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Love By Chance: Based On the Hallmark Channel Original Movie
She thinks meeting him must’ve been fate. It wasn’t. Claire, a pastry chef struggling to make her restaurant succeed, is too busy to pursue romance. That doesn’t stop her loving but meddling mother, Helen, from setting her up on dates. Even after Helen promises to stop her matchmaking efforts, she can’t help herself. She convinces Eric, a pediatrician, to meet Claire at a gallery event. Eric and Claire feel an immediate connection, and their meeting becomes a magical first date. But the longer Eric and Claire see each other, the less comfortable Eric feels about hiding the fact that Claire’s mom set them up. Meanwhile, Claire loves to talk about how she trusts Eric, and how they met by chance. How will she react to the truth? This witty, sweet romance includes a free Hallmark original recipe for Claire’s Coconut Lime Tarts.
256 pages, Paperback
First published December 31, 2019
18 people are currently reading
273 people want to read
About the author
Kacy Cross
45 books63 followersI write romance novels starring swoon-worthy heroes that you can share with your daughter, the ladies at church and your grandmother without fear because my books never contain bad language, violence or adult content. I live in Texas where I’ve seen bobcats and beavers near my house, but sadly not one cowboy. I’m raising two mini-ninjas alongside the love of my life who cooks while I write, which is my definition of a true hero.
Come for the romance, stay for the happily ever after. My books will make you laugh, cry and swoon–cross my heart.
Follow me on Bookbub to get alerts when I have new releases and sales: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/kacy-...
Find my books here: https://kacycross.com/
Come for the romance, stay for the happily ever after. My books will make you laugh, cry and swoon–cross my heart.
Follow me on Bookbub to get alerts when I have new releases and sales: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/kacy-...
Find my books here: https://kacycross.com/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
December 13, 2019
Pastry chef Claire Michaels is doing everything she can to make her struggling restaurant a success. Dating is the last thing on her mind. But that doesn't stop her mother Helen from playing matchmaker. Helen is married to the love of her life and wants the same for her only child. When she meets Eric, a pediatrician, she knows immediately that he's the one for her daughter. Despite her promises to stop her matchmaking efforts, Helen can't help herself. She convinces Eric to meet Claire.
When Eric and Claire meet for the first time, there's an immediate connection between them. But as their relationship progresses, he starts to feel guilty about hiding the fact that her mom set them up. Claire thinks that she met Eric by chance. How will she react when she learns the truth?
I absolutely loved this book. It has all the wonderful things I have come to expect from a Hallmark romance. Heartwarming family relationships, a sweet romance, and relatable characters. Kacy Cross's engaging writing style made it very easy to become engrossed in the story. I really liked the restaurant setting and the delicious descriptions of food. I wasn't sure how I would feel about the multiple POVs, but I ended up really enjoying it and became just as interested in Sam and Helen's relationship as I was with Claire and Eric's. If you are looking for a lighthearted, feel-good story, then I highly recommend this book. As an added treat, the author includes a delicious recipe at the end.
Thank you to NetGalley and Hallmark Publishing for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
When Eric and Claire meet for the first time, there's an immediate connection between them. But as their relationship progresses, he starts to feel guilty about hiding the fact that her mom set them up. Claire thinks that she met Eric by chance. How will she react when she learns the truth?
I absolutely loved this book. It has all the wonderful things I have come to expect from a Hallmark romance. Heartwarming family relationships, a sweet romance, and relatable characters. Kacy Cross's engaging writing style made it very easy to become engrossed in the story. I really liked the restaurant setting and the delicious descriptions of food. I wasn't sure how I would feel about the multiple POVs, but I ended up really enjoying it and became just as interested in Sam and Helen's relationship as I was with Claire and Eric's. If you are looking for a lighthearted, feel-good story, then I highly recommend this book. As an added treat, the author includes a delicious recipe at the end.
Thank you to NetGalley and Hallmark Publishing for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 10, 2020
I read the reviews that this is actually a Hallmark movie. I picked up the audio book and I do not have any everlasting memory. It was not a bad book either. Its just lukewarm OK.
The thing I have problem is the mother. She clearly have a good intention setting up her daughter with her date. It is also good that they both falling in love. So what is this fuss about the heroine being so upset? I think she should thanks her mother. The mother is like a victim here.
There is that insta lust and insta love in it. Overall this is OK read. Vanilla, minimum drama and minimum angst.
3 stars
The thing I have problem is the mother. She clearly have a good intention setting up her daughter with her date. It is also good that they both falling in love. So what is this fuss about the heroine being so upset? I think she should thanks her mother. The mother is like a victim here.
There is that insta lust and insta love in it. Overall this is OK read. Vanilla, minimum drama and minimum angst.
3 stars
December 29, 2019
How do you solve a problem like an overbearingly pushy mother who’s absolutely determined to matchmake you with a nice man so you can start pushing out grandbabies? Claire loves her mum, but Helen’s getting more and more impossible… to the extent of joining dating apps posing as her daughter to try and find Claire a man.
To be honest, I thought Helen was an absolute nightmare and Claire was a pushover. Helen had absolutely no respect for any boundary Claire set - every time Claire would get angry, Helen would apologize, and then go and do something even more outrageous behind her back. “I love you and I know what’s best for you” is the excuse used by manipulative parents the world over, and it made me absolutely sick to see Claire falling for it repeatedly.
Eric, the love interest, is a sweet enough guy, and in fact he’s just trying to be nice when he ends up talking to Helen after she went to a blind date with one of the guys from the dating app (who rightly freaked out when he got to meet the mother rather than the daughter). Eric’s obviously a bit lonely and at a time in his life when he does want to meet ‘the one’, but really he’s just humouring Helen when he agrees to meet Claire. Falling for her was an unlikely outcome, but now it’s happened, he needs to tell Claire the truth about how they met, because she’s convinced it’s fate and her mother wasn’t involved at all.
I wanted to tell Eric to stop being so wishy-washy and order Helen to butt out. I didn’t really believe in the happy ending because it was so obvious that the next thing Helen would be doing was pushing them to start a family, right as Claire’s business was just starting to take off. The eventual success of her scheme obviously only convinced her she was Right to interfere in the first place, justifying her never, ever stopping being a micro-managing helicopter mom.
This book is based on a movie which I haven’t seen, and it’s possible the romance might be the main focus there, but honestly the book seemed to be more about the relationship between Claire and her mother, a relationship I felt was horribly unhealthy. As a romance, this really missed the spot as far as I’m concerned. Two stars.
Disclaimer: I received a review copy of this title via NetGalley.
To be honest, I thought Helen was an absolute nightmare and Claire was a pushover. Helen had absolutely no respect for any boundary Claire set - every time Claire would get angry, Helen would apologize, and then go and do something even more outrageous behind her back. “I love you and I know what’s best for you” is the excuse used by manipulative parents the world over, and it made me absolutely sick to see Claire falling for it repeatedly.
Eric, the love interest, is a sweet enough guy, and in fact he’s just trying to be nice when he ends up talking to Helen after she went to a blind date with one of the guys from the dating app (who rightly freaked out when he got to meet the mother rather than the daughter). Eric’s obviously a bit lonely and at a time in his life when he does want to meet ‘the one’, but really he’s just humouring Helen when he agrees to meet Claire. Falling for her was an unlikely outcome, but now it’s happened, he needs to tell Claire the truth about how they met, because she’s convinced it’s fate and her mother wasn’t involved at all.
I wanted to tell Eric to stop being so wishy-washy and order Helen to butt out. I didn’t really believe in the happy ending because it was so obvious that the next thing Helen would be doing was pushing them to start a family, right as Claire’s business was just starting to take off. The eventual success of her scheme obviously only convinced her she was Right to interfere in the first place, justifying her never, ever stopping being a micro-managing helicopter mom.
This book is based on a movie which I haven’t seen, and it’s possible the romance might be the main focus there, but honestly the book seemed to be more about the relationship between Claire and her mother, a relationship I felt was horribly unhealthy. As a romance, this really missed the spot as far as I’m concerned. Two stars.
Disclaimer: I received a review copy of this title via NetGalley.
January 23, 2020
No. Just no.
A manipulating mother who keeps doing things against her daughters wishes because she thinks "i know what's best for you" - I liked maybe a few pages, but when i realized that i've watched half the movie and i had to turn it off back then. And this book was also hard to read, i had hoped maybe it wasn't as awful as the movie, but for me it was.
A manipulating mother who keeps doing things against her daughters wishes because she thinks "i know what's best for you" - I liked maybe a few pages, but when i realized that i've watched half the movie and i had to turn it off back then. And this book was also hard to read, i had hoped maybe it wasn't as awful as the movie, but for me it was.
November 29, 2019
A meddling mother who just can't help herself. But Claire just wants to find love by chance. I enjoyed this as much as the movie with the same title. A fast cute little rom com with the Hallmark touch we know and love.
Dawnny-BookGypsy
Hudson Valley NY
Dawnny-BookGypsy
Hudson Valley NY
December 7, 2019
Romance, clean; contemporary
Cute light romance, more of a 3.5 for me as a reader. Very fun, light romance. Claire's mom keeps trying to set Claire up. Eric is one of those unfortunate men, however, he likes Claire, and as their relationship develops and Clair's Mom's deception and his begins to unravel a bit, he is feeling very conflicted. Their sweet, genuine attraction and budding feelings made for a nice honest romance, with that fun chemistry that makes any romance fan want to read. Fun setting, twist in the backstory, but their fun interactions, and obvious attraction and great chemistry made for a fun romance. Eric is such a fun H, he makes us want to root for his success and for Clair and he to get a HEA. Fun, cute escape read as always!
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review, my opinions are my own.
Cute light romance, more of a 3.5 for me as a reader. Very fun, light romance. Claire's mom keeps trying to set Claire up. Eric is one of those unfortunate men, however, he likes Claire, and as their relationship develops and Clair's Mom's deception and his begins to unravel a bit, he is feeling very conflicted. Their sweet, genuine attraction and budding feelings made for a nice honest romance, with that fun chemistry that makes any romance fan want to read. Fun setting, twist in the backstory, but their fun interactions, and obvious attraction and great chemistry made for a fun romance. Eric is such a fun H, he makes us want to root for his success and for Clair and he to get a HEA. Fun, cute escape read as always!
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review, my opinions are my own.
June 23, 2024
Vanilla writing, good plot.
This is a book based on a Hallmark movie, so I was definitely interested when I saw that. The plot and characters were pretty good for a Hallmark book, but the writing was just... plain. It got the point across and the story told, however it wasn't as grabbing as I would've wanted. Claire's mom was fairly annoying most of the time, and the whole ending seemed a bit rushed. The actual conflict just felt a bit overdramatic to me (like, girl, you found your dream man, but *gasp* he was picked out by your mom and now you don't get this whole love from "fate" thing), but overall, it was sweet, clean, and a simple, quick read that allowed me to cleanse my pallet for the next book. I appreciated the fact that it was very suitable for ALL audiences with the restrictions on swearing, violence, and adult themes.
Conclusion: 4 stars - simple but probably won't read again.
This is a book based on a Hallmark movie, so I was definitely interested when I saw that. The plot and characters were pretty good for a Hallmark book, but the writing was just... plain. It got the point across and the story told, however it wasn't as grabbing as I would've wanted. Claire's mom was fairly annoying most of the time, and the whole ending seemed a bit rushed. The actual conflict just felt a bit overdramatic to me (like, girl, you found your dream man, but *gasp* he was picked out by your mom and now you don't get this whole love from "fate" thing), but overall, it was sweet, clean, and a simple, quick read that allowed me to cleanse my pallet for the next book. I appreciated the fact that it was very suitable for ALL audiences with the restrictions on swearing, violence, and adult themes.
Conclusion: 4 stars - simple but probably won't read again.
January 12, 2020
In "Love by Chance", beautiful, busy baker and chef Claire Michaels has a full plate-- she's working hard to become a culinary success, please the public and her business partner, Marco, and earn the coveted starred review from the local restaurant critic. Love is on the back burner. That just won't do for Helen, Claire's "means-well meddler" mother who is not only a realtor extraordinaire, she's also a proven matchmaker. Despite Claire's protests, Helen just can't rest until Claire is happily wed. Once Helen has handsome and charming Dr. Eric Carlton in her sights, he soon finds himself caught up in a scheme to arrange a fake chance meeting with Claire. A genuine attraction quickly grows between Claire and Eric, but he is plagued by guilt over his part in the deception. As Eric and Claire grow closer, Helen is neglecting her own relationship with her husband, Sam, who is ready to enjoy his retirement and take a long-planned journey to Italy with his beloved wife. When all truths are revealed, the effects are devastating, and it will take a leap of faith and a lot of love to move forward toward a happy future. However, where there's cake, there's hope, and the heart will have it's way. Author Kacy Cross has done justice to the original Hallmark Channel movie upon which the novelization is based, and she has infused the sweet romance with her own humor and insights. I very much enjoyed both the movie and the book, and I highly recommend them both for lovers of delicious contemporary "foodie" romance. The book also includes a scrumptious Original Hallmark Recipe for "Claire’s Coconut Lime Tarts".
Book Copy Gratis Hallmark Publishing
Book Copy Gratis Hallmark Publishing
January 28, 2020
A funny, sweet romance
My rating is 4.5 stars
Claire's mother was a meddler in the worst kind of way. For Claire. For us, not so much, because Helen who created the major problem that made the story so much fun to read! Helen needed to be needed by Claire and she thought the way to fill that void in her life was by arranging Claire's. And finding her a perfect match. The problem is that Claire wanted to find her own. Have it happen naturally so she would have a romantic story to tell her children and grandchildren.
Oops!
Eric was the unsuspecting bystander who just happened to relent to Helen's persistence and go to see Claire for himself. And happened to fall deeply in love with her at first sight.
See the conflict here?
Mistakes are heaped upon mistakes to create the perfect storm of RomCom magic. Claire, Eric, Helen, and Helen's husband, Sam, were all allowed to share their thoughts in a third-person manner throughout the story, which was a great choice.
I enjoyed seeing Eric and Claire at the hospital with one of Eric's young patients, bringing her cheer and pastries. Their kindness and love for children touched my heart. I also liked seeing Claire and her business partner, Mario, try to figure out which patron was the anonymous food critic they were expecting. And the result of them being wrong and saying things they never would have dreamed of uttering in the critic's presence. (And, I might add, I'm quite proud of myself for figuring out this mysterious person's identity right away!)
If you enjoy clean RomCom with witty humor, I highly recommend Love by Chance. And I'm excited to add Kacy Cross to my list of authors to follow!
Read my full review at Among the Reads
I was given a copy of this book. I was not required to give a favorable review nor was any money received for this review. All comments and opinions are my own.
My rating is 4.5 stars
Claire's mother was a meddler in the worst kind of way. For Claire. For us, not so much, because Helen who created the major problem that made the story so much fun to read! Helen needed to be needed by Claire and she thought the way to fill that void in her life was by arranging Claire's. And finding her a perfect match. The problem is that Claire wanted to find her own. Have it happen naturally so she would have a romantic story to tell her children and grandchildren.
Oops!
Eric was the unsuspecting bystander who just happened to relent to Helen's persistence and go to see Claire for himself. And happened to fall deeply in love with her at first sight.
See the conflict here?
Mistakes are heaped upon mistakes to create the perfect storm of RomCom magic. Claire, Eric, Helen, and Helen's husband, Sam, were all allowed to share their thoughts in a third-person manner throughout the story, which was a great choice.
I enjoyed seeing Eric and Claire at the hospital with one of Eric's young patients, bringing her cheer and pastries. Their kindness and love for children touched my heart. I also liked seeing Claire and her business partner, Mario, try to figure out which patron was the anonymous food critic they were expecting. And the result of them being wrong and saying things they never would have dreamed of uttering in the critic's presence. (And, I might add, I'm quite proud of myself for figuring out this mysterious person's identity right away!)
If you enjoy clean RomCom with witty humor, I highly recommend Love by Chance. And I'm excited to add Kacy Cross to my list of authors to follow!
Read my full review at Among the Reads
I was given a copy of this book. I was not required to give a favorable review nor was any money received for this review. All comments and opinions are my own.
February 6, 2020
DNF. I love sweet romances, and I love Hallmark movies, and I love dessert, so this book featuring a baker seemed like a perfect fit. Unfortunately I couldn’t get very far into the story. I had a hard time getting into it, and just didn’t like the mother from the beginning. I’m sure others love both the movie and book, it just wasn’t for me.
******
I received an advance copy of the book as an e-book from the publisher (Hallmark Publishing) and Book Funnel in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
******
I received an advance copy of the book as an e-book from the publisher (Hallmark Publishing) and Book Funnel in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
January 4, 2020
If you love Hallmark movies, this book is for you!
Unlucky-in-love and highly-driven small business owner Claire is struggling to make a rousing success of her dream – creating cakes and tarts in the perfect local cafe. She’s got a history of failed matchmaking attempts from her mom, Helen, who takes meddling in her daughter’s life to a whole new level, and has sworn off relationships to focus on baking and business.
Helen is incredibly proud of her people-reading and matchmaking skills. She means well, and just wants her daughter to find the happiness she’s enjoyed for so long. At the same time, we come to find that Helen is struggling with her own identity and fears as she gets older and looks at the changes that the next chapter in her life will bring. However, we quickly see that she is going about things ALL wrong.
Our hero Eric is a nice, normal guy who gets caught up in one of Helen’s schemes. We have some hints that he and Claire may have met organically on their own, but Helen’s meddling definitely accelerates the timeline. The problem is, Claire has become very upset with Helen for her interference, and forbidden her from matchmaking. Now that Helen is positive she’s found the perfect guy for Claire (with both Claire and Eric in quick agreement), she’s afraid that her previous association with Eric may ruin everything. So her solution is to keep it a secret from her daughter, and she manipulates Eric into playing along...
I enjoyed reading Claire and Eric as a couple and as individuals. Both characters were well defined, likable, and funny - “good people”. The book and the characters have everything you would expect from a Hallmark book/movie, and they are honestly one of my “go to” entertainment sources for lighthearted fun with a guaranteed HEA.
In true romance style, we see our trio stumble through misinformation and misunderstandings all along their path. I’ll be honest in saying that Helen is over the top. We see where she is coming from, absolutely. But her methods leave a bit to be desired. Nevertheless, the story moves along at a nice pace, is well fleshed out, and written in a light, positive mood; true sweet & clean Hallmark fashion.
Thanks to NetGalley and the Hallmark Publishing, I received an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Unlucky-in-love and highly-driven small business owner Claire is struggling to make a rousing success of her dream – creating cakes and tarts in the perfect local cafe. She’s got a history of failed matchmaking attempts from her mom, Helen, who takes meddling in her daughter’s life to a whole new level, and has sworn off relationships to focus on baking and business.
Helen is incredibly proud of her people-reading and matchmaking skills. She means well, and just wants her daughter to find the happiness she’s enjoyed for so long. At the same time, we come to find that Helen is struggling with her own identity and fears as she gets older and looks at the changes that the next chapter in her life will bring. However, we quickly see that she is going about things ALL wrong.
Our hero Eric is a nice, normal guy who gets caught up in one of Helen’s schemes. We have some hints that he and Claire may have met organically on their own, but Helen’s meddling definitely accelerates the timeline. The problem is, Claire has become very upset with Helen for her interference, and forbidden her from matchmaking. Now that Helen is positive she’s found the perfect guy for Claire (with both Claire and Eric in quick agreement), she’s afraid that her previous association with Eric may ruin everything. So her solution is to keep it a secret from her daughter, and she manipulates Eric into playing along...
I enjoyed reading Claire and Eric as a couple and as individuals. Both characters were well defined, likable, and funny - “good people”. The book and the characters have everything you would expect from a Hallmark book/movie, and they are honestly one of my “go to” entertainment sources for lighthearted fun with a guaranteed HEA.
In true romance style, we see our trio stumble through misinformation and misunderstandings all along their path. I’ll be honest in saying that Helen is over the top. We see where she is coming from, absolutely. But her methods leave a bit to be desired. Nevertheless, the story moves along at a nice pace, is well fleshed out, and written in a light, positive mood; true sweet & clean Hallmark fashion.
Thanks to NetGalley and the Hallmark Publishing, I received an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
May 6, 2020
Love by Chance
I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
You can preorder your copy here or get it on December 26th, 2019:
https://www.amazon.com/Love-Chance-Ha...
This is a book that was a Hallmark movie turned book. I have yet to see the movie, however I am looking forward to it. I am sure once all of the holiday season movies are done airing, this will air shortly into the new year.
Have you ever had an overbearing parent that wants nothing but happiness for you? As a parent, I can understand going to extra lengths for your child’s happiness, but this book was comedically over the top! I was crying at some of the antics that this mother goes to in order to make sure her daughter gets the best.
This book is set in Seattle, where Claire owns her very own bakery with her partner Marcus. A bakery with an oven that acts up and some quirky little things that happen, but it is all theirs. They have a few catering events scheduled and they are banking future business on these events. One in particular is a crucial one in their near future – a fundraiser at the art gallery. Little does Claire know that this event has some happenstance in the making that simply is not kismet, but a setup. Hellen, Claire’s mom has quite the shenanigans up her sleeve.
This book was a quick read, but at the same time, it had me on a roller coaster of emotion complete with screaming at the book-“what were you thinking?” “NO!” and many more things. I loved the ending, as it tied everything up into a neat little bow.
Update... I just watched this movie and it unfolds on the big screen funnier than the book! Exactly what we need right now in Quarantine! A good romcom! So grateful for Hallmark books and movies! Wish there were a new book out soon!!
I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
You can preorder your copy here or get it on December 26th, 2019:
https://www.amazon.com/Love-Chance-Ha...
This is a book that was a Hallmark movie turned book. I have yet to see the movie, however I am looking forward to it. I am sure once all of the holiday season movies are done airing, this will air shortly into the new year.
Have you ever had an overbearing parent that wants nothing but happiness for you? As a parent, I can understand going to extra lengths for your child’s happiness, but this book was comedically over the top! I was crying at some of the antics that this mother goes to in order to make sure her daughter gets the best.
This book is set in Seattle, where Claire owns her very own bakery with her partner Marcus. A bakery with an oven that acts up and some quirky little things that happen, but it is all theirs. They have a few catering events scheduled and they are banking future business on these events. One in particular is a crucial one in their near future – a fundraiser at the art gallery. Little does Claire know that this event has some happenstance in the making that simply is not kismet, but a setup. Hellen, Claire’s mom has quite the shenanigans up her sleeve.
This book was a quick read, but at the same time, it had me on a roller coaster of emotion complete with screaming at the book-“what were you thinking?” “NO!” and many more things. I loved the ending, as it tied everything up into a neat little bow.
Update... I just watched this movie and it unfolds on the big screen funnier than the book! Exactly what we need right now in Quarantine! A good romcom! So grateful for Hallmark books and movies! Wish there were a new book out soon!!
December 30, 2019
If you like the trademark elements of Hallmark movies, you will probably find this a fun read. The author did a great job of transforming a screenplay into a delightful written adaptation. Unfortunately, the story itself q was troublesome to me.
I am a bit conflicted about Claire's obsession with "meeting by chance." She's working hard to make her bakery/cafe a success and truly doesn't have the time to spend on developing a relationship. She says she is tired of her mom's attempts to fix her up with a guy (and the examples we see of some of Mom's choices are truly duds) but she still has the unrealistic expectations that a great story of meeting the love of her life by chance will give her a happy ending. Maybe I'm just getting too old for this stuff.
I voluntarily read an advanced review copy provided by the publisher and I offer my honest opinion in response.
I am a bit conflicted about Claire's obsession with "meeting by chance." She's working hard to make her bakery/cafe a success and truly doesn't have the time to spend on developing a relationship. She says she is tired of her mom's attempts to fix her up with a guy (and the examples we see of some of Mom's choices are truly duds) but she still has the unrealistic expectations that a great story of meeting the love of her life by chance will give her a happy ending. Maybe I'm just getting too old for this stuff.
I voluntarily read an advanced review copy provided by the publisher and I offer my honest opinion in response.
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May 17, 2020Love by Chance by Kacy Cross
Source: NetGalley and Hallmark Publishing
Rating: 2½/5 stars
Claire is utterly convinced that Fate is going to drop her perfect partner into her life and when that moment happens, it will be utterly perfect! Why should Claire doubt when Fate has already dropped the perfect business partner in her lap? Though their bakery is fledgling, they are doing OK and always hustling to do better. Thanks to Claire’s mom, she and her partner are able to take on lucrative catering jobs in addition to their onsite sales. It’s at one of these events that “Fate” chooses to introduce Claire to her perfect man.
Eric is everything Claire could want in a partner. He’s kind, generous, successful, handsome, and their first meeting story is everything Claire has always dreamed about. An accidental meeting while she’s catering an art gallery event is just the kind of story Claire will delight in one day telling her children. Unfortunately, Claire is the only one who thinks her meeting with Eric is the result of Fate and the universe.
For years, Claire has struggled with her mother’s incessant meddling in her love life. Claire’s mother is utterly convinced she knows better than anyone the type of man Claire needs and only she, Claire’s mother, can find him and bring the two together. Time and time again, Claire has told her mother to back off and let her live her own life and make her own decisions regarding her romantic entanglements. The instances of meddling have become so blatant, offensive, and uncomfortable that Claire has begun to pull away from her once close and loving relationship with her mother. In order to prevent the separation, Claire’s mother has once again said she will cease all involvement in Claire’s love life.
As the weeks pass, Claire is deliriously happy with Eric. Both her personal and professional life is blossoming, and Claire is happier than she can ever recall being. For Eric’s part, Claire is just about perfect, and he can’t believe his good fortune in meeting her. The only problem Eric has with the relationship is the circumstances under which it was begun. Claire has no idea of her mother’s involvement nor that Eric is still in contact with her mother. Eric has repeatedly asked Claire’s mother to divulge the truth to Claire before she discovers the truth on her own. Once again, Fate steps in!
The Bottom Line: I’m going to tell you the same thing several men told Claire’s mother, she is the reason I didn’t like this book! It really is true that a single character can ruin an otherwise good book. Though I wanted to excuse Claire’s mother and her behavior as the actions of a woman who loves and deeply cares for her daughter and wants nothing more than her happiness, but by her own admission, Claire’s mother is so involved in Claire’s life to avoid dealing with her own life and issues. Additionally, her actions have been repeated so often as to speak to her selfishness and self-interest rather than care and devotion to her daughter. Claire’s mother and her abhorrent actions are such a dominant theme in this book that is hard to overlook her and really appreciate the rest of the story. Claire and Eric are fine characters, her bakery is wonderfully scrumptious, and their love story is endearing, but all of that is tainted and overshadowed by the antics and shenanigans of her mother. I think I can safely say, this book is an easy one to bypass.
Source: NetGalley and Hallmark Publishing
Rating: 2½/5 stars
Claire is utterly convinced that Fate is going to drop her perfect partner into her life and when that moment happens, it will be utterly perfect! Why should Claire doubt when Fate has already dropped the perfect business partner in her lap? Though their bakery is fledgling, they are doing OK and always hustling to do better. Thanks to Claire’s mom, she and her partner are able to take on lucrative catering jobs in addition to their onsite sales. It’s at one of these events that “Fate” chooses to introduce Claire to her perfect man.
Eric is everything Claire could want in a partner. He’s kind, generous, successful, handsome, and their first meeting story is everything Claire has always dreamed about. An accidental meeting while she’s catering an art gallery event is just the kind of story Claire will delight in one day telling her children. Unfortunately, Claire is the only one who thinks her meeting with Eric is the result of Fate and the universe.
For years, Claire has struggled with her mother’s incessant meddling in her love life. Claire’s mother is utterly convinced she knows better than anyone the type of man Claire needs and only she, Claire’s mother, can find him and bring the two together. Time and time again, Claire has told her mother to back off and let her live her own life and make her own decisions regarding her romantic entanglements. The instances of meddling have become so blatant, offensive, and uncomfortable that Claire has begun to pull away from her once close and loving relationship with her mother. In order to prevent the separation, Claire’s mother has once again said she will cease all involvement in Claire’s love life.
As the weeks pass, Claire is deliriously happy with Eric. Both her personal and professional life is blossoming, and Claire is happier than she can ever recall being. For Eric’s part, Claire is just about perfect, and he can’t believe his good fortune in meeting her. The only problem Eric has with the relationship is the circumstances under which it was begun. Claire has no idea of her mother’s involvement nor that Eric is still in contact with her mother. Eric has repeatedly asked Claire’s mother to divulge the truth to Claire before she discovers the truth on her own. Once again, Fate steps in!
The Bottom Line: I’m going to tell you the same thing several men told Claire’s mother, she is the reason I didn’t like this book! It really is true that a single character can ruin an otherwise good book. Though I wanted to excuse Claire’s mother and her behavior as the actions of a woman who loves and deeply cares for her daughter and wants nothing more than her happiness, but by her own admission, Claire’s mother is so involved in Claire’s life to avoid dealing with her own life and issues. Additionally, her actions have been repeated so often as to speak to her selfishness and self-interest rather than care and devotion to her daughter. Claire’s mother and her abhorrent actions are such a dominant theme in this book that is hard to overlook her and really appreciate the rest of the story. Claire and Eric are fine characters, her bakery is wonderfully scrumptious, and their love story is endearing, but all of that is tainted and overshadowed by the antics and shenanigans of her mother. I think I can safely say, this book is an easy one to bypass.
March 5, 2020
I received an ARC courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Synopsis:
Claire, a pastry chef struggling to make her restaurant succeed, is too busy to pursue romance. That doesn't stop her loving but meddling mother, Helen, from setting her up on dates. Even after Helen promises to stop her matchmaking efforts, she can't help herself. She convinces Eric, a pediatrician, to meet Claire at a gallery event. Eric and Claire feel an immediate connection, and their meeting becomes a magical first date. But the longer Eric and Claire see each other, the less comfortable Eric feels about hiding the fact that Claire's mom set them up. Meanwhile, Claire loves to talk about how she trusts Eric, and how they met by chance. How will she react to the truth? This witty, sweet romance includes a free Hallmark original recipe for Coconut Cream Lime Tart.
Review:
This book definitely read like a Hallmark movie; which it was. It also read to me a lot like the movie Because I said so... where the mother falls in love and realizes what it is at the same time she is trying to find her daughter one Which coincidentally, in the movie, they are both pastry chefs! The characters are likable. The hero is a nice guy. The mom is a bit of a meddler. I tried to separate the movie from this book; it was a bit hard for me. I love the movie and if I wasn't such a fan then this might have been better for me. Still, overall, it was a very sweet read and worth the read.
Synopsis:
Claire, a pastry chef struggling to make her restaurant succeed, is too busy to pursue romance. That doesn't stop her loving but meddling mother, Helen, from setting her up on dates. Even after Helen promises to stop her matchmaking efforts, she can't help herself. She convinces Eric, a pediatrician, to meet Claire at a gallery event. Eric and Claire feel an immediate connection, and their meeting becomes a magical first date. But the longer Eric and Claire see each other, the less comfortable Eric feels about hiding the fact that Claire's mom set them up. Meanwhile, Claire loves to talk about how she trusts Eric, and how they met by chance. How will she react to the truth? This witty, sweet romance includes a free Hallmark original recipe for Coconut Cream Lime Tart.
Review:
This book definitely read like a Hallmark movie; which it was. It also read to me a lot like the movie Because I said so... where the mother falls in love and realizes what it is at the same time she is trying to find her daughter one Which coincidentally, in the movie, they are both pastry chefs! The characters are likable. The hero is a nice guy. The mom is a bit of a meddler. I tried to separate the movie from this book; it was a bit hard for me. I love the movie and if I wasn't such a fan then this might have been better for me. Still, overall, it was a very sweet read and worth the read.
December 17, 2019
Love By Chance is a novelization of the Hallmark movie of the same name, released a few years back. I must admit that while I am a HUGE Hallmark movie fan and have seen a LOT of them, this was actually one that I have never heard of before reading. Now that I've read the book, I am hoping to have the chance to watch it soon.. I absolutely loved it!
As a Hallmark book, one might expect it to be predictable--- to fit the Hallmark romance formula to a T.... but that's far from the truth. This was a unique story that had me laughing right from the start! While she may be overbearing and well--- over the top, there is something about Claire's mom Helen that will draw you right in. Is it crazy to think about a mom setting up a dating profile to meet men for her daughter? Absolutely! But it was also sweet in it's craziness. When Eric meets this over the top woman, he cannot imagine getting roped into her crazy scheme, but it seemed love had different plans. This story is a fun reminder that sometimes love finds us in the craziest of ways...and I for one could not get enough!
As a Hallmark book, you know that you can expect a sweet and heartwarming romance with no language or inappropriate content...and the included recipe at the end is one I will certainly be putting to the test too!
**I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley for consideration. All thoughts are 100% my own.
As a Hallmark book, one might expect it to be predictable--- to fit the Hallmark romance formula to a T.... but that's far from the truth. This was a unique story that had me laughing right from the start! While she may be overbearing and well--- over the top, there is something about Claire's mom Helen that will draw you right in. Is it crazy to think about a mom setting up a dating profile to meet men for her daughter? Absolutely! But it was also sweet in it's craziness. When Eric meets this over the top woman, he cannot imagine getting roped into her crazy scheme, but it seemed love had different plans. This story is a fun reminder that sometimes love finds us in the craziest of ways...and I for one could not get enough!
As a Hallmark book, you know that you can expect a sweet and heartwarming romance with no language or inappropriate content...and the included recipe at the end is one I will certainly be putting to the test too!
**I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley for consideration. All thoughts are 100% my own.
January 13, 2020
Sometimes love surprises you
Kacy Cross introduces her readers to Claire Michaels who struggles together with her partner Marco to run "Gilded Sweets Bakery" in spite of various challenges, such as an ancient temperamental oven in her book "Love By Chance. Based On the Hallmark Channel Original Movie". Claire's interfering mother Helen is another challenge. She wants to see her daughter married and tends to arrange "not so accidental" encounters with eligible men for her. It seems that meeting Eric at an gallery event where Claire offers desserts to those present does not fall in this category. Their developing relationship and Eric's creative ideas to promote "Gilded Sweets Bakery" seems just to be a "natural" event. But how does Eric deal with the fact that Helen originally wanted to set them up? And what will Claire do when she discovers the truth?
This was the first book by Kacy Cross which I read and I highly recommend it. It is a relaxing fast read and very enjoyable, especially since the story also contains some surprises. Additionally there is another Hallmark original recipe included, this one for Coconut Cream Lime Tart.
The complimentary copy of this book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley free of charge. I was under no obligation to offer a positive review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
#LoveByChance #NetGalley
Kacy Cross introduces her readers to Claire Michaels who struggles together with her partner Marco to run "Gilded Sweets Bakery" in spite of various challenges, such as an ancient temperamental oven in her book "Love By Chance. Based On the Hallmark Channel Original Movie". Claire's interfering mother Helen is another challenge. She wants to see her daughter married and tends to arrange "not so accidental" encounters with eligible men for her. It seems that meeting Eric at an gallery event where Claire offers desserts to those present does not fall in this category. Their developing relationship and Eric's creative ideas to promote "Gilded Sweets Bakery" seems just to be a "natural" event. But how does Eric deal with the fact that Helen originally wanted to set them up? And what will Claire do when she discovers the truth?
This was the first book by Kacy Cross which I read and I highly recommend it. It is a relaxing fast read and very enjoyable, especially since the story also contains some surprises. Additionally there is another Hallmark original recipe included, this one for Coconut Cream Lime Tart.
The complimentary copy of this book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley free of charge. I was under no obligation to offer a positive review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
#LoveByChance #NetGalley
April 20, 2023
I enjoyed spending time with every character in this book, including the supporting cast. However, my favorite aspect of the story is that there is a lot of dialogue between the two leads and between Claire's parents. They too have issues to work through. Claire and Eric talk about the big stuff and they talk about the little stuff. All of it strengthens their bond, and as a result, they get to know each other better. Their conversations feel natural. I don't necessarily agree with everyone's actions in this story, but the dialogue is the key to why it works so well. I even had some sympathy and understanding for the meddling mother.
After the last chapter in the book, we are treated to an epilogue that isn't in the movie and it elevates the story even more. However, I will say I do have one gripe about what happens at the end in both the movie and the book. In fact, it happens twice in the book. I don't want to share any major spoilers, so I'll just say it's something that Hallmark tends to do a lot and I cringe every time. This is minor, though. Up until this point, it was a five-star story.
If you are looking for a light and fluffy read with happy vibes, I highly recommend Love By Chance, by Kacy Cross. It is a clean romcom that, if you're like me, will leave you feeling like you're floating on a cloud without a care in the world while you're reading it. I recommend watching the movie, too.
After the last chapter in the book, we are treated to an epilogue that isn't in the movie and it elevates the story even more. However, I will say I do have one gripe about what happens at the end in both the movie and the book. In fact, it happens twice in the book. I don't want to share any major spoilers, so I'll just say it's something that Hallmark tends to do a lot and I cringe every time. This is minor, though. Up until this point, it was a five-star story.
If you are looking for a light and fluffy read with happy vibes, I highly recommend Love By Chance, by Kacy Cross. It is a clean romcom that, if you're like me, will leave you feeling like you're floating on a cloud without a care in the world while you're reading it. I recommend watching the movie, too.
December 23, 2019
This book was just...okay.
Claire believes in the power of fate in terms of romance. She just wishes her mother, Helen, would stop meddling in her love life. At the same time, she and business partner Marco are trying to get more customers for their pastry business. When she meets Eric, a pediatrician, she believes fate has led them together.
...or has it?
I loved Kacy Cross's novelization of Moonlight in Vermont so I was excited to read another novelization from this author. However, I just couldn't get into this story. I found Helen very annoying throughout and the minor characters (with the exception of San and Marco) weren't as memorable. Dana felt very underdeveloped and could have made things interesting if she had more scenes. The only decent part was the chemistry with Claire and Eric. The subplot with Sam and Helen was also surprisingly good and definitely painted a better picture of the Michaels family and their importance to the plot.
Kacy Cross is still a great writer. The material itself just didn't work for me this time. If you believe in fate and want to laugh about family dynamics then you might enjoy this book more.
I received this book for free from Hallmark Publishing and BookFunnel in exchange for an honest review.
Claire believes in the power of fate in terms of romance. She just wishes her mother, Helen, would stop meddling in her love life. At the same time, she and business partner Marco are trying to get more customers for their pastry business. When she meets Eric, a pediatrician, she believes fate has led them together.
...or has it?
I loved Kacy Cross's novelization of Moonlight in Vermont so I was excited to read another novelization from this author. However, I just couldn't get into this story. I found Helen very annoying throughout and the minor characters (with the exception of San and Marco) weren't as memorable. Dana felt very underdeveloped and could have made things interesting if she had more scenes. The only decent part was the chemistry with Claire and Eric. The subplot with Sam and Helen was also surprisingly good and definitely painted a better picture of the Michaels family and their importance to the plot.
Kacy Cross is still a great writer. The material itself just didn't work for me this time. If you believe in fate and want to laugh about family dynamics then you might enjoy this book more.
I received this book for free from Hallmark Publishing and BookFunnel in exchange for an honest review.
December 29, 2019
Love by Chance by Kacy Cross is a fun, light, breezy, romantic novel that delighted me from beginning to end.
I enjoyed Claire and Eric. I thought they were like able and had chemistry. I also liked that they both had professions and identities outside of each other. I also feel they complimented each other well.
I enjoyed the “sparring” and banter between Claire and her mom, Helen. I think they have a good relationship despite her mom’s meddling. I think Helen truly has Claire’s best interests at heart, but doesn’t know exactly how to help without sometimes coming off as pushy. If Helen would have dialed back some of her mannerisms, she would have probably come off as a more enjoyable mom overall. However, I still liked the fact that there were flaws amongst the characters that were presented throughout the book, as it made them more endearing to me.
I enjoyed the connection and romance of Claire and Eric. I enjoyed the plot, subplot, and the sweet ending. I will definitely read more from this author.
5/5 stars
Thank you NetGalley and Hallmark Publishing for this ARC and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR, Bookbub, Amazon, and B&N accounts immediately.
Thank you again!
I enjoyed Claire and Eric. I thought they were like able and had chemistry. I also liked that they both had professions and identities outside of each other. I also feel they complimented each other well.
I enjoyed the “sparring” and banter between Claire and her mom, Helen. I think they have a good relationship despite her mom’s meddling. I think Helen truly has Claire’s best interests at heart, but doesn’t know exactly how to help without sometimes coming off as pushy. If Helen would have dialed back some of her mannerisms, she would have probably come off as a more enjoyable mom overall. However, I still liked the fact that there were flaws amongst the characters that were presented throughout the book, as it made them more endearing to me.
I enjoyed the connection and romance of Claire and Eric. I enjoyed the plot, subplot, and the sweet ending. I will definitely read more from this author.
5/5 stars
Thank you NetGalley and Hallmark Publishing for this ARC and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR, Bookbub, Amazon, and B&N accounts immediately.
Thank you again!
October 24, 2024
Its about a pastry chef-Claire and a pediatrics Doctor- Eric, who met at an art gallery. It seems that they met by chance but it was really orchastrated by Claire's mother Helen. Now that the two are falling for each other, the boyfriend and the mother needs to figure out how to tell Claire the truth.
This books was a great refresher for me. It was simple, light, and cute. The phasing was just right, it wasnt too slow nor too fast. The romance is really adorable, the chemistry for Eric and Claire was well written which I loved. I just wished that there was more scenes showing that cute chemistry. There was more work and worries of Claire than them spending time or being romantic and stuff. Also the confession took more chapters than I expected. Still it was a great book for me. It got me out of my book slump. Its worth reading!
This books was a great refresher for me. It was simple, light, and cute. The phasing was just right, it wasnt too slow nor too fast. The romance is really adorable, the chemistry for Eric and Claire was well written which I loved. I just wished that there was more scenes showing that cute chemistry. There was more work and worries of Claire than them spending time or being romantic and stuff. Also the confession took more chapters than I expected. Still it was a great book for me. It got me out of my book slump. Its worth reading!
December 19, 2019
Claire Michaels has a great relationship with her mother, Helen Michaels; however she doesn’t like it when her mother plays matchmaker! Claire wants to find love on her own terms, but her mother doesn’t understand and creates a dating profile to help Claire find the one! It was on one of these failed dates where she meets them and tells them about her daughter that she meets Dr.Carolton! He is a pediatrician and not happy in his relationship with his doctor friend! Helen convinces Eric to go meet Claire and there is automatic Chemistry! However, eventually Claire discovers the truth and isn’t happy, but I will leave you at that point so you can read for yourself what happens next and watch the movie too! I thank Book Funnel and Hallmark Publishing for this preview copy!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 15, 2020
A sweet, quick romance that keeps you interested throughout. Once I started reading this book I could not put it down, I finished in a matter of hours.
Claire has always dreamed of meeting the perfect guy by chance, just like the story her parents had for their meeting. So, she is tired of her mother meddling in her love life by setting her up on blind dates without permission. She asks her to stop meddling and just let her meet someone the way she wants. Then, just as she has always dreamed, she meets Eric at an art gallery, just by chance or so she thinks....
The writing flows in the story and weaves in the supporting characters flawlessly. I enjoyed getting to know the characters of Claire and Eric and they left me wanting more of their story. I recommend this book, especially if you're looking for a feel good romantic story. I look forward to reading more books by Kacy Cross soon. I am grateful to Netgalley and the publishers for the opportunity to read an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Claire has always dreamed of meeting the perfect guy by chance, just like the story her parents had for their meeting. So, she is tired of her mother meddling in her love life by setting her up on blind dates without permission. She asks her to stop meddling and just let her meet someone the way she wants. Then, just as she has always dreamed, she meets Eric at an art gallery, just by chance or so she thinks....
The writing flows in the story and weaves in the supporting characters flawlessly. I enjoyed getting to know the characters of Claire and Eric and they left me wanting more of their story. I recommend this book, especially if you're looking for a feel good romantic story. I look forward to reading more books by Kacy Cross soon. I am grateful to Netgalley and the publishers for the opportunity to read an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
January 4, 2020
Trademark Hallmark- cute, contemporary romance with just enough conflict to make it interesting.
Claire doesn’t want to be set up by her busybody matchmaking mother, but when she sets her up with Eric, they hit it off. There’s conflict, but also the HEA that we expect from Hallmark stories.
Fans of the movie will love the novelization, and fans of author Kacy Cross will love her adaptation of it.
Easily a four star read, and seriously cozy for reading while curled up this winter.
**I was graciously provided with an ARC by NetGalley and the publishers. All opinions are my own.**
Claire doesn’t want to be set up by her busybody matchmaking mother, but when she sets her up with Eric, they hit it off. There’s conflict, but also the HEA that we expect from Hallmark stories.
Fans of the movie will love the novelization, and fans of author Kacy Cross will love her adaptation of it.
Easily a four star read, and seriously cozy for reading while curled up this winter.
**I was graciously provided with an ARC by NetGalley and the publishers. All opinions are my own.**
October 18, 2024
I found this book BY CHANCE at a store, saw the Hallmark Publishing seal and decided to take a chance on it and it definitely had me hooked.
I was reading it on breaks at my job hoping to get as much of the story in before I had to stop reading.
When I first started reading I figured it would be like most books in the genre… completely predictable and sweet, but this book had so much more!
Let’s just say that I was very pleasantly surprised and finished feeling enjoyment waiting until I decide to read it again!
Happy Reading!
I was reading it on breaks at my job hoping to get as much of the story in before I had to stop reading.
When I first started reading I figured it would be like most books in the genre… completely predictable and sweet, but this book had so much more!
Let’s just say that I was very pleasantly surprised and finished feeling enjoyment waiting until I decide to read it again!
Happy Reading!
December 8, 2019
Love by Chance introduces you to Claire, a woman much like myself in that she’s focused on her career (running her bakery Gilded Sweets) and hoping love will find her with a touch of help from fate (like in a Hallmark movie!). Claire’s mom, Helen, however, has a terrible habit of interfering in Claire’s love life. She means well, wanting to see her daughter happy, but I was shocked by the lengths she was willing to go to in order to see it done! Wow!
That being said, Helen’s meddling brings Eric into the picture. She convinced him to attend an art gallery where he’ll cross paths with Claire, but please, leave her name out of it or Claire won’t be receptive. I’m sure you can see where this headed, right? Claire and Eric hit it off. With such a dastardly secret being kept from her. Who will be the one to tell Claire her meeting-by-chance is anything but?
Meanwhile, along the way we learn that Claire’s parents are having a few issues of their own. Her father, Sam, is ready to retire and explore Italy as they’ve planned for years. Helen, on the hand, is holding out and failing to realize she’s pushing Sam away. Will they be able to maintain their marriage or will Helen’s obsessiveness over Claire’s love life cost her?
Now I wish I could see the movie to see these characters come to life! I’ll have to see if I can track it down.
That being said, Helen’s meddling brings Eric into the picture. She convinced him to attend an art gallery where he’ll cross paths with Claire, but please, leave her name out of it or Claire won’t be receptive. I’m sure you can see where this headed, right? Claire and Eric hit it off. With such a dastardly secret being kept from her. Who will be the one to tell Claire her meeting-by-chance is anything but?
Meanwhile, along the way we learn that Claire’s parents are having a few issues of their own. Her father, Sam, is ready to retire and explore Italy as they’ve planned for years. Helen, on the hand, is holding out and failing to realize she’s pushing Sam away. Will they be able to maintain their marriage or will Helen’s obsessiveness over Claire’s love life cost her?
Now I wish I could see the movie to see these characters come to life! I’ll have to see if I can track it down.
December 11, 2019
What is meant to be will always find it's way....
Love by Chance is a beautiful romance story with all the feels. Claire Michaels is a pastry chef extraordinaire. She eats and breathes her craft and her business. With that comes a price, no time for any kind of personal life. That's where her mother Helen comes in. She takes the reins in trying to find her daughter "the right man". It takes a toll on her relationship with Claire and also Helen's husband. Helen finds who she thinks is the perfect soul mate for Claire with Eric Carlton.
Eric Carlton is handsome, smart and a doctor to boot. Unfortunately things get out of hand and the secrets and lies about Eric and Claire's "chance meeting" blows up in their faces and causes disastrous effects. This story had humor, wit and all the genuine romance that can sometimes go by the wayside in romance stories. A nice cozy read to enjoy with a cup of tea in front of a roaring fire.
Love by Chance is a beautiful romance story with all the feels. Claire Michaels is a pastry chef extraordinaire. She eats and breathes her craft and her business. With that comes a price, no time for any kind of personal life. That's where her mother Helen comes in. She takes the reins in trying to find her daughter "the right man". It takes a toll on her relationship with Claire and also Helen's husband. Helen finds who she thinks is the perfect soul mate for Claire with Eric Carlton.
Eric Carlton is handsome, smart and a doctor to boot. Unfortunately things get out of hand and the secrets and lies about Eric and Claire's "chance meeting" blows up in their faces and causes disastrous effects. This story had humor, wit and all the genuine romance that can sometimes go by the wayside in romance stories. A nice cozy read to enjoy with a cup of tea in front of a roaring fire.
February 24, 2020
Romance and Mom is a crazy combo! When Mom thinks she is your matchmaker run, just run. Loved the book and entertained by the movie. Both are fun and provide clean romance. Fast enjoyable read. As with all Hallmark books there's a great recipe at the end. One of these days I am going to start making these.
Thank you to Hallmark and NetGalley for me to allowing me to read and review.
Thank you to Hallmark and NetGalley for me to allowing me to read and review.
August 17, 2020
I found it very hard to read this book after I already watched the movie several times. However, poor Claire who just wants to find love on her own terms without her mothers input. Will love prevail or destroy her relationship with her mom? Must read to find out.
October 5, 2024
Claire’s mother keeps meddling in her life: setting her up on blind dates, and even opening a profile for her on dating sites. But Claire wants to meet someone by chance, thinking it’s more romantic. Who wins this struggle? I really liked this book.
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