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Tangerine Street Romance #4
Delilah's Desserts
Welcome to Tangerine Street
Tangerine Street is a must-see tourist stop with a colorful mix of one-of-a-kind boutiques, unique restaurants, eclectic museums, quaint bookstores, and exclusive bed-and-breakfasts. Delilah's Desserts, situated in the middle of this charming collection of shops and cafés on Tangerine Street, is a bakery that offers a different variety of desserts each day. The emotions that Delilah bakes into these desserts have a strange effect on customers, sometimes altering the course of their lives . . .
Tangerine Street is a must-see tourist stop with a colorful mix of one-of-a-kind boutiques, unique restaurants, eclectic museums, quaint bookstores, and exclusive bed-and-breakfasts. Delilah's Desserts, situated in the middle of this charming collection of shops and cafés on Tangerine Street, is a bakery that offers a different variety of desserts each day. The emotions that Delilah bakes into these desserts have a strange effect on customers, sometimes altering the course of their lives . . .
310 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 5, 2017
21 people are currently reading
263 people want to read
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December 10, 2017
Delilah's Desserts may not be quite an adequate title for this cute novella. Delilah's temptations or Delilah's Creations might work. Ok, Delilah's Desserts is a perfect title for this book and I must say that I most definitely want to try some of her scrumptious and tempting treats. But then again I might stay away from a few of them. Not for lack of wanting to try them, but for safety reasons. LOL. Delilah bakes her emotions and those emotions are somehow infused into her desserts. Although the reactions of her customers show that they are tasty morsels no matter the emotion. Now nobody really knows that she bakes her emotions into her food so that's a fun little tidbit for the reader and a select few people throughout the story.
I really want to go visit this quaint little town that this series is based on. I used to live on the coast for many years and this reminded me of some of those fun outings to the ocean and beach, or just walking the promenade or boardwalk, or visiting the fun shops. I miss that fun atmosphere but I definitely don't miss all the rain we had. I enjoy the seasons. But in my mind I was transported back to those sunny and fun summer days while reading this cute novella.
This is a three part story written by three different authors. Each part focuses on one of the main characters from Seashell Beach, but we still get to interact with the previous characters throughout the whole book. This one gives us the stories of Delilah, Roxy (the artist) and KC (the vegan author). All three of these spunky and loving ladies have to face their pasts in a way during their stories and it was through pain, comedy, error and healing that they do.
Delilah has a big secret that she has to figure out how to share. I wasn't quite sure what I thought about it at first but I kept reading and thought it was really cute how the author approached it and wrapped it all up happily in a nice little dessert for us sweet tooth (or should I say happily ever after) readers.
Roxy was so cute. I loved her style, her spunk and her protectiveness. I wanted to cry for her at one part and even was like "what the heck? I want to slap him. What a jerk! How in tarnation could he do that?!!!!" Seriously I was a little fuming mad. But then there was this light and I had an "aha" moment. Hee Hee! And well, needless to say I wasn't fuming anymore but smiling and happy. I wanted to go grab my paintbrushes or pencils and sketchpad and go doodle and draw and paint after reading about Roxy. Fun addition to this collection.
KC, well she was just sweet. She sticks to her guns and beliefs and was so loving and forgiving. Loved her lots! Even when she had so much that she could be angry about but she wasn't, she moved on and made the best out of what happened. I know that's so very vague but if I start telling you about her more than that then I'll ruin it. So cute. But I think we should give a warning...don't eat the food in Seashell Beach. LOL. I think that warning should go to all who are there, whether it be at Delilah's Desserts of at the Fortune Cafe, seriously those cooks/bakers need to not use food magic. But her if they didn't we wouldn't have these predicaments and stories, so......everyone go eat the food at Seashell Beach!
All the parts had fun humor throughout but I loved in Part 3, KC's story how each chapter started with a funny quip from her writing or another writer from the story. I highlighted them and chuckled as I read them. If you're looking for a cute, witty and sometimes a little frustrating story I think you'll have fun with this one. I need to go read the other ones in this collection now. This is the 4th one and they can be read in any order so if you have one you're eyeing more than the others go enjoy!
Content: Clean. Nothing more than kissing. There were a couple mentions of previous moments between an unmarried couple but nothing graphic and a couple mild innuendos. Part one had a couple D words.
I received a review copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
I really want to go visit this quaint little town that this series is based on. I used to live on the coast for many years and this reminded me of some of those fun outings to the ocean and beach, or just walking the promenade or boardwalk, or visiting the fun shops. I miss that fun atmosphere but I definitely don't miss all the rain we had. I enjoy the seasons. But in my mind I was transported back to those sunny and fun summer days while reading this cute novella.
This is a three part story written by three different authors. Each part focuses on one of the main characters from Seashell Beach, but we still get to interact with the previous characters throughout the whole book. This one gives us the stories of Delilah, Roxy (the artist) and KC (the vegan author). All three of these spunky and loving ladies have to face their pasts in a way during their stories and it was through pain, comedy, error and healing that they do.
Delilah has a big secret that she has to figure out how to share. I wasn't quite sure what I thought about it at first but I kept reading and thought it was really cute how the author approached it and wrapped it all up happily in a nice little dessert for us sweet tooth (or should I say happily ever after) readers.
Roxy was so cute. I loved her style, her spunk and her protectiveness. I wanted to cry for her at one part and even was like "what the heck? I want to slap him. What a jerk! How in tarnation could he do that?!!!!" Seriously I was a little fuming mad. But then there was this light and I had an "aha" moment. Hee Hee! And well, needless to say I wasn't fuming anymore but smiling and happy. I wanted to go grab my paintbrushes or pencils and sketchpad and go doodle and draw and paint after reading about Roxy. Fun addition to this collection.
KC, well she was just sweet. She sticks to her guns and beliefs and was so loving and forgiving. Loved her lots! Even when she had so much that she could be angry about but she wasn't, she moved on and made the best out of what happened. I know that's so very vague but if I start telling you about her more than that then I'll ruin it. So cute. But I think we should give a warning...don't eat the food in Seashell Beach. LOL. I think that warning should go to all who are there, whether it be at Delilah's Desserts of at the Fortune Cafe, seriously those cooks/bakers need to not use food magic. But her if they didn't we wouldn't have these predicaments and stories, so......everyone go eat the food at Seashell Beach!
All the parts had fun humor throughout but I loved in Part 3, KC's story how each chapter started with a funny quip from her writing or another writer from the story. I highlighted them and chuckled as I read them. If you're looking for a cute, witty and sometimes a little frustrating story I think you'll have fun with this one. I need to go read the other ones in this collection now. This is the 4th one and they can be read in any order so if you have one you're eyeing more than the others go enjoy!
Content: Clean. Nothing more than kissing. There were a couple mentions of previous moments between an unmarried couple but nothing graphic and a couple mild innuendos. Part one had a couple D words.
I received a review copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
December 6, 2017
Do Not Read This Book if You're Hungry!!
I totally want to go to Delilah's Desserts and try Death by Chocolate and chocolate raspberry cupcakes, along with a bunch of other stuff. Food is talked about a lot in this trio of stories.
This is a collection of three stories that involve Delilah's Desserts on Tangerine Street in the coastal town of Seashell Beach.
We meet Delilah in A TASTE OF MAGIC and find out why her bakery offerings change each day, and why her pastries are so yummy and keep people coming back for more. I liked Delilah and thought she was a strong woman and a great mom. She gets the shock of a lifetime when her former boyfriend Luke, who she hasn't seen in 10 years, suddenly appears in her bakery.
We kind of meet Roxy in Delilah's story, but we find out more about her in THE ART OF LOVE. Roxy is an amazing artist who paints murals. She's kind of quirky and changes the color of her hair like most people change clothes--it was 4 different colors in this novella. While painting a beautiful mural of storybook characters in the nursery of a wealthy client, she meets Mark Elliott, the client's brother. They kind of hit it off but one of Delilah's cupcakes seems to have an unusual effect on Mark.
The last story MUCH ADO ABOUT CUPCAKES introduces us to KC Casey, a vegan, yoga instructor, and author of No Cheat Days. You may be wondering how Delilah's Desserts, which don't offer vegan options, figures in to a story about a vegan. Well, I'm not going to spoil it for you, but I will say it's a giant misunderstanding between KC and Michael Arturo, who's in Seashell Beach to interview her about her NY Times bestseller book. Let's just say there's a moral to KC and Michael's story.
I really liked all 3 of these stories. A Taste of Magic didn't feel like a novella at all and I loved the ending. I liked Roxy and Mark in The Art of Love, but thought the ending was a little weird, as in I thought I missed something between what happened at the BBQ and when Mark goes to apologize. It felt kind of rushed. Much Ado About Cupcakes is a great example of what happens when you assume something and you don't have the whole story. Also, if you're going to interview an author you should definitely read their book! I liked that we got to revisit some of the places from the previous books--The Fortune Cafe (again with the food), the Spy Glass Jewelry shop, and the Mariposa Hotel. I love this series.
I totally want to go to Delilah's Desserts and try Death by Chocolate and chocolate raspberry cupcakes, along with a bunch of other stuff. Food is talked about a lot in this trio of stories.
This is a collection of three stories that involve Delilah's Desserts on Tangerine Street in the coastal town of Seashell Beach.
We meet Delilah in A TASTE OF MAGIC and find out why her bakery offerings change each day, and why her pastries are so yummy and keep people coming back for more. I liked Delilah and thought she was a strong woman and a great mom. She gets the shock of a lifetime when her former boyfriend Luke, who she hasn't seen in 10 years, suddenly appears in her bakery.
We kind of meet Roxy in Delilah's story, but we find out more about her in THE ART OF LOVE. Roxy is an amazing artist who paints murals. She's kind of quirky and changes the color of her hair like most people change clothes--it was 4 different colors in this novella. While painting a beautiful mural of storybook characters in the nursery of a wealthy client, she meets Mark Elliott, the client's brother. They kind of hit it off but one of Delilah's cupcakes seems to have an unusual effect on Mark.
The last story MUCH ADO ABOUT CUPCAKES introduces us to KC Casey, a vegan, yoga instructor, and author of No Cheat Days. You may be wondering how Delilah's Desserts, which don't offer vegan options, figures in to a story about a vegan. Well, I'm not going to spoil it for you, but I will say it's a giant misunderstanding between KC and Michael Arturo, who's in Seashell Beach to interview her about her NY Times bestseller book. Let's just say there's a moral to KC and Michael's story.
I really liked all 3 of these stories. A Taste of Magic didn't feel like a novella at all and I loved the ending. I liked Roxy and Mark in The Art of Love, but thought the ending was a little weird, as in I thought I missed something between what happened at the BBQ and when Mark goes to apologize. It felt kind of rushed. Much Ado About Cupcakes is a great example of what happens when you assume something and you don't have the whole story. Also, if you're going to interview an author you should definitely read their book! I liked that we got to revisit some of the places from the previous books--The Fortune Cafe (again with the food), the Spy Glass Jewelry shop, and the Mariposa Hotel. I love this series.
January 3, 2018
I love everything about this book and this series. The ocean side setting is one I could happily live in forever, I think. Each book has three stories written by three different authors but they intertwine and connect perfectly while never losing their individuality. It's so much fun.
I loved all three of the stories in this book. The characters were charming and I felt like I could be friends with all of them. I think I pretty much smiled my way through this book. Delilah's baking is a touch magical and I really wish her bakery were real and in my little town! Yumma yumma. Her baking touches all the characters in this book. I was happy to see characters from previous books make an appearance- especially the Fortune Cafe. The cross over moments made me happy. Well, the whole book made me happy. 😊
Content: kissing, a couple instances of mild swearing, mentions of a previous intimate relationship with no details.
- I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
I loved all three of the stories in this book. The characters were charming and I felt like I could be friends with all of them. I think I pretty much smiled my way through this book. Delilah's baking is a touch magical and I really wish her bakery were real and in my little town! Yumma yumma. Her baking touches all the characters in this book. I was happy to see characters from previous books make an appearance- especially the Fortune Cafe. The cross over moments made me happy. Well, the whole book made me happy. 😊
Content: kissing, a couple instances of mild swearing, mentions of a previous intimate relationship with no details.
- I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
December 5, 2017
I loved this book! It was so fun to read the three different stories happening together. It was also fun to read the story of characters that were introduced in one of the previous stories. These three authors are great! I loves these compilation of novellas! I am able to get my reading fix and still get my chores done! Can't wait for the next Tangerine Street to come out!
I was given a free copy of this book for my honest review.
I was given a free copy of this book for my honest review.
December 9, 2017
Romance, clean
This was a lovely read! Being 3 different novellas, I am almost always wishing for more from the story. I enjoyed each one, each had a different couple and Delilah was featured in the very first one, and then mentioned in the other two.
Melanie Jacobson is a favorite author of mine. This novella was a bit of a stretch for me for a clean read, as it slightly stretched my reading boundaries (just slight) re a clean read, not in a really explicit way, more the characters history. That being said, I loved the characters, wanted more, and enjoyed seeing how they reconnected with each other and the secret was revealed and resolved. Always beautiful chemistry with her writing. Plus of course worked in with baking! I loved that she baked her emotions and she had such a loyal clientele.
Heather Moore's book with Roxy and Mark was just natural and honest. The only strange moment was when Mark ate something and was influenced (don't want to spoil, so won't go into detail). That whole moment/day was a bit odd?? But that being said, Roxy was such a great character, Mark's fall off the no dating wagon, was beautiful and intense. Always love 2 honest hearts falling for each other. Roxy's down to Earth, genuine character was a beautiful match for Mark.
KC and Michael's story by JW was so heartfelt. I loved how the story gradually unfolded, the sweetness behind the ending of it, how both of their hearts opened.
All of these had genuine, honest characters, that just had beautiful chemistry! Loved it a wonderful read.
I received a copy in exchange for a fair and honest review, but that in no way influenced my opinions.
This was a lovely read! Being 3 different novellas, I am almost always wishing for more from the story. I enjoyed each one, each had a different couple and Delilah was featured in the very first one, and then mentioned in the other two.
Melanie Jacobson is a favorite author of mine. This novella was a bit of a stretch for me for a clean read, as it slightly stretched my reading boundaries (just slight) re a clean read, not in a really explicit way, more the characters history. That being said, I loved the characters, wanted more, and enjoyed seeing how they reconnected with each other and the secret was revealed and resolved. Always beautiful chemistry with her writing. Plus of course worked in with baking! I loved that she baked her emotions and she had such a loyal clientele.
Heather Moore's book with Roxy and Mark was just natural and honest. The only strange moment was when Mark ate something and was influenced (don't want to spoil, so won't go into detail). That whole moment/day was a bit odd?? But that being said, Roxy was such a great character, Mark's fall off the no dating wagon, was beautiful and intense. Always love 2 honest hearts falling for each other. Roxy's down to Earth, genuine character was a beautiful match for Mark.
KC and Michael's story by JW was so heartfelt. I loved how the story gradually unfolded, the sweetness behind the ending of it, how both of their hearts opened.
All of these had genuine, honest characters, that just had beautiful chemistry! Loved it a wonderful read.
I received a copy in exchange for a fair and honest review, but that in no way influenced my opinions.
January 5, 2018
I want Chinese food & cupcakes... and this book is to blame! Seriously the food aspects are really fun & I love Delilah's secret emotions that she puts into her creations. I think that's part is super creative. I really liked part 1 the best of the three but i also really liked Roxy. The authors seem to blend really well together and again the food was mouth watering. haha My only qualms with the book was when in a few instances the mouth watering food altered the persons sanity and that frustrated the heck out of me, like when a guy went completely 180° and ignored the girl it was a little TOO much, in my opinion, but I could see where they were going with that it just kind of struck me as a little too frustrating and then the character forgive him way too fast. But I guess that's kind of what the book is all about and what the stories try to learn right along with you. I'm interested enough I want to check out the other books... 3.5*
January 5, 2018
I love the Tangerine Street Romance series! There is a special vibe in Seashell Beach- relaxed and yet busy with the small businesses that thrive there. In this collection of stories we get to meet Delilah, the owner of the bakery, Roxy, the local artist/muralist, and KC, a vegan author. It was easy to get to know and like the characters and their stories were interesting. I loved the idea that Delilah not only baked whatever desserts matched her mood, but hat she released her emotions into them. My favorite story was Roxy's, because she is an artist and introvert, and her individuality and tell-it-like-it-is demeanor attracts Mark, who is attempting a year-long dating hiatus. They had great chemistry and I loved their vulnerability with each other. KC is a vegan who indulges in a cupcake from the bakery once a month as a ritual, and the connection she makes with a magazine journalist is threatened when he suspects her of being a fraud. Each of the stories has a common thread with the bakery but also the theme of forgiveness. An enjoyable addition to the series!
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
May 1, 2018
I have enjoyed all of the Tangerine Street books, but this one is my favorite so far. The characters are quirky and compelling. The bakery is the perfect place to connect each of their stories.
My favorite was the last story, Much Ado about Cupcakes which I believe is written by Julie Wright. There were words of wisdom in that story that I will keep with me. In the story they apply to sweet treats, but I think it applies to so many areas of our lives, beyond sweets.
"Give yourself wild card days, days where you need a little sweet to soften the bitter that is sometimes reality...What allowances will you make? What treats are just simply necessary for you to live a happy, balanced life?...Find out what you need and make room for that in your life."
My favorite was the last story, Much Ado about Cupcakes which I believe is written by Julie Wright. There were words of wisdom in that story that I will keep with me. In the story they apply to sweet treats, but I think it applies to so many areas of our lives, beyond sweets.
"Give yourself wild card days, days where you need a little sweet to soften the bitter that is sometimes reality...What allowances will you make? What treats are just simply necessary for you to live a happy, balanced life?...Find out what you need and make room for that in your life."
June 7, 2018
“Delilah’s Desserts” is a sweet treat for readers.
Read full review in the 2018 June issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2018 June issue of InD'tale Magazine.
December 27, 2017
Delilah's Desserts is the fourth book in the Tangerine Street Romance series. Each book can be read independently and features three stories set around one business in town (the Chinese restaurant, the hotel, the antiquities shop, the bakery). These books are realistic fiction with a tiny hint of magic. In the Fortune Cafe the fortune cookies came true, at Delilah's Desserts, Delilah's emotions are baked into her treats, sometimes with unexpected results.
A Taste of Magic introduced us to Delilah, her bakery, and her son, Dylan. Trouble brews for Delilah when Luke Romero breezes back into town. He already broke her heart once, and she doesn't want to give him the chance to do it again.
The Art of Love was about local artist, Roxy. She is painting a mural for a couple expecting their first baby. She doesn't think much of this snobbish couple, but wonders if the man she meets at their house can be different, and see her differently.
Much Ado About Cupcakes was my favorite story by far! The front cover tells us the authors of this collection, but the book doesn't specify which author wrote each story. This one had Melanie Jacobson all over it! It followed KC Kasey a vegan author famous for her book, No More Cheat Days. When Kasey is interviewed by Michael Arturo of Vegan Zen Magazine, she is excited to meet someone she has always admired so much professionally. The sparks are flying all through the interview, but something changes afterwards, and Kasey is at a loss to explain it. I loved the wit and humor in this story from the one-liners that Kasey and Michael "publish" to the dialogue between them.
This was a fun collection with sweet romances and a smidgen of magic.
Content: clean (some kissing, implied past intimate relationship)
Merged review:
Delilah's Desserts is the fourth book in the Tangerine Street Romance series. Each book can be read independently and features three stories set around one business in town (the Chinese restaurant, the hotel, the antiquities shop, the bakery). These books are realistic fiction with a tiny hint of magic. In the Fortune Cafe the fortune cookies came true, at Delilah's Desserts, Delilah's emotions are baked into her treats, sometimes with unexpected results.
A Taste of Magic introduced us to Delilah, her bakery, and her son, Dylan. Trouble brews for Delilah when Luke Romero breezes back into town. He already broke her heart once, and she doesn't want to give him the chance to do it again.
The Art of Love was about local artist, Roxy. She is painting a mural for a couple expecting their first baby. She doesn't think much of this snobbish couple, but wonders if the man she meets at their house can be different, and see her differently.
Much Ado About Cupcakes was my favorite story by far! The front cover tells us the authors of this collection, but the book doesn't specify which author wrote each story. This one had Melanie Jacobson all over it! It followed KC Kasey a vegan author famous for her book, No More Cheat Days. When Kasey is interviewed by Michael Arturo of Vegan Zen Magazine, she is excited to meet someone she has always admired so much professionally. The sparks are flying all through the interview, but something changes afterwards, and Kasey is at a loss to explain it. I loved the wit and humor in this story from the one-liners that Kasey and Michael "publish" to the dialogue between them.
This was a fun collection with sweet romances and a smidgen of magic.
Content: clean (some kissing, implied past intimate relationship)
A Taste of Magic introduced us to Delilah, her bakery, and her son, Dylan. Trouble brews for Delilah when Luke Romero breezes back into town. He already broke her heart once, and she doesn't want to give him the chance to do it again.
The Art of Love was about local artist, Roxy. She is painting a mural for a couple expecting their first baby. She doesn't think much of this snobbish couple, but wonders if the man she meets at their house can be different, and see her differently.
Much Ado About Cupcakes was my favorite story by far! The front cover tells us the authors of this collection, but the book doesn't specify which author wrote each story. This one had Melanie Jacobson all over it! It followed KC Kasey a vegan author famous for her book, No More Cheat Days. When Kasey is interviewed by Michael Arturo of Vegan Zen Magazine, she is excited to meet someone she has always admired so much professionally. The sparks are flying all through the interview, but something changes afterwards, and Kasey is at a loss to explain it. I loved the wit and humor in this story from the one-liners that Kasey and Michael "publish" to the dialogue between them.
This was a fun collection with sweet romances and a smidgen of magic.
Content: clean (some kissing, implied past intimate relationship)
Merged review:
Delilah's Desserts is the fourth book in the Tangerine Street Romance series. Each book can be read independently and features three stories set around one business in town (the Chinese restaurant, the hotel, the antiquities shop, the bakery). These books are realistic fiction with a tiny hint of magic. In the Fortune Cafe the fortune cookies came true, at Delilah's Desserts, Delilah's emotions are baked into her treats, sometimes with unexpected results.
A Taste of Magic introduced us to Delilah, her bakery, and her son, Dylan. Trouble brews for Delilah when Luke Romero breezes back into town. He already broke her heart once, and she doesn't want to give him the chance to do it again.
The Art of Love was about local artist, Roxy. She is painting a mural for a couple expecting their first baby. She doesn't think much of this snobbish couple, but wonders if the man she meets at their house can be different, and see her differently.
Much Ado About Cupcakes was my favorite story by far! The front cover tells us the authors of this collection, but the book doesn't specify which author wrote each story. This one had Melanie Jacobson all over it! It followed KC Kasey a vegan author famous for her book, No More Cheat Days. When Kasey is interviewed by Michael Arturo of Vegan Zen Magazine, she is excited to meet someone she has always admired so much professionally. The sparks are flying all through the interview, but something changes afterwards, and Kasey is at a loss to explain it. I loved the wit and humor in this story from the one-liners that Kasey and Michael "publish" to the dialogue between them.
This was a fun collection with sweet romances and a smidgen of magic.
Content: clean (some kissing, implied past intimate relationship)
December 14, 2017
Delilah's Desserts is the fourth installment from A Tangerine Street Romance series. I like it! It is cute and little read, full of fun and sweetness.
4 stars.
I received this book from the author, but was not required to write a review. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.
4 stars.
I received this book from the author, but was not required to write a review. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.
December 4, 2017
I really enjoyed the novellas in this collection. The first one A Touch Of Magic introduces Deliliah and her magical bakery. This did not read like a novella at all. I felt like I was given a full story. The characters were well developed. The storyline did not feel rushed or had holes in it. The ending was well done. The second story The Art of Love was good. I loved Roxy quirkiness. I liked Mark from the start too. I thought the story was great until close to the end. The ending was a bit weird to me. The last story Much Ado about cupcakes was about misunderstandings and judging people without knowing the full story. I thought KC and Micheal were a cute couple and fun to read about.
December 2, 2017
Sweet books (no pun intended...or maybe it is?) that aren't just about romance, but looking at others — including ourselves — with just a bit less judgment, and a little bit more love and compassion. I like how even though there is always the requisite secret or misunderstanding, the lovely ladies of Seashell Beach always find a way to communicate and resolve their issues.
I took off one star for just a few typos, only because one was, "... love your more..."
I was given an advance copy to read and review for an honest feedback.
I took off one star for just a few typos, only because one was, "... love your more..."
I was given an advance copy to read and review for an honest feedback.
January 10, 2018
I LOVE these Tangerine Street books! They are so much fun. I love the way the authors weave the three stories together and it was so much fun to see other locations that I loved from the other books pop back up, The Mariposa Hotel, The Fortune Cafe, and The Boardwalk Antiques Shop. It's like seeing old friends again!
Anyway...I'll tell you a bit about each of the three novellas in this one. It doesn't look like any one author is credited to any of the novellas, that's kind of fun. I wonder if they write them together...
The first one is A Taste of Magic and that's where you meet Delilah, find out about her magical desserts and learn about her big secret! I enjoyed reading this one. I like Delilah, I like that she has a special dessert shop and that her treats appear to have magical powers. But she seems a little lonely, even though she has her son, Dylan. Her life is just missing something.
And then Luke walks into her shop and it is obvious what she was missing, him. I loved how you see their previous relationship through both of their eyes and you realize pretty quick what Delilah's secret is. Seeing her remedy that was my favorite part of the story. She becomes pretty unselfish and the ending is just perfect!
Next up is The Art of Love. This one is so cute! I love Roxy. She's an artist, she paints amazing pictures for people, like the nursery she's painting for Cheryl. That's how she meets Mark. When he finds her lunch in Cheryl's fridge and eats it. I love this part, especially how the two of them conspire and bring pizza into Cheryl's house knowing she would have a fit! But that's Roxy, she's spontaneous and fun. I love the way she changes her hair on a whim.
Mark isn't overly spontaneous, and he's on a sabbatical from dating. But that changes when he meets Roxy. He might do some dumb things (I love the scene where he eats the cupcakes!) but he knows what he wants and he goes after it in the best way he knows how.
Their ending is great too!
Last, but not least is Much Ado About Cupcakes. This one features KC and Michael. KC has written a book called No Cheat Days. I love the way there is confusion when Michael follows her because he wants to spend more time with her and finds her eating a cupcake. This is where "much ado" ensues.
I liked both KC and Michael. I loved the way they were both able to see each other's point of view and that they were each humble enough to admit they were wrong and change.
This is a perfect book to read on a winter's afternoon. The town of Seashell Beach beckons me again and again and even if it's nasty outside, I know I can enjoy it's beach in my house!
Anyway...I'll tell you a bit about each of the three novellas in this one. It doesn't look like any one author is credited to any of the novellas, that's kind of fun. I wonder if they write them together...
The first one is A Taste of Magic and that's where you meet Delilah, find out about her magical desserts and learn about her big secret! I enjoyed reading this one. I like Delilah, I like that she has a special dessert shop and that her treats appear to have magical powers. But she seems a little lonely, even though she has her son, Dylan. Her life is just missing something.
And then Luke walks into her shop and it is obvious what she was missing, him. I loved how you see their previous relationship through both of their eyes and you realize pretty quick what Delilah's secret is. Seeing her remedy that was my favorite part of the story. She becomes pretty unselfish and the ending is just perfect!
Next up is The Art of Love. This one is so cute! I love Roxy. She's an artist, she paints amazing pictures for people, like the nursery she's painting for Cheryl. That's how she meets Mark. When he finds her lunch in Cheryl's fridge and eats it. I love this part, especially how the two of them conspire and bring pizza into Cheryl's house knowing she would have a fit! But that's Roxy, she's spontaneous and fun. I love the way she changes her hair on a whim.
Mark isn't overly spontaneous, and he's on a sabbatical from dating. But that changes when he meets Roxy. He might do some dumb things (I love the scene where he eats the cupcakes!) but he knows what he wants and he goes after it in the best way he knows how.
Their ending is great too!
Last, but not least is Much Ado About Cupcakes. This one features KC and Michael. KC has written a book called No Cheat Days. I love the way there is confusion when Michael follows her because he wants to spend more time with her and finds her eating a cupcake. This is where "much ado" ensues.
I liked both KC and Michael. I loved the way they were both able to see each other's point of view and that they were each humble enough to admit they were wrong and change.
This is a perfect book to read on a winter's afternoon. The town of Seashell Beach beckons me again and again and even if it's nasty outside, I know I can enjoy it's beach in my house!
January 6, 2018
A Taste of Magic by Melanie Jacobson
Ten years after a torrid summer fling, Delilah Dawes is unexpectedly reunited with Luke Romero. Desperate to protect a decade long secret. “She had tilted his world off its axis.” Theirs is a history of broken promises, abandoned dreams, heartache, and regrets. “The wildest summer of their lives.” “…he wanted to explore them the way he used to be able to, when he’d seen her core, parts of her heart and mind he knew she’d never let anyone else see.” Fun scenes, sizzling make up kisses, and a determined man who will not be thwarted. “Lava was intense. Thunderstorms were intense. They were…fusion. Lightning. Magic.” Unanswered questions haunt them both. Will the truth seal their love or distance them forever? The scenes of tightly leashed passion take my breath away. “…the kiss had been one long breath, one long gasp, one long shiver of heat and desire.” Jacobson has such a way with words. I enjoyed the complex characters and their complicated histories. “She reached back to the old pain, the raw place that still festered beneath the scar tissue.” I adored the surprisingly sweet and delicious ending.
The Art of Love by Heather Moore
“Roxy Randall was an enigma. She was talented, stubborn, pretty, and growing on him. Too bad he was on a dating hiatus.” She didn’t “fit in with her thrift-store clothing and too big glasses.” Standing up to the haters, Roxy has dealt with bullying all her life. “She was afraid that she’d open up, show her real self and then be rejected.” But Mark sets out to win her trust and her heart. “Mark Elliott can be a bit persuasive and devious.” I love the focus on inner beauty versus appearances.
Much Ado About Cupcakes by Julie Wright
Love and loss is the underlying theme in this story. “Everyone has an insanely personal story.” KC Casey “has the future shining brightly in front of her.” Journalist Michael Arturo discovers her hidden secrets. “When you meet someone who you can spend hours talking with and not get bored or distracted, you’ve found something special.” This complex story has layers of depth and insight. “He knew if he walked away from what he’d felt here with her, he’d regret it for his whole life.”
Throughout the different stories, “Delilah makes an incredibly loyal and formidable friend.” Magic casts a spell in heartfelt baking, hidden fortunes, and desired wishes. Seashell Beach is truly the “place where peace and joy meet up to tango.”
Ten years after a torrid summer fling, Delilah Dawes is unexpectedly reunited with Luke Romero. Desperate to protect a decade long secret. “She had tilted his world off its axis.” Theirs is a history of broken promises, abandoned dreams, heartache, and regrets. “The wildest summer of their lives.” “…he wanted to explore them the way he used to be able to, when he’d seen her core, parts of her heart and mind he knew she’d never let anyone else see.” Fun scenes, sizzling make up kisses, and a determined man who will not be thwarted. “Lava was intense. Thunderstorms were intense. They were…fusion. Lightning. Magic.” Unanswered questions haunt them both. Will the truth seal their love or distance them forever? The scenes of tightly leashed passion take my breath away. “…the kiss had been one long breath, one long gasp, one long shiver of heat and desire.” Jacobson has such a way with words. I enjoyed the complex characters and their complicated histories. “She reached back to the old pain, the raw place that still festered beneath the scar tissue.” I adored the surprisingly sweet and delicious ending.
The Art of Love by Heather Moore
“Roxy Randall was an enigma. She was talented, stubborn, pretty, and growing on him. Too bad he was on a dating hiatus.” She didn’t “fit in with her thrift-store clothing and too big glasses.” Standing up to the haters, Roxy has dealt with bullying all her life. “She was afraid that she’d open up, show her real self and then be rejected.” But Mark sets out to win her trust and her heart. “Mark Elliott can be a bit persuasive and devious.” I love the focus on inner beauty versus appearances.
Much Ado About Cupcakes by Julie Wright
Love and loss is the underlying theme in this story. “Everyone has an insanely personal story.” KC Casey “has the future shining brightly in front of her.” Journalist Michael Arturo discovers her hidden secrets. “When you meet someone who you can spend hours talking with and not get bored or distracted, you’ve found something special.” This complex story has layers of depth and insight. “He knew if he walked away from what he’d felt here with her, he’d regret it for his whole life.”
Throughout the different stories, “Delilah makes an incredibly loyal and formidable friend.” Magic casts a spell in heartfelt baking, hidden fortunes, and desired wishes. Seashell Beach is truly the “place where peace and joy meet up to tango.”
December 6, 2017
This is a novel in three parts...sort of like three novellas but they're all connected as they take place in the same location and Delilah's Desserts plays a part in each story.
Delilah has worked hard to establish her bakery--Delilah's Desserts--and her customers seemed enchanted by the ever-changing menu, which is good since Delilah can only bake according to her emotions. And when Luke, the guy she'd loved--and run away from--ten years before shows up, Delilah's emotions are all over the place. On the one hand, she's undeniably still attracted to him--but she's also scared of what will happen when Luke finds out they have a son that she never told him about.
Roxy is an artist and a loner, used to not fitting in. So when she meets and Mark and he seems really interested in her, she's not sure how to handle it. She tries to play it cool but she's falling for him. Unfortunately, Delilah's Desserts have an effect on their budding relationship neither anticipated.
KC Casey is thrilled that Michael Arturo, a writer for Vegan Zen, the major magazine for vegans, wants to interview her. She's even happier when the interview goes really well and they seem to really hit it off. For his part, Michael is really impressed with KC--until he sees her cheating on her vegan diet and figure she's a fraud. Although he can't deny the attraction he feels for her, he also doesn't know if he can respect her.
These were three fun romances. I felt like the first one (Delilah and Luke) was the most well-developed, but I think Roxy and Mark might be my favorite couple. I didn't want their story to be over--in fact, when I turned the page and realized it was the end of their story, I wasn't prepared for it and looked for more! The conflict in KC and Michael's story was interesting and fresh.
Although this is the fourth book in a series, they don't have to be read in order. (In fact, I haven't read the other three...yet).
I received a free copy of the ebook from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
Delilah has worked hard to establish her bakery--Delilah's Desserts--and her customers seemed enchanted by the ever-changing menu, which is good since Delilah can only bake according to her emotions. And when Luke, the guy she'd loved--and run away from--ten years before shows up, Delilah's emotions are all over the place. On the one hand, she's undeniably still attracted to him--but she's also scared of what will happen when Luke finds out they have a son that she never told him about.
Roxy is an artist and a loner, used to not fitting in. So when she meets and Mark and he seems really interested in her, she's not sure how to handle it. She tries to play it cool but she's falling for him. Unfortunately, Delilah's Desserts have an effect on their budding relationship neither anticipated.
KC Casey is thrilled that Michael Arturo, a writer for Vegan Zen, the major magazine for vegans, wants to interview her. She's even happier when the interview goes really well and they seem to really hit it off. For his part, Michael is really impressed with KC--until he sees her cheating on her vegan diet and figure she's a fraud. Although he can't deny the attraction he feels for her, he also doesn't know if he can respect her.
These were three fun romances. I felt like the first one (Delilah and Luke) was the most well-developed, but I think Roxy and Mark might be my favorite couple. I didn't want their story to be over--in fact, when I turned the page and realized it was the end of their story, I wasn't prepared for it and looked for more! The conflict in KC and Michael's story was interesting and fresh.
Although this is the fourth book in a series, they don't have to be read in order. (In fact, I haven't read the other three...yet).
I received a free copy of the ebook from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
September 27, 2018
I've read three out of four books in this series. (My library doesn't have number 2 for some reason). And this was my least favorite of the three I've read.
A Taste of Magic had some interesting parts. I particularly liked the magic of the desserts part and how Delilah bakes according to her moods or they don't taste good. But there was some mild language, an illegitimate child with several references to the summer of their romance and tangled bedsheets etc... some innuendo for the present as well as the past and I was left wondering what the fortune from the cookie that he saved in his wallet actually said. I thought it would come back in the story somewhere but if it did, I missed it. I didn't feel comfortable while reading this story since there were so many references to their past sex life I kept expecting them to pick it up again so I would only give this 3.5 stars.
The Art of Love was my least favorite in this book despite my quite liking Roxy as a character. I felt like she and Mark fell into the kissing before they had developed any real relationship and then I couldn't accept Mark's excuse of blaming the cupcakes for his horrible behavior at the picnic. Magic in the cupcakes or not, he was a jerky dork and I thought Roxy accepted his apology too easily. Only 3 stars for this one.
Much Ado About Cupcakes was the one I liked the best. I think the story had more depth and dealt with deeper emotions and thought processes. The conflict in the story felt more real and I cared more about the characters. Even though I don't really get Vegan as a thing I liked the discussion about principles. I give this one 4.5 stars.
Overall I averaged out the three and rounded to 4 stars.
A Taste of Magic had some interesting parts. I particularly liked the magic of the desserts part and how Delilah bakes according to her moods or they don't taste good. But there was some mild language, an illegitimate child with several references to the summer of their romance and tangled bedsheets etc... some innuendo for the present as well as the past and I was left wondering what the fortune from the cookie that he saved in his wallet actually said. I thought it would come back in the story somewhere but if it did, I missed it. I didn't feel comfortable while reading this story since there were so many references to their past sex life I kept expecting them to pick it up again so I would only give this 3.5 stars.
The Art of Love was my least favorite in this book despite my quite liking Roxy as a character. I felt like she and Mark fell into the kissing before they had developed any real relationship and then I couldn't accept Mark's excuse of blaming the cupcakes for his horrible behavior at the picnic. Magic in the cupcakes or not, he was a jerky dork and I thought Roxy accepted his apology too easily. Only 3 stars for this one.
Much Ado About Cupcakes was the one I liked the best. I think the story had more depth and dealt with deeper emotions and thought processes. The conflict in the story felt more real and I cared more about the characters. Even though I don't really get Vegan as a thing I liked the discussion about principles. I give this one 4.5 stars.
Overall I averaged out the three and rounded to 4 stars.
February 8, 2018
Love, love, love Tangerine Street and wish I could visit. Like “The Fortune Café”, “The Mariposa Hotel” and “The Boardwalk Antiques Shop”, “Delilah’s Desserts” is a stand alone novel in three parts. Each novella introduces you to characters you will find in the next installment. All centered in the vacation coastal town of Seashell Beach.
Delilah bakes her emotions into her tastey creations in “A taste of Magic”. The menu is always changing to fit Delilah’s moods. When her former boyfriend, Luke, seeks her out after ten years the baking becomes spicey as Delilah’s tries to prevent Luke from meeting their son.
Roxy has a sideline view of the happenings as she paints a mural for Delilah. In “The Art of Love” Roxy has her cupcakes from Delilah’s eaten in error by the clients brother in law, Mark.
And “Much Ado About Cupcakes” introduces us to KC and her no cheat days. Except for one Friday once a month in honor of someone she loves. Interviewed by Michael, he believes her to be devious and a cheat and plans to expose her to her public.
All the characters are fun and memorable. People you would invite to lunch just because you want to find out what else is going on in their lives. Be prepared to not put this book down, also if you have not read the other three, you will want to do that right away.
Delilah bakes her emotions into her tastey creations in “A taste of Magic”. The menu is always changing to fit Delilah’s moods. When her former boyfriend, Luke, seeks her out after ten years the baking becomes spicey as Delilah’s tries to prevent Luke from meeting their son.
Roxy has a sideline view of the happenings as she paints a mural for Delilah. In “The Art of Love” Roxy has her cupcakes from Delilah’s eaten in error by the clients brother in law, Mark.
And “Much Ado About Cupcakes” introduces us to KC and her no cheat days. Except for one Friday once a month in honor of someone she loves. Interviewed by Michael, he believes her to be devious and a cheat and plans to expose her to her public.
All the characters are fun and memorable. People you would invite to lunch just because you want to find out what else is going on in their lives. Be prepared to not put this book down, also if you have not read the other three, you will want to do that right away.
January 9, 2018
Honestly, this was a slow read for me. It took me longer than I had budgeted, but I got through it. Thinking back, I struggled to connect to the story lines and characters. Also, I have not had a chance to read the previous titles in this series and I think that also hampered me from fully engaging.
Anyway, story one was emotional for me. I struggled with Delilah's reasonings for leaving and never communicating. I ached for Luke. I found his character very well written and I felt the emotions he was dealing with. All in all a good story, but I normally don't like the lack of communication plot angle.
Story two started out great and I was enjoying it until the bizarre bbq party. And, the excuse seemed out of left field. I also would have preferred a more substantial ending.
Finally, story three centers around KC who is a vegan. Unfortunately, I'm not a vegan, I don't know any who are, and I understand little to nothing about that dietary choice. Consequently, I struggled to connect to the characters. I also didn't fully believe the quickie love between them.
Romance - PG - some kissing
Language - nothing offensive / clean
My rating - 3 stars
Anyway, story one was emotional for me. I struggled with Delilah's reasonings for leaving and never communicating. I ached for Luke. I found his character very well written and I felt the emotions he was dealing with. All in all a good story, but I normally don't like the lack of communication plot angle.
Story two started out great and I was enjoying it until the bizarre bbq party. And, the excuse seemed out of left field. I also would have preferred a more substantial ending.
Finally, story three centers around KC who is a vegan. Unfortunately, I'm not a vegan, I don't know any who are, and I understand little to nothing about that dietary choice. Consequently, I struggled to connect to the characters. I also didn't fully believe the quickie love between them.
Romance - PG - some kissing
Language - nothing offensive / clean
My rating - 3 stars
January 17, 2018
Deliciously Delightful
I've really enjoyed this Tangerine Street series of Novellas. Delilah's Desserts is my favorite so far. These three newest short stories were all so well written and don't "feel" like novellas. Once again, we get to visit a few "old" friends from the other three books in this series. Delilah and her bakery are central to these three novellas. In "A Taste of Magic", I liked the dynamics between Delilah and Luke and Delilah's worry over his intentions. In "The Art of Love", I liked becoming better acquainted with the talented and mysterious artist, Roxy. In Part Three, "Much Ado About Cupcakes" I really liked the humorous chapter heading quotes from the two main characters--KC Casey and Michael Arturo. As a side note, I would have really loved having a few of Delilah's recipes included here and there throughout the book! Makes you hungry for delicious baked goods!
I've really enjoyed this Tangerine Street series of Novellas. Delilah's Desserts is my favorite so far. These three newest short stories were all so well written and don't "feel" like novellas. Once again, we get to visit a few "old" friends from the other three books in this series. Delilah and her bakery are central to these three novellas. In "A Taste of Magic", I liked the dynamics between Delilah and Luke and Delilah's worry over his intentions. In "The Art of Love", I liked becoming better acquainted with the talented and mysterious artist, Roxy. In Part Three, "Much Ado About Cupcakes" I really liked the humorous chapter heading quotes from the two main characters--KC Casey and Michael Arturo. As a side note, I would have really loved having a few of Delilah's recipes included here and there throughout the book! Makes you hungry for delicious baked goods!
December 5, 2017
I love the Tangerine Street novellas. This is the fourth book, but I don't think you necessarily have to read them all in order. Seashell beach is a quaint little beach town with a lot of character. One of the shops in town is Delilah's Desserts. Delilah bakes amazing goodies that bring in a lot of town members. Her shop is the thread that weaves these three novellas together.
I enjoy reading collections of novellas so I can read in snatches of time throughout my day. This one was so good I couldn't put it down. I read it straight through! After reading Delilah's story, I had to find out what happened to Roxy. (she is painting a mural on the walls in Delilah's Desserts in story 1) By then, I was hooked and had to finish the set. Getting to visit the Mariposa Hotel and Fortune Cafe was a fun treat in book 3. Now I want to go back and read the other books in the series again!
I enjoy reading collections of novellas so I can read in snatches of time throughout my day. This one was so good I couldn't put it down. I read it straight through! After reading Delilah's story, I had to find out what happened to Roxy. (she is painting a mural on the walls in Delilah's Desserts in story 1) By then, I was hooked and had to finish the set. Getting to visit the Mariposa Hotel and Fortune Cafe was a fun treat in book 3. Now I want to go back and read the other books in the series again!
December 19, 2017
Of the coincidental premises of Tangerine Street stories, I found this one the most out there, but I still enjoyed the stories.
I liked A TASTE OF MAGIC. It was a nice, happily finally after story.
In THE ART OF LOVE, I liked how direct the characters were. And the emotions from Delilah's desserts were definitely part of the story line here.
In MUCH ADO ABOUT CUPCAKES, I have to say I was sympathetic with Michael's point of view. It was frustrating up till the end.
Overall, it was a cute collection.
Content: the first story had a backstory with a relationship that resulted in a child out of wedlock, nothing graphic. It also had a couple of mild swear words. The other two stories had no language or sex.
Disclaimer: I received an advance review copy of this book.
I liked A TASTE OF MAGIC. It was a nice, happily finally after story.
In THE ART OF LOVE, I liked how direct the characters were. And the emotions from Delilah's desserts were definitely part of the story line here.
In MUCH ADO ABOUT CUPCAKES, I have to say I was sympathetic with Michael's point of view. It was frustrating up till the end.
Overall, it was a cute collection.
Content: the first story had a backstory with a relationship that resulted in a child out of wedlock, nothing graphic. It also had a couple of mild swear words. The other two stories had no language or sex.
Disclaimer: I received an advance review copy of this book.
June 15, 2022
This series has 4 books, each with 3 short stories. They are fun, light and the perfect relaxing summer read. All the stories are set in a cute, quaint, magical little beach town! I totally want to go to the beach now! The characters intertwine through the stories so you feel like you're catching up on an old friend and you feel like you're a part of this amazing little town. (Not so much that you have to read the books in order though - the stories stand alone enough that the order doesn't matter.) I highly recommend this series! 😊
December 6, 2017
This was a charming fun book that had quirky and interesting characters in each story. Although all written by different authors the location of the book stays the same and the characters from previous stories intertwine in the lives of the other characters throughout the book and I enjoyed that. This is a good read if you want something light with some spunk and enjoyment. Note there is some light language usage for those that try to avoid that kind of thing.
January 6, 2018
Three fun, quirky stories set in the same beach town where I found myself wishing I lived. The characters were unique and enjoyable to discover. I especially loved the idea of our emotions getting baked into the foods we make. At Delilah’s Bakery her baked goods carry a little magic in them depending on her moods.
I’m always so grateful for clean romance stories, especially with characters that aren’t the same old thing I’ve read about a million times. Delightful read.
I’m always so grateful for clean romance stories, especially with characters that aren’t the same old thing I’ve read about a million times. Delightful read.
December 6, 2017
The Tangerine Street series is my favorite series ever! I just love this little town with all the awesome shops and businesses. All of the books so far have been so fun. The characters are great, the beach is great and most of all the romance is really sweet and clean. I enjoyed all three authors that wrote in this series; they are some of the best!
December 10, 2017
A Taste of Magic by Melanie Jacobson
"Delilah stepped back from the giant mixes and brushed a stray lock of her hair out of her face."
The Art of Love by Heather Moore
"Roxy Randall hated her name all through elementary school."
Much Ado about Cupcakes by Julie Wright
"KC glanced at her watch before taking a sip of her lemon-infused water."
I LOVE the stories from Tangerine Street!
"Delilah stepped back from the giant mixes and brushed a stray lock of her hair out of her face."
The Art of Love by Heather Moore
"Roxy Randall hated her name all through elementary school."
Much Ado about Cupcakes by Julie Wright
"KC glanced at her watch before taking a sip of her lemon-infused water."
I LOVE the stories from Tangerine Street!
November 8, 2020
I've actually read a few of the others in this series, and I was suprised to find this set not as well done as previous ones.
My biggest problem is that these stories, while silly, were reasonably fun and light, but the endings are horrible. All of a sudden the stories just end, and NO ONE should have a proposal like the one in the first book.
My biggest problem is that these stories, while silly, were reasonably fun and light, but the endings are horrible. All of a sudden the stories just end, and NO ONE should have a proposal like the one in the first book.
December 11, 2017
This collection of three novellas was truly sweet. I have read other books set in the resort town of Seaside Beach and loved the interwoven characters connecting this collection. Each story was a cute, clean romance. I will look for other books by each of these three authors! Delightful!
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