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A Sprinkle of Sweet Serendipity
A tantalizing novel about a struggling chocolatier who is granted a magical vision of the future of her dreams, only to realize that her heart may desire something else entirely, from the bestselling author of The Magic of Lemon Drop Pie.
Paris trained chocolatier and single mother Emmie Wynne gave up her own dreams six years ago when she returned to her Pacific Northwest coastal tourist town to run her family’s struggling candy store. Now on her thirty-fourth birthday, Emmie has only one wish, to be granted the vision that every Wynne woman is given once in her lifetime—a shimmering glimpse of her true destiny. This year, when she blows out her candles, it finally comes true.
Her vision is more delectable than she could’ve imagined—her very own artisanal chocolate shop filled with decadent truffles and caramels, and her celebrity crush, Henry Summers, down on one knee. And when Henry suddenly arrives in town for the summer, offering Emmie the opportunity of a lifetime, the future in her vision suddenly seems possible.
But a rekindled connection with Jakob, her former high school best friend turned hunky, brooding tattooed baker, forces Emmie to grapple with the bittersweet realization that her destiny may not be what her heart truly longs for. As the culmination of her vision draws nearer, can Emmie find the courage to create a happiness of her own making?
Paris trained chocolatier and single mother Emmie Wynne gave up her own dreams six years ago when she returned to her Pacific Northwest coastal tourist town to run her family’s struggling candy store. Now on her thirty-fourth birthday, Emmie has only one wish, to be granted the vision that every Wynne woman is given once in her lifetime—a shimmering glimpse of her true destiny. This year, when she blows out her candles, it finally comes true.
Her vision is more delectable than she could’ve imagined—her very own artisanal chocolate shop filled with decadent truffles and caramels, and her celebrity crush, Henry Summers, down on one knee. And when Henry suddenly arrives in town for the summer, offering Emmie the opportunity of a lifetime, the future in her vision suddenly seems possible.
But a rekindled connection with Jakob, her former high school best friend turned hunky, brooding tattooed baker, forces Emmie to grapple with the bittersweet realization that her destiny may not be what her heart truly longs for. As the culmination of her vision draws nearer, can Emmie find the courage to create a happiness of her own making?
384 pages, Paperback
First published May 19, 2026
About the author
Rachel Linden
8 books1,097 followersRachel Linden is a novelist and international aid worker whose adventures in over fifty countries around the world provide excellent grist for her writing. She is the author of The Magic of Lemon Drop Pie, The Enlightenment of Bees, Becoming the Talbot Sisters, and Ascension of Larks. Currently Rachel lives with her family on a sweet little island near Seattle, WA where she enjoys creating stories about strong women facing big challenges, travel, food, and second chances at love. She promises her readers a happy, or at least very hopeful, ending and infuses each of her stories with a touch of magical realism.
To learn more about Rachel Linden, visit her at www.rachellinden.com or connect with her on Facebook at www.facebook.com/authorRachellinden/ or Instagram at www.instagram.com/rachellinden_writer
To learn more about Rachel Linden, visit her at www.rachellinden.com or connect with her on Facebook at www.facebook.com/authorRachellinden/ or Instagram at www.instagram.com/rachellinden_writer
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 237 reviews
June 4, 2026
Sweet story, I really enjoyed it!
Emmie Wynne trained to be a chocolatier in France, but gave up on her dreams to return to her Washington hometown to run the fudge shop that has been in her family for decades. She has been anxiously waiting for the gift that the women in her family all experience--when blowing out the candle on their birthday cake, they get a vision of their future. But at 34, Emmie feels as if the gift has probably passed her by when finally she sees something that shocks and surprises her. Can she trust in the vision?
This is a lovely tale of second chance romance with a touch of magical realism "sprinkled" into the narrative. I couldn't figure out how the ending that I personally wanted to happen would work with Emmie's vision, but I also trusted that it eventually would.
Although there's some character growth and discovery, I wasn't always the biggest fan of Emmie and her martyrdom. I get feeling stuck in family expectations, and I get that Emmie didn't really want to come clean with Gus about his father, but come on, occasionally you have to suck it up and have the difficult conversations.
That aside, this is an entertaining, light novel that feels a bit like a Hallmark movie in a book.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
Emmie Wynne trained to be a chocolatier in France, but gave up on her dreams to return to her Washington hometown to run the fudge shop that has been in her family for decades. She has been anxiously waiting for the gift that the women in her family all experience--when blowing out the candle on their birthday cake, they get a vision of their future. But at 34, Emmie feels as if the gift has probably passed her by when finally she sees something that shocks and surprises her. Can she trust in the vision?
This is a lovely tale of second chance romance with a touch of magical realism "sprinkled" into the narrative. I couldn't figure out how the ending that I personally wanted to happen would work with Emmie's vision, but I also trusted that it eventually would.
Although there's some character growth and discovery, I wasn't always the biggest fan of Emmie and her martyrdom. I get feeling stuck in family expectations, and I get that Emmie didn't really want to come clean with Gus about his father, but come on, occasionally you have to suck it up and have the difficult conversations.
That aside, this is an entertaining, light novel that feels a bit like a Hallmark movie in a book.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
May 27, 2026
4 stars - very nice romance/magic realism story - loved the chocolates mixed with the cinnamon roll (IYKYK). A bit predictable but comforting and easy to read
June 1, 2026
2.5⭐️ Since I’m waiting for the Outlier Island Ferry to drop anchor, I’ll keep this brief.
The Good
The story takes place in Poulsbo, Washington. It’s real, it’s charming, it’s also known as, “Little Norway.” From the photos it resembles my happy place, Solvang, California, founded by Danish immigrants.
The Bad
The Lifetime Achievement TSTL award goes to FMC, Emmie Wynne. Her competition, Rocks, Bricks, and Hammers need not attend the ceremony.
The Wily
After Hallmark adapted The Magic of Lemon Drop Pie into The Magic of Lemon Drops, Linden prepped her story for a second life in TV Land. It’s so shameless, it’s embarrassing. From a reference to the long-running show, “When Calls the Heart,” to a budding secondary romance, to a default solution to a third act dilemma, plus the catchphrase, “I love that!” [There’s more, but it gets spoilery], Hallmark just needs to tweak the MCs’ ages for their demo and hand over the cash.
The Good
The story takes place in Poulsbo, Washington. It’s real, it’s charming, it’s also known as, “Little Norway.” From the photos it resembles my happy place, Solvang, California, founded by Danish immigrants.
The Bad
The Lifetime Achievement TSTL award goes to FMC, Emmie Wynne. Her competition, Rocks, Bricks, and Hammers need not attend the ceremony.
The Wily
After Hallmark adapted The Magic of Lemon Drop Pie into The Magic of Lemon Drops, Linden prepped her story for a second life in TV Land. It’s so shameless, it’s embarrassing. From a reference to the long-running show, “When Calls the Heart,” to a budding secondary romance, to a default solution to a third act dilemma, plus the catchphrase, “I love that!” [There’s more, but it gets spoilery], Hallmark just needs to tweak the MCs’ ages for their demo and hand over the cash.
May 23, 2026
First off, thank NetGalley and Berkley Publishing Group for providing me with this ARC! This was such a cute, heartwarming story. After not really liking Rachel’s last release, I was a little hesitant about this one. But this is the writing that I know and love from Rachel, and this did not disappoint. This is all about going for what you want in life, and to stop putting other people first over your goal. She still loved and cared about her family so much, and I loved the kid in this and the FMC’s mother dressing her dog up in ridiculous outfits 😂. But basically even though the FMC has a vision on how her life should be doesn’t mean it’s going to turn out that way. And that’s what I loved about this one. It was so funny, and charming. 4.25 stars and excited for another food themed tale from Rachel 😁
May 20, 2026
I have loved every book I've read by Rachel Linden. She always has just the right amount of magic, family, friendship and romance. It's Emmie Wynne's 34th birthday and she is hoping this will be the year that she will see her vision of what her true destiny is. She has been working in her family fudge shop for the last six years since she came home with her son, Gus. Recently, her childhood best friend and high school boyfriend, Jakob Kristensen, is back in town to work in the family bakery. When her mother's store has issues with the old pipes that damages the floor and some stock, they hire Walt, a crochety resident with a soft heart. He has Jakob working for him when he isn't in the bakery, and he and Gus hit it off. When Emmie sees her vision at her birthday dinner, she is confused. She is in her own gourmet chocolate shop with her mom, best friend, Gus, and Jakob surrounding her, and Henry Summers, a celebrity food show host who Emmie has a crush on, proposing on his knees. This can't possibly be true, she hasn't even met Henry Summers.
I loved all the characters in this story from Emmie to Jakob, sweet precocious Gus, Emmie's mom and her BFF Dot, Dani, Walt and all the other secondary characters we meet. There is a bit of a love triangle, but it doesn't overtake the whole storyline. There are a lot of issues that get in the way of Emmie opening her own shop, and several possible solutions. Emmie is somewhat insecure and often worries that it will never work, but I liked that she never gives up. Gus is adorable and I enjoyed every scene he was in. This is definitely a Hallmark Movie story. I loved the small town setting in Washington, with the quirky characters, the lovely fudge maker who comes home to help her family, then the two handsome men that are both contenders for her affections. I am a huge chocoholic, so between the fudge and the descriptions of the chocolates that Emmie makes for the chocolate competition she enters, my mouth was watering. Throw in magic sprinkles that sometimes make their way into her fudge, a possible romance for her widowed mother and a happily ever after, and this will make an enjoyable story for all who like a sweet, small town romance with just a little magic. I did a read listen and enjoyed both formats. Elena Rey gives voice to the various characters and makes them recognizable individuals. Her expression, tone and pacing give them book an easy listening feel and I was pulled into the story.
I loved all the characters in this story from Emmie to Jakob, sweet precocious Gus, Emmie's mom and her BFF Dot, Dani, Walt and all the other secondary characters we meet. There is a bit of a love triangle, but it doesn't overtake the whole storyline. There are a lot of issues that get in the way of Emmie opening her own shop, and several possible solutions. Emmie is somewhat insecure and often worries that it will never work, but I liked that she never gives up. Gus is adorable and I enjoyed every scene he was in. This is definitely a Hallmark Movie story. I loved the small town setting in Washington, with the quirky characters, the lovely fudge maker who comes home to help her family, then the two handsome men that are both contenders for her affections. I am a huge chocoholic, so between the fudge and the descriptions of the chocolates that Emmie makes for the chocolate competition she enters, my mouth was watering. Throw in magic sprinkles that sometimes make their way into her fudge, a possible romance for her widowed mother and a happily ever after, and this will make an enjoyable story for all who like a sweet, small town romance with just a little magic. I did a read listen and enjoyed both formats. Elena Rey gives voice to the various characters and makes them recognizable individuals. Her expression, tone and pacing give them book an easy listening feel and I was pulled into the story.
May 18, 2026
Rachel Linden really has such a gift for writing stories that feel warm, whimsical, and comforting while still carrying emotional depth, and A Sprinkle of Sweet Serendipity was another delightful escape. Set against the dreamy backdrop of a Pacific Northwest coastal town, this story blends magical realism, family bonds, romance, and mouthwatering foodie details into something that feels equal parts cozy and enchanting. I absolutely loved the magical vision element and how it pushed Emmie to question whether the life she thought she wanted was truly the one that would make her happiest. The whimsical touches never overwhelmed the emotional core of the story, and that balance worked so well for me.
One of my favorite parts was simply immersing myself in Emmie’s world. Rachel Linden describes food in such a vivid, sensory way that I could practically taste every chocolate truffle and fudge creation along the way. The candy shop atmosphere and small town charm made this feel incredibly cozy, and the strong sense of community added so much heart to the story. I especially adored Emmie’s relationship with her son Gus, who brought so much sweetness and warmth to the book, and the bond between Emmie and her mother was equally tender and meaningful.
Beyond the romance and magical elements, this was ultimately a story about choosing your own happiness and rediscovering the dreams that truly matter. Between the charming coastal setting, lovable characters, whimsical magic, and delicious foodie vibes, this felt like the perfect comforting escape. If you love magical realism mixed with romance, family, and small town charm, this one is such a fun and heartfelt read.
One of my favorite parts was simply immersing myself in Emmie’s world. Rachel Linden describes food in such a vivid, sensory way that I could practically taste every chocolate truffle and fudge creation along the way. The candy shop atmosphere and small town charm made this feel incredibly cozy, and the strong sense of community added so much heart to the story. I especially adored Emmie’s relationship with her son Gus, who brought so much sweetness and warmth to the book, and the bond between Emmie and her mother was equally tender and meaningful.
Beyond the romance and magical elements, this was ultimately a story about choosing your own happiness and rediscovering the dreams that truly matter. Between the charming coastal setting, lovable characters, whimsical magic, and delicious foodie vibes, this felt like the perfect comforting escape. If you love magical realism mixed with romance, family, and small town charm, this one is such a fun and heartfelt read.
December 10, 2025
3 ⭐ This was a cutie of a book! Emmie is a single mom who is currently running her family's fudge shop while patiently (or not so patiently) waiting for the vision of her serendipitous future that all the women in her family get on one of their birthdays. Will this be the year? And if it is, will this peek into her future be the promise of happiness she's hoped & dreamed for or will she need to learn to make her own happiness in other ways? While I enjoyed reading it, felt a bit predictable for me. However the romance was sweet & I enjoyed the tiny bits of magic weaved throughout. For me personally, would have been a very cute 200ish page book, but felt like it moved a little slow & not much happening for me. However, those who love a sweet closed door romance in a quaint small town will adore this book! Hugest thanks to Berkley for this arc (which always feels like winning the lottery when I get approved for a book from them so seriously, thank you!!!!)
All thoughts & opinions are my own.
All thoughts & opinions are my own.
May 27, 2026
Rachel Linden's latest book A Sprinkle of Sweet Serendipity is well...just delicious! The story is about a single mother who must come back home to help her ailing parents and keep their fudge shop afloat all the while trying to keep her head above water and not being able to fulfill her own dreams let alone find a companion. But as the women in her family know it's only when on their birthday, just once they will be given a glimpse of what their future will hold. In her thirties she is still waiting for her vision. Be careful what you wish for!
Emmie had a wonderful life in Paris, just beginning to create a name for herself as a chocolatier until suddenly her world came crashing down. Six years ago, she found out she was pregnant, discovered her father was very ill and her mother could not take care of him and their chocolate store where they served a very special fudge created by her father.
Now, years later her father has passed away, and her mother is now having medical issues, so Emmie has become immersed in taking care of her son Gus who is still mourning the passing of his grandfather, and her mother's limited ability to help at the store and making all the chocolate.
But her birthday is coming up, and she just hopes this year will be the year she will get her magical vision of her future. All the other women have gotten their visions and what they have seen has come true. But for Emmie the wait is becoming unbearable! She needs a bit of good news!
And this year, well let's just say she gets the vision of a lifetime! She will be able to make her own chocolates, as well as fall in love with no other than a celebrity. This can't be real... until said celebrity walks into the shop!
Things seem to be going well until the shop begins to fall apart, literally! She sees an old friend from high school who unfortunately she hurt back then and the building the shop is in now must be upgraded to code which means she needs even more money! With no way near the amount of cash and very little time Emmie feels like her vision was just a magical joke! But she refuses to sell the family business no matter what.
But although Emmie can't see the light of day yet, she will learn many valuable lessons, and soon she will discover what she wants for her future may not be exactly what was planned for her. What should she do? Who knows better the vision or Emmie? She just wants to find a balance and more importantly some time and happiness!
A Sprinkle of Sweet Serendipity is an uplifting, adorable, charming, should I actually say it?...sweet story about those who do for so many being able to finally find not only their own voice, but realizing you must be able to take care of yourself before you can attempt to take on those you love so much.
Thank you #NetGalley #Berkley #RachelLinden #ASprinkleofSweetSerendipity for the advance copy.
Emmie had a wonderful life in Paris, just beginning to create a name for herself as a chocolatier until suddenly her world came crashing down. Six years ago, she found out she was pregnant, discovered her father was very ill and her mother could not take care of him and their chocolate store where they served a very special fudge created by her father.
Now, years later her father has passed away, and her mother is now having medical issues, so Emmie has become immersed in taking care of her son Gus who is still mourning the passing of his grandfather, and her mother's limited ability to help at the store and making all the chocolate.
But her birthday is coming up, and she just hopes this year will be the year she will get her magical vision of her future. All the other women have gotten their visions and what they have seen has come true. But for Emmie the wait is becoming unbearable! She needs a bit of good news!
And this year, well let's just say she gets the vision of a lifetime! She will be able to make her own chocolates, as well as fall in love with no other than a celebrity. This can't be real... until said celebrity walks into the shop!
Things seem to be going well until the shop begins to fall apart, literally! She sees an old friend from high school who unfortunately she hurt back then and the building the shop is in now must be upgraded to code which means she needs even more money! With no way near the amount of cash and very little time Emmie feels like her vision was just a magical joke! But she refuses to sell the family business no matter what.
But although Emmie can't see the light of day yet, she will learn many valuable lessons, and soon she will discover what she wants for her future may not be exactly what was planned for her. What should she do? Who knows better the vision or Emmie? She just wants to find a balance and more importantly some time and happiness!
A Sprinkle of Sweet Serendipity is an uplifting, adorable, charming, should I actually say it?...sweet story about those who do for so many being able to finally find not only their own voice, but realizing you must be able to take care of yourself before you can attempt to take on those you love so much.
Thank you #NetGalley #Berkley #RachelLinden #ASprinkleofSweetSerendipity for the advance copy.
December 6, 2025
Here’s another delightful and very sweet (pun intended) magical romance from Rachel Linden. We’re back in the mystical Pacific Northwest region (after literary trips to Italy and a fleeting romp to Scotland) and there are scents of fudge, raspberry Danishes, artisanal bon bons, and baking bread wafting out from every page. Single mom Emmie Wynne returned from Paris six years ago, after apprenticing with a world famous chocolatier, to help out her ill parents with their candy shop in Poulsbo, Washington, also known as “Little Norway.” With her is her adorable, weird, space-obsessed six year old Gus, who is still grieving the loss of his beloved grandfather.
Emmie’s mom has been crippled by worsening arthritis and circumstances have trapped Emmie in the financially burdened family candy shop, but there’s a glimmer of enchanted hope on the horizon: Emmie is still anticipating the hereditary magical birthday wish every woman in her family has eventually received — a glimpse into the true purpose of their life as they blow out their birthday candle. Now, on her 34th birthday, she has a very specific vision: her celebrity crush, a British foodie/travel influencer, is on a knee with a small red box in her dream chocolate shop, while she wears a floaty yellow dress. It seems over the top, but suddenly Henry Summers, the swazer-wearing TV hottie, is spending the summer in a nearby AirBnB to write a memoir. Will Emmie’s vision come true? Even with the constant small business owner problems — a flooded shop, rotting subflooring, ancient plumbing and wiring, and a county ready to impose code violation fines? But, there’s a new Norse god kneading bread in the local bakery and a supernatural bottle of neverending golden sprinkles that also appears.
Author Linden has such tantalizing ways with words that envelop you so you are tasting the subtle flavors and experiencing the sweet fragrances of the charming small town setting while appreciating the tiny touches of magic. I’ve absolutely loved Rachel Linden’s books (I made ten practice meringue pies before I fed my book club when we read “The Magic of the Lemon Drop Pie”), and I now have a new appreciation for fudge making. Her books are breaths of fresh air (with or without shots of mezcal) and I guarantee you’ll be smiling by the end — and maybe making Serendipity Sprinkle Sugar Cookies, too. 5 stars!
Literary Pet Peeve Checklist:
Green Eyes (only 2% of the real world, yet it seems like 90% of all fictional females): YES Henry has flecks of green in his eyes.
Horticultural Faux Pas (plants out of season or growing zones, like daffodils in autumn or bougainvillea in Alaska): NO I loved that salmonberries and huckleberries (iconic PNW natives) were ingredients in Emmie’s chocolates.
Thank you to Berkley and NetGalley for an advanced reader copy!
Emmie’s mom has been crippled by worsening arthritis and circumstances have trapped Emmie in the financially burdened family candy shop, but there’s a glimmer of enchanted hope on the horizon: Emmie is still anticipating the hereditary magical birthday wish every woman in her family has eventually received — a glimpse into the true purpose of their life as they blow out their birthday candle. Now, on her 34th birthday, she has a very specific vision: her celebrity crush, a British foodie/travel influencer, is on a knee with a small red box in her dream chocolate shop, while she wears a floaty yellow dress. It seems over the top, but suddenly Henry Summers, the swazer-wearing TV hottie, is spending the summer in a nearby AirBnB to write a memoir. Will Emmie’s vision come true? Even with the constant small business owner problems — a flooded shop, rotting subflooring, ancient plumbing and wiring, and a county ready to impose code violation fines? But, there’s a new Norse god kneading bread in the local bakery and a supernatural bottle of neverending golden sprinkles that also appears.
Author Linden has such tantalizing ways with words that envelop you so you are tasting the subtle flavors and experiencing the sweet fragrances of the charming small town setting while appreciating the tiny touches of magic. I’ve absolutely loved Rachel Linden’s books (I made ten practice meringue pies before I fed my book club when we read “The Magic of the Lemon Drop Pie”), and I now have a new appreciation for fudge making. Her books are breaths of fresh air (with or without shots of mezcal) and I guarantee you’ll be smiling by the end — and maybe making Serendipity Sprinkle Sugar Cookies, too. 5 stars!
Literary Pet Peeve Checklist:
Green Eyes (only 2% of the real world, yet it seems like 90% of all fictional females): YES Henry has flecks of green in his eyes.
Horticultural Faux Pas (plants out of season or growing zones, like daffodils in autumn or bougainvillea in Alaska): NO I loved that salmonberries and huckleberries (iconic PNW natives) were ingredients in Emmie’s chocolates.
Thank you to Berkley and NetGalley for an advanced reader copy!
March 28, 2026
3.5⭐️
This was such a cute sort of whimsical type of a book! The story was definitely predictable for me but somehow I just didn’t mind. The romance was sweet & I enjoyed the bits of magic throughout. The book could have maybe been a little bit shorter and sometimes it felt like it moved a little slower where I would put it down and take a bit to come back and pick it up. I think if you are looking for a sweet cutesy romance in a small town with a food aspect you will adore this book! Huge thanks to Berkley and NetGalley for this ARC.
This was such a cute sort of whimsical type of a book! The story was definitely predictable for me but somehow I just didn’t mind. The romance was sweet & I enjoyed the bits of magic throughout. The book could have maybe been a little bit shorter and sometimes it felt like it moved a little slower where I would put it down and take a bit to come back and pick it up. I think if you are looking for a sweet cutesy romance in a small town with a food aspect you will adore this book! Huge thanks to Berkley and NetGalley for this ARC.
Did Not Finish
July 5, 2026I was struggling to get into this 50 pages in, so I’m not going to force it. I may come back to it one day!
May 22, 2026
Rachel Linden has done it again! I have a special place in my heart for her books and while I have loved them all, there’s just something about her latest book that won’t let go of my heart: A SPRINKLE OF SWEET SERENDIPITY. I love frosting and sprinkles. I love serendipity and synchronicities. I love chocolate and chocolate shops. I love family and friends. I love personal growth and transformation. This book brings it all and more. Emmie has moved home after chasing her dream to a prestigious chocolatier school in France and is struggling to meet the demands of being a single mom, running the family business and being there for her friends and close-knit community. She’s waiting not-so-patiently for the big reveal: the magical vision that will reveal her purpose in life set to appear after she blows out the candle on her birthday. Her vision finally appeared this year, but it seems completely out of reach. Until it isn’t. Armed with a list and a container of sprinkles for courage, Emmie slowly moves forward to the life of her dreams, even though multiple mishaps, misunderstandings and unlucky breaks fight her every step of the way. I won’t say any more so I do not spoil it for readers, but let’s just say I’ve renewed my enthusiasm for a good life list, I’ve made myself my own magical vial of sprinkles (see the picture!) and have flagged Dot’s pep talk for Emmie to repeat to myself because I need it too. Oh, this book. And now, if you’ll excuse me, I need to go try Emmie’s recipe for fudge…and probably the sprinkle cookies, too!
May 18, 2026
This is a delicious read. I love all the food talk and the small town vibes. Between talks of chocolate, fudge, romantic visions, and a possibly romance with a well-known food documentarian, A Sprinkle of Sweet Serendipity has all the hallmarks of well, a magical Hallmark movie!
The magical realism here is smaller than a sprinkle. I would’ve liked a little more than Emmie using her literal sprinkles of courage at every opportune time. The romance was a letdown for me as well. Jakob felt like an afterthought, even her budding romance with Henry was not all that exciting.
The magical realism here is smaller than a sprinkle. I would’ve liked a little more than Emmie using her literal sprinkles of courage at every opportune time. The romance was a letdown for me as well. Jakob felt like an afterthought, even her budding romance with Henry was not all that exciting.
June 28, 2026
Thank you Uplit Reads and Rachel Linden for this gifted copy!
I’m definitely a magical realism fan and this one was so fun! It was fun, whimsical, and sweet. I really enjoyed the tension between her heart and what she thinks is “supposed to be”. It was swoony and sweet and I had fun with it.
Tropes: second chance, single mom, love triangle
I’m definitely a magical realism fan and this one was so fun! It was fun, whimsical, and sweet. I really enjoyed the tension between her heart and what she thinks is “supposed to be”. It was swoony and sweet and I had fun with it.
Tropes: second chance, single mom, love triangle
May 29, 2026
I really enjoy Rachel Linden‘s books but I have to say that this is probably my favorite one so far! I listened to the audiobook version of this delightful story in one day! I’m not sure if it was the right timing for me or if it was the elements in the story- each year on your birthday waiting for your life‘s purpose, magical, courage sprinkles, descriptions of delicious fudge and chocolate truffles, lifelong friendships, and special love interests but I was immersed deeply into Emmie’s world! If you’re looking for the perfect “feel good,” heartwarming story, you’ll want to pick up A Sprinkle of Sweet Serendipity. In addition to all the foodie references, I absolutely adored the French bulldog!
May 23, 2026
I hate doing it, but I can’t help comparing every new book to The Magic of Lemon Drop Pie. The orange blossom cake book got very close to the magical whimsy of the lemons so I hoped this next book would be equal to it as well.
The story was uplifting and full of yummy desserts and cuteness, but the whimsy was not as strong as it could have been.
I did like the character of Emmie. She seemed determined to do everything the hard way at first, which was easily relatable. I am always a fan of friends to lovers tropes so Jakob had my vote from the beginning. Emmie’s six year old and his struggle with anxiety was well done. Also the topic of losing a parent did not in any way make the book feel heavy.
The setting in Rachel’s books are always satisfyingly written and so is the case in this one. I just wish there had been a bit more magic instead of one vision and some magic sprinkles that give courage. Maybe a bit more uncertainty in how it would all end, too. The way to Emmie’s happy ending seemed obvious to me.
I do wish I would have played this one safe and waited to read it through the library instead of preordering. I have limited bookshelf space. My slight disappointment in this book in no way makes me less of a Rachel Linden fan. At the least I enjoyed the escape this story provided.
Content: one intense kiss, some sexual innuendo ( Emmie’s best friend giving her lack of love life a hard time)
May 21, 2026
Thank you to Berkley, Netgalley, and the author for sharing an ARC with me in exchange for my honest review.
This was a sweet single mom romance with a fantastical twist. Expect small town vibes, a love triangle, and lots of delicious sounding chocolate creations. I enjoyed parts of it (namely Jakob), but I didn't absolutely love it. Maybe overly sweet for me and left me largely feeling neutral.
The plot:
Emmie Wynne has spent her entire life searching for her purpose. She's a single mom and former chocolatier, now back in her hometown taking care of her ailing mother and her parents' fudge shop, and she's not really sure who she is outside of that. Finding her purpose is a bit different for Emmie, though, because the women in her family get a special gift, in which they receive a brief vision on one of their birthdays that will give them a glimpse of their true destiny. When her 34th birthday arrives, Emmie finally receives her vision... and is absolutely shocked by what she sees. She's standing in her dream chocolate shop, with her TV crush Henry down on one knee in front of her. And next to her is her former best friend, Jakob, whose heart she broke at the end of high school. Emmie is certain her vision must be wishful thinking, until Henry magically shows up in her small town and they begin connecting. But what happens when she starts reconnecting with Jakob, and realizes that the things she thought she wanted may not really make her happy? Add onto that the pressures of running a small business, being a single mom, and caring for her own mother, Emmie's facing a journey of self-discovery and reigniting her passion.
What I liked:
- I loved Jakob as a character. Even from the beginning, when he remembered she liked raspberry after 16 years apart. I knew I'd have a crush on him. He's an acts of service man.
- Nice small town vibes. People are supportive and show up. Emmie's got a good support structure, even if they are goofy characters sometimes.
- I was worried I wasn't going to like the ending, but I was happy with how it got tied up. Once Emmie
What I didn't like:
- I don't love a love triangle that doesn't have some type of real angst or pressure. There's a little bit of jealousy going on, but it's one-sided. It's more fun when there's jealousy from both ends. And especially because I knew exactly who I wanted her to be with (and who she'd ultimately end up with... the clues were there). I wanted less of the "choose between two guys" and more "be with the one you're clearly meant for."
Some notes (I'm neutral on these but figured I'd share):
- The blurb and the book both say that it's the Wynne women who have this magical gift of getting birthday visions. But isn't Wynne Emmie's dad's last name? Her mom had a vision, so it had to have come from her side of the family. I realized this hours after finishing the book and it's left me a little confused. Did I miss something?
- What's the big difference between a chocolate shop and a fudge shop? Because to me, they seem quite similar and yet, the need for two different shops is a big plot point.
This was a sweet single mom romance with a fantastical twist. Expect small town vibes, a love triangle, and lots of delicious sounding chocolate creations. I enjoyed parts of it (namely Jakob), but I didn't absolutely love it. Maybe overly sweet for me and left me largely feeling neutral.
The plot:
Emmie Wynne has spent her entire life searching for her purpose. She's a single mom and former chocolatier, now back in her hometown taking care of her ailing mother and her parents' fudge shop, and she's not really sure who she is outside of that. Finding her purpose is a bit different for Emmie, though, because the women in her family get a special gift, in which they receive a brief vision on one of their birthdays that will give them a glimpse of their true destiny. When her 34th birthday arrives, Emmie finally receives her vision... and is absolutely shocked by what she sees. She's standing in her dream chocolate shop, with her TV crush Henry down on one knee in front of her. And next to her is her former best friend, Jakob, whose heart she broke at the end of high school. Emmie is certain her vision must be wishful thinking, until Henry magically shows up in her small town and they begin connecting. But what happens when she starts reconnecting with Jakob, and realizes that the things she thought she wanted may not really make her happy? Add onto that the pressures of running a small business, being a single mom, and caring for her own mother, Emmie's facing a journey of self-discovery and reigniting her passion.
What I liked:
- I loved Jakob as a character. Even from the beginning, when he remembered she liked raspberry after 16 years apart. I knew I'd have a crush on him. He's an acts of service man.
- Nice small town vibes. People are supportive and show up. Emmie's got a good support structure, even if they are goofy characters sometimes.
- I was worried I wasn't going to like the ending, but I was happy with how it got tied up. Once Emmie
What I didn't like:
- I don't love a love triangle that doesn't have some type of real angst or pressure. There's a little bit of jealousy going on, but it's one-sided. It's more fun when there's jealousy from both ends. And especially because I knew exactly who I wanted her to be with (and who she'd ultimately end up with... the clues were there). I wanted less of the "choose between two guys" and more "be with the one you're clearly meant for."
Some notes (I'm neutral on these but figured I'd share):
- The blurb and the book both say that it's the Wynne women who have this magical gift of getting birthday visions. But isn't Wynne Emmie's dad's last name? Her mom had a vision, so it had to have come from her side of the family. I realized this hours after finishing the book and it's left me a little confused. Did I miss something?
- What's the big difference between a chocolate shop and a fudge shop? Because to me, they seem quite similar and yet, the need for two different shops is a big plot point.
June 10, 2026
This is a review of the ebook and audiobook. The audiobook is performed by Sarah Naughton.
This is a contemporary romance mixed with magical realism. The book takes place in a quaint town in the Pacific Northwest.
It features Emmie, a 34 year old single mom who also takes care of her mom with rheumatoid arthritis.
I love magical realism. And I just loved that every woman in Emmie's family receives a vision of their future.
I also absolutely loved that she was a chocolate maker with dreams of opening her own store. That aspect of the story was so fun.
The book features two potential love interests. Henry is the host of her favorite tv show. And Jakob is her former best friend.
I enjoyed this book. But it was definitely predictable, although not in a bad way. I did enjoy the journey.
Sarah Naughton was an enjoyable narrator. And overall this was a charming story.
This is a contemporary romance mixed with magical realism. The book takes place in a quaint town in the Pacific Northwest.
It features Emmie, a 34 year old single mom who also takes care of her mom with rheumatoid arthritis.
I love magical realism. And I just loved that every woman in Emmie's family receives a vision of their future.
I also absolutely loved that she was a chocolate maker with dreams of opening her own store. That aspect of the story was so fun.
The book features two potential love interests. Henry is the host of her favorite tv show. And Jakob is her former best friend.
I enjoyed this book. But it was definitely predictable, although not in a bad way. I did enjoy the journey.
Sarah Naughton was an enjoyable narrator. And overall this was a charming story.
May 23, 2026
This was a very sweet, clean romance. I loved the character's relationships with those around her. From her relationship with her son, to her mom, she's a thoughtful, caring person and you can't help but root for her happiness. I also loved the concept of this book, imagine having a magical vision of your celebrity crush proposing to you! This story is full of surprises and I love how it turned out. It was a fun, easy read that I definitely recommend adding it to your summer list. ☺️
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for allowing me to read an e-arc. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for allowing me to read an e-arc. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 23, 2026
Quick Take: This book would make for a fun Hallmark movie. I enjoyed the characters and the overall story. It would also be a great book to inspire a bakery cookbook with sweet treats, like breads, caramels, and specialty handmade chocolates.
Taking control of your own life was an insightful theme but I felt like it could’ve been edited down quite a bit as the focus was extremely repetitive. It would have been more enjoyable at 300 pages. It was like watching a 2.5 hour movie that was good but that would’ve been great at 1.5 hours.
Taking control of your own life was an insightful theme but I felt like it could’ve been edited down quite a bit as the focus was extremely repetitive. It would have been more enjoyable at 300 pages. It was like watching a 2.5 hour movie that was good but that would’ve been great at 1.5 hours.
July 13, 2026
Such a cozy read. Loved the sprinkle of magic in this story and seeing the community rally around these characters. I Always enjoy Second Chance tropes. But mostly, what I enjoyed about this book was a young mother, finding herself, finding her voice, no longer sacrificing herself or making herself smaller for others, and deciding that fighting for her dreams were worth making the time and a little bit of sacrifice to make happen. ❤️❤️ the character growth was awesome. 👏👏
June 2, 2026
heartwarming and magical
A Sprinkle of Sweet Serendipity is a heartwarming story sprinkled with a bit of magic. The characters are lovely and charming, and the small town setting adds a sweet element to the book.
A Sprinkle of Sweet Serendipity is a heartwarming story sprinkled with a bit of magic. The characters are lovely and charming, and the small town setting adds a sweet element to the book.
June 5, 2026
Super sweet! Loved the Pacific Northwest setting and mentions of Bainbridge Island. I had a feeling the fudge shop was going to turn into a bespoke chocolate shop but it was an enjoyable read as that all unfolded.
May 26, 2026
I love Rachel lindens books— they are so heartwarming and sweet. This wasn’t my favorite of hers, but I still enjoyed it! 3.75 stars but I would never round down so 4 it is. 🩷
June 1, 2026
4.5 stars
Linden is a must-read author for me. Her stories blend beautiful Pacific NW settings, relatable characters, magical realism and mouthwatering food. I enjoyed this one immensely!
Linden is a must-read author for me. Her stories blend beautiful Pacific NW settings, relatable characters, magical realism and mouthwatering food. I enjoyed this one immensely!
June 17, 2026
Such a cute, feel good story. It reminded me of a Hallmark movie.
August 5, 2026
It was a sweet story! Cozy hallmark channel vibes.
April 13, 2026
If you are someone who loves to think about fate and destiny - this is the book for you.
In A Sprinkle of Sweet Serendipity, Rachel Linden explores the idea of fate, destiny, and a purpose in life. But the way she does it in subtle ways and without forcing the reader to believe the same way the character does. She allows for the lessons and the review of your own personal beliefs to co-exist beautifully with the story. She also never beats the reader over the head with the lesson. Each lesson is nuanced and layered.
A Sprinkle of Sweet Serendipity opens with Emmie, our female protagonist, on her 34th birthday. Emmie is waiting to be granted the vision of knowing her purpose in life. Each one of the women in Emmie's family line on a birthday after blowing out a special birthday candle, will receive a vision. Emmie has not yet received hers and feels a bit adrift in the world. She gave up her dream, to come home to help take of her father and their family business. In that decision, Emmie lost focus on what she wanted and made sure to take care of what everyone else wanted. But that's all about to change, because Emmie gets her vision after she blows out her candle. It feels like the wildest of dreams coming true - seeing her purpose. The question then becomes how does she get there?
What follows is a heartwarming story about following your heart and your dreams. It's about realizing maybe you don't have the full picture. And if you do, you have a choice. Emmie wants to follow the path to making sure the vision comes true, even if some parts of don't feel right. And the parts that don't feel right, come down to love. In her vision, she sees Henry in her new shop down on one knee. But in real life, she's drawn to Jakob. Her high school best friend and the heart she broke on graduation day. Who does she choose? The man the vision says is her purpose, perhaps her person. Or the man she may have loved since high school but was too afraid to love.
The other complication for Emmie is that her family's business isn't doing great and the shop needs repairs, which costs money she doesn't really have. She's struggling to get the shop of her dreams while also maintaining the family business. Is there a solution where both can happen? Can Emmie stay true to her dream but also support her family and community? Again, the vision shows Emmie that the shop is her purpose. What can she do to get there? Or is there something else important in the vision?
The best parts of the book is that Emmie was allowed to succeed and fail in spite of the vision. She got to choose the path that she wanted to take when it came to fulfilling her purpose. It's a lesson that I think will resonate with most readers. I also really loved the small town vibes and how the town itself and the community felt like extra characters that helped Emmie grow and find her purpose. Now all I need is a story telling us if Dani finds her true love. I'm kind of hoping her and Henry find their way to each other.
Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley for the digital ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
In A Sprinkle of Sweet Serendipity, Rachel Linden explores the idea of fate, destiny, and a purpose in life. But the way she does it in subtle ways and without forcing the reader to believe the same way the character does. She allows for the lessons and the review of your own personal beliefs to co-exist beautifully with the story. She also never beats the reader over the head with the lesson. Each lesson is nuanced and layered.
A Sprinkle of Sweet Serendipity opens with Emmie, our female protagonist, on her 34th birthday. Emmie is waiting to be granted the vision of knowing her purpose in life. Each one of the women in Emmie's family line on a birthday after blowing out a special birthday candle, will receive a vision. Emmie has not yet received hers and feels a bit adrift in the world. She gave up her dream, to come home to help take of her father and their family business. In that decision, Emmie lost focus on what she wanted and made sure to take care of what everyone else wanted. But that's all about to change, because Emmie gets her vision after she blows out her candle. It feels like the wildest of dreams coming true - seeing her purpose. The question then becomes how does she get there?
What follows is a heartwarming story about following your heart and your dreams. It's about realizing maybe you don't have the full picture. And if you do, you have a choice. Emmie wants to follow the path to making sure the vision comes true, even if some parts of don't feel right. And the parts that don't feel right, come down to love. In her vision, she sees Henry in her new shop down on one knee. But in real life, she's drawn to Jakob. Her high school best friend and the heart she broke on graduation day. Who does she choose? The man the vision says is her purpose, perhaps her person. Or the man she may have loved since high school but was too afraid to love.
The other complication for Emmie is that her family's business isn't doing great and the shop needs repairs, which costs money she doesn't really have. She's struggling to get the shop of her dreams while also maintaining the family business. Is there a solution where both can happen? Can Emmie stay true to her dream but also support her family and community? Again, the vision shows Emmie that the shop is her purpose. What can she do to get there? Or is there something else important in the vision?
The best parts of the book is that Emmie was allowed to succeed and fail in spite of the vision. She got to choose the path that she wanted to take when it came to fulfilling her purpose. It's a lesson that I think will resonate with most readers. I also really loved the small town vibes and how the town itself and the community felt like extra characters that helped Emmie grow and find her purpose. Now all I need is a story telling us if Dani finds her true love. I'm kind of hoping her and Henry find their way to each other.
Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley for the digital ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 8, 2026
The thought “I can’t wait until I’m done with this book” went through my head several times so that basically sums up how I felt about the book. It was sappy & predictable while at the same time being over the top unbelievable. Not a good combo for me. I have adored Rachel Linden’s other books so I was excited for this new one, but it definitely wasn’t as well written or entertaining as her other books I’ve read. I did not connect with the characters & found Em quite annoying honestly. Very Hallmarky which is not my vibe.
May 1, 2026
I loved the early works of this author but then the last couple bored me to tears. Unfortunately this one fell into the latter category.
Paris trained chocolatier and single mother Emmie Wynne gave up her own dreams six years ago when she returned to her Pacific Northwest coastal tourist town to run her family's struggling candy store. Now on her thirty-fourth birthday, Emmie has only one wish, to be granted the vision that every Wynne woman is given once in her lifetime—a shimmering glimpse of her true destiny. This year, when she blows out her candles, it finally comes true.
I loved the beginning so much! Loved Emmie, loved her family and friends, loved the description of chocolates and sweets. I also loved the idea of her vision BUT I wanted more magic. The vision was kinda lacklustre but at the same time silly and she just out way too much pressure on to it. The chemistry and romance was basically non existent but also rushed and I wanted ALOT more from a second chance romance.
I did enjoy the messaging and the idea of courage sprinkles. I also thought it was super cool and sweet; how the author discussed child anxiety and mental health rep.
Overall, I’m glad I read it but I’m going to forget it very very quickly and would recommend some of her other works first.
Paris trained chocolatier and single mother Emmie Wynne gave up her own dreams six years ago when she returned to her Pacific Northwest coastal tourist town to run her family's struggling candy store. Now on her thirty-fourth birthday, Emmie has only one wish, to be granted the vision that every Wynne woman is given once in her lifetime—a shimmering glimpse of her true destiny. This year, when she blows out her candles, it finally comes true.
I loved the beginning so much! Loved Emmie, loved her family and friends, loved the description of chocolates and sweets. I also loved the idea of her vision BUT I wanted more magic. The vision was kinda lacklustre but at the same time silly and she just out way too much pressure on to it. The chemistry and romance was basically non existent but also rushed and I wanted ALOT more from a second chance romance.
I did enjoy the messaging and the idea of courage sprinkles. I also thought it was super cool and sweet; how the author discussed child anxiety and mental health rep.
Overall, I’m glad I read it but I’m going to forget it very very quickly and would recommend some of her other works first.
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