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Happy Pants #0.5
Happy Pants Cafe
SHHH….IT’S A SECRET!
For over forty-five years, singles have been secretly flocking to The Happy Pants Café. And what are they searching for? It’s not coffee. And it’s not pants. It’s true love, and everyone who goes, finds it!
So what, exactly, is the café’s big secret? Harper Branton, a columnist for the San Francisco Tribune, who’d sooner believe in unicorns than in true love, is about to find out. And it’s the perfect story to save her train wreck of a career.
Too bad she’s got competition. He’s sexy, he’s arrogant, and he thinks she’s crazy. ("What kind of person doesn’t believe in love?") And this coming from a man!
When these two rivals go head to head, it's more like a WWF smackdown. A shared history binds them in wonderful, terrible ways quickly turning their duel into more than just a fight for a story.
Will they tear each other apart for the win or end up as two more satisfied Happy Pants customers?
Note: Stand-alone story
For over forty-five years, singles have been secretly flocking to The Happy Pants Café. And what are they searching for? It’s not coffee. And it’s not pants. It’s true love, and everyone who goes, finds it!
So what, exactly, is the café’s big secret? Harper Branton, a columnist for the San Francisco Tribune, who’d sooner believe in unicorns than in true love, is about to find out. And it’s the perfect story to save her train wreck of a career.
Too bad she’s got competition. He’s sexy, he’s arrogant, and he thinks she’s crazy. ("What kind of person doesn’t believe in love?") And this coming from a man!
When these two rivals go head to head, it's more like a WWF smackdown. A shared history binds them in wonderful, terrible ways quickly turning their duel into more than just a fight for a story.
Will they tear each other apart for the win or end up as two more satisfied Happy Pants customers?
Note: Stand-alone story
280 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 17, 2014
353 people are currently reading
1609 people want to read
About the author
Mimi Jean Pamfiloff
88 books4,275 followersBecause Mimi wants to focus on writing and her freakin' awesome fans, she does NOT monitor this site. PLEASE GO TO her Facebook
FAN PAGE: https://www.facebook.com/groups/MimiJ...
or her website:
www.mimijean.net, and sign up for her newsletter if you want the latest FREEBIES and news!
****
MIMI JEAN PAMFILOFF is a New York Times bestselling author who writes insane plot twists that will have you burning through the pages. Whether it’s Romance, Suspense/Thriller, or Fantasy, there are always big heroes to root for, smart and resourceful heroines, and a ton of heart pumping excitement in every story.
Mimi lives with her extremely patient husband (“Be right there! Just one more page, honey!”), two pirates-in-training (their boys), and their three spunky dragons (really, just very tiny dogs with big attitudes) Snowy, Mini, and Mack, in the vampire-unfriendly state of Arizona.
FAN PAGE: https://www.facebook.com/groups/MimiJ...
or her website:
www.mimijean.net, and sign up for her newsletter if you want the latest FREEBIES and news!
****
MIMI JEAN PAMFILOFF is a New York Times bestselling author who writes insane plot twists that will have you burning through the pages. Whether it’s Romance, Suspense/Thriller, or Fantasy, there are always big heroes to root for, smart and resourceful heroines, and a ton of heart pumping excitement in every story.
Mimi lives with her extremely patient husband (“Be right there! Just one more page, honey!”), two pirates-in-training (their boys), and their three spunky dragons (really, just very tiny dogs with big attitudes) Snowy, Mini, and Mack, in the vampire-unfriendly state of Arizona.
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July 25, 2019
Currently FREE (7.2019) -> http://amzn.to/2nA6SEJ
Mimi is the super star of funny, snarky and quirky!
Looking for a cute and charming book that will have you grinning from ear to ear? Drop by the Happy Pants Café – if you can find it – and “eat one of their cookies, you are guaranteed to meet your one true love within seven days.”
That is, if you believe in love. Which Harper Branton thinks is only for the delusional. But she’s willing to investigate about these super powered cookies to save her career.
The only problem is, she’s not the only one interested in this theory. She’s got competition and his name is Austin Royce. He’s attractive and he knows it. But he’s also a closet romantic.
Their insta-hate/love bond is wacky to the extreme, making two smart adults act completely juvenile and silly.
“You’re insane. You know that?” he said. “Yes. That’s why you should be afraid.”
It turns out though, their relationship not that immediate. They have a long forgotten history that will shape their future, not just determine who gets this scoop.
I love the way Mimi writes her characters and the way she tells the story from both points of view. But I especially liked Harper’s “feisty-as-hell attitude,” her incredibly funny one liners, the inner monologues. And flat out inner conversations that sometimes turned into discussions had me laughing out loud. And let’s not forget all those gasms!!
“Yes. I know that, you shitty little voice inside my head.”
I also loved the outrageous secondary characters. Especially Sebastian.
“Breast staring is only acceptable on Sundays. My most grand apologies.”
In general “the story was hopelessly sweet and sentimental.” It spoke of faith and the strength of character needed to move forward and strive for what you want. A wonderful standalone novel that will make you smile.
I can't wait to see what bat shit crazy Mimi gives us next :)
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July 19, 2014
Happy Pants Café by Mimi Jean Pamfiloff is book one in the Happy Pants series. I love a fun, sexy romance but I love it even more when it turns out to have that hidden secret, that something that makes it more. And that is exactly what I found with Happy Pants Café.
Harper Branton is a writer for the San Francisco Tribune. She loves her job, I mean, her job is her life. She feels like she will eventually marry, but her future husband will have to agree that the marriage is not for love but for mutual companionship, regular sex, and friendship. You see, Harper does not believe in true love.
“Love – the lasting, romantic sort – was a huge hoax perpetuated by Disney movies and fairytales shoveled into little girls’ brains from day one of life.”
When Harper is trying to get a story at the wedding of a celebrity, she finds herself competing for the story with the sexiest man she has ever seen.
“The man was a living, breathing, talking, walking hunk of manly goodness. He gave new meaning to the words “Holy mother of all things erotically mantastic!”
Austin Royce was also a reporter, working for a rival newspaper to the Tribune. Doing these fluff pieces was not his idea of journalism. He wanted to move on into politics. So he was willing to do whatever he had to do to get promoted. Austin has just been through a bad break up and is most definitely not looking for a girlfriend. But, he does believe in love. Little did he realize the way his life would change, though, that day at the wedding when he first laid eyes on that gorgeous red head.
Austin and Harper both find themselves heading to St. Helena, California to find the place that they heard Christina, the celebrity whose wedding they had attended, talking about. A place where the patrons go to find their true love. They find themselves in a beautiful little city surrounded by miles and miles of scenic vineyards. And, in St. Helena, they find The Happy Pants Café. It is a little tiny shop that sells only coffee and big cookies with yellow frosting and a happy face. The story is that if you eat one of these cookies, you will find your true love within seven days. They both want to score the story from the owner of the shop. Luci, but she refuses to give them the interview. And chaos ensues. The next few days are filled with hilarious mishaps as both Austin and Harper try to unravel the mystery of those cookies. Both Harper and Austin discover, though, that they have a hidden connection. And this connection uncovers a forgotten event in Harper’s past.
This book is a hilarious, sweet and sexy story but as I said before, I found it to be so much more. I loved watching Harper and Austin as they battle with each other and with their own demons. Can Austin convince Harper that true love really does exist?
“You can’t fake love, Harper. The heart knows when it’s real and when it’s not. I can’t believe I’m having to explain this to a woman. I sound like such a wuss. You’re not going to tell my friends, are you?”
Mimi Jean Pamfiloff, you’ve done it again. Happy Pants Café is fantastic. I loved every page and can’t wait for book two.
September 2, 2016
I downloaded Happy Pants at ten PM, by three AM I closed the cover on a finished book. (Not technically speaking of course, since I read it on my Nook, but you get what I’m saying.) I've come to the point with this author’s work that I don’t even bother with the synopsis anymore. Any title she releases is an instant download for me. Not one of her novels has yet to disappoint and her latest offering lived up to its predecessors and the high standard already set.
What I loved about this book:
The characters. Harper- the cynic about love and Austin- the hunky romantic at heart. What a perfect match! I absolutely adored these two. They’re flawed in a charming way and the storytelling from both points of view made for a fun read. The inner dialog had me giggling the whole way through, especially Harper’s. It was particularly funny when the conversations with herself turned into arguments.
The plot- It was cute with a hint of mystery and a lot of humor. There were a few little twists that I didn't see coming and those were a nice surprise.
What I didn't love:
I was left wanting more. Not because the book was too short or lacking, but rather I enjoyed reading it so much I didn't want it to end. Okay, I know that’s not really a negative, but I’m trying to write a balanced review here. If you want the honest truth, I can’t come up with a genuine point of dislike for this novel.
My suggestion:
Don’t wait to download this one. It’s a fantastic read which will make even the blackest of hearts believe in the power of love. Oh, and be sure to have a box of cookies at the ready. You’ll probably have a strong hankering for one after you've turned the final page. Trust me on this.
What I loved about this book:
The characters. Harper- the cynic about love and Austin- the hunky romantic at heart. What a perfect match! I absolutely adored these two. They’re flawed in a charming way and the storytelling from both points of view made for a fun read. The inner dialog had me giggling the whole way through, especially Harper’s. It was particularly funny when the conversations with herself turned into arguments.
The plot- It was cute with a hint of mystery and a lot of humor. There were a few little twists that I didn't see coming and those were a nice surprise.
What I didn't love:
I was left wanting more. Not because the book was too short or lacking, but rather I enjoyed reading it so much I didn't want it to end. Okay, I know that’s not really a negative, but I’m trying to write a balanced review here. If you want the honest truth, I can’t come up with a genuine point of dislike for this novel.
My suggestion:
Don’t wait to download this one. It’s a fantastic read which will make even the blackest of hearts believe in the power of love. Oh, and be sure to have a box of cookies at the ready. You’ll probably have a strong hankering for one after you've turned the final page. Trust me on this.
May 29, 2016
What a wonderful/funny way to recover from a book slump. ^_^
Happy Pants Cafe was so much fun. Thank you so much Carol for the recommendation! I got this prequel book for free. This is my first book by Ms Pamfiloff. The premise/blurb was so so intriguing. I'm very happy to say that the book didn't disappoint.
Harper, the h is a reported for a SF newspaper. She's a romance/ love skeptic. The H, Austin is also a reporter for a competing Bay area newspaper. They're both going for the same story: What's going on at the Happy Pants Cafe?
This is 3rd person POV- which really works the best since I just had to be the fly on the wall.
Harper and Austin had been childhood friends she was 9 y/o & he was 11 y/0. They were separated suddenly when Harper's parents decided to move away. They didn't see each other for 19 years. Each thinking the other pushed away the other. The real reason for the separation is revealed towards the middle of the book. They're in their late 20s and have grown and gotten more attractive since their adolescent years-to put it mildly.
There are so many kooky-crazy details, but IMO very funny.
The main supporting character is Ms Luci, an elderly widow who owns the Happy Pants Cafe.
The big mystery is Ms Luci's cookie with a smiling face on it. It's served at the cafe, and customers-mostly women, flock to the cafe to eat this cookie. The cookie is said to have magical powers of finding true love.
Harper and Austin try to beat out the other for the exclusive story and interview with Ms Luci.
I really liked both the hero and heroine. Harper is the skeptic, but I could understand her negative feelings toward love -not that I share them-and neither does Austin.
Harper & Austin keep getting thrown together. They have to really rethink their connection- are they meant to be together? yes/no/yes/no/maybe/when? etc.
Ms Luci and her family are really quirky. Sebastian- her assistant is kinda odd, his son Juan has the hots for Harper. Luci's granddaughter has the hots for Austin.
Luci is obviously an expert matchmaker, but is it just getting couples together or is there a higher power? There were a lot of twists/turns at the end that could have been cut out. The plot and phrasing is very original. I laughed A LOT.
Austin about Harper (while they're competing for the same news scoop):
**He glanced at Harper, who now silently chewed her lip. Why the hell did she have to do that? She needed to stop trying to seduce him. Not that she was, but it felt like it.**
Even though Harper and Austin knew each other before, they had to question if they should be together. It was mainly Harper that held back. I love a book that addresses the problem with lack of passion. Not just sexually speaking, but relationship-wise. Is there a ONE & ONLY out there for her/him?
Again, there was some teasing back and forth-when will they get together? Is HE/SHE the one for me? Hmmmmmmm
It's ironic that I opened up & read this book this weekend- my wedding anniversary is on Monday.
Of course I always root for true love. <3
*Be sure to read Carol [Goodreads Addict]'s review. The gifs are fantastic and I read this book cuz of her review.
4.95 stars. I adored this book. .05 off for a smidgen too much of the quirky characters at the end
+ I wanted Harper and Austin together sooner.
The order of the next book in the series has changed to Tailored for Trouble which I'll be reading next.-- new H & h in this one.
Happy Pants Cafe was so much fun. Thank you so much Carol for the recommendation! I got this prequel book for free. This is my first book by Ms Pamfiloff. The premise/blurb was so so intriguing. I'm very happy to say that the book didn't disappoint.
Harper, the h is a reported for a SF newspaper. She's a romance/ love skeptic. The H, Austin is also a reporter for a competing Bay area newspaper. They're both going for the same story: What's going on at the Happy Pants Cafe?
This is 3rd person POV- which really works the best since I just had to be the fly on the wall.
Harper and Austin had been childhood friends she was 9 y/o & he was 11 y/0. They were separated suddenly when Harper's parents decided to move away. They didn't see each other for 19 years. Each thinking the other pushed away the other. The real reason for the separation is revealed towards the middle of the book. They're in their late 20s and have grown and gotten more attractive since their adolescent years-to put it mildly.
There are so many kooky-crazy details, but IMO very funny.
The main supporting character is Ms Luci, an elderly widow who owns the Happy Pants Cafe.
The big mystery is Ms Luci's cookie with a smiling face on it. It's served at the cafe, and customers-mostly women, flock to the cafe to eat this cookie. The cookie is said to have magical powers of finding true love.
Harper and Austin try to beat out the other for the exclusive story and interview with Ms Luci.
I really liked both the hero and heroine. Harper is the skeptic, but I could understand her negative feelings toward love -not that I share them-and neither does Austin.
Harper & Austin keep getting thrown together. They have to really rethink their connection- are they meant to be together? yes/no/yes/no/maybe/when? etc.
Ms Luci and her family are really quirky. Sebastian- her assistant is kinda odd, his son Juan has the hots for Harper. Luci's granddaughter has the hots for Austin.
Luci is obviously an expert matchmaker, but is it just getting couples together or is there a higher power? There were a lot of twists/turns at the end that could have been cut out. The plot and phrasing is very original. I laughed A LOT.
Austin about Harper (while they're competing for the same news scoop):
**He glanced at Harper, who now silently chewed her lip. Why the hell did she have to do that? She needed to stop trying to seduce him. Not that she was, but it felt like it.**
Even though Harper and Austin knew each other before, they had to question if they should be together. It was mainly Harper that held back. I love a book that addresses the problem with lack of passion. Not just sexually speaking, but relationship-wise. Is there a ONE & ONLY out there for her/him?
Again, there was some teasing back and forth-when will they get together? Is HE/SHE the one for me? Hmmmmmmm
It's ironic that I opened up & read this book this weekend- my wedding anniversary is on Monday.
Of course I always root for true love. <3
*Be sure to read Carol [Goodreads Addict]'s review. The gifs are fantastic and I read this book cuz of her review.
4.95 stars. I adored this book. .05 off for a smidgen too much of the quirky characters at the end
+ I wanted Harper and Austin together sooner.
The order of the next book in the series has changed to Tailored for Trouble which I'll be reading next.-- new H & h in this one.
September 7, 2016
light and sweet!
March 7, 2017
2.5 stars!
This started so good that I felt some serious heart palpitations but the comedic side got over the top towards the ending that I felt bored and skipped pages to get to the end.
This started so good that I felt some serious heart palpitations but the comedic side got over the top towards the ending that I felt bored and skipped pages to get to the end.
December 3, 2015
3.5 "Happy Pants" Stars 
This was a cute, funny story actually. I loved the banter between the hero and heroine. But I didn't really like how the plot went.
About 25% towards the ending, the supporting characters were so freaking annoying that they all caused the dramas.
Although the blurb said that this book was stand alone, the ending was kind of vague. Apparently you still need to read the next book if you want to know the 'clear' ending... (๑˘･з･˘)ｯﾌﾞｰ
But I still enjoyed this. Pretty refreshing read!
This was a cute, funny story actually. I loved the banter between the hero and heroine. But I didn't really like how the plot went.
About 25% towards the ending, the supporting characters were so freaking annoying that they all caused the dramas.
Although the blurb said that this book was stand alone, the ending was kind of vague. Apparently you still need to read the next book if you want to know the 'clear' ending... (๑˘･з･˘)ｯﾌﾞｰ
But I still enjoyed this. Pretty refreshing read!
June 20, 2014
I have so much admiration for Mimi's gift. To be able to create another great story in a different genre is genius. She are truly a gifted and talented person. This book is sweet and LOL funny! I can't wait to meet Moo. It's a wonder how Mimi seems to know how the ADHD of inner thoughts happen. The personal dialogues in this book are extremely funny. Great stuff. I'm sad that it's over, but can't wait for the next story!
June 18, 2014
Can't believe I have finished it the same day I bought it. That's how good it was; couldn't put it down. I'm glad mimi wrote this book as it just shows how good a writer she is. Loved it and can't wait to read what she writes next. Xx
January 17, 2024
January 2024
Kindle edition
Amazon purchase
Alphabet challenge - H
I was actively looking for a bright and cheerful book this time around. The rest of the titles I own are either Hell, Heart, Heaven etc. This is one of the earlier books I purchased on the kindle. This was an author me and my sister shared books. The other one was the Carpathian series author but I forget who that was. Although, not flagged on GR, I have read the Immortals series and the King ones. There was an ugly girl one somewhere in there as well. For some reason I stopped at this one. I can see why.
I have a bias against reporters, so neither character was likeable for me. They were both competitive and out to do anything to get their story. The enemies to lovers childhood thing was interesting, but the two of them were immature. It was like walking into a room of screaming kids and wanting to turn around and walk straight back out. The fact that they were together but Luci & Co went to the effort of breaking them up so their reunion was more meaningful...It felt more awkward than funny with harassment from a couple of characters. Not for me.
Kindle edition
Amazon purchase
Alphabet challenge - H
I was actively looking for a bright and cheerful book this time around. The rest of the titles I own are either Hell, Heart, Heaven etc. This is one of the earlier books I purchased on the kindle. This was an author me and my sister shared books. The other one was the Carpathian series author but I forget who that was. Although, not flagged on GR, I have read the Immortals series and the King ones. There was an ugly girl one somewhere in there as well. For some reason I stopped at this one. I can see why.
I have a bias against reporters, so neither character was likeable for me. They were both competitive and out to do anything to get their story. The enemies to lovers childhood thing was interesting, but the two of them were immature. It was like walking into a room of screaming kids and wanting to turn around and walk straight back out. The fact that they were together but Luci & Co went to the effort of breaking them up so their reunion was more meaningful...It felt more awkward than funny with harassment from a couple of characters. Not for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Want to read
March 3, 2018💝 FREE on Amazon today (1/3/2018)!💝
June 24, 2014
Funny, fluffy, :) Review shared with my friend Dali... agree :)
Mimi is the super star of funny, snarky and quirky!
Looking for a cute and charming book that will have you grinning from ear to ear? Drop by the Happy Pants Café – if you can find it – and “eat one of their cookies, you are guaranteed to meet your one true love within seven days.”
That is, if you believe in love. Which Harper Branton thinks is only for the delusional. But she’s willing to investigate about these super powered cookies to save her career.
The only problem is, she’s not the only one interested in this theory. She’s got competition and his name is Austin Royce. He’s attractive and he knows it. But he’s also a closet romantic.
Their insta-hate/love bond is wacky to the extreme, making two smart adults act completely juvenile and silly.
“You’re insane. You know that?” he said. “Yes. That’s why you should be afraid.”
It turns out though, their relationship not that immediate. They have a long forgotten history that will shape their future, not just determine who gets this scoop.
I love the way Mimi writes her characters and the way she tells the story from both points of view. But I especially liked Harper’s “feisty-as-hell attitude,” her incredibly funny one liners, the inner monologues. And flat out inner conversations that sometimes turned into discussions had me laughing out loud. And let’s not forget all those gasms!!
“Yes. I know that, you shitty little voice inside my head.”
I also loved the outrageous secondary characters. Especially Sebastian.
“Breast staring is only acceptable on Sundays. My most grand apologies.”
In general “the story was hopelessly sweet and sentimental.” It spoke of faith and the strength of character needed to move forward and strive for what you want. A wonderful standalone novel that will make you smile.
I can’t wait to see what bat shit crazy Mimi gives us next :)
Mimi is the super star of funny, snarky and quirky!
Looking for a cute and charming book that will have you grinning from ear to ear? Drop by the Happy Pants Café – if you can find it – and “eat one of their cookies, you are guaranteed to meet your one true love within seven days.”
That is, if you believe in love. Which Harper Branton thinks is only for the delusional. But she’s willing to investigate about these super powered cookies to save her career.
The only problem is, she’s not the only one interested in this theory. She’s got competition and his name is Austin Royce. He’s attractive and he knows it. But he’s also a closet romantic.
Their insta-hate/love bond is wacky to the extreme, making two smart adults act completely juvenile and silly.
“You’re insane. You know that?” he said. “Yes. That’s why you should be afraid.”
It turns out though, their relationship not that immediate. They have a long forgotten history that will shape their future, not just determine who gets this scoop.
I love the way Mimi writes her characters and the way she tells the story from both points of view. But I especially liked Harper’s “feisty-as-hell attitude,” her incredibly funny one liners, the inner monologues. And flat out inner conversations that sometimes turned into discussions had me laughing out loud. And let’s not forget all those gasms!!
“Yes. I know that, you shitty little voice inside my head.”
I also loved the outrageous secondary characters. Especially Sebastian.
“Breast staring is only acceptable on Sundays. My most grand apologies.”
In general “the story was hopelessly sweet and sentimental.” It spoke of faith and the strength of character needed to move forward and strive for what you want. A wonderful standalone novel that will make you smile.
I can’t wait to see what bat shit crazy Mimi gives us next :)
September 10, 2016
DNF @30%. This started off well, then started losing steam. The humor just started getting too silly and OTT for me and the characters inner-monologue became overpowering.
November 19, 2015
Great as usual
I love her stories and this one is no exception. This is a great unique love story. Very funny and also crazy. You won't be disappointed!
I love her stories and this one is no exception. This is a great unique love story. Very funny and also crazy. You won't be disappointed!
January 17, 2017
This was a fun story that teaches one that we should never stop believing in the power of love. (or Cookies as the case may be) This short story made me laugh out load and cry and I just generally had a great time escaping into this world.
I look forward to more from this series.
I look forward to more from this series.
August 26, 2016
It had a lot of good humor in it.
September 1, 2017
Having read some mediocre bookbub freebies I held out very little hope that this would be any good. The title is a little crazy and I was convinced it would be terrible. How wrong could I be? This was perfect holiday reading. It was brilliant and I couldn't put it down. Bravo!! I loved it.
March 19, 2017
Interesting Introduction
Austin and Harper had much to learn about themselves, each other, and love. Harper had a lead and she was going to work it to the end. She needed this. Okay, I got that much. The Austin thing was another sotry for me. These two went through a lot of life to get to their happy ending. Just to find that it really was not the end. They are off to a different kind of journey. Luci & Sebastian had a bit more going on than what was presented in this introduction to the series.
Cute introduction. I would like to see where the Happy Pants Cafe go to next.
Austin and Harper had much to learn about themselves, each other, and love. Harper had a lead and she was going to work it to the end. She needed this. Okay, I got that much. The Austin thing was another sotry for me. These two went through a lot of life to get to their happy ending. Just to find that it really was not the end. They are off to a different kind of journey. Luci & Sebastian had a bit more going on than what was presented in this introduction to the series.
Cute introduction. I would like to see where the Happy Pants Cafe go to next.
August 10, 2014
Clearly, I'm in the minority here but I didn't care for this book. I was in the mood for a funny, light-hearted romance but what I got was a bizarre, over-the-top kitschy read with bad, overly-done jokes. To quote Billy Crystal, "It was neither fun nor funny."
Quick Rundown: Chick gets into a journalist war with Dude who happens to be her childhood best friend who broke her heart at 9 years old. They latch onto the same story of the "mysterious" Happy Pants Cafe which seems to be responsible for life-long love/marriages all from eating a cookie. Will these two soulmates finally come together with the help of a bunch of absurd individuals (there are no sane ones in this book) or will they do it on their own? Or will they just die so I can move onto a book worth anyone's time?
Characters: The chick in this book really comes off as mentally ill. She's sworn off love as a myth (despite having parents deeply in love)because she found her 11 year old best friend (Dude) kissing a girl? As the author puts it, this "event" is her "pea under her mattresses". I can almost always suspend belief for my beloved fiction reads, but this concept was really a stretch for me and it took up a lot of the Chick's inner dialogue so it's not like I could put it out of mind. The Dude made more sense but he couldn't carry the book on his own and the lack of sexual tension and sex between these two MC's kept me from giving a shit. They only kiss like twice (before ending) and the sexual tension is just not there-- two random occasions of Dude having his shirt off and her commenting on it does not sexual tension make. So, this book is really about a world full of absurdly over-done people. There was not a secondary character in this book that was realistic in any way. The Cafe owner was bizarre, her son, the Sheriff was bizarre- slamming a woman's face in the concrete for spilling his coffee (???), the random guy at a wedding with cheese sauce on his tux was ridiculous. Every single character was like a bad acid trip. Most characters were driven by being either extremely horny or extremely violent with just a couple being driven solely by complete lunacy. What makes crazy people entertaining is being played off of normal people and there was no normal in this book. Just a collection of bizarre that wasn't endearing but predictable laziness by the author. The main Chick has "-gasms" at everything; knee-gasm, wine-gasm, smile-gasm, etc. Again, the bad joke was over-lookable the first time but it just kept repeating like all the other bad jokes in this book.
Plot: Since the whole "she-doesn't-believe-in-love-because-her-childhood-friend-kissed-a-girl" nonsense is just that, nonsense, this book is really about a collection of crazy secondary characters apparently living in the real world. Like I said before, I was so in the mood for a fluffy, amusing read and while the fluff was there, I suppose, I wasn't amused. The jokes just weren't funny. There was no sexual tension, only one fairly lame sex scene at the end and a lead-in to the next of the series which I will not be reading because this book made my "authors to never read again" list.
Overall: I suppose I get why some liked this book. The author does know "how" to write but I don't think comedy is her thing. I've read tons of these type of funny, fluffy, girly, beach reads and this is probably the worst. I just kept feeling like the author was in some mindset of, "the more bizarre I make everything, the funnier it will be". Yeah, not so much...
-Spuffed, "Half stars are for pansies and one gif is plenty."
Quick Rundown: Chick gets into a journalist war with Dude who happens to be her childhood best friend who broke her heart at 9 years old. They latch onto the same story of the "mysterious" Happy Pants Cafe which seems to be responsible for life-long love/marriages all from eating a cookie. Will these two soulmates finally come together with the help of a bunch of absurd individuals (there are no sane ones in this book) or will they do it on their own? Or will they just die so I can move onto a book worth anyone's time?
Characters: The chick in this book really comes off as mentally ill. She's sworn off love as a myth (despite having parents deeply in love)because she found her 11 year old best friend (Dude) kissing a girl? As the author puts it, this "event" is her "pea under her mattresses". I can almost always suspend belief for my beloved fiction reads, but this concept was really a stretch for me and it took up a lot of the Chick's inner dialogue so it's not like I could put it out of mind. The Dude made more sense but he couldn't carry the book on his own and the lack of sexual tension and sex between these two MC's kept me from giving a shit. They only kiss like twice (before ending) and the sexual tension is just not there-- two random occasions of Dude having his shirt off and her commenting on it does not sexual tension make. So, this book is really about a world full of absurdly over-done people. There was not a secondary character in this book that was realistic in any way. The Cafe owner was bizarre, her son, the Sheriff was bizarre- slamming a woman's face in the concrete for spilling his coffee (???), the random guy at a wedding with cheese sauce on his tux was ridiculous. Every single character was like a bad acid trip. Most characters were driven by being either extremely horny or extremely violent with just a couple being driven solely by complete lunacy. What makes crazy people entertaining is being played off of normal people and there was no normal in this book. Just a collection of bizarre that wasn't endearing but predictable laziness by the author. The main Chick has "-gasms" at everything; knee-gasm, wine-gasm, smile-gasm, etc. Again, the bad joke was over-lookable the first time but it just kept repeating like all the other bad jokes in this book.
Plot: Since the whole "she-doesn't-believe-in-love-because-her-childhood-friend-kissed-a-girl" nonsense is just that, nonsense, this book is really about a collection of crazy secondary characters apparently living in the real world. Like I said before, I was so in the mood for a fluffy, amusing read and while the fluff was there, I suppose, I wasn't amused. The jokes just weren't funny. There was no sexual tension, only one fairly lame sex scene at the end and a lead-in to the next of the series which I will not be reading because this book made my "authors to never read again" list.
Overall: I suppose I get why some liked this book. The author does know "how" to write but I don't think comedy is her thing. I've read tons of these type of funny, fluffy, girly, beach reads and this is probably the worst. I just kept feeling like the author was in some mindset of, "the more bizarre I make everything, the funnier it will be". Yeah, not so much...
-Spuffed, "Half stars are for pansies and one gif is plenty."
June 18, 2014
Okay... I'm not going to be a scared little girl and hide behind my mommy. Oh no! I'm going to say this woman what I think about her... right now! She's the most hard-working, genius, absolutely fabulous woman that I have not meet yet. Her books are the works of a genius and she's not scared to try new things, to see how her readers (and new readers, because people get hooked on her books automatically) react to her new books. From my experience as her reader, I can say with all my heart, that I LOVE every little word that she writes- seriously woman, you can give me a... let's say... bag and write about it and I'm going to write you an ode where how brilliant you are because you deserve it.
From the first moment when I bought your book ("Accidentally married to... a vampire?"),because of a dear blogger had recommended you, I was... yours...
Afte that we had "King's"and now I can't wait to read the next books you will publish, even though some of them will be an ending bittersweet for me, especially if we consider these beautiful years that you gave me... us, your readers. I'm sure that I'm going to cry a little, but in the same time I can't wait to find out what you have prepared for us...
Now...about this new story, it was so funny and sweet like a cake with ice cream and I loved every word in it... from the moment when we meet Austin Royce and how infuriantingly sexy he is, but like every man candy that you created, we can't help ourself and fall for them.
Let's not comment about his relationship, or the lack of thereof, with our witty, crazy journalist and feminist, Harper Branton. Well this story starts with Harper who is one of the happiest woman alive because she (finally) has her columne in for the San Francisco Tribune. You may say that she doesn't need anything else, right?
Wrong! She needs to write about something, something big that will launch her career and make her unforgettable. But in her way stands Austin Royce, a man who she has a history with, but hasn't seen him for some time- you'll find more about it when you'll read the book-so she doesn't expect him to reappear in her life after all this time, but he does and everything about their relationship is crazy wonderful, intense and their steamy conversations will have many ladies pants in a bunch, so expect all the hotness ladies!
All because of a little cafe owned by Luci Leon-Parker, a seventy years old lady, but what is really important is not her, even though she has her own role in this situation, it's all about Happy Pants Cafe, because you need just one little visit to find your true love.Harper would say something like... Liar, Liar, pants on fire, because... let's face it... in our age, is hard to admit that true love exist, more so love at first sight. But, that's what fate has prepared for our sarcastic, non-believer in soulmate aka Harper.
Final Verdict- If you want a great sexy romance with so many funny moments that you'll almost pee yourself, while laughing so hard that it hurts, I highly recommend this book or any of her other books. Seriously, people, this woman is like a writing machine and none of her books will dissapoint you. And let's not forget the hot men and steamy situations, right ladies?
From the first moment when I bought your book ("Accidentally married to... a vampire?"),because of a dear blogger had recommended you, I was... yours...
Afte that we had "King's"and now I can't wait to read the next books you will publish, even though some of them will be an ending bittersweet for me, especially if we consider these beautiful years that you gave me... us, your readers. I'm sure that I'm going to cry a little, but in the same time I can't wait to find out what you have prepared for us...
Now...about this new story, it was so funny and sweet like a cake with ice cream and I loved every word in it... from the moment when we meet Austin Royce and how infuriantingly sexy he is, but like every man candy that you created, we can't help ourself and fall for them.
Let's not comment about his relationship, or the lack of thereof, with our witty, crazy journalist and feminist, Harper Branton. Well this story starts with Harper who is one of the happiest woman alive because she (finally) has her columne in for the San Francisco Tribune. You may say that she doesn't need anything else, right?
Wrong! She needs to write about something, something big that will launch her career and make her unforgettable. But in her way stands Austin Royce, a man who she has a history with, but hasn't seen him for some time- you'll find more about it when you'll read the book-so she doesn't expect him to reappear in her life after all this time, but he does and everything about their relationship is crazy wonderful, intense and their steamy conversations will have many ladies pants in a bunch, so expect all the hotness ladies!
All because of a little cafe owned by Luci Leon-Parker, a seventy years old lady, but what is really important is not her, even though she has her own role in this situation, it's all about Happy Pants Cafe, because you need just one little visit to find your true love.Harper would say something like... Liar, Liar, pants on fire, because... let's face it... in our age, is hard to admit that true love exist, more so love at first sight. But, that's what fate has prepared for our sarcastic, non-believer in soulmate aka Harper.
Final Verdict- If you want a great sexy romance with so many funny moments that you'll almost pee yourself, while laughing so hard that it hurts, I highly recommend this book or any of her other books. Seriously, people, this woman is like a writing machine and none of her books will dissapoint you. And let's not forget the hot men and steamy situations, right ladies?
August 9, 2016
She needs this story and so does he… but maybe what they really need is each other.
Storyline-
Harper Branton needs a story to get her out of hot water with her boss and the strange goings on at The Happy Pants Café might just be the scoop she was looking for. There is only one problem in the delicious shape of Austin a fellow reporter with a competitive streak a mile wide, only he’s not just some reporter he is also the first boy who broke her heart. Between ‘dog’ pigs, secret spice gardens and smiley faced cookies guaranteed to bring love these two are in for a wild ride.
Characters-
Harper Branton is a tough girl with a fierce stubborn streak, married to her job she views love as nothing but a hoax. Her clumsy antics and cheeky attitude will leave you rolling with laughter.
Austin has just gotten out of a relationship with his stalker ex and is looking for an escape. He is very competitive, ambitious and hot enough to melt butter in an igloo, (thank you for that Henry Cavill comparison Mimi).
My love Hate Relationship-
I could absolutely kick myself for not reading this before but seeing the word prequel I didn’t want to be left on a cliffhanger so I thought I would wait for the next book to come out before reading this, only to find out this story is a standalone, an introduction to a series, yes, but still a standalone about this couple.
You will absolutely die laughing at some of the antics in this book between muddy pigs and the scheming Luci there is a lot to keep you entertained. The chemistry between Austin and Harper is scorching I just wished we had more sexy time with them.
Warnings-
This IS a standalone, don’t make the mistake I made and not read it. There is no cheating or anything traumatizing just fun times awaiting you.
Ratings-
Writing- 5 pink sparkly pens (Mimi your writing is better than any glass of wine. Yes, I said it ladies close your mouths)
Heat- 3 Panty Melters (Tons of chemistry and sizzle I just wish there had been more cooking hee hee)
Romance- 5 Hearts (Austin is a romantic guy. More romantic than Harper I think)
Comedy- 5 Smiley Faced Cookies
Violence- 0 (it’s fluffy as heck)
What Goes With This Book
Snack- cookies (Yay!)
Music- in order – “50 Ways to Say Goodbye” by Train
“Atmosphere” by Kaskade
“Lonesome” by Dr. Dog
“Tonight You’re Perfect” by New Politics
“Harlem” by New Politics
“Heart it Races” by Architecture in Helsinki
“Island in the Sun” by Weezer
Activity- Baking cookies with some happy face icing
Accessory- A vintage watch and blue cowboy hat
September 20, 2016
This was a great beginning to a new series. I absolutely loved Harper and Austin, the banter between them was so much fun I found myself laughing out loud several times. This story has also introduced us to a couple of the key players in the Happy Pants Cafe, the owner and baker Luci, as well as Sebastian who runs the farm where the special ingredients are grown for the cookies.
I look forward to reading the rest of this sweet and funny series.
I look forward to reading the rest of this sweet and funny series.
August 14, 2014
Austin Royce
Harper Branton
Four big fat stars.
What a sweet story, Like MJP says, full of fluff! So different from her Fate Book Fate Book and King Series'.King's
Loved it, and managed to read most of it in one sitting.
Pleased to see it's not a one off, and I hope that means we'll see plenty more of Austin and Harper.
The story begins with Austin waking up freezing cold, half dressed and lying on the pavement outside the "Happy Pants Cafe" and works it's way full circle right back to that point.
This is a wonderfully light-hearted tale of true love, and two people who have loved each other all their lives without realizing it, they both just needed some help to get them heading in the right direction. That's where the owner of the strangely secretive Happy Pants Cafe comes in. Luci is just a delight, and I hope her secrets go to the right people!
Happy Pants, is a sweet, humorous tale, one that I laughed aloud at on several occasions, Harper and Austin are cute and snarkey toward each other from the start, with plenty of amusing banter between them. Already looking forward to the next installment.!
And I love the cover!
Another fantastic read from a wonderfully talented writer. Keep up the amazing work MJP!
Harper Branton
Four big fat stars.
What a sweet story, Like MJP says, full of fluff! So different from her Fate Book Fate Book and King Series'.King's
Loved it, and managed to read most of it in one sitting.
Pleased to see it's not a one off, and I hope that means we'll see plenty more of Austin and Harper.
The story begins with Austin waking up freezing cold, half dressed and lying on the pavement outside the "Happy Pants Cafe" and works it's way full circle right back to that point.
This is a wonderfully light-hearted tale of true love, and two people who have loved each other all their lives without realizing it, they both just needed some help to get them heading in the right direction. That's where the owner of the strangely secretive Happy Pants Cafe comes in. Luci is just a delight, and I hope her secrets go to the right people!
Happy Pants, is a sweet, humorous tale, one that I laughed aloud at on several occasions, Harper and Austin are cute and snarkey toward each other from the start, with plenty of amusing banter between them. Already looking forward to the next installment.!
And I love the cover!
Another fantastic read from a wonderfully talented writer. Keep up the amazing work MJP!
August 1, 2016
This book was so much fun!! I received an ARC of Tailored For Trouble, book 1 in the Happy Pants series, but when I saw there was a prequel already out, I read that first. I'm so glad I did!
Harper, a journalist, messes up a story she's supposed to cover and has one last shot at keeping her job. She needs to find out the story behind the Happy Pants Cafe. This place is open only part of the year, has no website, no listing, but always has a line out the door of happy customers who are there to buy a cookie. Rumor has it (though it's bad luck to talk about the rumors) that once you take a bite of one of their cookies, you will meet your true love within 7 days. Harper doesn't believe in real love, but she does run into a fellow journalist (Austin) trying to capture the same story. Harper soon realizes Austin is her childhood best friend she hasn't seen since her family moved away when they were kids. Sparks are flying while they compete for the details of this story about Happy Pants Cafe. What is it about the tight lipped owner, her crazy ranch hand and her kids? And what about those cookies?? This book reveals all by the end and you end up with a standalone with an HEA and a light, beautiful story.
I highly recommend you read this before you dive into the rest of the series, as you will understand more about the characters who make brief appearances in Tailored For Trouble and what Happy Pants Cafe is all about!
Harper, a journalist, messes up a story she's supposed to cover and has one last shot at keeping her job. She needs to find out the story behind the Happy Pants Cafe. This place is open only part of the year, has no website, no listing, but always has a line out the door of happy customers who are there to buy a cookie. Rumor has it (though it's bad luck to talk about the rumors) that once you take a bite of one of their cookies, you will meet your true love within 7 days. Harper doesn't believe in real love, but she does run into a fellow journalist (Austin) trying to capture the same story. Harper soon realizes Austin is her childhood best friend she hasn't seen since her family moved away when they were kids. Sparks are flying while they compete for the details of this story about Happy Pants Cafe. What is it about the tight lipped owner, her crazy ranch hand and her kids? And what about those cookies?? This book reveals all by the end and you end up with a standalone with an HEA and a light, beautiful story.
I highly recommend you read this before you dive into the rest of the series, as you will understand more about the characters who make brief appearances in Tailored For Trouble and what Happy Pants Cafe is all about!
September 1, 2016
HAPPY PANTS CAFE was an OK read, but at times I found it to be a little too much, like it was trying too hard to be funny. I don’t remember much about Austin or Harper, other than they spent most of the book behaving like children and trying to one-up the other. Harper doesn’t believe in love because Austin broke her heart when she was nine and she’s carried around that thinking for the past nineteen years. Harper broke Austin’s heart when he was eleven, but he still believes in love and marriage and thinks that Harper is the one he’s been waiting for, despite the fact that all they’ve done since they were reunited is fight. Throw in some humour, misunderstandings, meddling friends and potential love rivals, and you have yourself a story that’s cute and quirky, but also cheesy and over-the-top.
There were times I did laugh, but after a while the jokes stopped being funny and instead became silly, or in the case of the sexist farmhands, just plain gross. Sometimes I was distracted by the huge amount of inner monologue in the middle of conversations that, by the time a question was answered, I’d forgotten that a question had even been asked. HAPPY PANTS CAFE is the prequel to the Happy Pants series and is told in dual POVs, with a few sections told in the cafe owner’s POV. Sadly, this one didn’t win me over and ultimately didn’t make me want to read the next book in the series.
For more reviews, please visit our website: http://romancebetweenthesheets.com/re...
There were times I did laugh, but after a while the jokes stopped being funny and instead became silly, or in the case of the sexist farmhands, just plain gross. Sometimes I was distracted by the huge amount of inner monologue in the middle of conversations that, by the time a question was answered, I’d forgotten that a question had even been asked. HAPPY PANTS CAFE is the prequel to the Happy Pants series and is told in dual POVs, with a few sections told in the cafe owner’s POV. Sadly, this one didn’t win me over and ultimately didn’t make me want to read the next book in the series.
For more reviews, please visit our website: http://romancebetweenthesheets.com/re...
August 12, 2015
To start with, I can't really go into the story in the review, as that will completely destroy the story line and here at Cara’s Book Boudoir, we try not to do spoilers.
This book is a romantic comedy and I am not really a romantic comedy fan. Some of the interactions between Harper and her love/hate interest were bordering on cringe-worthy, which at times (for me) made the book a little hard to read. But then again I would like to point out; I am not a big Rom-Com fan I do have to say that 99% of the book is great!
The characters are funny and half of them remind me of my crazy family and in-laws. Mimi Jean Pamfiloff is so very good at describing the characters, not just physically but personality, certain phrases will stay with me forever.
So despite me being totally weird (according to my husband) and not liking Rom-Com's, I am going to give this book 8 out of 10. It made me smile and that is the most important thing about books, books are supposed to move your emotions.
This book is a romantic comedy and I am not really a romantic comedy fan. Some of the interactions between Harper and her love/hate interest were bordering on cringe-worthy, which at times (for me) made the book a little hard to read. But then again I would like to point out; I am not a big Rom-Com fan I do have to say that 99% of the book is great!
The characters are funny and half of them remind me of my crazy family and in-laws. Mimi Jean Pamfiloff is so very good at describing the characters, not just physically but personality, certain phrases will stay with me forever.
So despite me being totally weird (according to my husband) and not liking Rom-Com's, I am going to give this book 8 out of 10. It made me smile and that is the most important thing about books, books are supposed to move your emotions.
June 20, 2014
I usually just one-click any book that Mimi Jean writes. Her stories are simply amazing. Happy Pants Cafe is a little different than your usual Mimi Jean books. It was light and funny with a little mystery that kept me glued from page one.
Austin Royce is a refreshing change because he's actually the true romantic and Harper is the more cynical and cautious heroine. The story is told from both their points of view which kept me laughing throughout the entire book. This is exactly what you need for a summer read. So why are you still reading this review when you could be reading Happy Pants Cafe for yourself?? Go!
Austin Royce is a refreshing change because he's actually the true romantic and Harper is the more cynical and cautious heroine. The story is told from both their points of view which kept me laughing throughout the entire book. This is exactly what you need for a summer read. So why are you still reading this review when you could be reading Happy Pants Cafe for yourself?? Go!
August 28, 2014
So much humor and laughter and love. Austin that boy is a not a force to be reckoned with, "furious as hell, Austin leaned over the table and tightly gripped the edges. "I don't eff women who lie. Not even if I'm attracted to them." I love how Austin explains things to Harper, "I didn't pack anything to come up here, so I stopped at Target along the way. That style happens to be the only one I can wear without restricting circulation in a very large and important spot on my body, and pink was the only color they had." I enjoyed this book so damn much.
August 13, 2016
Although I enjoyed this introduction to the Happy Pants Series, it wasn't as satisfying as the first full installment. There were too many road blocks and too many tears and misunderstandings without the heart that Tailor Made for Trouble contained. For these reasons, Happy Pants Cafe earns 3.5 Stars.
January 19, 2016
A delightful piece of fluff. If you need a book to make you smile this is it!
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