Except the one she's been hiding for over eight years.
And it's not the recipe for her world-famous tiramisu.
With her bakery undergoing a remodel, her son struggling in school, and planning her best friend's wedding, Eliza's secret is the last thing on her mind. Until her high school sweetheart reappears, stirring up old feelings faster than her electric mixer.
Grant Parker can't forget the girl he left behind. On the cusp of landing a huge client for his web design business, he's willing to risk it all for a second chance with his first love. And maybe a second helping of her mouthwatering desserts.
When Grant offers to help Eliza create an online store for her unique, new business idea, and spends time with Eliza and her son, the stakes rise faster than a loaf of yeast bread.
But when Eliza's secret is revealed, can their love survive the truth? Or will they both end up getting burned?
Grab a warm-from-the-oven cookie (or two) and swoon over delicious desserts and a sweet-as-pie love story about hope, forgiveness, and second chances.
*** Includes one-of-a-kind recipes***
This is the second book in the Poppy Creek series. It can be read as a standalone novel, but is much more fun when read in order.
I was so enthralled with the first book in the Poppy Creek series and I'm already nearly finished reading the third, however, The Truth in Tiramisu was a little forced. It would have made a great short novella but there was so much unnessary angst that I skimmed quite a bit. It's nice to read the books in order because each of them build on the previous books before them, but this is a weak one in the grouping.
Welcome to The Hart of Dixie meets Cedar Cove in this wonderful book two from the Poppy Creek series. I loved Grant and Eliza’s story of hope and forgiveness. The town of Poppy Creek comes alive through the pages, as do the smells of the bakery and freshly roasted coffee. Make sure you have your sweet tooth ready because you’ll be hungry reading this book. Not only was the story a wonderful read, but wow, there are a few surprises I didn’t see coming and I loved them! I can’t wait for book three to release.
A first love. A second chance. And a secret that could change everything...
Eliza Carter has a secret. And it's not the recipe for her world-famous tiramisu. With her bakery undergoing a remodel, her son struggling in school and planning her best friend's wedding, Eliza's secret is the last thing on her mind. Until her high school sweetheart reappears, stirring up old feelings.
Grant Parker has never been able to forget the girl he left behind in Poppy Creek eight years ago. Seeing her again when he turns up for Luke and Cassie’s wedding has him wondering whether they can rekindle their relationship.
Before long, Eliza is torn between her resurfacing feelings for the only man she’s ever loved and keeping the secret that threatens to destroy everything she’s built. Will the years of heartache and deception ruin their second chance at love or will Eliza finally see her dreams realised?
The Truth in Tiramisu is the second instalment of the highly entertaining Poppy Creek series which follows on from the previous book. Eliza has been stressing over Grant’s sudden reappearance in Poppy Creek since she first spotted him during the towns New Year celebrations. Terrified that he’ll inadvertently stumble on the truth that she hid from him so long ago, she distracts herself by organising the grand opening of the Calendar Cafe as well as Luke and Cassie’s upcoming wedding.
For Grant, while coming back to Poppy Creek opens up a flood gate of painful childhood memories, it also allows him to reconnect with his school pals Luke, Jack, Reed and Colt. For some reason, however, Grant’s mother is less than happy to see her son back home and wastes no time in showing her displeasure at the possibility of Grant and Eliza reconciling. In contrast to his manipulative mother however, are the poignant scenes between Grant and his father as they reflect on their past mistakes.
The theme of this book is hope, forgiveness and second chances. Eliza is a selfless and appealing protagonist who readers will instantly find themselves rooting for. It’s apparent from the beginning how much she and Grant still love each other and watching Grant bond with Ben only highlighted their potential to be a happy family. Unfortunately, they must overcome many obstacles before their happiness ever after.
A bonus of course was being able to see Cassie and Luke’s big day and the author didn't disappoint. The arrival of an unexpected guest had me smiling and I hope the author will delve deeper into their past as the books progress.
This was a wonderful continuation of the Poppy Creek series and I look forward to exploring Colt and Penny’s relationship in the next book.
Eliza Carter had such a fun personality in the first book of the Poppy Creek series, so I was so eager to read her story next. Now the co-owner of the town’s bakery, her responsibilities pile on especially when her high school sweetheart, Grant, returns to Poppy Creek. While the secret she holds is predictable, the reasons for it are anything but and make for a page-turning read to see if Eliza and Grant can move beyond the past toward a potential future together. It’s such a treat to get to revisit familiar faces in Poppy Creek and I strongly recommend reading the series in order to fully appreciate the characters and their backgrounds. I read this via audiobook and enjoyed the narration.
The Truth in Tiramisu is a truly enchanting read that will pull at every reader's heartstrings. It focuses around the importance of family and friendships, and the rifts that can emerge when secrets are concealed, and the truth is what is needed to set you free. This story is going to stay with me for a long time after finishing it, and it will undoubtedly end up being one of the best books I read this entire year.
I've stated in reviews before that Rachael Bloome has an immersive writing style that truly brings the characters and setting alive to the reader, and Eliza and Grant's story is no exception. As Poppy Creek prepares to welcome in the opening of a new business, and to welcome back one of their own who's been gone far too long, the reader will feel like they are one of of the residents joining in for the fun in this idyllic, but quirky small town.
Eliza and Grant's story isn't all warm fuzzies, and both must overcome many obstacles, including personal hurts and insecurities, to find their way to happily ever after, and I loved every single moment of their journey. Eliza's had to make some touch decisions over the years, and my heart broke for her over and over again. Grant was instantly likable, and I couldn't help but sympathize with him over the non traditional childhood he was forced to grow up in, and the heartbreak that soon came his way.
My visit back to one of my favorite fictional towns was everything I possibly could have wanted, and I loved that while the book does share some similarities with The Clause In Christmas, it's also a very different type of story, and showcases that Rachael is an insanely talented storyteller who can truly pull off a variety of differing story types.
Just as I said with the first book, this one has all the makings of a perfect sweet romance movie for The Hallmark Channel and I can't recommend it enough. If you're a fan of clean reads, idyllic small town settings, second chances romances, and books that will leave you with a huge smile on your face, than you definitely need to pick up the second installment in the Poppy Creek series.
I should really stop gushing about this before my review is as long as the story itself, but I have to say that the epilogue has me even more excited for book three, and I can't wait to read it!
Final Rating: 5/5
Thanks so much to Rachael Bloome for allowing me to advance read this as part of her street team!
I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary copy of this novel from the author as part of her street team in exchange for an honest review. I was not required to give a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
It was such fun returning to Poppy Creek because I especially liked the first book in this series. This book was very enjoyable too. I liked the intrigue of Eliza's mystery throughout the story. I also enjoyed Luke and Cassie's wedding and their heartfelt wedding vows. It was so nice to read about Eliza and Grant's story. The best part of Poppy Creek are the characters who have touched my heart and given me hope too. I received an advance copy of this book and I willingly chose to write an honest review.
The second book in the Poppy Creek series brings us back to one of our most-loved friends, Eliza!! As a single mother she works hard to provide for herself and her son, but even she has secrets. When an old flame returns to town, will everything she's worked so hard to gain come crumbling down, or will she finally have the family she has always wanted? ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Eliza and Grant will grab your heart strings and won't let go! You'll root for them, you'll cry for them, but mostly you'll fall in love with them!
What a beautifully written story about Eliza. Eliza is a single mother to her adorable son, Ben. Everyone thinks she got pregnant by a tourist passing through town and we will learn if that’s true or not. Eliza and Cassie, who is marrying Eliza’s best friend, Luke, are going into business together. Eliza handles the baking, while Cassie is all things coffee. Grant returns to Poppy Creek from San Francisco, a successful web designer. Grant and Eliza were high school sweethearts, but she ended things with him, before he left. I’m not going to tell what happens because I want everyone to read this book and fall in love with the town of Poppy Creek and all of these wonderful characters. Rachael Bloome is a talented writer and she will have you flipping the pages until you reach the end. I’m already looking forward to her next book, that’s how much I love her writing. Grab your copy and see if you agree with me.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book and this is my voluntary and honest review.
The Truth in Tiramisu is a wonderful, heartwarming, sweet romance. Ms. Bloome writes the best stories and fascinating characters. Eliza, Ben and Grant just seemed like the next door neighbors. Grant's mother is a real piece of work. There are a lot of secrets that keep the action moving in the story. I could not put it down and got to bed at 5:30 am!
I truly loved this. I usually don't read books like this, usually I am more of a smutty gal, but this was so cute, I loved how it had other characters from the previous book (The Clause in Christmas) and its just a very cute town that becomes a big family. I can imagine this story in real life concepts. Eliza (fmc) she did everything she can for her son and I am a mom myself so I understand all the sacrifices she dealt with and it is very realistic. Grant (mmc) was your typical character, very oblivious to the situation but it worked out at the end, I overall thought it was a cute read! I read the kindle edition of this. I will continue on bc I need to know what happens to the others.
After reading the first Poppy Creek novel The Clause in Christmas, I wanted to know more of what happened not only in main characters Luke and Cassie's lives but also about best friend Eliza. This book delivers!
The struggles and secrets of single mom Eliza and her adorable son Ben unfold in a heart-warming manner.
Bloome's recipe of mixing romance and relationship challenges in a small town with interesting events (secret picnic, creek walk, back-to-school carnival, grand opening of the cafe) is a winning one.
I can't wait to read the next book in the series--The Secret in Sandcastles!
I really liked the first book in this series, and this one continues the charming setting with another couple finding their way (in this case back) to each other. I thought this one had a little too much drama with other family members, but it's a minor quibble. 3.5 stars
I really liked diving further into Eliza's story. I found that this book dragged on a bit more than the first one, in terms of getting to the main point. Overall though I really enjoyed it and would recommend it!
This was a delicious read. The town is delightful, but the characters are starting to feel like old friends. Grant and Eliza's story was just as heartfelt as Luke and Cassie's. I can't wait to read the next one.
I listened to the audiobook version, and enjoyed the narration.
Why did I take so long jumping back into the beautiful town of Poppy Creek?! I absolutely loved the beautiful blend of both Cassie and Eliza’s Growing friendship, businesses partnership, and their love life’s. Loved reading about Cassie and Luke I can’t wait to read about Eliza and Grant’s wedding. Beautiful book.
Two books (and a short story!) into this series and I’m still as infatuated with this town and its people as ever. I love everything I’ve ever read from Rachael and can’t WAIT for book 3!
Audiobook. Meh disappointing after the amazing first book in series. But seriously? He (or the entire freaking town for that matter) really didn't see how horrible a person his mother was throughout his entire life??? Was he intentionally blind? What an idiot. That level of blindness borders on taking this book beyond my ability to suspend belief. Is it only book characters that can't see past their own nose or are real people that blind too? Sigh. You think you found a good author and series ......
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
I loved this one even more than the Clause in Christmas! Eliza was one of my favourite characters in the first book, and I was not disappointed in her lovely story. Including the grand opening party for the Calendar Cafe and Cassie and Luke's wedding were delightful touches. I highly recommend this series for anybody who loves small town, sweet romances with all the cozy feels!
The cutest read. Poppy creek is a world I dream to live in. This is a classic hallmark/Gilmore girl story. So predictable and charming. Loved every minute. Can’t wait to keep reading this series
The Truth in Tiramisu is the second book in the Poppy Creek series by Rachael Bloome. Eliza Carter has been hiding a deep secret. With her bakery undergoing a remodel, her son, Ben, struggling in school, and planning her best friend’s wedding, her secret is the last thing she has to deal with. That is until her high school sweetheart comes back to town. Grant Parker has never forgotten the girl he left behind, the girl who broke his heart. With a business deal with a very lucrative client on the line, he takes the chance and heads home to Poppy Creek. Maybe a chance to rekindle their love? When Grand offers to help Eliza with her new business’ website, he ends up spending more and more time with Eliza and Ben and discovers their feelings never changed. When the secret comes to light, can their new love survive? This story picks up right after The Clause in Christmas ends as Eliza is reliving and questioning if she really saw a familiar face. From the opening chapter to the closing page, I loved, loved this story! I could not put it down! I loved the themes of hope, forgiveness and second chances for love. I even appreciated the meaning behind the title as it is revealed in the story. So good! Eliza is the kind of character you want to reach through the pages and hug, to stand behind as she deals with those who would judge her. I also enjoyed Grant’s story as he learns more secrets than just Eliza’s that have shaped, even misguided, his view on his family, his hometown and the love of his life. I look forward to the rest of the series. I highly recommend The Truth in Tiramisu.
The Truth in Tiramisu is available in paperback, eBook, and audiobook