemon Cake. One of the funniest book I have had the pleasure of reading, this is a real must buy and one that I think the majority will love. The only criticism I have is that seeing as Sue is meant to be my new best friend, where was my ‘rushed early copy’? Sue…I may need to re-think your status as my new best friend!
With a rather lug cuppa and a few Jaffa Cakes I started to read. I need to point out that my week wasn’t going so well and at this particular point I felt like I could cry. Nothing was going right and murdering my husband had crossed my mind more than once! I figured that reading could let me escape for a few hours. What I hadn’t planned on was this book literally turning my rubbish mood into a great one. Faye Dobson, the lead character, opens the book describing a rather saucy scene involving a sun lounger in the sun washed hills of LA and a rather suave looking Ryan Gosling attending to her every need, before being rudely interrupted by her husband Craig. I knew without a doubt that this book was the perfect tonic. Faye was a brilliant character, and instantly I loved her. Her life has become somewhat mundane what with her eldest daughter Emma now living away from home and her life that remains involves looking after her husband and working.
Some of the scenes and one liner’s that emerged from just the first few chapters had me belly laughing. Sue has a wonderful knack of telling it just how it is. Faye’s dreams have along the way got lost with her day to day chores and responsibilities. Luckily for Faye a new Deli has opened up just down the road from the hairdressers and it has the most delicious man serving behind the counter. Dan the deli man as a character is just the sort of man that most women would love to have as a distraction first thing on a Monday morning commute (shame I’m not a hairdresser). In addition to Dan we meet Faye’s boss Sue who is just desperate to find a new man after her husband ran off with somebody younger, and the absolutely hilarious young girl Mandy who has all manner of ideas for Faye to try (including a legendary Vajazzle incident!).
This book is the modern day Shirley Valentine with a much funnier main character. Although it may not be everybody’s cup of tea it was certainly mine. Sue’s latest release is a wonderful journey packed full of just what the title says, Love, Lies and Lemon Cake. One of the funniest book I have had the pleasure of reading, this is a real must buy and one that I think the majority will love. The only criticism I have is that seeing as Sue is meant to be my new best friend, where was my ‘rushed early copy’? Sue…I may need to re-think your status as my new best friend!
June 30, 2014
Most chick lit lovers I know, tend to pick the books which feature either protagonists or situations they can somehow relate to. Just makes the reading joy ride that much smoother. So at first glance I wasn't sure just how much I would be able to relate to Faye Dobson, the heroine of Love, Lies and Lemon Cake (need I even say how much I simply adore the title of this book). Once her daughter leaves for college, Faye, a 40 something hairstylists and an avid daydreamer starts to realize how unhappy she is with her marriage and her life in general. She keeps thinking of her pink backpack that once was ready for all the adventures she believed awaited her. As they say the journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. In Faye's case that step turns out to be her decision to change her morning routine and walk into a new gourmet deli. Among numerous exotic delicacies she begins to discover in the deli, she stumbles upon one that outshines them all - a charming and handsome Australian named Dan. He is younger, adventurous and exciting, and Faye's (often hilarious) interactions with him inspire her to set off on a road of self-discovery.
Sue Watson's writing style is light and fun, yet at the same time very engaging. My concerns about being able to relate to the main character went out the window the moment I started reading this book. The storyline, the entire cast of characters but most of all Faye herself turn this book into one of those precious ones you really do not want to put down. Reading it felt like being on vacation, visiting someone else's life for a change. And Faye is one of those characters that are impossible to forget.
This book will a yummy treat for all the chick lit lovers out there and will definitely be enjoyed by anyone looking for a bit of a mind escape (whether on vacation or not) through a light, humorous book.
Sue Watson's writing style is light and fun, yet at the same time very engaging. My concerns about being able to relate to the main character went out the window the moment I started reading this book. The storyline, the entire cast of characters but most of all Faye herself turn this book into one of those precious ones you really do not want to put down. Reading it felt like being on vacation, visiting someone else's life for a change. And Faye is one of those characters that are impossible to forget.
This book will a yummy treat for all the chick lit lovers out there and will definitely be enjoyed by anyone looking for a bit of a mind escape (whether on vacation or not) through a light, humorous book.
July 1, 2014
I would like to thank Bookouture, Kim Nash and Sue Watson for sending me a copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
We meet Faye as she is struggling living with a husband that doesn't pay her any attention and she is regretting not living her dreams when she was younger.
Finding her rucksack and an old postcard makes her take the bull by the horns, she decides to tell Craig their marriage is over and move out.
Faye is frightened with what the future will bring but elated at the same time, I instantly took to Faye, being a Leo myself I saw so much in her that is me it's uncanny. The self doubt but sometimes the flirty confidence. Running away with a conversation and talking for the sake of it.
I really enjoyed this books because Faye wasn't a twenty something bored with life, Sue made Faye's character so realistic for someone just in her forties an unhappy with life. Don't get me wrong this isn't a sad tale of someone who has left it too late to make a change in her life. This is a wonderful story of someone finding what she what in life with the help of her friends, lemon cake, a hot Aussie man and a Vajazzle (you need to read it to see what I mean).
It really is a light hearted fun take on life of a fortysomething, some people have tattoos at forty (me), some realise they have been with the wrong man for far too long and then find Mr right is just around the corner, some stay with the same man but at the end of the day life really is too short and instead of a bucket list, shouldn't we all have a living list (going to create mine).
I can't go without mentioning Dan, he made Faye go weak at the knees but was also fun and firty, with an Aussie accent, swit swoo.
I'm off now to get another tattoo, travel the world and get a Vajazzle, I really loved this story and look forward to reading more of Sue's books.
We meet Faye as she is struggling living with a husband that doesn't pay her any attention and she is regretting not living her dreams when she was younger.
Finding her rucksack and an old postcard makes her take the bull by the horns, she decides to tell Craig their marriage is over and move out.
Faye is frightened with what the future will bring but elated at the same time, I instantly took to Faye, being a Leo myself I saw so much in her that is me it's uncanny. The self doubt but sometimes the flirty confidence. Running away with a conversation and talking for the sake of it.
I really enjoyed this books because Faye wasn't a twenty something bored with life, Sue made Faye's character so realistic for someone just in her forties an unhappy with life. Don't get me wrong this isn't a sad tale of someone who has left it too late to make a change in her life. This is a wonderful story of someone finding what she what in life with the help of her friends, lemon cake, a hot Aussie man and a Vajazzle (you need to read it to see what I mean).
It really is a light hearted fun take on life of a fortysomething, some people have tattoos at forty (me), some realise they have been with the wrong man for far too long and then find Mr right is just around the corner, some stay with the same man but at the end of the day life really is too short and instead of a bucket list, shouldn't we all have a living list (going to create mine).
I can't go without mentioning Dan, he made Faye go weak at the knees but was also fun and firty, with an Aussie accent, swit swoo.
I'm off now to get another tattoo, travel the world and get a Vajazzle, I really loved this story and look forward to reading more of Sue's books.
September 8, 2020
This book was a breath of fresh air! It was fun, happy, sad, adventurous, sexy, loveable and just altogether a great read! If you’re in need of something wholesome and light - this is your book!
July 3, 2014
For the past twenty years, Faye Dobson has been a devoted wife and loving mother. But when her daughter goes off to university and her husband would rather curl up with a plumbing magazine than her, she realizes that her life has become a bit stale. When she was younger, she made a “living list” that consisted of all of her hopes and dreams. When she comes across the list and realizes that the only two things that she’s ticked off of it was becoming a bride and being a mom, she decides to leave her husband and her old life behind.
What she didn’t expect was to get the hots for the young, Australian surfer who works at the deli. But there’s just something about the tanned hottie from down under that gets Faye all giddy and saying all sorts of crazy things. Although he’s ten years her junior, he has paid more attention to her in the short time that they’ve known each other than her husband has in years. And when he gets a wind of her living list, he’s determined to be the one to help her break out of her shell and throw caution to the wind. But is Faye being unrealistic? What would a guy like him want with a middle-aged woman like her?
Come on a hilarious journey with Faye as she learns that life can be sweeter if you have the right person by your side and who brings cake along for the ride.
Love, Lies and Lemon Cake is a deliciously hilarious book that will have you laughing out loud and rooting for the new Faye! From vajazzled lady parts to fake bake, orange self-tanners, Sue Watson’s humor is brilliant and spot on! This is the perfect books for summer! Don’t walk, but run out and get this book. You will be glad that you did!
What she didn’t expect was to get the hots for the young, Australian surfer who works at the deli. But there’s just something about the tanned hottie from down under that gets Faye all giddy and saying all sorts of crazy things. Although he’s ten years her junior, he has paid more attention to her in the short time that they’ve known each other than her husband has in years. And when he gets a wind of her living list, he’s determined to be the one to help her break out of her shell and throw caution to the wind. But is Faye being unrealistic? What would a guy like him want with a middle-aged woman like her?
Come on a hilarious journey with Faye as she learns that life can be sweeter if you have the right person by your side and who brings cake along for the ride.
Love, Lies and Lemon Cake is a deliciously hilarious book that will have you laughing out loud and rooting for the new Faye! From vajazzled lady parts to fake bake, orange self-tanners, Sue Watson’s humor is brilliant and spot on! This is the perfect books for summer! Don’t walk, but run out and get this book. You will be glad that you did!
July 2, 2014
I received an advance reading copy of this novel from the publishers in return for an honest review......
I have read Sue's first novel Fat Girls and Fairy Cakes and hoped, that similar to that book, I was in for a light, funny and calorific read. She didn't disappoint me. This is the story of 42 year old Faye, who has had enough of her boring marriage and, having found a To-Do-List from years previous, she realises that none of her dreams have really come true. She decides to grab the bull by the horns and do something with her life. As her daughter has moved off to college, there is nothing to stop her from starting over. With the help of her employer and friends, she makes some headway towards the 'New Faye' with some hilarious results. A cougar crush on a young Australian deli-worker, a session of vajazzling and some serious foot-in-mouth comments from the verbally inept Faye are just some of the giggle and cringe moments.
The antics are comedic and fun and not to be taken too seriously. There is a lot of amazing food mentioned throughout and each evening, as I picked up my Kindle, I knew my mouth would be watering. The mere mention of the dry cured hams and stuffed olives were enough to send me on a scavenger hunt of my fridge! Sue Watson is full of lighthearted imagination and feel good fun and for anyone who just wants a good old giggle, especially now the summer has arrived, this is the perfect read. Lots of girly fun, re-invention, lust and food. What more could a girl ask for? Well done, Sue. It brought many a smile to my face!
I have read Sue's first novel Fat Girls and Fairy Cakes and hoped, that similar to that book, I was in for a light, funny and calorific read. She didn't disappoint me. This is the story of 42 year old Faye, who has had enough of her boring marriage and, having found a To-Do-List from years previous, she realises that none of her dreams have really come true. She decides to grab the bull by the horns and do something with her life. As her daughter has moved off to college, there is nothing to stop her from starting over. With the help of her employer and friends, she makes some headway towards the 'New Faye' with some hilarious results. A cougar crush on a young Australian deli-worker, a session of vajazzling and some serious foot-in-mouth comments from the verbally inept Faye are just some of the giggle and cringe moments.
The antics are comedic and fun and not to be taken too seriously. There is a lot of amazing food mentioned throughout and each evening, as I picked up my Kindle, I knew my mouth would be watering. The mere mention of the dry cured hams and stuffed olives were enough to send me on a scavenger hunt of my fridge! Sue Watson is full of lighthearted imagination and feel good fun and for anyone who just wants a good old giggle, especially now the summer has arrived, this is the perfect read. Lots of girly fun, re-invention, lust and food. What more could a girl ask for? Well done, Sue. It brought many a smile to my face!
November 11, 2015
I really do not know how Sue does it, but I absolutely ADORE her books.
Love, Lies and Lemon Cake is a truly amazing novel. I will happily admit to being a blubbering mess by the end of it.
What I love so much about Sue Watson's novels is that the leading lady in all her books are so real. It's almost as if I could be reading about myself.
I really loved the whole storyline in this novel. Faye's story really got to me, I mean who doesn't feel like that their life at times is going no where, doing the same mundane things day in and day out. How often have we found ourselves day dreaming of being able to do the things we have always wanted and dreamed of but never quite got round to doing them? I'm sure most of us can relate to how Faye feels.
Luckily for Faye she meets the gorgeous Australian Dan who gives her the confidence to make a 'living' list and helps her to start putting a tick against quite a few of them.
The author had me literally drooling with the wonderful descriptions of food and I almost felt I was experiencing the places that Faye was experiencing for myself.
Love, Lies and Lemon Cake is a truly wonderful and powerful novel that will have you tearing the house apart looking for pen and paper to start a 'living' list of your own. It did leave me slightly melancholy by the end as I think it really makes you think about what direction your own life has and as happy as I am in mine, I know there are some things that I really want to do now not later when it could be to late and after reading this book I think I may just start doing something about it!
Love, Lies and Lemon Cake is a truly amazing novel. I will happily admit to being a blubbering mess by the end of it.
What I love so much about Sue Watson's novels is that the leading lady in all her books are so real. It's almost as if I could be reading about myself.
I really loved the whole storyline in this novel. Faye's story really got to me, I mean who doesn't feel like that their life at times is going no where, doing the same mundane things day in and day out. How often have we found ourselves day dreaming of being able to do the things we have always wanted and dreamed of but never quite got round to doing them? I'm sure most of us can relate to how Faye feels.
Luckily for Faye she meets the gorgeous Australian Dan who gives her the confidence to make a 'living' list and helps her to start putting a tick against quite a few of them.
The author had me literally drooling with the wonderful descriptions of food and I almost felt I was experiencing the places that Faye was experiencing for myself.
Love, Lies and Lemon Cake is a truly wonderful and powerful novel that will have you tearing the house apart looking for pen and paper to start a 'living' list of your own. It did leave me slightly melancholy by the end as I think it really makes you think about what direction your own life has and as happy as I am in mine, I know there are some things that I really want to do now not later when it could be to late and after reading this book I think I may just start doing something about it!
February 9, 2025
E' proprio un brutto libro. Raramente capita di poter fare un'esternazione così tranchant, ma è liberatorio in un certo senso.
Al di là dei gusti personali (aborro i chick lit) è un romanzo noioso, che non sta in piedi e non ha una trama degna di questo nome. Una quarantenne frustrata e un surfista belloccio e più giovane si piacciono e si innamorano. Il resto del tempo si oscilla tra un manuale di cucina e una guida turistica di Santorini, il tutto condito da frasi fatte e lezioni di vita da quattro soldi.
Capisco che da un romanzo rosa non ci si debba aspettare alta letteratura, ma almeno una storia d'amore avvincente sì; invece calma piatta, niente verve o pathos. Tutto scorre liscio come l'olio e il finale arriva come una liberazione.
Statene alla larga, di sicuro tra i romance c'è molto di meglio in giro.
Al di là dei gusti personali (aborro i chick lit) è un romanzo noioso, che non sta in piedi e non ha una trama degna di questo nome. Una quarantenne frustrata e un surfista belloccio e più giovane si piacciono e si innamorano. Il resto del tempo si oscilla tra un manuale di cucina e una guida turistica di Santorini, il tutto condito da frasi fatte e lezioni di vita da quattro soldi.
Capisco che da un romanzo rosa non ci si debba aspettare alta letteratura, ma almeno una storia d'amore avvincente sì; invece calma piatta, niente verve o pathos. Tutto scorre liscio come l'olio e il finale arriva come una liberazione.
Statene alla larga, di sicuro tra i romance c'è molto di meglio in giro.
December 30, 2015
I would like to thank the author Sue Watson and publisher Bookouture and Netgalley for allowing to read and review this book.
I want to say this is the first book I've read by Sue Watson and it certainly won't be the last. I loved the characters and the way the story twisted around a middle aged woman and what she wants. I would never of thought doing a Living List and that certainly gives me ideas of what I want to do with my life. I am also a middle aged woman (wouldn't believe me if you saw me lol). But the way Faye and Dan fall for each other is immense and I loved the places Faye wants to go and explore. Fiesty woman and so down to earth.
Can't wait to read more and carry on storytelling Sue Watson.
I want to say this is the first book I've read by Sue Watson and it certainly won't be the last. I loved the characters and the way the story twisted around a middle aged woman and what she wants. I would never of thought doing a Living List and that certainly gives me ideas of what I want to do with my life. I am also a middle aged woman (wouldn't believe me if you saw me lol). But the way Faye and Dan fall for each other is immense and I loved the places Faye wants to go and explore. Fiesty woman and so down to earth.
Can't wait to read more and carry on storytelling Sue Watson.
May 31, 2014
absolute brilliant loving it x
May 13, 2018
There is something to be said about following your heart....but it's tricky when you are married and middle-aged.
Faye has a rich fantasy life, which keeps her going when all her husband can talk about is plumbing. When she goes into the local deli one day and spots Dan behind the counter, sparks fly. Dan is younger, can seemingly hold a conversation about most topics and is interested in HER. He is also going back to Australia in a matter of months. What to do?
Faye married young as she found herself unexpectedly pregnant with her daughter, and she has made the best of it for a very long time. The feelings that Dan evokes in her, have been buried for nearly as long and she doesn't quite know what to do with them. She also talks, a lot, when she is nervous. This is something that happens frequently around Dan, which adds a lot of humour to the story.
This was a good read, a bit of a "what the heck do I do now?" kind of book and I am looking forward to seeing what happens for Faye in the next book.
I give this book a solid 4 stars.
Faye has a rich fantasy life, which keeps her going when all her husband can talk about is plumbing. When she goes into the local deli one day and spots Dan behind the counter, sparks fly. Dan is younger, can seemingly hold a conversation about most topics and is interested in HER. He is also going back to Australia in a matter of months. What to do?
Faye married young as she found herself unexpectedly pregnant with her daughter, and she has made the best of it for a very long time. The feelings that Dan evokes in her, have been buried for nearly as long and she doesn't quite know what to do with them. She also talks, a lot, when she is nervous. This is something that happens frequently around Dan, which adds a lot of humour to the story.
This was a good read, a bit of a "what the heck do I do now?" kind of book and I am looking forward to seeing what happens for Faye in the next book.
I give this book a solid 4 stars.
October 25, 2017
OMG!! I have found a new favourite author. I adored, loved and enjoyed every second of this story. I was hooked from the first chapter. I fell in love with the little town, Faye and Dan and their relationship. This is such a beautiful, funny, girly, romantic and laugh out loud story that I will rave about to anybody who has not yet read this book. I would highly recommend it to you all.
It will make you laugh, it has cakes and food! It has girly chat and a hair salon. It even has those naughty sexy bits making this the perfect chick-lit book for all readers. It also has a gorgeous cover. I awarded a well deserved five stars, I will not be able to forget this book in a hurry. Brilliant. Outstanding.
It will make you laugh, it has cakes and food! It has girly chat and a hair salon. It even has those naughty sexy bits making this the perfect chick-lit book for all readers. It also has a gorgeous cover. I awarded a well deserved five stars, I will not be able to forget this book in a hurry. Brilliant. Outstanding.
September 10, 2020
Pros: relatable middle-aged female MC; believable characters; pacing was peppy and fun; female friends support was heartening and beautifully imperfect; made me laugh (MC was just so ordinary and ridiculous and sweet and endearing); ending wasn’t her being saved by another man but it was still Romantic
Cons were minimal and forgivable for what the novel
was—a middle-aged Bildungsroman, but here they are anyway: dialogue was often stiff and unnatural; conflict was too minimal with separating from her husband (he just—Poof!—disappeared from the story); finances were not believable—she didn’t have a single fear or worry about them either
Recommended
Cons were minimal and forgivable for what the novel
was—a middle-aged Bildungsroman, but here they are anyway: dialogue was often stiff and unnatural; conflict was too minimal with separating from her husband (he just—Poof!—disappeared from the story); finances were not believable—she didn’t have a single fear or worry about them either
Recommended
October 13, 2017
Absolutely loved this book. I laughed, out loud, all the way through it, and loved the tale of a woman changing her life so thoroughly in her early 40's.
By far my favourite Sue Watson so far.
By far my favourite Sue Watson so far.
July 23, 2025
An easy read, funny, and light
October 2, 2021
Not for me. I tried a light hearted, fluffy romance book but I clearly enjoy reading about murder and the end of the world and humanity more!
July 6, 2014
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review by Kim at Bookouture which I'm more than happy to do.
What a book, where do I start? With the cover, it's so bright, vibrant and zingy - begging to be taken off the shelf and read. I'm so glad I did.
Faye a forty something, married, mother of one, now grown - up child, realises her life hasn't panned out the way she planned when she re-discovers a back pack and postcard stuffed into the back of her wardrobe. They stir up memories of all the things she was going to do with her life, making her take stock, evaluate her life and contemplate her future.
This book was a laugh out loud read, there were times when the tears were tripping me up I laughed that much - my work colleagues thought I'd gone mad one lunchtime when once I'd started I couldn't stop. It also has its tender moments too, it isn't all hearts and flowers and it is most definitely a book that has made me reflect and contemplate. Sue has not only created strong, lead characters but also necessary, believable, supporting characters that add depth to the story and prop up Faye and the heavenly Dan perfectly. There are so many scenes that I thought OMG yes, I've been there, or know someone who's been in the same situation it felt like I was reading about friends.
It was a divine piece of inspiration sending Faye into the deli - it was at that point I really felt I got to know, understand and love her. The clumsy way she became mush around Dan, the gorgeous, blonde, adonis from Australia was so endearing - she really had no idea! The delectable descriptions of all the food and cakes had me drooling, I could have been eating the lunches from the deli, the descriptions were so vivid and mouth watering, It highlighted how bland and uninteresting my daily ham salad is - who wouldn't swap that for feta, black olive and oozing, sun dried tomatoes on foccachia - mmmmm heavenly.
Faye had spent so long blending into the background being a dutiful wife and mother she had lost sight of her dreams and was invisible even to herself. She couldn't read the signs coming from Dan, he could have tattooed them on his head and she'd still have been blind. This chance encounter turned into more than just a light hearted romance. Dan opened her eyes to life, made her senses come alive with his laid back attitude to life, yet at the same time gave so much.
Faye begins to reflect on a list she made when she was at uni of all the things she planned to do with her life and with Dan's help starts to fulfil a few of them, inevitably more get added as she goes along. I couldn't help but think - what would be on my list? I've done some of the things on Faye's list and share a couple of still to do things too. Sue has got me thinking and I'm going to sit down and write a proper list. I know some things will be achievable and others perhaps not but you've got to dream and who knows - never say never :)
This book so highlights life is for living. We shouldn't forget about our dreams. 21st century life is all about jobs, paying the mortgage, worrying about the kids, pets and what to have for dinner. I've lost count of the times I've said no I can't do that because...... This book will definitely get you thinking, 'hang on, I'm saying no because what exactly??'
If you are looking for a book that will get inside your mind, but in a good way. That will make you think, get you off the sofa and living, then this is for you. I so want to hug Sue and say thank you for such a lovely read that has got definitely got the cogs whirring.
What a book, where do I start? With the cover, it's so bright, vibrant and zingy - begging to be taken off the shelf and read. I'm so glad I did.
Faye a forty something, married, mother of one, now grown - up child, realises her life hasn't panned out the way she planned when she re-discovers a back pack and postcard stuffed into the back of her wardrobe. They stir up memories of all the things she was going to do with her life, making her take stock, evaluate her life and contemplate her future.
This book was a laugh out loud read, there were times when the tears were tripping me up I laughed that much - my work colleagues thought I'd gone mad one lunchtime when once I'd started I couldn't stop. It also has its tender moments too, it isn't all hearts and flowers and it is most definitely a book that has made me reflect and contemplate. Sue has not only created strong, lead characters but also necessary, believable, supporting characters that add depth to the story and prop up Faye and the heavenly Dan perfectly. There are so many scenes that I thought OMG yes, I've been there, or know someone who's been in the same situation it felt like I was reading about friends.
It was a divine piece of inspiration sending Faye into the deli - it was at that point I really felt I got to know, understand and love her. The clumsy way she became mush around Dan, the gorgeous, blonde, adonis from Australia was so endearing - she really had no idea! The delectable descriptions of all the food and cakes had me drooling, I could have been eating the lunches from the deli, the descriptions were so vivid and mouth watering, It highlighted how bland and uninteresting my daily ham salad is - who wouldn't swap that for feta, black olive and oozing, sun dried tomatoes on foccachia - mmmmm heavenly.
Faye had spent so long blending into the background being a dutiful wife and mother she had lost sight of her dreams and was invisible even to herself. She couldn't read the signs coming from Dan, he could have tattooed them on his head and she'd still have been blind. This chance encounter turned into more than just a light hearted romance. Dan opened her eyes to life, made her senses come alive with his laid back attitude to life, yet at the same time gave so much.
Faye begins to reflect on a list she made when she was at uni of all the things she planned to do with her life and with Dan's help starts to fulfil a few of them, inevitably more get added as she goes along. I couldn't help but think - what would be on my list? I've done some of the things on Faye's list and share a couple of still to do things too. Sue has got me thinking and I'm going to sit down and write a proper list. I know some things will be achievable and others perhaps not but you've got to dream and who knows - never say never :)
This book so highlights life is for living. We shouldn't forget about our dreams. 21st century life is all about jobs, paying the mortgage, worrying about the kids, pets and what to have for dinner. I've lost count of the times I've said no I can't do that because...... This book will definitely get you thinking, 'hang on, I'm saying no because what exactly??'
If you are looking for a book that will get inside your mind, but in a good way. That will make you think, get you off the sofa and living, then this is for you. I so want to hug Sue and say thank you for such a lovely read that has got definitely got the cogs whirring.
August 22, 2016
Recensione presente nel blog www.ragazzainrosso.wordpress.com
Faye Dobson, parrucchiera di quarant’anni, con un marito innamorato del suo lavoro d’idraulico e una figlia ventenne, vive un’esistenza piatta, segnata dall’abitudine e dall’incomunicabilità. La donna dopo anni di silenzio, urla il suo bisogno d’indipendenza: lascia il marito e riprende le redini della sua vita. Complici Dan, giovane aitante commesso australiano presso il negozio di gastronomia proprio di fronte al suo salone, le gustose torte al limone da lui preparate e i consigli irriverenti da parte delle colleghe, Faye dà uno scossone alla sua vita, sentendosi finalmente pronta per realizzare tutti quei desideri di gioventù rimasti a riposare in uno zaino rosa.
“Quando tuo marito ti rifiuta in camera da letto per guardare un uomo di mezza età volgare e presuntuoso che guida una macchina significa che: a) devi depilarti le gambe; b)il tuo matrimonio è arrivato alla frutta.”
Quando mi sono imbattuta in questo romanzo, pensavo di trovarmi dinanzi una commedia di rinascita che mi avrebbe regalato un po’ di sana spensieratezza. Purtroppo non è stato così. La rinascita c’è ed è evidente, ma ciò che non mi ha per niente convinta è stata la maniera in cui avviene.
Faye è una donna tendenzialmente stanca. È sposata da vent’anni con un uomo col quale sembra avere poco o nulla in comune; ha una figlia la cui nascita non le ha permesso di completare gli studi e lavora presso un salone di parrucchiera di second’ordine. L’amore? Per lei non esiste. Il marito non la guarda più con desiderio, le tenerezze sono state abolite da tempo e il loro matrimonio altro non è che un trascinarsi giorno dopo giorno tra spesa al supermercato, pranzi e cene da preparare e programmi televisivi da guardare. L’incontro casuale con un giovane trentenne costituisce l’input per fuggire da quel caos calmo familiare e di andare incontro all’ignoto e all’incoscienza. È da questo momento in poi che il personaggio di Faye non è più riuscito a colpirmi. La donna appare ai miei occhi regredita. Si comporta come una ragazzina quindicenne, prova a sedurre Dan con ridicoli tentativi di risultare sexy ai suoi occhi, si concede lunghe bevute con conseguenti sbornie ed è pronta a lasciare tutto pur di partire col suo toy boy. Non mancano momenti in cui gli “anta” tornano prepotentemente a galla: abiti non adeguati, fisico non più tonico, modo materno di guardare gli amici di Dan e i loro comportamenti. Nella parte finale dell’opera, Faye è alle prese con una nuova trasformazione: ancora un po’ ragazzina sognatrice, è pronta, però, a prendersi le sue responsabilità e a interpretare il ruolo sociale che la sua età richiede.
Dan, il ragazzo perfetto, dal fisico scolpito e dai capelli biondi, è continuamente attorniato da giovani donne che farebbero follie pur di ottenere un suo sguardo. Eppure, no, lui sceglie Faye dimostrandosi fedele e premuroso nei suoi confronti. Osservando bene il suo modo di comportarsi e scavando nella sua interiorità, Dan appare come un ragazzo più maturo rispetto ai suoi coetanei, costretto a convivere sin da piccolo col dolore e sensi di colpa.
L’autrice si serve di uno stile semplice, diretto e molto dialogato capace di coinvolgere il lettore (al di là dei giudizi morali che ognuno può esprimere).
Una lettura che s’incentra su una complessa tematica attuale. Una storia di rinascita e d’amore condita con un po’ di zucchero a velo.
Faye Dobson, parrucchiera di quarant’anni, con un marito innamorato del suo lavoro d’idraulico e una figlia ventenne, vive un’esistenza piatta, segnata dall’abitudine e dall’incomunicabilità. La donna dopo anni di silenzio, urla il suo bisogno d’indipendenza: lascia il marito e riprende le redini della sua vita. Complici Dan, giovane aitante commesso australiano presso il negozio di gastronomia proprio di fronte al suo salone, le gustose torte al limone da lui preparate e i consigli irriverenti da parte delle colleghe, Faye dà uno scossone alla sua vita, sentendosi finalmente pronta per realizzare tutti quei desideri di gioventù rimasti a riposare in uno zaino rosa.
“Quando tuo marito ti rifiuta in camera da letto per guardare un uomo di mezza età volgare e presuntuoso che guida una macchina significa che: a) devi depilarti le gambe; b)il tuo matrimonio è arrivato alla frutta.”
Quando mi sono imbattuta in questo romanzo, pensavo di trovarmi dinanzi una commedia di rinascita che mi avrebbe regalato un po’ di sana spensieratezza. Purtroppo non è stato così. La rinascita c’è ed è evidente, ma ciò che non mi ha per niente convinta è stata la maniera in cui avviene.
Faye è una donna tendenzialmente stanca. È sposata da vent’anni con un uomo col quale sembra avere poco o nulla in comune; ha una figlia la cui nascita non le ha permesso di completare gli studi e lavora presso un salone di parrucchiera di second’ordine. L’amore? Per lei non esiste. Il marito non la guarda più con desiderio, le tenerezze sono state abolite da tempo e il loro matrimonio altro non è che un trascinarsi giorno dopo giorno tra spesa al supermercato, pranzi e cene da preparare e programmi televisivi da guardare. L’incontro casuale con un giovane trentenne costituisce l’input per fuggire da quel caos calmo familiare e di andare incontro all’ignoto e all’incoscienza. È da questo momento in poi che il personaggio di Faye non è più riuscito a colpirmi. La donna appare ai miei occhi regredita. Si comporta come una ragazzina quindicenne, prova a sedurre Dan con ridicoli tentativi di risultare sexy ai suoi occhi, si concede lunghe bevute con conseguenti sbornie ed è pronta a lasciare tutto pur di partire col suo toy boy. Non mancano momenti in cui gli “anta” tornano prepotentemente a galla: abiti non adeguati, fisico non più tonico, modo materno di guardare gli amici di Dan e i loro comportamenti. Nella parte finale dell’opera, Faye è alle prese con una nuova trasformazione: ancora un po’ ragazzina sognatrice, è pronta, però, a prendersi le sue responsabilità e a interpretare il ruolo sociale che la sua età richiede.
Dan, il ragazzo perfetto, dal fisico scolpito e dai capelli biondi, è continuamente attorniato da giovani donne che farebbero follie pur di ottenere un suo sguardo. Eppure, no, lui sceglie Faye dimostrandosi fedele e premuroso nei suoi confronti. Osservando bene il suo modo di comportarsi e scavando nella sua interiorità, Dan appare come un ragazzo più maturo rispetto ai suoi coetanei, costretto a convivere sin da piccolo col dolore e sensi di colpa.
L’autrice si serve di uno stile semplice, diretto e molto dialogato capace di coinvolgere il lettore (al di là dei giudizi morali che ognuno può esprimere).
Una lettura che s’incentra su una complessa tematica attuale. Una storia di rinascita e d’amore condita con un po’ di zucchero a velo.
October 14, 2015
Also posted on This Chick Reads
*Copy provided by publisher in exchange for an honest review*
Wow, what a delicious, yummy book! It's been a while since I've read a good chick lit book with a heroine who's not in their twenties or thirties. It felt so so good and refreshing to read about someone in their 40s trying to have their life back, reinventing herself and living life to its fullest.
Now that I've read all of Sue Watson's books I can say this has to be her best yet. Even though I really enjoyed her two previous ones, there's something about 'Love, Lies and Lemon Cake' that screams with honesty, warmth pouring out of its pages. It could be the delicious cakes or yummy Aussie Dan, but honestly..I just think Sue went through a major make over as a writer, finding her unique voice which makes her definitely stand out in the sea of other British chick lit authors.
Not only is the MC in this novel mature, lovely, flawed and feels real, but Sue stretches even further, rising over the cliches we usually find in a chick lit/romance book. Faye is in her 40s and has a decent, yet pretty much grey life. But everything changes once she meets Dan, the handsome deli guy, who's visiting from Australia, trying to help out his aunt run the deli. Dan seems to be everything Faye's husband isn't, for a start he actually listens to her and as crazy as it may seem to Faye, he actually likes her. But he's 10 years younger than her, and she doesn't want to be perceived as a cougar and be judged. And why is Dan all of a sudden making her realize she's missed out on so many thrilling, wonderful, exciting things in life?
I adored every page of this book. It really was easy to connect to Faye, who's lovely, warm, bubbly and yet so self-conscious. She's a fantastic mum and I loved her relationship with her daughter. Of course, being a parent means you need to make some sacrifices along, but there's got to be more to life than the routine especially once the kids get older. I'd hate to spoil this wonderful book to you, and I'm really trying hard to restrain myself and tell you more about Faye's adventures. Once I got to the last page, I was so sad to say goodbye to her and I honestly think there's enough space for a sequel.
There's a certain comfort zone we all want to be in, but the thing is, once we step out of it we start gaining experience. Sometimes we fail, sometimes we rise to heights we never imagined we could reach. Sue Watson did just that with this novel, she stepped out of the comfort zone and the cliches in chick lit, and created a wonderful, original story full of heart. If you haven't read anything by Sue Watson before, I can strongly recommend you start with this one then move down her other novels. Despite having a more serious tone than her previous ones, I can assure you there are many LOL and memorable moments. So finally, I strongly urge you to get comfortable, grab a cupcake, start reading this book and remember - LIVE, BABY LIVE!
February 15, 2020
I laughed so much at some things and cringed at others.
June 28, 2014
Love, Lies and Lemon Cake has been published yesterday. Sue Watson is one of my favorites, I fell in love with her writing since Younger, Thinner, Blonder. And just look at the cover! Isn't it so yummy you can eat it? I must admit that the cover was the first thing I saw on Twitter about this book and I immediately fell in love with it.
The story centers around Faye, forty-something years old wife and mother who feels that her life slips away from her. Her daughter is all grown up, out of the nest, and her life with the hubby has lost the sparkle long time ago. When she finds the old pink rucksack, an old dream becomes alive. To live her life again. To see Santorini sunset, to make love on the beach, to swim in the ocean, and many other things. In the local bakery, she meets Dan, gorgeous Australian guy, little bit younger than her, who supports her. But is Faye doing the biggest mistake in her life? Or is this her second chance to live her life, to live a real life?
Faye is an awesome character. She has always been living in a nutshell, always doing the things she supposed to do. But when she gets the chance to live the life she always wanted, she grabs that chance with both hands. She is a wife, she is a mother, her daughter always comes first and I respect her for that. It takes a lot of courage to do what Faye did. Maybe she looks little bit silly from someone else's perspective, but between black and white there is always pink. Right?
I am not old as Faye, but this book made me thinking. I would really love to visit Rome and Paris someday. I would love to become a wife and a mother some day. There are so many little things that I wanna do, but I am always delaying them.
Just like Faye did in the book, you can also make #LemonCakeLivingList and join the Twitter community. You are so welcome to share your thoughts.
I must say that Ms. Watson did it again. This book will make you laugh, cry and think about your life. It will teach you of the healing powers of the lemon cake. It will do everything, but won't let you leave it until the last page, because you gonna enjoy it every single page. I know I did.
The story centers around Faye, forty-something years old wife and mother who feels that her life slips away from her. Her daughter is all grown up, out of the nest, and her life with the hubby has lost the sparkle long time ago. When she finds the old pink rucksack, an old dream becomes alive. To live her life again. To see Santorini sunset, to make love on the beach, to swim in the ocean, and many other things. In the local bakery, she meets Dan, gorgeous Australian guy, little bit younger than her, who supports her. But is Faye doing the biggest mistake in her life? Or is this her second chance to live her life, to live a real life?
Faye is an awesome character. She has always been living in a nutshell, always doing the things she supposed to do. But when she gets the chance to live the life she always wanted, she grabs that chance with both hands. She is a wife, she is a mother, her daughter always comes first and I respect her for that. It takes a lot of courage to do what Faye did. Maybe she looks little bit silly from someone else's perspective, but between black and white there is always pink. Right?
I am not old as Faye, but this book made me thinking. I would really love to visit Rome and Paris someday. I would love to become a wife and a mother some day. There are so many little things that I wanna do, but I am always delaying them.
Just like Faye did in the book, you can also make #LemonCakeLivingList and join the Twitter community. You are so welcome to share your thoughts.
I must say that Ms. Watson did it again. This book will make you laugh, cry and think about your life. It will teach you of the healing powers of the lemon cake. It will do everything, but won't let you leave it until the last page, because you gonna enjoy it every single page. I know I did.
July 1, 2014
Love, Lies and Lemon Cake by Sue Watson is a laugh out loud, roll on the floor, makes you feel good no matter what is happening in your life right now kind of book. This is the first book that I have had the pleasure of reading by this author, and it will definitely not be my last.
The story centers around Faye, forty-something years old wife and mother who feels that her life slips away from her. Her daughter is all grown up, out of the nest, and her life with the hubby has lost the sparkle long time ago. When she finds the old pink rucksack, an old dream becomes alive. To live her life again. To see Santorini sunset, to make love on the beach, to swim in the ocean, and many other things. In the local bakery, she meets Dan, gorgeous Australian guy, little bit younger than her, who supports her. But is Faye doing the biggest mistake in her life? Or is this her second chance to live her life, to live a real life?
Faye is an awesome character. She has always been living in a nutshell, always doing the things she supposed to do. But when she gets the chance to live the life she always wanted, she grabs that chance with both hands. She is a wife, she is a mother, her daughter always comes first and I respect her for that. It takes a lot of courage to do what Faye did. Maybe she looks little bit silly from someone else's perspective, but between black and white there is always pink. Right?
I am just about the same age as Faye, and this book made me thinking. What am I doing with my life? Am I putting off my dreams for another day? Maybe I should grab the bull by the horns and start living for today instead of having a sack full of regret. This book will make you laugh, cry and think about your life. It will teach you of the healing powers of the lemon cake. It will do everything, but won't let you leave it until the last page, because you gonna enjoy it every single page. I know I did. I enjoyed this book and gave it 4 shiny stars.
The story centers around Faye, forty-something years old wife and mother who feels that her life slips away from her. Her daughter is all grown up, out of the nest, and her life with the hubby has lost the sparkle long time ago. When she finds the old pink rucksack, an old dream becomes alive. To live her life again. To see Santorini sunset, to make love on the beach, to swim in the ocean, and many other things. In the local bakery, she meets Dan, gorgeous Australian guy, little bit younger than her, who supports her. But is Faye doing the biggest mistake in her life? Or is this her second chance to live her life, to live a real life?
Faye is an awesome character. She has always been living in a nutshell, always doing the things she supposed to do. But when she gets the chance to live the life she always wanted, she grabs that chance with both hands. She is a wife, she is a mother, her daughter always comes first and I respect her for that. It takes a lot of courage to do what Faye did. Maybe she looks little bit silly from someone else's perspective, but between black and white there is always pink. Right?
I am just about the same age as Faye, and this book made me thinking. What am I doing with my life? Am I putting off my dreams for another day? Maybe I should grab the bull by the horns and start living for today instead of having a sack full of regret. This book will make you laugh, cry and think about your life. It will teach you of the healing powers of the lemon cake. It will do everything, but won't let you leave it until the last page, because you gonna enjoy it every single page. I know I did. I enjoyed this book and gave it 4 shiny stars.
July 18, 2014
Where do I start with this book......I LOVED IT!!! If you are uncomfortable with the thought of your Mum having sex, well get over it, stop being prudish and read and learn girls!!!
So refreshing to have a chick lit, where the main character is a woman in her 40's. Life has taken a toll on Faye's happiness, working in a hairdressers with her very close friends but then going home to a stale, loveless, sexless marriage. This has become even more apparent since their daughter Emma has left home for university. Faye's body is crying for a life of passion but her husband is more interested with his hands moving over and mending a washing machine and being a perfect plumber.
Things change for Faye when she stops off in a Deli on her way to work one morning. Her life changes in so many ways for the better when she meets Dan, an Aussie, 10 years her junior, who has come over to England to help his Aunt with her Deli business, boy can Dan bake! Feelings awaken in Faye and each time she goes into the Deli, she gets flustered and her mouth goes into inappropriate Tourette's mode!
In her younger days, Faye had a life of travel and excitement planned out in her head, this was until she fell pregnant with Emma. Happy to be a Mummy and married, Faye packs her dreams away, along with a red dress, in her pink bag pack placed on top of her wardrobe.
Dan is smitten with Faye and together they go on a 'life' journey which can take Faye outside of her comfort zone, apart from the incredible sex. At 42, her life starts again.
Reviews often say a laugh out loud moment, which when I read it, I smile to myself, however this book really did have me laughing out loud. This book has left me, at the age of 49, wanting a Vajazzle, a tattoo of a little lemon cupcake and a trip to Santorini to view the sunset........WATCH THIS SPACE!!!
So refreshing to have a chick lit, where the main character is a woman in her 40's. Life has taken a toll on Faye's happiness, working in a hairdressers with her very close friends but then going home to a stale, loveless, sexless marriage. This has become even more apparent since their daughter Emma has left home for university. Faye's body is crying for a life of passion but her husband is more interested with his hands moving over and mending a washing machine and being a perfect plumber.
Things change for Faye when she stops off in a Deli on her way to work one morning. Her life changes in so many ways for the better when she meets Dan, an Aussie, 10 years her junior, who has come over to England to help his Aunt with her Deli business, boy can Dan bake! Feelings awaken in Faye and each time she goes into the Deli, she gets flustered and her mouth goes into inappropriate Tourette's mode!
In her younger days, Faye had a life of travel and excitement planned out in her head, this was until she fell pregnant with Emma. Happy to be a Mummy and married, Faye packs her dreams away, along with a red dress, in her pink bag pack placed on top of her wardrobe.
Dan is smitten with Faye and together they go on a 'life' journey which can take Faye outside of her comfort zone, apart from the incredible sex. At 42, her life starts again.
Reviews often say a laugh out loud moment, which when I read it, I smile to myself, however this book really did have me laughing out loud. This book has left me, at the age of 49, wanting a Vajazzle, a tattoo of a little lemon cupcake and a trip to Santorini to view the sunset........WATCH THIS SPACE!!!
September 18, 2014
This story was just ok. There were several "laugh out loud" moments, but only in the first half or so. The story almost seemed to change tones as it progressed, going from funny chick lit to more a more serious romance type. The ending of the story was fabulous, though. Throughout the story there are yummy descriptions of foods that were fun to read about. The characters in the story were pretty funny and full of life (Mandy & Sue). I do have a few things that bothered me during the story... First, the title... the Love and Lemon cake was obvious... but I am just not sure where the lies fit in. Near the end, the main character, Faye, even uses that phrase, and I wanted to ask her "what lies??". Also, the story seemed really repetitive. Faye really fixated on her starting over, becoming a new person, etc. It was basically like an obsession to her and it got a little tiring rereading the same thoughts over and over again. I was also getting really annoyed reading about her advanced age of 42. She really went on and on about this too. Her romantic interest, Dan, was 33 years old. Yes, he is younger... but a 33 year old man is not a child or barely legal or anything like that. At one point she even referred to him as a kid. To hear Faye and her friends talk, you would think she was 65 or something. So overall, I think this story missed the mark for me. I received a copy from Netgalley to read and review.
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