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Two Blue Doors #2
Reservations for Two
A culinary concoction of taking chances and finding love in the most delectable places
Food writer-turned-restaurateur Juliette D’Alisa has more than enough on her plate. While her trip to Provence might have unlocked new answers to her grandmother’s past, it’s also provided new complications in the form of Neil McLaren, the man she can’t give up.
Juliette and Neil find romance simple as they travel through Provence and Tuscany together, but life back home presents a different set of challenges. Juliette has a restaurant to open, a mother combating serious illness, and a family legacy of secrets to untangle – how does Neil, living so far away in Memphis, fit into to her life?
As she confronts an uncertain future, Juliette can’t help but wish that life could be as straightforward as her chocolate chip cookie recipe. Can her French grandmother’s letters from the 1940’s provide wisdom to guide her present? Or will every new insight create a fresh batch of mysteries?
From the Trade Paperback edition.
Food writer-turned-restaurateur Juliette D’Alisa has more than enough on her plate. While her trip to Provence might have unlocked new answers to her grandmother’s past, it’s also provided new complications in the form of Neil McLaren, the man she can’t give up.
Juliette and Neil find romance simple as they travel through Provence and Tuscany together, but life back home presents a different set of challenges. Juliette has a restaurant to open, a mother combating serious illness, and a family legacy of secrets to untangle – how does Neil, living so far away in Memphis, fit into to her life?
As she confronts an uncertain future, Juliette can’t help but wish that life could be as straightforward as her chocolate chip cookie recipe. Can her French grandmother’s letters from the 1940’s provide wisdom to guide her present? Or will every new insight create a fresh batch of mysteries?
From the Trade Paperback edition.
315 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 1, 2015
23 people are currently reading
868 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 107 reviews
April 24, 2018
Let me just say that I'm grateful to be reading these books long after they were originally published, and that I ordered all three from the library at once. I was hard on the first book in this series, but this one built on it so well and some of the things I didn't like about the first one are beginning to make sense now that I've finished the second. Which is where the spoilers come in . . .
I love the humor Lodge infuses into the conversations and thoughts of her characters - even in the letters from 1940s French aristocrats who I'd usually consider quite stodgy.
And I loved the mystery element in Juliette's grandmother's story. I'm not always a fan of past/present storylines, but I appreciated this one being written in letter form. Again, I'm so glad I have book 3 at the ready to see how the mystery concludes!
I love the humor Lodge infuses into the conversations and thoughts of her characters - even in the letters from 1940s French aristocrats who I'd usually consider quite stodgy.
And I loved the mystery element in Juliette's grandmother's story. I'm not always a fan of past/present storylines, but I appreciated this one being written in letter form. Again, I'm so glad I have book 3 at the ready to see how the mystery concludes!
July 28, 2018
Juliette's very busy life becomes even more complicated between the opening of the new restaurant, her continuing long distance relationship with Dr. Neil McLaren, and her mother's declining health; her plate is full and something's got to give.
Book two of the Two Blue Doors series picks up right where the first book left off, and it's a wonderful combination of the love of family, fine dining and sweet romance. Definitely a sequel, so go back and read A Table By the Window if you haven't, or half of it will not be as meaningful.
Love the recipes, the European travelogue, and the continuing investigation into the mystery surrounding Juliette's grand-mere's early life in Paris, cleverly told through old letters.
Looking forward to the next book in the series to see how everything turns out!
Book two of the Two Blue Doors series picks up right where the first book left off, and it's a wonderful combination of the love of family, fine dining and sweet romance. Definitely a sequel, so go back and read A Table By the Window if you haven't, or half of it will not be as meaningful.
Love the recipes, the European travelogue, and the continuing investigation into the mystery surrounding Juliette's grand-mere's early life in Paris, cleverly told through old letters.
Looking forward to the next book in the series to see how everything turns out!
April 29, 2015
I loooove this book. Really love it. And honestly, I think it's hard for second books in trilogies to hold on to the zest of the first while steadily building up to the third. Lodge accomplishes this beautifully. I keep using the word "delectable" when I talk about Reservations (which I do...a lot!) because it really is the perfect word. It's also witty and winsome, and I couldn't get enough of the WWII-era Paris letters sprinkled throughout the book. Now I just have to wait for the third... *Scarlett O'Hara sigh*
March 22, 2017
3.5 Stars- I liked this but not quite as much as the first book, A Table By the Window. Juliette comes off a little spoiled here, proceeding with a relationship that has very little chance of overcoming the long distance hurdle. The mysterious background story of her grandparents in France in 1940 is still very interesting as is the delicious food talk and recipes! Good enough to follow with the third book in the Two Blue Doors series.
October 17, 2015
Before opening this novel, I definitely recommend reading book one first; Reservations for Two begins immediately where A Table by the Window leaves off. The two could really be one thick book instead of separate entities. Plus, there are some incredible recipes that no one should miss out on (Moroccan Lamb Tagine, for one. Mmmmm.)
I love the way the author incorporates recipes with a story. Every recipe included is also mentioned in the story, so for once when reading about some mouthwatering meal or dessert, there's a good chance you can drag the book to your kitchen and whip it up for yourself. And Lodge includes some mighty tasty recipes. I can't wait to try out the ones in this novel!
That said, I wasn't as thrilled with this leg of the saga as in the first. I loved finding out more about Juliette's grandmother through the letters--it catered nicely to my love of historical fiction. However, it was Juliette's indecision and extreme angst that I had more trouble with. At the end of the first book, it seemed like she had basically figured out what she wanted, but she regresses. If anything, she seems even more insecure in this book. And, not unusual for the second book of a trilogy, the ending left something to be desired (and I am not particularly happy about it). I guess we'll have to wait for book three to see what Juliette ultimately chooses.
I finished the first book feeling hope, but this one left me feeling discontented. It's not one that I would pick up and read by itself--it definitely needs the third book for resolve.
Thank you Blogging for Books for providing a free book to review; I was not required to make the review positive, and all opinions are my own.
I love the way the author incorporates recipes with a story. Every recipe included is also mentioned in the story, so for once when reading about some mouthwatering meal or dessert, there's a good chance you can drag the book to your kitchen and whip it up for yourself. And Lodge includes some mighty tasty recipes. I can't wait to try out the ones in this novel!
That said, I wasn't as thrilled with this leg of the saga as in the first. I loved finding out more about Juliette's grandmother through the letters--it catered nicely to my love of historical fiction. However, it was Juliette's indecision and extreme angst that I had more trouble with. At the end of the first book, it seemed like she had basically figured out what she wanted, but she regresses. If anything, she seems even more insecure in this book. And, not unusual for the second book of a trilogy, the ending left something to be desired (and I am not particularly happy about it). I guess we'll have to wait for book three to see what Juliette ultimately chooses.
I finished the first book feeling hope, but this one left me feeling discontented. It's not one that I would pick up and read by itself--it definitely needs the third book for resolve.
Thank you Blogging for Books for providing a free book to review; I was not required to make the review positive, and all opinions are my own.
May 9, 2019
Upon rereading, this story is just as wonderful! Food, family, the ups and downs of relationships. Dreams and sacrifices and pasta.
January 1, 2016
Juliette D’Alisa has a lot going on in her life. Taking a bit of a break from the hustle of preparing to open a restaurant, she travels to the family chateau in Southern France. To her surprise and delight, her boyfriend, Neil, catches a flight to join her there. Together they try to find out more of her grandmother Mireille’s past. When they unearth letters written from Mireille to her sister, Juliette realizes that her family’s secrets go deeper than she previously thought. When she returns back to Portland, her idyllic time with Neil comes to an end. With neither willing to uproot from their lives many hours apart, Juliette’s uncertainty over their future grows. As her mother’s sickness progresses and a restaurant opening looms, Juliette is stretched thin between hope and hardship. Life is never as straight-forward as an ingredient list in her favorite recipe. What secrets remain in her family’s past, and how does Neil fit into her future?
I am by no means a foodie. I actually don’t even cook that often, though I enjoy it. I do, however, read a lot and am drawn to novels with heart that tell an honest story. Reservations for Two by Hillary Manton Lodge is such a novel. Second books in a series can often lose steam for me, but that wasn’t the case here. Hillary has realistically deepened and drawn out the characters, the family mystery and the romance even more in book two. These characters have really come to life for me, especially Juliette’s family, both in Portland and France. The plot is delicious, with just enough happening to keep me interested but not so much that it feels crowded or overdone. Hillary isn’t afraid to write of difficult and true-to-life circumstances, and that authenticity stands throughout the entire story.
Hillary’s descriptions are scrumptious. Whether it is the lavender fields of Southern France, the atmosphere of the restaurant or the food itself, they are meant to be savored. One of my favorite things was the inclusion of her grandmother’s letters – I was so happy to realize that they played a big role in the story and that I got to read them and experience them along with Juliette. They create a story within a story, and the transitions were smooth and seamless. Even though it was a smaller part of the story in comparison to the book as a whole, Hillary created a beautiful set of characters through Mireille’s letters.
Even with all of the fun descriptions of setting and food, this is an emotional story that rings with truth. It is so refreshingly real and honest. There are no quick fixes in Juliette’s life, but friends and family (and food!) to lean on when she needs them. I loved the dynamics of the D’Alisa family, especially Juliette’s interactions with her siblings. They are all fully realized people, and it is obvious that Hillary took her time in creating their similarities, differences and personal stories.
Juliette’s character continues to grow and change, even as her balance is shaken by new challenges. Even though there were times where I got a little weary of the romantic aspect of the book, Neil’s character is strong and endearing, and I feel like he and Juliette are a genuine couple. I appreciated that there was no easy solution for their long distance problem. If it was all easily resolved, I feel like that would have diminished the story and given Juliette less opportunity to grow in her faith. Though the spiritual aspect might be considered on the lighter side to some, it fits in well and is just the right amount without seeming forced or disingenuous. Their relationship combined with Juliette’s family struggles and a new restaurant force Juliette to realize that she can’t do it on her own – she has to rely on God and faith to make it.
Reservations for Two is a wonderful follow up to A Table by the Window. Readers will definitely want to consume these in order – otherwise you’d miss too much food-laced goodness and, more importantly, the beginning of Juliette’s story, which is one to savor (culinary terminology certainly lends itself to book reviews, doesn’t it?). I will find it to be a long wait until the release of the final book in the trilogy and will be eager to get my hands on the culmination of Juliette’s story. Whether a master-chef, foodie or cooking novice, I highly recommend Reservations for Two for readers of contemporary fiction who are looking for something with a bit more depth than a typical romance. With authentic characters, gorgeous descriptions and clever writing style, Hillary has created something special in Reservations for Two.
I am by no means a foodie. I actually don’t even cook that often, though I enjoy it. I do, however, read a lot and am drawn to novels with heart that tell an honest story. Reservations for Two by Hillary Manton Lodge is such a novel. Second books in a series can often lose steam for me, but that wasn’t the case here. Hillary has realistically deepened and drawn out the characters, the family mystery and the romance even more in book two. These characters have really come to life for me, especially Juliette’s family, both in Portland and France. The plot is delicious, with just enough happening to keep me interested but not so much that it feels crowded or overdone. Hillary isn’t afraid to write of difficult and true-to-life circumstances, and that authenticity stands throughout the entire story.
Hillary’s descriptions are scrumptious. Whether it is the lavender fields of Southern France, the atmosphere of the restaurant or the food itself, they are meant to be savored. One of my favorite things was the inclusion of her grandmother’s letters – I was so happy to realize that they played a big role in the story and that I got to read them and experience them along with Juliette. They create a story within a story, and the transitions were smooth and seamless. Even though it was a smaller part of the story in comparison to the book as a whole, Hillary created a beautiful set of characters through Mireille’s letters.
Even with all of the fun descriptions of setting and food, this is an emotional story that rings with truth. It is so refreshingly real and honest. There are no quick fixes in Juliette’s life, but friends and family (and food!) to lean on when she needs them. I loved the dynamics of the D’Alisa family, especially Juliette’s interactions with her siblings. They are all fully realized people, and it is obvious that Hillary took her time in creating their similarities, differences and personal stories.
Juliette’s character continues to grow and change, even as her balance is shaken by new challenges. Even though there were times where I got a little weary of the romantic aspect of the book, Neil’s character is strong and endearing, and I feel like he and Juliette are a genuine couple. I appreciated that there was no easy solution for their long distance problem. If it was all easily resolved, I feel like that would have diminished the story and given Juliette less opportunity to grow in her faith. Though the spiritual aspect might be considered on the lighter side to some, it fits in well and is just the right amount without seeming forced or disingenuous. Their relationship combined with Juliette’s family struggles and a new restaurant force Juliette to realize that she can’t do it on her own – she has to rely on God and faith to make it.
Reservations for Two is a wonderful follow up to A Table by the Window. Readers will definitely want to consume these in order – otherwise you’d miss too much food-laced goodness and, more importantly, the beginning of Juliette’s story, which is one to savor (culinary terminology certainly lends itself to book reviews, doesn’t it?). I will find it to be a long wait until the release of the final book in the trilogy and will be eager to get my hands on the culmination of Juliette’s story. Whether a master-chef, foodie or cooking novice, I highly recommend Reservations for Two for readers of contemporary fiction who are looking for something with a bit more depth than a typical romance. With authentic characters, gorgeous descriptions and clever writing style, Hillary has created something special in Reservations for Two.
June 13, 2016
The writing...it's just so perfect! Such a delight to read! First the story takes us to visit the French countryside and then on to Paris. I felt like I was there with Juliette. From Paris to Rome and in Rome we get to visit this wonderful Italian family. Juliette, our heroine has a wonderful yet stressful life. Her long-distance boyfriend is pretty much perfect except for one little thing, geography. Back home in Portland from her European visit reality starts to overwhelm Juliette. She loves her boyfriend but will they be able to make it? Along with this charming story are wonderful recipes. Not just a recipe but the characters in the book take us along as they put their heart and soul into their food. Food brings people together. I really enjoyed this book. I am glad book three is already available. There are a lot of questions left to be answered. I highly recommend this series but you must read them in order!
June 16, 2015
I absolutely savored this book. It's such a perfect blend of romance, nostalgia, and sweet story-telling.
April 25, 2019
I was mad at the ending and almost gave it three stars but the rest of the book was still good...
April 23, 2015
Hillary Manton Lodge established herself as one of the fresh new voices of Foodie Fic with the palatable "A Table by the Window." But that, friends, was an amuse bouche which left many a reader craving the next course. Here, Juliette and Neil and the characters who populate their lives are realistically drawn. From the gorgeous lavender fields of France ,through the sumptuous lyricism of old-time letters to the if-it-can-go-wrong happenstances of Juliette's bourgeoning restaurant, "Reservations for Two" is a simmering blend of relationship drama, humanity and hope. Accessible, readable and told in a straight-forward manner, Lodge saves the frills for the expertly included recipes and her expert characterization. It will leave you hungry for more, yes. But also just leave you hungry.... ( good thing those recipes are around).
February 11, 2016
First, Reservations for Two is written in classic Hillary Manton Lodge fashion. The words, the food, the recipes, the emotions...all there! I read it, felt like I lived it, devoured it, then entered the book fog (you know the haze of emotions you experience after a book has put you through the ringer).
See the rest of the review at: http://tonishiloh.weebly.com/blog/rev...
See the rest of the review at: http://tonishiloh.weebly.com/blog/rev...
January 7, 2016
I really liked this book! I think I enjoyed the previous one better. In this one, I felt confused as to who was who as far as Juliette's relatives... who was an aunt, who was a cousin, etc. That didn't detract from the storyline, and I loved "traveling" with Neil and Juliette as they went to Italy and then later spent time with his friends, Callan and Tarissa, in Memphis. I also loved skimming through all the recipes... yum!!
The third (and final!) book cannot be released soon enough!! :)
The third (and final!) book cannot be released soon enough!! :)
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December 1, 2018So good!!
I love Juliette, and her family, and the drama, the restaurant, the food, the romance, and all the characters!!!
I did miss Nico a little bit in this one, but he is still clearly part of the story. Juliette's romance with Neil takes more of center stage, along with her mom's cancer battle and her grandmother's letters from WWII.
An absolute delight!
I can't wait to read the final book!
I love Juliette, and her family, and the drama, the restaurant, the food, the romance, and all the characters!!!
I did miss Nico a little bit in this one, but he is still clearly part of the story. Juliette's romance with Neil takes more of center stage, along with her mom's cancer battle and her grandmother's letters from WWII.
An absolute delight!
I can't wait to read the final book!
September 14, 2017
Another good read from Hilary Manton Lodge. I enjoyed reading about more about Juliette and her life as she and her brother (and friends) prepare to open Two Blue Doors. However, my favourite part of the book was the family history portion. I loved finding out more details about Mireille and when yet ANOTHER twist in the mystery was introduced, I couldn't believe it!
I'm looking forward to finding out what happens next, both with Juliette, and also Mireille!
I'm looking forward to finding out what happens next, both with Juliette, and also Mireille!
January 18, 2022
Once again reading about amazing sounding food while on a restricted diet! Seriously, the food and the recipes are making me so hungry. I love the back story from WWII told via letters. Looking forward to the conclusion of the story in the third book.
July 11, 2015
I've always had a dream of one day having my own restaurant, but one would have to love cooking, and be really good at it, I would imagine. Unfortunately I love to cook, but not so much that I could hope to base a restaurant on that idea. More of a cook when I need to be.
In Reservations for Two from author Hillary Manton Lodge, we get to experience that fun and not so fun side of life, while Juliette D'Alisa is attempting to open her own restaurant in Portland, Oregon. All this way trying to juggle a long distance relationship with Neil McLaren, who lives in Tennessee. After a trip to Italy for her grandfather's birthday, she and Neil are willing to do whatever it takes to try and make it work, and for now neither of them are willing to make the concession to move so for now, they will attempt to fly out whenever they can, and call and text as often as they are able.
While trying to balance her restaurant and her love life, her mother is dealing with cancer as well as a packet of letters from her grandmother she has brought home that were hidden in a window seat in Italy that might unlock some of the family's long hidden secrets. She hopes something in those letters written during WWII might shed some light on some of the questions she has not only about her family but provides some much needed advice she can apply to virtually every situation she finds herself in.
I received Reservations for Two by Hillary Manton Lodge compliments of WaterBrook Multnomah Publishers for my honest review and did not receive any monetary compensation outside a free copy of this book for a favorable review. The opinions contained here are strictly my own. This is the second novel in the Two Blue Doors series, and having not read the first novel, I found myself at a bit of a disadvantage trying to begin this one. It was hard to understand the relationship that Neil and Juliette had prior to this novel and it opens with them apparently trying to give it a go after breaking up online. What I loved were the recipes that are sprinkled throughout the book that I can't wait to try, and hope I can find some of the ingredients that are listed in my neck of the wood. Overall, I would rate this one a 4 out of 5 stars and might have rated it a bit higher if I had read the previous one before this one. Discussion guide questions are included which would make for a great book club selection topped off with some of the recipes in this one.
In Reservations for Two from author Hillary Manton Lodge, we get to experience that fun and not so fun side of life, while Juliette D'Alisa is attempting to open her own restaurant in Portland, Oregon. All this way trying to juggle a long distance relationship with Neil McLaren, who lives in Tennessee. After a trip to Italy for her grandfather's birthday, she and Neil are willing to do whatever it takes to try and make it work, and for now neither of them are willing to make the concession to move so for now, they will attempt to fly out whenever they can, and call and text as often as they are able.
While trying to balance her restaurant and her love life, her mother is dealing with cancer as well as a packet of letters from her grandmother she has brought home that were hidden in a window seat in Italy that might unlock some of the family's long hidden secrets. She hopes something in those letters written during WWII might shed some light on some of the questions she has not only about her family but provides some much needed advice she can apply to virtually every situation she finds herself in.
I received Reservations for Two by Hillary Manton Lodge compliments of WaterBrook Multnomah Publishers for my honest review and did not receive any monetary compensation outside a free copy of this book for a favorable review. The opinions contained here are strictly my own. This is the second novel in the Two Blue Doors series, and having not read the first novel, I found myself at a bit of a disadvantage trying to begin this one. It was hard to understand the relationship that Neil and Juliette had prior to this novel and it opens with them apparently trying to give it a go after breaking up online. What I loved were the recipes that are sprinkled throughout the book that I can't wait to try, and hope I can find some of the ingredients that are listed in my neck of the wood. Overall, I would rate this one a 4 out of 5 stars and might have rated it a bit higher if I had read the previous one before this one. Discussion guide questions are included which would make for a great book club selection topped off with some of the recipes in this one.
November 8, 2015
RESEÑA COMPLETA EN ESPAÑOL
Did you ever imagine you could find recipes in a novel? Well, these books have recipes!
Juliette D'Alisa comes from an Italo-French family with food in the blood, but unlike her brothers, she is not a chef but writes articles about cooking. After the death of her grandmother, she finds a photograph of a mysterious man who looks like her brother, Nico, but that he’s not the grandfather Juliette knew all her life. Determined to discover the secret of her family, she begins to investigate and unearth the memories of her grandmother.
Moreover, Juliette doesn’t believe in love because she had a bad experience in the past; however, she meets Neil McLaren, a doctor who manages to fit into her hectic world of food.
That's all that happens in the first book, but as you must assume, the family drama and conflicts in the story have no end but continue in the second book.
I loved Juliette as narrator. She’s very funny and friendly; in fact, she made me laugh out loud many times because her sense of humor is fantastic. Besides, the romance isn’t cheesy or at first sight, but instead it gradually develops and has a dose of reality that makes it true.
The narration is very pleasant, and although it doesn’t focus on the mystery of photography, this novel has an ingredient that I can’t explain, that keeps you hooked with reading.
This story is very different from other books I've read, it isn’t the mystery and drama that keeps you hooked to the book, but the way in which the characters socialize and create addictive chapters. In addition, the inclusion of recipes in the book was another plus.
In case you were wondering, I couldn’t cook the recipes –although they looked delicious- but I hope to try them sometime.
-I recieved a book from BloggingForBooks in exchange for my honest opinion-
February 15, 2017
by Andrea Renee Cox
Sometimes a long wait is very much worth it. The second installment of Hillary Manton Lodge’s Two Blue Doors trilogy proved that to be true. Reservations for Two is a delectable tale of sweet romance, heart recipes, and family mysteries that span several generations. Plus, it has a stunning cover that I’d love to slip into for a while.
As Juliette D’Alisa prepares to open a new restaurant with her brother, Nico, she gets caught up in the family mysteries that unfold in handwritten letters from a couple of generations back. Will the secrets she uncovers aid her in sorting out her own uncertain future?
The thing I like the most about this trilogy—so far—is how Reservations for Two picks up right where A Table by the Window left off. As in, it picks up in the same phone call. I know because I pulled out my copy of book one to check. That book two continues Juliette’s story so seamlessly took me by surprise. But I also found it a delightful, unique way to shift from one book to the next. I’m hoping for more of that fabulous continuity in the final book of the series.
Author Hillary Manton Lodge brought more of her trademark touch of scrumptious food woven into the storyline. It was almost like a cookbook coming to life and sharing its time-tested secrets. I still love how Hillary includes complete recipes at the end of many chapters. It really is a fun bonus you get when you purchase one of her books.
Thank you to Blogging for Books for a complimentary copy of Reservations for Two in exchange for my honest review.
Sometimes a long wait is very much worth it. The second installment of Hillary Manton Lodge’s Two Blue Doors trilogy proved that to be true. Reservations for Two is a delectable tale of sweet romance, heart recipes, and family mysteries that span several generations. Plus, it has a stunning cover that I’d love to slip into for a while.
As Juliette D’Alisa prepares to open a new restaurant with her brother, Nico, she gets caught up in the family mysteries that unfold in handwritten letters from a couple of generations back. Will the secrets she uncovers aid her in sorting out her own uncertain future?
The thing I like the most about this trilogy—so far—is how Reservations for Two picks up right where A Table by the Window left off. As in, it picks up in the same phone call. I know because I pulled out my copy of book one to check. That book two continues Juliette’s story so seamlessly took me by surprise. But I also found it a delightful, unique way to shift from one book to the next. I’m hoping for more of that fabulous continuity in the final book of the series.
Author Hillary Manton Lodge brought more of her trademark touch of scrumptious food woven into the storyline. It was almost like a cookbook coming to life and sharing its time-tested secrets. I still love how Hillary includes complete recipes at the end of many chapters. It really is a fun bonus you get when you purchase one of her books.
Thank you to Blogging for Books for a complimentary copy of Reservations for Two in exchange for my honest review.
August 13, 2016
This review is also posted on Book by Book.
Hillary Manton Lodge continues Juliette D’Alisa’s story in Reservations for Two, picking up right where A Table by the Window stops and crafting another mouth-watering read. (The Two Blue Doors series is one that should be read in order - it’s just make more sense that way. So, please read A Table by the Window before Reservations for Two.) This second novel contains all that I loved about the first, equally well-written and engaging. Though at times I felt frustrated with Juliette’s thought processes and choices, still I couldn’t help but enjoy following her chaotic journey through a trip to Europe, the opening of a new restaurant, a long-distance relationship, unwanted health crises and the discovery of long-hidden family secrets. It’s quite a journey with plenty of ups and downs - and like the previous novel, it left me eagerly awaiting the next one. All in all, Reservations for Two is a delightful and entertaining read and fans of A Table by the Window will be sure to enjoy it.
Thanks to Blogging for Books, I received a copy of Reservations for Two and the opportunity to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own.
Hillary Manton Lodge continues Juliette D’Alisa’s story in Reservations for Two, picking up right where A Table by the Window stops and crafting another mouth-watering read. (The Two Blue Doors series is one that should be read in order - it’s just make more sense that way. So, please read A Table by the Window before Reservations for Two.) This second novel contains all that I loved about the first, equally well-written and engaging. Though at times I felt frustrated with Juliette’s thought processes and choices, still I couldn’t help but enjoy following her chaotic journey through a trip to Europe, the opening of a new restaurant, a long-distance relationship, unwanted health crises and the discovery of long-hidden family secrets. It’s quite a journey with plenty of ups and downs - and like the previous novel, it left me eagerly awaiting the next one. All in all, Reservations for Two is a delightful and entertaining read and fans of A Table by the Window will be sure to enjoy it.
Thanks to Blogging for Books, I received a copy of Reservations for Two and the opportunity to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own.
July 2, 2015
Life seemed simple while traveling through Europe. Explore new foods, develop a new romance, push the boundaries of the comfort zone among other things for Juliette. But once she returns, you will experience with her the questions of life. Where is this really going? What new things will get thrown at her?
I loved the first book in this series and really enjoyed this second one. It had a different flavor than the first, and I almost found it a little slower moving. But what is not to love about food, great recipes and a hint of romance thrown in the mix? The romance is very realistic, meaning, there is not a ton of concentration on the aspects you would expect from a romance novel. It is more women's fiction type romantic love.
I love, love, love the recipes! I cannot wait to try them out! That is some of the most unique things about this book, it is filled with amazing recipes, great food descriptions, and hints of mystery.
I received this book from Blogging for Books in exchange for an honest review. The words contained herein are my own.
I loved the first book in this series and really enjoyed this second one. It had a different flavor than the first, and I almost found it a little slower moving. But what is not to love about food, great recipes and a hint of romance thrown in the mix? The romance is very realistic, meaning, there is not a ton of concentration on the aspects you would expect from a romance novel. It is more women's fiction type romantic love.
I love, love, love the recipes! I cannot wait to try them out! That is some of the most unique things about this book, it is filled with amazing recipes, great food descriptions, and hints of mystery.
I received this book from Blogging for Books in exchange for an honest review. The words contained herein are my own.
April 29, 2015
If this is a new author to you and you haven't read the first book in this series, you really must before you delve into this one. The two go together and not a lot makes sense without reading the first book. That being said this story was slightly disappointing for me and hard for me to fully get into. I love Juliette and the food aspect is so fun to read. There are wonderful quotes at the start of each chapter that have something to do with food. There are also many recipes throughout the book which makes it fun. I can't wait to try the Tiramisu! My favorite parts of the book are when they are traveling or the historical aspect of her family's past. The romance didn't click with me and I didn't enjoy that part as much. I'm not against romance I just don't like it in this storyline.
Anyway this is a fun book that food and fiction lovers will enjoy.
"I received this book from Blogging for Books for free in exchange for an honest review.'
Anyway this is a fun book that food and fiction lovers will enjoy.
"I received this book from Blogging for Books for free in exchange for an honest review.'
August 31, 2016
I gave the first one in this 3-book series 5 stars, this one only 3 stars. I still love the family, the bits about the restaurant and food, recipes, travel to France and Italy and I loved the story of Juliette's grandmother during WWII. However, Juliette herself got on my nerves so bad that I almost tossed it aside, she became whiny, crying all the time, indecisive about her boyfriend. Finally, she broke up with her long-distance boyfriend because he dared to try to prepare her for the truth about her mother's illness (he was a doctor). I just lost patience with her. She certainly did not come across as a very strong woman in this second installment. If her character had been a little different, I would have given it a much higher score.
August 23, 2016
It was first time that I have read one of Hillary Manton Lodge's books. Thank you Hillary for a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review!
The story was moving slowly, even though author tried to show the characters are involved in a fast paced and busy life. I struggled to keep reading especially in the first few chapters. The trip to Europe was a good distraction though, but I felt that there were too many characters and relationship which left loose… I did get interested in the old family letters however. And delicious recipes and quotes were good part of the book (This was perhaps my favorite aspect of this novel!)
I think it needs that we read first book to pick up the plot and story faster and third book to resolve.
The story was moving slowly, even though author tried to show the characters are involved in a fast paced and busy life. I struggled to keep reading especially in the first few chapters. The trip to Europe was a good distraction though, but I felt that there were too many characters and relationship which left loose… I did get interested in the old family letters however. And delicious recipes and quotes were good part of the book (This was perhaps my favorite aspect of this novel!)
I think it needs that we read first book to pick up the plot and story faster and third book to resolve.
August 20, 2015
Sweeter than the first one but with a great twist at the end. I'm trying to imagine how this story is going to end and I really hope an epic finale!
July 15, 2016
I loved this book! The story is lovely, and I think it is wonderful that the author includes recipes for the dishes the characters create.
June 3, 2018
Honestly, not as good as the first. Too many whiny moments about their long distance relationship. I would have liked to see her entertaining the idea of moving instead of just asking him to pick up his life.
Also Neil got a bad rap at the end just because he was being realistic and she goes and breaks up with him because of that. He was so supportive of her always there to listen, calm her down, and he even flew to Europe for her. And then the author just continues to make Adrian sound like a good guy so your torn about which guy is better. I like Adrian he has been helpful and kind, but I just didn’t like the quick switch at the end. (Personally I liked Adrian better, but I wanted her to end up Neil.) I felt cheated rooting for Neil and then for her to just act spoiled and break up with suddenly.
I’ll still read book three, but I question this storyline and I really hope Juliette’s attitude improves and this switcheroo makes more sense. It feels like she chose Adrian because he’s here and not 3,000 miles away.
Also Neil got a bad rap at the end just because he was being realistic and she goes and breaks up with him because of that. He was so supportive of her always there to listen, calm her down, and he even flew to Europe for her. And then the author just continues to make Adrian sound like a good guy so your torn about which guy is better. I like Adrian he has been helpful and kind, but I just didn’t like the quick switch at the end. (Personally I liked Adrian better, but I wanted her to end up Neil.) I felt cheated rooting for Neil and then for her to just act spoiled and break up with suddenly.
I’ll still read book three, but I question this storyline and I really hope Juliette’s attitude improves and this switcheroo makes more sense. It feels like she chose Adrian because he’s here and not 3,000 miles away.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 13, 2017
Hillary Manton Lodge is head and shoulders above most Christian fiction writers. The writing flows well and the dialogue is one hundred percent believable. I loved the food/restaurant theme and appreciated characters who obviously believe in God without being preachy. The mystery being solved via WWII letters was intriguing.
In the first book in the series, romance is in the background. In this book, it's front and center and, frankly, it never held my interest. Insecure heroines are one of my pet peeves and Juliette's lack of self-confidence really began to wear on me. By the end of the book I did not like her at all.
In spite of the negatives, I would love to find out what really happened to Juliette's grandmother (the mystery that will hopefully be explained in book 3).
In the first book in the series, romance is in the background. In this book, it's front and center and, frankly, it never held my interest. Insecure heroines are one of my pet peeves and Juliette's lack of self-confidence really began to wear on me. By the end of the book I did not like her at all.
In spite of the negatives, I would love to find out what really happened to Juliette's grandmother (the mystery that will hopefully be explained in book 3).
May 11, 2020
Well, that's it. I'm a firm fan now of Hillary Manton Lodge. I'm going to have to buy the last two books in her backlist that I don't already have, and I just might be elevating her to auto-buy status, right under Katherine Reay.
Cuz man, oh man, do I love her storytelling. Particularly her characters and her dialog.
If you are looking for some delicious contemporary books with relatable Christian characters (who go to church routinely!!!), a smooth and realistic writing style that is a joy to read, and a smattering of historical romance sprinkled throughout it, you definitely need to read the Two Blue Doors books. And did I mention they have lots and lots of recipes included? I've earmarked several to try.
Cuz man, oh man, do I love her storytelling. Particularly her characters and her dialog.
If you are looking for some delicious contemporary books with relatable Christian characters (who go to church routinely!!!), a smooth and realistic writing style that is a joy to read, and a smattering of historical romance sprinkled throughout it, you definitely need to read the Two Blue Doors books. And did I mention they have lots and lots of recipes included? I've earmarked several to try.
December 26, 2017
While I enjoyed the first book in the “Two Blue Doors” series, I had some trouble getting through this one. The beginning of the book is a beautiful trip through France and Italy, but once she’s back in the US, Juliette turns into an extremely whiny, selfish person. I was rather surprised and disappointed in her actions in the last two chapters of the book. I’ve basically given up on Juliette; the main reason I want to read book 3 in this series is to find out what happened with Juliette’s grandparents and Alice.
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