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Rock Creek #3
The Cupcake Dilemma: A Rock Creek Romance Novella
Romance and Redemption. Welcome to Rock Creek.
My name is Kirstin Hill. I'm a simple girl trying to figure out life in a small town. There are a few things you should know about me before we begin. I grew up in the city. I'm a teacher, a first-year teacher (some of you understand that significance). And finally, when it comes to cooking, I'm a disaster. Maybe none of those things seem story worthy, but trust me—I have a story. I call it The Cupcake Dilemma, and it literally changed my life. How? I'm glad you asked. It all started with an extra assignment delegated to me at school right before Valentine's Day.... But before we get too far, let me begin by stating this clearly. I was voluntold.
My name is Kirstin Hill. I'm a simple girl trying to figure out life in a small town. There are a few things you should know about me before we begin. I grew up in the city. I'm a teacher, a first-year teacher (some of you understand that significance). And finally, when it comes to cooking, I'm a disaster. Maybe none of those things seem story worthy, but trust me—I have a story. I call it The Cupcake Dilemma, and it literally changed my life. How? I'm glad you asked. It all started with an extra assignment delegated to me at school right before Valentine's Day.... But before we get too far, let me begin by stating this clearly. I was voluntold.
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First published February 1, 2018
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About the author
Jennifer Rodewald
41 books402 followersJennifer Rodewald is passionate about the Word of God and the powerful vehicle of story. Four kids and her own personal superman make her home in southwestern Nebraska delightfully chaotic.
Born in Colorado, she experienced both the seclusion of rugged mountain living and the busy streets of a Denver suburb during her growing up years. Somewhere in the middle of college, she married a Husker and found her way back to the quiet lifestyle of a rural area, which suits just fine.
Blessed with a robust curiosity, Jen loves to research. Whether she’s investigating the history of a given area, the biography of a Christian icon, or how nature declares the glory of God, her daily goal is to learn something new. Aiming to live with boundless enthusiasm, her creed is vision, pursuit, and excellence.
Jen lives and writes in a lovely speck of a town where she watches with amazement while her children grow up way too fast, gardens, and marvels at God’s mighty hand in everyday life.
Born in Colorado, she experienced both the seclusion of rugged mountain living and the busy streets of a Denver suburb during her growing up years. Somewhere in the middle of college, she married a Husker and found her way back to the quiet lifestyle of a rural area, which suits just fine.
Blessed with a robust curiosity, Jen loves to research. Whether she’s investigating the history of a given area, the biography of a Christian icon, or how nature declares the glory of God, her daily goal is to learn something new. Aiming to live with boundless enthusiasm, her creed is vision, pursuit, and excellence.
Jen lives and writes in a lovely speck of a town where she watches with amazement while her children grow up way too fast, gardens, and marvels at God’s mighty hand in everyday life.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 137 reviews
August 23, 2022
Oh-so-cute! I loved this light and funny novella with a sweet romance that made me want to read it again as soon as I finished it. (So I did) ;) Kirstin's voice is a perfect blend of humorous and vulnerable that makes her easy to relate to and enjoyable to read. Ian was fun and unexpected, and I loved his reactions to Kirstin. They have a fun friendship with potential for more, but they are both playing it cool. Awesome romantic tension and even better when things get really interesting! This is one that's going on my "get-me-in-a-better-mood" list :)
(I received a copy of the book from a giveaway; all opinions in this review are my own)
(I received a copy of the book from a giveaway; all opinions in this review are my own)
January 21, 2018
This story was so FUN!! I ADORED it!!!!! I can usually take or leave novellas. They sometimes feel too rushed or incomplete. but not this one. It was full of romance, sass, smiles, laughs, and sugar ans spice. with a dash of smoky flavor.
LOVED!!!
LOVED!!!
February 17, 2018
The Cupcake Dilemma is, in a word, ADORABLE!!!! And I don’t just mean the hunky hero, Ian. (Although he’s quite adorable too) Everything from the first person narrator with a touch of snark to the characters to the kitchen disasters to the romance. It’s all so cute and fun… and, at the risk of sounding like a poet or a burger order, so well done!
Kirstin is a brand new second-grade teacher and a brand new resident of small-town Rock Creek. She’s delightfully witty (with a dusting of snark) as narrator, and she’s incredibly easy for readers to identify with. Her yearning for community, for friendship, for belonging…. and for romance. But, alas, poor Kirstin doesn’t ‘kitchen’. I mean, she really doesn’t ‘kitchen’. And Ian really should have taken her more seriously on that. Before she caught his kitchen on fire. However, if he had, we would have missed the delicious chance to watch them fall in love.
Speaking of Ian, have I mentioned yet how adorable he is? He’s “sweet with a hefty balance of goofy tossed in for flavor”. And oh what a great friend he makes … and what a great KISSER! That first kiss is a yummy blend of hoarse-with-emotion and teasing and a soft groan. It’s fun and romcom-y and toecurling. And I may or may not have read it like six times already so far. #noshame
Oh! And fans of Ordinary Snowflakes and Reclaimed will be happy to see those familiar characters pop up from time to time in The Cupcake Dilemma as well! Syd remains one of my very fave child characters in fiction, so I was especially delighted to see her again.
Bottom Line: I love Jennifer Rodewald’s deeper reads, the ones that have me burying my head in the pillow to muffle my ugly cries. BUT… I also adore it when she branches out into lighter romance reads. She’s got such a great first person narrative voice, and I love her sense of humor! Ian and Kirstin are wonderfully relatable characters, individually and as a couple, and you will be cheering for them at every step!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book & purchased my own copy too.)
first seen at Reading Is My SuperPower
Kirstin is a brand new second-grade teacher and a brand new resident of small-town Rock Creek. She’s delightfully witty (with a dusting of snark) as narrator, and she’s incredibly easy for readers to identify with. Her yearning for community, for friendship, for belonging…. and for romance. But, alas, poor Kirstin doesn’t ‘kitchen’. I mean, she really doesn’t ‘kitchen’. And Ian really should have taken her more seriously on that. Before she caught his kitchen on fire. However, if he had, we would have missed the delicious chance to watch them fall in love.
Speaking of Ian, have I mentioned yet how adorable he is? He’s “sweet with a hefty balance of goofy tossed in for flavor”. And oh what a great friend he makes … and what a great KISSER! That first kiss is a yummy blend of hoarse-with-emotion and teasing and a soft groan. It’s fun and romcom-y and toecurling. And I may or may not have read it like six times already so far. #noshame
Oh! And fans of Ordinary Snowflakes and Reclaimed will be happy to see those familiar characters pop up from time to time in The Cupcake Dilemma as well! Syd remains one of my very fave child characters in fiction, so I was especially delighted to see her again.
Bottom Line: I love Jennifer Rodewald’s deeper reads, the ones that have me burying my head in the pillow to muffle my ugly cries. BUT… I also adore it when she branches out into lighter romance reads. She’s got such a great first person narrative voice, and I love her sense of humor! Ian and Kirstin are wonderfully relatable characters, individually and as a couple, and you will be cheering for them at every step!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book & purchased my own copy too.)
first seen at Reading Is My SuperPower
April 6, 2018
The Cupcake Dilemma is a super cute, fun, quick read! Perfect for a Sunday afternoon! But beware... you'll be in a baking mood before the book is over. Now I just have to see if I have all the ingredients I need to bake something... ;) Hehe.
March 9, 2018
Short and Sweet!
What a cute novella! Short, yes. But oh so fun. I smiled a lot and now? I need a cupcake!!
What a cute novella! Short, yes. But oh so fun. I smiled a lot and now? I need a cupcake!!
May 2, 2023
Have you ever been voluntold, experienced a kitchen failure, lived in a small town, worked with small children, or enjoyed a cupcake? That's 5 big yeses for me!
Rock Creek is an idyllic little community that reminds me of my hometown (except for the barn on the square, ours is a few blocks over). There are so many reasons why I adore this sweet little romantic comedy that there's no way I'd be able to articulate them all. It honestly feels like the author wrote the book just for me and I've read it on several occasions now. This novella is one of my favorite comfort reads and it never gets old.
I purchased ebook and print copies of this title. The opinions expressed are my own.
Rock Creek is an idyllic little community that reminds me of my hometown (except for the barn on the square, ours is a few blocks over). There are so many reasons why I adore this sweet little romantic comedy that there's no way I'd be able to articulate them all. It honestly feels like the author wrote the book just for me and I've read it on several occasions now. This novella is one of my favorite comfort reads and it never gets old.
I purchased ebook and print copies of this title. The opinions expressed are my own.
April 18, 2019
This novella was amazingly fun with some seriously swoon-worthy moments! Wow! I haven't read the other books in this series, yet I had no trouble picking this book up through Kindle Unlimited and enjoying it from start to finish.
August 8, 2020
This was cute. Almost too silly for me but it did make me smile a lot!
February 19, 2018
Loved it! It is a novella, but longer than some although it's still a quick read.
The only downside ... it didn't come with cupcakes. They sounded delicious.
The only downside ... it didn't come with cupcakes. They sounded delicious.
February 12, 2018
Put the words “cupcake” and “Jennifer Rodewald” together, associated with a novella, and you have my undying attention and interest. Throw in a sweet romance, some chocolate, and a quaint (favorite) small town setting, and you have a recipe for a novella that earns a place on my favorites list!
The Cupcake Dilemma is an absolute treat from start to finish! Kirstin and Ian are positively likable and refreshingly awkward — especially when they are “together” on the page. I expected to like this story, but I didn’t expect it to be so hilarious (I mean laugh-out-loud hilarious) in so many ways! Jennifer keeps surprising me with her versatility and voice.
It’s not all hearts and chocolate, though, as the interaction between Kirstin and Ian reveals a deeper desire to find joy and friendship. That’s what I like most about the developing relationship between Kirstin and Ian — that it begins with a friendship and wonderfully, naturally grows into a sweet could-be-love rapport.
If you’re looking for a light-hearted story with epically funny kitchen fails, look no further than this “sweet” novella from Jennifer. And, if you’re a fan of her Rock Creek stories thus far, you will be delighted by the brief appearance of beloved characters.
Thank you to the author for providing the review copy. This is my honest review.
The Cupcake Dilemma is an absolute treat from start to finish! Kirstin and Ian are positively likable and refreshingly awkward — especially when they are “together” on the page. I expected to like this story, but I didn’t expect it to be so hilarious (I mean laugh-out-loud hilarious) in so many ways! Jennifer keeps surprising me with her versatility and voice.
It’s not all hearts and chocolate, though, as the interaction between Kirstin and Ian reveals a deeper desire to find joy and friendship. That’s what I like most about the developing relationship between Kirstin and Ian — that it begins with a friendship and wonderfully, naturally grows into a sweet could-be-love rapport.
If you’re looking for a light-hearted story with epically funny kitchen fails, look no further than this “sweet” novella from Jennifer. And, if you’re a fan of her Rock Creek stories thus far, you will be delighted by the brief appearance of beloved characters.
Thank you to the author for providing the review copy. This is my honest review.
February 25, 2018
Sweet Story
This story was a joy to read. There were many times I found myself laughing out loud. I really felt sorry for Kristin and all her mishaps in the kitchen. I don't know if I've ever met anyone as bad as she is in the kitchen. I'd definitely be careful around her.
I enjoyed how Jennifer Rodewald developed the relationship between Ian and Kristin it was sweet and endearing. The banter between the two was so cute.
I also loved all the food and bakery descriptions. However, it did make me want to go out and buy a lot of cupcakes and that might not be good. I feel I gained weight just by reading this book.
If you want a light, fun, quirky, and all around a simply enjoyable book to read this is one you might want to pick up.
I truly recommend this book. It will be a delicious addition to your book collection.
This story was a joy to read. There were many times I found myself laughing out loud. I really felt sorry for Kristin and all her mishaps in the kitchen. I don't know if I've ever met anyone as bad as she is in the kitchen. I'd definitely be careful around her.
I enjoyed how Jennifer Rodewald developed the relationship between Ian and Kristin it was sweet and endearing. The banter between the two was so cute.
I also loved all the food and bakery descriptions. However, it did make me want to go out and buy a lot of cupcakes and that might not be good. I feel I gained weight just by reading this book.
If you want a light, fun, quirky, and all around a simply enjoyable book to read this is one you might want to pick up.
I truly recommend this book. It will be a delicious addition to your book collection.
January 17, 2018
Such a cute Valentine’s Day Novella! It’ll have you grinning ear-to-ear the whole time you’re reading. A must read!
January 20, 2018
This is adorable! I loved it!
February 15, 2018
I enjoyed this sweet romance. A man with dark hair and eyes (my favorite) who will cook for you- what's not to love!
March 22, 2018
I could not adore this sweet and witty romantic comedy any more. This was my first ever book by Jennifer Rodewald but it won't be my last. Highly recommended!
March 19, 2018
"Note to grandmothers everywhere: do not give kitchen-fail granddaughters your heirloom teacups."
Kristin Hill is a total kitchen failure, so when her elementary school principal assigns her the task of securing desserts for the upcoming Rock Creek Valentine's dance, she panics, right into the Sweet Tooth Bakery. Imagine her surprise when the handsome, gregarious, borderline comedic owner-baker challenges her to a few kitchen lessons, right there in his industrial kitchen. What could possibly go wrong?
Ian Connealy has made friends easily in the small town of Rock Creek. It doesn't hurt that he can whip up confections with names like: Peanut Butter Boss, Razzle Dazzle Toothpaste and Rocky Road Toad. Tutoring Kristin in his kitchen sounds like a culinary adventure, until her chronic bad luck ends up setting an oven on fire.
Prepare to laugh and smile more than you ever thought you could, while reading this short, saucy, and extremely sweet story of how "the kitchen-fail girl and the big goofball guy" become friends, and maybe, just maybe, there will be an "icing on the cake" ending!
Kristin Hill is a total kitchen failure, so when her elementary school principal assigns her the task of securing desserts for the upcoming Rock Creek Valentine's dance, she panics, right into the Sweet Tooth Bakery. Imagine her surprise when the handsome, gregarious, borderline comedic owner-baker challenges her to a few kitchen lessons, right there in his industrial kitchen. What could possibly go wrong?
Ian Connealy has made friends easily in the small town of Rock Creek. It doesn't hurt that he can whip up confections with names like: Peanut Butter Boss, Razzle Dazzle Toothpaste and Rocky Road Toad. Tutoring Kristin in his kitchen sounds like a culinary adventure, until her chronic bad luck ends up setting an oven on fire.
Prepare to laugh and smile more than you ever thought you could, while reading this short, saucy, and extremely sweet story of how "the kitchen-fail girl and the big goofball guy" become friends, and maybe, just maybe, there will be an "icing on the cake" ending!
February 15, 2018
This little gem of a novella is so. Much. Fun. To start with, it’s narrated by the main character, Kirstin Hill, in the first person, and she is a very engaging narrator. You might as well be chatting with your best friend. Okay, so it’s a one way conversation, but trust me, you’ll be so invested in the unfolding story that you won’t even notice she’s doing all the talking!
And then there’s Ian Connealy, who gives his cupcakes a run for their money in the ‘yum’ department. But he’s also down-to-earth and perfectly comfortable playing the goofball, both characteristics that endeared him to me straight away. How can a novella about a kitchen-fail girl and a goofball guy NOT be fun?
It all begins when Kirstin is voluntold to bring cupcakes to the school’s Valentine Day dance. Ian could just bake them for her, like he would for any other order, but what if all she needs is some success in the kitchen to bolster her confidence? Enter the fun times! And yet, Jennifer Rodewald knows exactly when to draw in the reins to prevent the sugar and spice and all things humorous from being over-the-top. And she still manages to sneak in a few of the heartfelt moments that make her one of my favourite authors.
In short, this novella is as yummy as those cupcakes I’m now craving!
I received a copy of this novel from the author. This has not influenced the content of my review, which is my honest and unbiased opinion.
And then there’s Ian Connealy, who gives his cupcakes a run for their money in the ‘yum’ department. But he’s also down-to-earth and perfectly comfortable playing the goofball, both characteristics that endeared him to me straight away. How can a novella about a kitchen-fail girl and a goofball guy NOT be fun?
It all begins when Kirstin is voluntold to bring cupcakes to the school’s Valentine Day dance. Ian could just bake them for her, like he would for any other order, but what if all she needs is some success in the kitchen to bolster her confidence? Enter the fun times! And yet, Jennifer Rodewald knows exactly when to draw in the reins to prevent the sugar and spice and all things humorous from being over-the-top. And she still manages to sneak in a few of the heartfelt moments that make her one of my favourite authors.
In short, this novella is as yummy as those cupcakes I’m now craving!
I received a copy of this novel from the author. This has not influenced the content of my review, which is my honest and unbiased opinion.
July 1, 2018
Cute!
July 10, 2018
This story is super adorable!! Like the sweetest cupcake with sprinkles of laughter on top. :) I wasn't expecting to giggle so much, but Ms. Rodewald's humor was just a lot of fun. The whole story simply feels like a jolly good time, with several swoony moments to make us romantics happy! I love a romance that begins with friendship, and watching these two come together with laughter, a little embarrassment, and loads of chemistry (that they try and deny for all of two seconds...or was it three? ;) feels natural. I LOVE that Ian is the cook/baker and Kristen the disaster in the kitchen. It made for lots of cute and adorable moments between the two! Have I mentioned that I really loved this one? Multiple rereads should totally prove that, right? Trust me, if you're looking for sweet, swoony, and a quick, easy read, look no further!
February 24, 2018
Cute novella.
April 23, 2018
Cute, Hilarious and Quirky.
I adored this cute, hilarious and Quirky romance.
The storyline had me in stiches and the characters engaging.
This book is recommended for those who love fun romance
I adored this cute, hilarious and Quirky romance.
The storyline had me in stiches and the characters engaging.
This book is recommended for those who love fun romance
December 30, 2019
A charming, lighthearted novella about a kitchen-fail girl tasked with baking cupcakes for a town event. It was literally impossible to stop smiling! The antics, quirks, humor and sweet romance this book has to offer left me giddy and wanting to read the story again and again. Kirstin is the perfect heroine for this first-person tale - endearing, funny and relatable. And Ian is goofy, swoony and fun. Their chemistry and conversation as their unexpected friendship develops into something more was effortless and simply adorable. All in all, a pure delight! Highly recommended!
January 17, 2018
Adorable, laugh-out-loud read.
Longer review to come!
Longer review to come!
April 4, 2018
An adorable romance!
June 22, 2021
Loved the voice of this novella!! Such a fun read and now I need a cupcake.
February 18, 2018
A thoroughly perfect novella
The recipe for any great novella is as follows: two lovable main characters, one conflict they must come together to solve, a heaping spoonful of wit, a generous sprinkle of humor, and a handful of small town charmers. Stir in a dash of drama, and season with tension.
The Cupcake Dilemma may star an epic kitchen-fail queen, but this novella nails the recipe to perfection. I laughed, almost cried, and felt everything right along with our heroine. Perfect pace, character development, and adorable plot, with a whole town of enchanting characters (many we’ve loved before!). Kirsten and Ian are comical and quirky with sparks flying enough to burn down the kitchen!
The recipe for any great novella is as follows: two lovable main characters, one conflict they must come together to solve, a heaping spoonful of wit, a generous sprinkle of humor, and a handful of small town charmers. Stir in a dash of drama, and season with tension.
The Cupcake Dilemma may star an epic kitchen-fail queen, but this novella nails the recipe to perfection. I laughed, almost cried, and felt everything right along with our heroine. Perfect pace, character development, and adorable plot, with a whole town of enchanting characters (many we’ve loved before!). Kirsten and Ian are comical and quirky with sparks flying enough to burn down the kitchen!
April 21, 2020
Deliciously romantic
All the feels! While looking for something witty, romantic and uplifting, a friend recommended this book. I loved the humor, romance and laugh out loud moments. A powerful and uplifting read as a reminder why community is so important. The cupcake theme just knocked it out of the park, and has me wanting to bake. I loved every moment! This was my first book with this author and I am definitely ready to read more by her. A fun novella and a quick read, if you love uplifting romance, you’ll love The Cupcake Dilemma.
All the feels! While looking for something witty, romantic and uplifting, a friend recommended this book. I loved the humor, romance and laugh out loud moments. A powerful and uplifting read as a reminder why community is so important. The cupcake theme just knocked it out of the park, and has me wanting to bake. I loved every moment! This was my first book with this author and I am definitely ready to read more by her. A fun novella and a quick read, if you love uplifting romance, you’ll love The Cupcake Dilemma.
February 27, 2020
Belonging and being me
Aside from being a very creative and awesome romance, this book is one that has a very powerful message, that it’s OK to not be good at certain things. We belong because God made us. Knowing this allows us to free to be who He made us to be. I’ll have to read this and the previous one again. Very well done!
Aside from being a very creative and awesome romance, this book is one that has a very powerful message, that it’s OK to not be good at certain things. We belong because God made us. Knowing this allows us to free to be who He made us to be. I’ll have to read this and the previous one again. Very well done!
February 28, 2018
4+ Stars
A humorous and delightful read!
A humorous and delightful read!
November 25, 2023
Fun, sweet story from a new to me author. I look forward to returning to Rock Creek for more.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 137 reviews