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Adams Grove #3
Torta nuziale con delitto
Dopo una parentesi newyorkese la giovane avvocata Carolanne Baxter è tornata a vivere nella piccola Adams Grove, decisa a lasciarsi alle spalle i ricordi di un’infanzia e un’adolescenza segnate dalla perdita della madre e dall’addolorato ubriacarsi del padre, Ben.
Rasserenata dal calore degli affetti di sempre, Carolanne partecipa con gioia ai preparativi per le nozze di Jill, la sua migliore amica. Nel frattempo riempie scatoloni per l’imminente trasloco nella sua prima vera casa, mentre l’affascinante socio, Connor Buckham, la corteggia apertamente e con ottime intenzioni, facendo vacillare il suo ostinato rifiuto di una vita a due. Perfino la riconciliazione con Ben, da tempo tornato sobrio, non appare più così impossibile.
Insomma, la felicità sembra finalmente essere a portata di mano quando il giorno del matrimonio di Jill, nel bel mezzo della festa, spunta il cadavere di una ragazza assassinata.
I sospetti cadono su Ben e la nuova vita di Carolanne rischia di finire prima ancora di cominciare: suo padre è davvero colpevole? Connor le sta nascondendo qualcosa?
E soprattutto: potrà mai essere felice?
Rasserenata dal calore degli affetti di sempre, Carolanne partecipa con gioia ai preparativi per le nozze di Jill, la sua migliore amica. Nel frattempo riempie scatoloni per l’imminente trasloco nella sua prima vera casa, mentre l’affascinante socio, Connor Buckham, la corteggia apertamente e con ottime intenzioni, facendo vacillare il suo ostinato rifiuto di una vita a due. Perfino la riconciliazione con Ben, da tempo tornato sobrio, non appare più così impossibile.
Insomma, la felicità sembra finalmente essere a portata di mano quando il giorno del matrimonio di Jill, nel bel mezzo della festa, spunta il cadavere di una ragazza assassinata.
I sospetti cadono su Ben e la nuova vita di Carolanne rischia di finire prima ancora di cominciare: suo padre è davvero colpevole? Connor le sta nascondendo qualcosa?
E soprattutto: potrà mai essere felice?
272 pages, Paperback
First published July 9, 2013
225 people are currently reading
1648 people want to read
About the author
Nancy Naigle
60 books2,191 followersNEW RELEASE: A South Hill Christmas Keepsake—out now!
USA TODAY bestselling author Nancy Naigle writes heartwarming small-town stories of love, faith, and second chances. With more than forty novels to her name, eight have been adapted for television on Hallmark Channel, Hallmark Movies & Mysteries, and FOX Nation. Her award-winning ECPA Bestseller The Shell Collector was also the first FOX Original Movie and is now streaming on FOX Nation.
Nancy’s newest Christmas novel, A South Hill Christmas Keepsake, is a heartfelt story inspired by her real-life hometown in Virginia—a tale of lost love, small-town wonder, and rediscovering the magic of community during the holidays.
Up next, she’ll return to the beloved Whelk’s Island universe in Home No Matter Where (coming May 2026), the third installment in The Shell Collector series—continuing her signature blend of coastal charm, healing, and hope.
After a successful career in the banking industry, Nancy followed her heart and took early retirement to write full-time. Now living in the small town of Franklin, Virginia, she crafts stories that celebrate the simple joys of life, the beauty of belonging, and the power of love to restore even the most fragile hearts.
When she’s not writing, you’ll find her browsing antique shops, painting, or weaving pine needle baskets—always on the lookout for the next small spark of inspiration to turn into a story you’ll never forget.
USA TODAY bestselling author Nancy Naigle writes heartwarming small-town stories of love, faith, and second chances. With more than forty novels to her name, eight have been adapted for television on Hallmark Channel, Hallmark Movies & Mysteries, and FOX Nation. Her award-winning ECPA Bestseller The Shell Collector was also the first FOX Original Movie and is now streaming on FOX Nation.
Nancy’s newest Christmas novel, A South Hill Christmas Keepsake, is a heartfelt story inspired by her real-life hometown in Virginia—a tale of lost love, small-town wonder, and rediscovering the magic of community during the holidays.
Up next, she’ll return to the beloved Whelk’s Island universe in Home No Matter Where (coming May 2026), the third installment in The Shell Collector series—continuing her signature blend of coastal charm, healing, and hope.
After a successful career in the banking industry, Nancy followed her heart and took early retirement to write full-time. Now living in the small town of Franklin, Virginia, she crafts stories that celebrate the simple joys of life, the beauty of belonging, and the power of love to restore even the most fragile hearts.
When she’s not writing, you’ll find her browsing antique shops, painting, or weaving pine needle baskets—always on the lookout for the next small spark of inspiration to turn into a story you’ll never forget.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 127 reviews
December 29, 2025
Wedding Cake and Big Mistakes by Nancy Naigle
Adams Grove series #3. Contemporary small town romance. Can be read as a stand-alone.
Carolanne Baxter returns to Adams Grove after years away, to make amends with her father and attend a wedding. A dead woman leads to Ben Baxter as the prime suspect. Carolanne and Connor Buckham work together to figure out who the killer is.
Small town light mystery. Charming as friends reconnect and support each other. Connor is dreamy and clear on his feelings for Carolanne.
An enjoyable addition to the series.
Adams Grove series #3. Contemporary small town romance. Can be read as a stand-alone.
Carolanne Baxter returns to Adams Grove after years away, to make amends with her father and attend a wedding. A dead woman leads to Ben Baxter as the prime suspect. Carolanne and Connor Buckham work together to figure out who the killer is.
Small town light mystery. Charming as friends reconnect and support each other. Connor is dreamy and clear on his feelings for Carolanne.
An enjoyable addition to the series.
August 21, 2013
Over the first two books, I have grown to love the inhabitants of Adams Grove, VA, so I was excited to read Nancy Naigle's third Adams Grove book, Wedding Cake and Big Mistakes. In this installment, Carolanne Baxter and Connor Buckham are law partners and long time friends. As their best friends, Garrett and Jill (remember them from the first book, Sweet Tea and Secrets?) are getting married, murder breaks out in the town and Carolanne's father is implicated, putting Carolanne and Connor at odds.
Once again, Nancy has taken us to the small town of Adams Grove,where everyone knows each other and their secrets....at least they think they do. I love spending time in this little town. Nancy's writing style is wonderfully warm, just like the town and it's inhabitants. Her books always make me feel as if I am living in Adam's Grove with the characters. The people in the town are just the way I would imagine a small town populace to be. You have your town busybodies, some with quite quirky personalities, the predictable and the unpredictable, but below it all is a common thread in their lives that allows them to really care for each other. My favorite thing about this series is the way that Nancy makes me feel about he characters in the stories. As in the past books, I found the characters in this one easy to become involved with and easy to love or hate, trust or mistrust, as was required.
The other thing that is great about these books is that they are such relaxing reads. Here there are not convoluted plots that take a lot of brain power to figure out, or follow, for that matter. What you see is what you get, and that is a nice, easy love story with a little bit of intrigue thrown in and a lot of Southern charm. The what is pretty easy to figure out and follow, and there is just enough blurring of the why to make it interesting. I find these books delightfully refreshing and a great break from some of the more complex books that I might read.
Although I am usually a stickler for reading a series in order, Nancy has made it easy to pick up these books and read them in any order. In fact, I would probably be more accurate to refer to them as books whose characters are linked, rather than an actual series of books. In fact, in looking the books up on several sites, there is some confusion as to how the books are related. On some lists Wedding Cakes and Big Mistakes is listed as the second book in the series, on others it is listed as the third, and on still others it is listed simply as "An Adams Grove Novel". I would go with the last descriptions. Whichever way is correct, I would recommend all three of the novels currently published and am looking forward to the next one, Pecan Pie and Deadly Lies.
Once again, Nancy has taken us to the small town of Adams Grove,where everyone knows each other and their secrets....at least they think they do. I love spending time in this little town. Nancy's writing style is wonderfully warm, just like the town and it's inhabitants. Her books always make me feel as if I am living in Adam's Grove with the characters. The people in the town are just the way I would imagine a small town populace to be. You have your town busybodies, some with quite quirky personalities, the predictable and the unpredictable, but below it all is a common thread in their lives that allows them to really care for each other. My favorite thing about this series is the way that Nancy makes me feel about he characters in the stories. As in the past books, I found the characters in this one easy to become involved with and easy to love or hate, trust or mistrust, as was required.
The other thing that is great about these books is that they are such relaxing reads. Here there are not convoluted plots that take a lot of brain power to figure out, or follow, for that matter. What you see is what you get, and that is a nice, easy love story with a little bit of intrigue thrown in and a lot of Southern charm. The what is pretty easy to figure out and follow, and there is just enough blurring of the why to make it interesting. I find these books delightfully refreshing and a great break from some of the more complex books that I might read.
Although I am usually a stickler for reading a series in order, Nancy has made it easy to pick up these books and read them in any order. In fact, I would probably be more accurate to refer to them as books whose characters are linked, rather than an actual series of books. In fact, in looking the books up on several sites, there is some confusion as to how the books are related. On some lists Wedding Cakes and Big Mistakes is listed as the second book in the series, on others it is listed as the third, and on still others it is listed simply as "An Adams Grove Novel". I would go with the last descriptions. Whichever way is correct, I would recommend all three of the novels currently published and am looking forward to the next one, Pecan Pie and Deadly Lies.
July 6, 2013
If you like a clean small town romance with a bit of suspense, you really should try Wedding Cake and Big Mistakes by Nancy Naigle! While this is part of a series, it can be read as a stand alone. I have never lived in a small southern town, but I can tell you if they are like Adams Grove, I would seriously consider moving there.
In Wedding Cake and Big Mistakes, we follow Connor and Carolanne's story, but Nancy does a nice job of weaving several other plot lines and people into the story. They are all connected and the suspense in her books is more mystery where we follow all the strings and see where it all ends up.
The one thing that I can count on in Nancy's books is a lot of heart. In this book, it isn't the older ladies like Aunt Milly. It is Connor. He has a lot of heart and loves the town and the people in them dearly. He knows better than anyone that the time we have on Earth is precious and he isn't about to waste any. I love his character and goes after what he wants.
Carolanne is learning to cherish the time she has with her Father and the other people in town. She has spent a lot of time being angry and figures out that doesn't seem to be getting her anywhere. She eventually decides to hold on to Pearl and Milly's wisdom and starts living her life in a way to allow herself to be happy and that means forgiving others.
There is a lot going on in this sweet little book. There are strangers showing up in town. There are lies and deceit. There is a murder. Who knew a small town like Adams Grove could have so much going on? Hmm. Well, after remembering the problems Adams Grove had in previous stories (Sweet Tea and Secrets and Out of Focus), I am rethinking my previous comment about wanting to live there. But the people of Adams Grove don't give up or allow outsiders to hurt the people. They rally around each other. They solve crimes together.
Why do I recommend this book? Because Nancy Naigle knows how to write a story about people. They are flawed. They make mistakes. They make awesome cakes. They love each other with such a passion it makes you want to be a part of that love and that town. You don't want to be on the outside looking in. So, go. Read the book and you will be whisked away into the awesome little town of Adams Grove and all it has to offer.
In Wedding Cake and Big Mistakes, we follow Connor and Carolanne's story, but Nancy does a nice job of weaving several other plot lines and people into the story. They are all connected and the suspense in her books is more mystery where we follow all the strings and see where it all ends up.
The one thing that I can count on in Nancy's books is a lot of heart. In this book, it isn't the older ladies like Aunt Milly. It is Connor. He has a lot of heart and loves the town and the people in them dearly. He knows better than anyone that the time we have on Earth is precious and he isn't about to waste any. I love his character and goes after what he wants.
Carolanne is learning to cherish the time she has with her Father and the other people in town. She has spent a lot of time being angry and figures out that doesn't seem to be getting her anywhere. She eventually decides to hold on to Pearl and Milly's wisdom and starts living her life in a way to allow herself to be happy and that means forgiving others.
There is a lot going on in this sweet little book. There are strangers showing up in town. There are lies and deceit. There is a murder. Who knew a small town like Adams Grove could have so much going on? Hmm. Well, after remembering the problems Adams Grove had in previous stories (Sweet Tea and Secrets and Out of Focus), I am rethinking my previous comment about wanting to live there. But the people of Adams Grove don't give up or allow outsiders to hurt the people. They rally around each other. They solve crimes together.
Why do I recommend this book? Because Nancy Naigle knows how to write a story about people. They are flawed. They make mistakes. They make awesome cakes. They love each other with such a passion it makes you want to be a part of that love and that town. You don't want to be on the outside looking in. So, go. Read the book and you will be whisked away into the awesome little town of Adams Grove and all it has to offer.
May 6, 2013
Carolanne returns home to her small town to make amends with her father. She also returned home to celebrate her best friend’s wedding. Never mind the fat that her law partner is hot and someone she has known all of her life. She is just not the type to mix work and her professional life. Little did she know that in the end they will mesh and mesh well?
Conner always had feelings for Carolanne. He just never thought that she would want to have feelings for him back. He just wanted to be in her life anyway that he could because he cared and loved her. But in the end when he put his heart on the table he realized that it was the best thing that he could have ever done.
Throughout the book it became clear that Conner still had feelings for Carolanne. The big issue was that they worked together and saw each other every day. Carolanne did not want to lose his friendship or him as a business partner. But when a murder occurs in their small town, they began to work together more and more. They even did different parts of their own investigation but always ended up telling each other what they found out and comparing notes.
After everything was solved and the case was closed. Conner finally decided to do what he always wanted to do. He confessed his love to Carolanne. He did not care if he could only be her friend but he was tired of hiding his true feelings. Carolanne, after hearing what Conner confessed, she confessed as well. She also told him that she loved him and did not want to stay friends after all.
I feell in love with this book from the very beginning. The synopsis is what made me want to read it. The author did a wonderful job bringing the right amount of romance and suspense. I highly recommend the book to those who like a little murder and mystery in their romance books.
Conner always had feelings for Carolanne. He just never thought that she would want to have feelings for him back. He just wanted to be in her life anyway that he could because he cared and loved her. But in the end when he put his heart on the table he realized that it was the best thing that he could have ever done.
Throughout the book it became clear that Conner still had feelings for Carolanne. The big issue was that they worked together and saw each other every day. Carolanne did not want to lose his friendship or him as a business partner. But when a murder occurs in their small town, they began to work together more and more. They even did different parts of their own investigation but always ended up telling each other what they found out and comparing notes.
After everything was solved and the case was closed. Conner finally decided to do what he always wanted to do. He confessed his love to Carolanne. He did not care if he could only be her friend but he was tired of hiding his true feelings. Carolanne, after hearing what Conner confessed, she confessed as well. She also told him that she loved him and did not want to stay friends after all.
I feell in love with this book from the very beginning. The synopsis is what made me want to read it. The author did a wonderful job bringing the right amount of romance and suspense. I highly recommend the book to those who like a little murder and mystery in their romance books.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 21, 2013
This book was so good. I got the honors of being able to read this book before it was released and I was drawn straight in to this story of small town day to day living, right away. When Carolanne moves back home and goes into partnership at her law office with her good friend Connor her world is turned upside down when her father is charged with murder. She doesn't have the best relationship with him after the death of her mother.
Between being maid of honor in her best friends wedding, and trying to find out who killed Gina, Carolanne and Connor fall in love. Can she get through the pain left in her heart
This book is a real page turner trying to figure out who did it.
Between being maid of honor in her best friends wedding, and trying to find out who killed Gina, Carolanne and Connor fall in love. Can she get through the pain left in her heart
This book is a real page turner trying to figure out who did it.
July 11, 2013
The title says it all for me when it comes to this book - Big Mistake.
I’ve read the first couple of books in the series and to be brutally honest, probably should have left it alone after book 1. I really didn't enjoy it, and boy was I ever so close to a DNF. That should have sent off alarm bells – STAY AWAY, STAY AWAY - but silly me has a thing when it comes to series books. Once I know a book is a part of a continuing series, I have this compulsion to keep going.
This time, I need not have bothered returning. Wedding Cakes and Big Mistakes faired a little better than the first Adams Grove novel.
Something that got to me in particular about this book was what seemed to be huge gaps where information just seems to have gone out to the shops without telling you. Whole series of scenes moved along with no real flow between them. To me, it was kind of like coming home tipsy and then waking up under your kitchen bench - one minute, you were in one place then all of a sudden somewhere completely different with no idea how you got there.
I didn’t connect well with the characters – and to borrow a phrase from a character in book 1, it felt as if they were turning it into a B-grade movie. I would totally agree there. Honestly, it was as if they were teetering on the edge of the River Stupid on occasion.
This is not a personal affront to the author, as I can see what about this book may appeal to some readers. I really dislike giving a negative review on anything (writing is so much harder than you realise) and always try to find something positive in a book but this time I really couldn't.
I’ve read the first couple of books in the series and to be brutally honest, probably should have left it alone after book 1. I really didn't enjoy it, and boy was I ever so close to a DNF. That should have sent off alarm bells – STAY AWAY, STAY AWAY - but silly me has a thing when it comes to series books. Once I know a book is a part of a continuing series, I have this compulsion to keep going.
This time, I need not have bothered returning. Wedding Cakes and Big Mistakes faired a little better than the first Adams Grove novel.
Something that got to me in particular about this book was what seemed to be huge gaps where information just seems to have gone out to the shops without telling you. Whole series of scenes moved along with no real flow between them. To me, it was kind of like coming home tipsy and then waking up under your kitchen bench - one minute, you were in one place then all of a sudden somewhere completely different with no idea how you got there.
I didn’t connect well with the characters – and to borrow a phrase from a character in book 1, it felt as if they were turning it into a B-grade movie. I would totally agree there. Honestly, it was as if they were teetering on the edge of the River Stupid on occasion.
This is not a personal affront to the author, as I can see what about this book may appeal to some readers. I really dislike giving a negative review on anything (writing is so much harder than you realise) and always try to find something positive in a book but this time I really couldn't.
July 21, 2013
I received this novel from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review, and I loved it! The book begins with Carolanne Baxter getting fitted for her bridesmaid's dress that she's going to wear in a few days for her best friend, Jill's wedding. Carolanne is different than most female characters I've read about recently. She isn't looking for love, she's content with work being the only thing that she has, and she seems to know exactly what she wants from life...except for when Connor Buckham is around. Needing to prove Pearl's vision of her and Connor being the perfect couple wrong, she puts up a facade as if Connor doesn't matter. I found it completely interesting that Carolanne's uneasiness towards relationships were due to her mother's death and how her father reacted to her mother's death. During Jill and Garrett's wedding, a dead body turns up, and I wasn't expecting. Even though it clearly states in the description that a body turns up during the reception, I still wasn't expecting it. I was wondering who the person would be? When it would turn up? Who would find the body? I couldn't wait to find out all of this information. I don't want to give the entire novel away, but I wasn't expecting the way things would turn out with the murder. Overall, I loved this novel; it had the right amount of romance, spunk, and suspense for me. Definitely a must read!
August 20, 2013
Predictably Sweet
This was an interesting read. Very slow in some places and in others it felt like it was so sped up that the reader was missing vital information.
This is the second book in the series and I can't stress enough that I think you need to read the first book to appreciate this one. I have not read the first and felt very lost reading this book.
I will not recap the synopsis, because there is already a very good one. I will just say that I found many of the characters to be too annoying, and especially Carolanne - sometimes you just need to let all the angst in your life go. I got tired of her letting every decision she made, boil down to the 'terrible' childhood she had. And how because of it, she would NEVER marry. And let me tell you if anyone thinks that having a drunk for a father is the worst thing there is growing up, does not live in the real world.
The story was interesting in its own way, but very predictable and sometimes downright ludicrous. There was no sex, a little innuendo, and one scene where they came close. The swearing was kept to a minimum and at time I almost felt as if I were reading a Christian novel.
This was a sweet read, but at times almost too sugary.
This was an interesting read. Very slow in some places and in others it felt like it was so sped up that the reader was missing vital information.
This is the second book in the series and I can't stress enough that I think you need to read the first book to appreciate this one. I have not read the first and felt very lost reading this book.
I will not recap the synopsis, because there is already a very good one. I will just say that I found many of the characters to be too annoying, and especially Carolanne - sometimes you just need to let all the angst in your life go. I got tired of her letting every decision she made, boil down to the 'terrible' childhood she had. And how because of it, she would NEVER marry. And let me tell you if anyone thinks that having a drunk for a father is the worst thing there is growing up, does not live in the real world.
The story was interesting in its own way, but very predictable and sometimes downright ludicrous. There was no sex, a little innuendo, and one scene where they came close. The swearing was kept to a minimum and at time I almost felt as if I were reading a Christian novel.
This was a sweet read, but at times almost too sugary.
June 8, 2015
I really hoped this would be my favorite boon from the title but from what I read it's okay. It had cute moments and some suspense, but sometimes when you read suspense you shouldn't pick up who is the villain right away. It should take time.
Although I like the characters I think I need more. The stories end but yet they don't feel fulfilled and the in between is missing. I liked the story but the author left things open and of course everyone wants answers,
Although I like the characters I think I need more. The stories end but yet they don't feel fulfilled and the in between is missing. I liked the story but the author left things open and of course everyone wants answers,
December 6, 2015
Two-haiku review:
She's his law partner
Won't marry, issues with dad
Then there's a murder
Very light and cute
Not very emotional
In spite of murder
She's his law partner
Won't marry, issues with dad
Then there's a murder
Very light and cute
Not very emotional
In spite of murder
April 29, 2016
This is a really sweet love story. Loved Conner and Carolanne's romance. This book is fast-paced with plenty of action, intrigue, and mystery. The narrator is fantastic. Happy reading!
April 5, 2019
https://labibliotecadellibraio.blogsp...
Libro recensito da Dolci
Copia digitale offerta dalla CE
Il romanzo riprende il filo conduttore della storia del primo libro Tè, zucchero e segreti (dopo il deludente intermezzo Nascosto in uno scatto). Ritroviamo Jill e Garret che sono alle prese con l'organizzazione del loro matrimonio supportati da Carolanne e Connor che sono i veri protagonisti di questo libro. Proprio il giorno delle nozze viene scoperto il cadavere di una ragazza sconosciuta annegata nello stagno.
La storia è piacevole da leggere, scorrevole, senza troppi drammi anche se ha la piccola pecca di essere un po' prevedibile.
I personaggi sono molto interessanti anche se tutti buoni e bravi. Questa volta però non mi ha infastidito eccessivamente.
Carolanne mi è piaciuta e ho trovato molto buono il suo sviluppo psicologico. I suoi sentimenti verso il padre e le sue paure nell'intraprendere una relazione con Connor sono resi in maniera molto realistica.
Connor, descritto meno accuratamente, non è tra i miei preferiti. Strano che io prediliga un soggetto femminile alla sua controparte maschile, ma lui proprio non l'ho capito del tutto.
La loro relazione d'amore è molto dolce e romantica. Anche qui senza troppi scossoni emotivi.
Evocative le varie descrizioni della cittadina di Adams Grove, tanto che non mi dispiacerebbe viverci.
Il finale è troppo veloce anche perché l'omicidio avviene a metà libro. Troppe cose non state chiarite infatti. Prevedibile il colpevole.
Comunque è stata una bella lettura che consiglio a chi ama i libri ambientati nelle piccole città degli USA e che hanno anche un tocco di mystery a vivacizzare la narrazione.
La serie, Adam Grove, è composta da sei libri, pubblicata per la prima volta nel lontano 2011 e conclusa già nel 2015.
#1 Sweet Tea and Secrets - Tè, zucchero e segreti - recensione
#2 Out of Focus - Nascosto in uno scatto - recensione
#3 Wedding Cake and Big Mistakes - Torta nuziale con delitto
#4 Pecan Pie and Deadly Lies
#5 Mint Juleps and Justice
#6 Barbecue and Bad News
Libro recensito da Dolci
Copia digitale offerta dalla CE
Il romanzo riprende il filo conduttore della storia del primo libro Tè, zucchero e segreti (dopo il deludente intermezzo Nascosto in uno scatto). Ritroviamo Jill e Garret che sono alle prese con l'organizzazione del loro matrimonio supportati da Carolanne e Connor che sono i veri protagonisti di questo libro. Proprio il giorno delle nozze viene scoperto il cadavere di una ragazza sconosciuta annegata nello stagno.
La storia è piacevole da leggere, scorrevole, senza troppi drammi anche se ha la piccola pecca di essere un po' prevedibile.
I personaggi sono molto interessanti anche se tutti buoni e bravi. Questa volta però non mi ha infastidito eccessivamente.
Carolanne mi è piaciuta e ho trovato molto buono il suo sviluppo psicologico. I suoi sentimenti verso il padre e le sue paure nell'intraprendere una relazione con Connor sono resi in maniera molto realistica.
Connor, descritto meno accuratamente, non è tra i miei preferiti. Strano che io prediliga un soggetto femminile alla sua controparte maschile, ma lui proprio non l'ho capito del tutto.
La loro relazione d'amore è molto dolce e romantica. Anche qui senza troppi scossoni emotivi.
Evocative le varie descrizioni della cittadina di Adams Grove, tanto che non mi dispiacerebbe viverci.
Il finale è troppo veloce anche perché l'omicidio avviene a metà libro. Troppe cose non state chiarite infatti. Prevedibile il colpevole.
Comunque è stata una bella lettura che consiglio a chi ama i libri ambientati nelle piccole città degli USA e che hanno anche un tocco di mystery a vivacizzare la narrazione.
La serie, Adam Grove, è composta da sei libri, pubblicata per la prima volta nel lontano 2011 e conclusa già nel 2015.
#1 Sweet Tea and Secrets - Tè, zucchero e segreti - recensione
#2 Out of Focus - Nascosto in uno scatto - recensione
#3 Wedding Cake and Big Mistakes - Torta nuziale con delitto
#4 Pecan Pie and Deadly Lies
#5 Mint Juleps and Justice
#6 Barbecue and Bad News
August 14, 2019
Dopo una parentesi newyorkese la giovane avvocata Carolanne Baxter è tornata a vivere nella piccola Adams Grove, decisa a lasciarsi alle spalle i ricordi di un’infanzia e un’adolescenza segnate dalla perdita della madre e dall’addolorato ubriacarsi del padre, Ben.
Rasserenata dal calore degli affetti di sempre, Carolanne partecipa con gioia ai preparativi per le nozze di Jill, la sua migliore amica. Nel frattempo riempie scatoloni per l’imminente trasloco nella sua prima vera casa, mentre l’affascinante socio, Connor Buckham, la corteggia apertamente e con ottime intenzioni, facendo vacillare il suo ostinato rifiuto di una vita a due. Perfino la riconciliazione con Ben, da tempo tornato sobrio, non appare più così impossibile.
Insomma, la felicità sembra finalmente essere a portata di mano quando il giorno del matrimonio di Jill, nel bel mezzo della festa, spunta il cadavere di una ragazza assassinata.
I sospetti cadono su Ben e la nuova vita di Carolanne rischia di finire prima ancora di cominciare: suo padre è davvero colpevole? Connor le sta nascondendo qualcosa?
E soprattutto: potrà mai essere felice?
Lettura da spiaggia senza troppe pretese che non richiede eccessiva concentrazione.
Lo stile dell'autrice non mi piace molto, trovo la sua scrittura forzata, con troppi incisi, usati per fornire informazioni sul passato dei personaggi, che rallentano la lettura. Anche i dialoghi non mi sono sembrati naturali.
Trattandosi di un libro di poco più di 250 pagine non mi aspettavo una grande e dettagliata caratterizzazione dei personaggi. Tutti sembrano figure bidimensionali, specie di marionette che si muovo a scatti. Il libro è narrato in terza persona e le elucubrazioni dei due protagonisti sono brevi incisi in corsivo nel testo. Nel complesso tutto è superficiale.
La trama gialla è ben inserita nel resto della storia, anche questa però non è molto approfondita.
Invece mi è piaciuta molto l'atmosfera da cittadina di provincia dove tutti si conoscono.
Probabilmente non leggerei gli altri libri della serie, ma per una giornata di relax è indicato.
Rasserenata dal calore degli affetti di sempre, Carolanne partecipa con gioia ai preparativi per le nozze di Jill, la sua migliore amica. Nel frattempo riempie scatoloni per l’imminente trasloco nella sua prima vera casa, mentre l’affascinante socio, Connor Buckham, la corteggia apertamente e con ottime intenzioni, facendo vacillare il suo ostinato rifiuto di una vita a due. Perfino la riconciliazione con Ben, da tempo tornato sobrio, non appare più così impossibile.
Insomma, la felicità sembra finalmente essere a portata di mano quando il giorno del matrimonio di Jill, nel bel mezzo della festa, spunta il cadavere di una ragazza assassinata.
I sospetti cadono su Ben e la nuova vita di Carolanne rischia di finire prima ancora di cominciare: suo padre è davvero colpevole? Connor le sta nascondendo qualcosa?
E soprattutto: potrà mai essere felice?
Lettura da spiaggia senza troppe pretese che non richiede eccessiva concentrazione.
Lo stile dell'autrice non mi piace molto, trovo la sua scrittura forzata, con troppi incisi, usati per fornire informazioni sul passato dei personaggi, che rallentano la lettura. Anche i dialoghi non mi sono sembrati naturali.
Trattandosi di un libro di poco più di 250 pagine non mi aspettavo una grande e dettagliata caratterizzazione dei personaggi. Tutti sembrano figure bidimensionali, specie di marionette che si muovo a scatti. Il libro è narrato in terza persona e le elucubrazioni dei due protagonisti sono brevi incisi in corsivo nel testo. Nel complesso tutto è superficiale.
La trama gialla è ben inserita nel resto della storia, anche questa però non è molto approfondita.
Invece mi è piaciuta molto l'atmosfera da cittadina di provincia dove tutti si conoscono.
Probabilmente non leggerei gli altri libri della serie, ma per una giornata di relax è indicato.
April 27, 2020
Pensavo meglio.
Il titolo mi aveva fatto sperare in un bel romance/giallo con indagini, adrenalina, colpi di scena…
e no, niente. La storia d'amore tra Connor e Carolanne è piatta, senza emozioni. In tutto il libro c'è un misero bacio che porta alla classica proposta di matrimonio e stop. E anche l'omicidio è poco interessante,
Il titolo mi aveva fatto sperare in un bel romance/giallo con indagini, adrenalina, colpi di scena…
e no, niente. La storia d'amore tra Connor e Carolanne è piatta, senza emozioni. In tutto il libro c'è un misero bacio che porta alla classica proposta di matrimonio e stop. E anche l'omicidio è poco interessante,
January 2, 2020
Storia banale, finale scontato. Scrittura poco entusiasmante e prolissa
July 8, 2013
I was lucky enough to get a review copy thanks to the publisher from NetGalley. I really enjoy Nancy Naigle’s voice, and was excited to read her newest Adams Grove book.
I have to say right off the bat that I really loved this story. I love the town of Adams Grove and was glad to come back for a visit. I have to say I fell for Connor almost from the moment he appeared on the page. I could tell he had fallen for Carolanne pretty much from the moment she came back to town. They are law partners, so he knows he has an uphill battle to convince Carolanne they can work as a couple. Carolanne also has a big distrust of men thanks to her past with her dad. Connor is friends with Carolanne’s dad and is a big reason Carolanne starts to see her dad in a different light.
The dead body that shows up at Jill and Garrett’s wedding throws a wrench in Carolanne and her dad’s budding relationship. Carolanne knows her dad knew the young girl and hears him lie about it. Carolanne already has issues with trust where her dad is concerned, and this only adds to it. I have to say I figured out who the killer was pretty quickly. Ms. Naigle really didn’t give it away with too many clues, I just knew.
I’ve said I loved Connor from the beginning. I also really liked Carolanne, but didn’t like that she kept living in the past for much of the book. I understood why she let the past color her present, and was so glad when she finally was able to let go of her baggage and live. Connor is the perfect match to Carolanne and I loved them as a couple even before they actually were a couple.
I enjoyed this trip to Adams Grove and can’t wait to read the next installation in this series. I’m a big fan of Nancy Naigle and look forward to reading more stories from her in the future. For more information about the author or her books, check out her website.
I have to say right off the bat that I really loved this story. I love the town of Adams Grove and was glad to come back for a visit. I have to say I fell for Connor almost from the moment he appeared on the page. I could tell he had fallen for Carolanne pretty much from the moment she came back to town. They are law partners, so he knows he has an uphill battle to convince Carolanne they can work as a couple. Carolanne also has a big distrust of men thanks to her past with her dad. Connor is friends with Carolanne’s dad and is a big reason Carolanne starts to see her dad in a different light.
The dead body that shows up at Jill and Garrett’s wedding throws a wrench in Carolanne and her dad’s budding relationship. Carolanne knows her dad knew the young girl and hears him lie about it. Carolanne already has issues with trust where her dad is concerned, and this only adds to it. I have to say I figured out who the killer was pretty quickly. Ms. Naigle really didn’t give it away with too many clues, I just knew.
I’ve said I loved Connor from the beginning. I also really liked Carolanne, but didn’t like that she kept living in the past for much of the book. I understood why she let the past color her present, and was so glad when she finally was able to let go of her baggage and live. Connor is the perfect match to Carolanne and I loved them as a couple even before they actually were a couple.
I enjoyed this trip to Adams Grove and can’t wait to read the next installation in this series. I’m a big fan of Nancy Naigle and look forward to reading more stories from her in the future. For more information about the author or her books, check out her website.
November 17, 2013
A pleasantly very sweet and cute read. Wedding Cake and Big Mistakes takes place in a small town of Adams Grove. Carolanne Baxter always dreamed of a life outside of the small town especially with being the daughter of the town drunk. So when college offered her the opportunity to escape, she didn't think twice before heading out to New York. Now back in town and working for a small office with her partner Connor, the last thing Carolanne wants is to ever get married. But her best friends Jill's wedding is on the horizon and wedding bells and trouble just seem to follow her - especially when a girl she knew just ended up dead during her best friends reception.
I did like the story. It was a cute read. I didn't like Carolanne through. I had the hardest time connecting with her. Not only the way she had treated her father, but also her treatment of poor Connor at times. I loved Connor, he was sweet and wonderful and you cannot help but root for him, even if he did choose a woman that didn't want the same things he did.
Of course the little mystery with the dead girl was pretty predictable but it did add to the story. Thought the romance was sweet, it was also a bit fast. There was a bit of back and forth and at times I wasn't sure if I found Carolanne that convincing. The ending was rapidly fast which left a lot to be desired. Overall Wedding Cake and Big Mistakes was a nice clean romance with a bit of mystery that can be a great read on a rainy day such as it was today today!
From the publisher through netgalley in exchange of an honest review.
I did like the story. It was a cute read. I didn't like Carolanne through. I had the hardest time connecting with her. Not only the way she had treated her father, but also her treatment of poor Connor at times. I loved Connor, he was sweet and wonderful and you cannot help but root for him, even if he did choose a woman that didn't want the same things he did.
Of course the little mystery with the dead girl was pretty predictable but it did add to the story. Thought the romance was sweet, it was also a bit fast. There was a bit of back and forth and at times I wasn't sure if I found Carolanne that convincing. The ending was rapidly fast which left a lot to be desired. Overall Wedding Cake and Big Mistakes was a nice clean romance with a bit of mystery that can be a great read on a rainy day such as it was today today!
From the publisher through netgalley in exchange of an honest review.
June 25, 2013
Carolanne returns to her hometown of Adams Grove, New York being not what she thought it would be. So when she combines her law practice with Connor, will it be more than a working relationship?
Also, Carolanne isn't talking to her father, or hasn't forgiven him for falling apart after her mom died and became the town drunk. After a newcomer to the town is found in the pond at the new center where Carolanne's dad has been doing gardening work, will she be able to help him prove he isn't the murderer or is he? Is Ben keeping a horrible secret?
You will find this lovable cast of characters so downright fun you won't want it to end!
I loved every minute of the banter between Carolanne and Connor. The only thing I felt, I felt a bit rushed with the story and it felt at times as if it just moved on a bit too much for me! But good beach read, perfect for this summer!
Also, Carolanne isn't talking to her father, or hasn't forgiven him for falling apart after her mom died and became the town drunk. After a newcomer to the town is found in the pond at the new center where Carolanne's dad has been doing gardening work, will she be able to help him prove he isn't the murderer or is he? Is Ben keeping a horrible secret?
You will find this lovable cast of characters so downright fun you won't want it to end!
I loved every minute of the banter between Carolanne and Connor. The only thing I felt, I felt a bit rushed with the story and it felt at times as if it just moved on a bit too much for me! But good beach read, perfect for this summer!
July 20, 2013
In Wedding Cake and Big Mistake by Nancy Naigle, After escaping Adam's Grove at the first opportunity, Carolanne is back. Just in time to help her best friend Jill celebrate her wedding, to buy her perfect house, become partner's with her friend Connor in his law firm, and perhaps slowly rebuild her relationship with her father.
Carolanne has sworn off love and marriage. After seeing how her mother's death affected her father, she is determined she is never going to go through that. Even while helping Jill with her wedding plans, "The thought of a wedding of her own sent her pulse spinning like an ice-skater, and not in a good way. She'd never let her happiness revolve around someone else." Love and marriage is just not a risk Carolanne is willing to take. Read More
Carolanne has sworn off love and marriage. After seeing how her mother's death affected her father, she is determined she is never going to go through that. Even while helping Jill with her wedding plans, "The thought of a wedding of her own sent her pulse spinning like an ice-skater, and not in a good way. She'd never let her happiness revolve around someone else." Love and marriage is just not a risk Carolanne is willing to take. Read More
May 24, 2013
For those of you who loved Sweet Tea and Secrets you will really like this book. Jill and Garret are back as well as Milly and a few of your other favorites.
I really liked this book the flow was good and the who done it and the end was pretty slick they way they got caught.I enjoyed learning more about Adams Grove its residents and the history that goes along with it all. I personally liked how Carolanne learns to love herself and those around her in this book. We also get to see more than one persons dreams come true. I would love to have a bakery in town like Mac's that is for sure! If it wasn't for the crime wave hitting Adams Grove I might even want to leave the city to live there. I say it is a great beach read for the summer release.
I really liked this book the flow was good and the who done it and the end was pretty slick they way they got caught.I enjoyed learning more about Adams Grove its residents and the history that goes along with it all. I personally liked how Carolanne learns to love herself and those around her in this book. We also get to see more than one persons dreams come true. I would love to have a bakery in town like Mac's that is for sure! If it wasn't for the crime wave hitting Adams Grove I might even want to leave the city to live there. I say it is a great beach read for the summer release.
August 5, 2013
This is the second Nancy Naigle book I have read and have enjoyed them both. She has a light readable style and creates some warm and interesting characters. This book has a mixture of romance and mystery, although the romance is the main theme. The story centres around Carolanne who is returning to Adams Grove where she is working in a law practice with Connor, they fall for each other but of course not everything runs smoothly. The mystery element involves the death of a girl visiting town and Carolanne's father is a suspect in the investigation. It was good to meet some characters from her previous book and I will be looking out for more Adams Grove stories.
January 25, 2020
Sweet and so much more
If you like a bit of escapism this one is for you, the characters are so polite and each book centres around a different couple then you are slowly spun a story in the main of love and hate and then you find yourself routing for them and then a sub plot is thrown in that shocks the town and I/you find yourself thinking life is too short get on with it.
In this particular story two lawyers who should be together fight and cuss and it is dragged out until the very end, I enjoyed it. Great one if you want a story you do not have to concentrate on yet I found i wanted to know what was going to happen next.
If you like a bit of escapism this one is for you, the characters are so polite and each book centres around a different couple then you are slowly spun a story in the main of love and hate and then you find yourself routing for them and then a sub plot is thrown in that shocks the town and I/you find yourself thinking life is too short get on with it.
In this particular story two lawyers who should be together fight and cuss and it is dragged out until the very end, I enjoyed it. Great one if you want a story you do not have to concentrate on yet I found i wanted to know what was going to happen next.
July 16, 2013
I fell in love with this series with book one SWEET TEA and SECRETS and this book has not let me down. WEDDING CAKE and BIG MISTAKES is written so well that it makes you feel like you are a part of the story. This story has well developed characters and a great story line. If you have not read anything by Nancy Naigle, now is the time to start. Be sure to purchase SWEET TEA and SECRETS, OUT OF FOCUS, and WEDDING CAKE and BIG MISTAKES all at the same time, you will not want to wait for the next book once you start reading.
November 7, 2019
Nancy Naigle's 3rd book in the Adams Grove Series was a delightful mix of romance and suspense in a small town atmosphere. Each of her books have their own distinctive personalities and wonderfully developed characters.
Wedding Cakes and Big Mistakes made me laugh, cry, and love with the best of them. Curl up and be swept away by 24 chapters as I did my first evening then tear yourself away to savor what will be the end!! Pecan Pies and Deadly Lies comes out in September....I doubt I'll make it that long! Well done Nancy!
Wedding Cakes and Big Mistakes made me laugh, cry, and love with the best of them. Curl up and be swept away by 24 chapters as I did my first evening then tear yourself away to savor what will be the end!! Pecan Pies and Deadly Lies comes out in September....I doubt I'll make it that long! Well done Nancy!
June 17, 2013
I received this book for free though Goodreads First Reads.
I loved this story. It managed to make me laugh and feel sad along with the characters. Of course you gotta love guys who steal flowers out of pots. I wold recommend this book for people who love a good mystery with a little romance. Can not wait to read the other books in the series.
I loved this story. It managed to make me laugh and feel sad along with the characters. Of course you gotta love guys who steal flowers out of pots. I wold recommend this book for people who love a good mystery with a little romance. Can not wait to read the other books in the series.
March 9, 2019
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Recensione di Loreads – Torta nuziale con delitto di Nancy Naigle – suspense romance, terzo volume della serie Adams Grove pubblicato oggi, 5 marzo da Amazon Crossing
Se avete voglia di una lettura leggera e romantica con un pizzico di suspense, Torta nuziale con delitto fa proprio al caso vostro. Torniamo per la terza volta ad Adams Grove, la piccola cittadina bomboniera così simile alle fittizie Stars Hollow di “Una mamma per amica” o Cabot Cove de “La signora in giallo”. Dopo aver conosciuto Jill e il suo meraviglioso Bovaro nel primo romanzo, adesso è il turno di Carolanne Baxter, la giovane avvocatessa di successo che, dopo aver lavorato a New York, torna nella sonnacchiosa cittadina che le ha dato i natali, decisa ad affrontare i fantasmi del passato che avevano decretato il suo trasferimento nella Grande Mela. La prematura morte della madre, quando era piccola, e i successivi problemi di alcolismo del padre hanno fatto crescere Carolanne nella ferma convinzione che innamorarsi non sia una buona idea. Il suo passato l’ha inevitabilmente segnata e la donna preferisce affermarsi professionalmente, dare una mano alla sua migliore amica Jill, che presto sposerà Garrett, e aiutarla anche nell’allestimento del piccolo centro dell’artigianato. Non le rimane, di certo, il tempo per innamorarsi, nonostante la palpabile attrazione che la lega a Connor Buckham, suo socio e amico. I due si conoscono da sempre e Connor ha cercato in tutti i modi di abbattere le barriere che tengono serrato e prigioniero il cuore di Carolanne. Ma la donna è fermamente decisa a non lasciarsi andare. Non è fatta per l’amore, l’impegno a lungo termine.
“Solo all’idea di sposarsi, un giorno, le pulsazioni di Carolanne fecero un salto triplo degno di una pattinatrice sul ghiaccio, e non in senso positivo. Non avrebbe mai lasciato che la propria felicità dipendesse da qualcun altro.”
Il motivo di tanta reticenza ha radici molto lontane: la morte della madre e i problemi di alcolismo di Ben, il padre, hanno fatto crescere la donna senza un punto di riferimento. I rapporti con il genitore sono ancora molto tesi, anche se l’uomo non beve più da tanto tempo.
La nonna di Jill, Pearl, era stata l’amorevole donna che si era presa cura di Carolanne, crescendola come una figlia. Famose erano le sue previsioni amorose: possedeva il dono di accoppiare coloro che, secondo lei, sarebbero finiti insieme. E una di queste previsioni, prima di morire, riguardava proprio Carolanne e Connor. Nessuno ha mai osato contraddire le premonizioni di Pearl, ma Carolanne non vuole arrendersi all’evidenza, nonostante l’affiatamento con il collega e amico.
Ad Adams Grove, intanto, arriva una giovane donna di nome Gina. Nessuno sembra conoscerla. La ragazza è in cerca delle sue origini. Durante i festeggiamenti per il matrimonio di Jill e Garrett, viene rinvenuta priva di vita, annegata. I sospetti ricadono subito su Ben, che aveva accolto Gina a casa sua offrendole ospitalità. Per Carolanne diventa necessario scagionare il padre dall’accusa di omicidio e ricostruire il suo rapporto con lui. Ma Ben è davvero colpevole?
Per chi, come me, è abituato a letture più adrenaliniche, la parte poliziesca della storia è stata di facile risoluzione. Avevo individuato vittima, movente e assassino prima che il delitto venisse commesso. Per questo, “Torta nuziale con delitto” non mi ha particolarmente entusiasmata. L’elemento giallo è marginale perché il romanzo ha tinte decisamente più rosa.
Ho trovato la protagonista antipatica come poche. Carolanne vuole affermare la sua indipendenza, è convinta che ignorare i problemi sia il giusto modo per affrontarli. Non vuole arrendersi ai sentimenti che la legano al suo socio, ma gli lancia segnali contraddittori. Connor è invece l’uomo ideale, giovane rampante, innamorato, leale, pronto a tutto pur di conquistarla. Carolanne, ma quanto sei scema!
Ciò che ho davvero amato di questo libro è l’ambientazione. Adams Grove, come vi dicevo inizialmente, somiglia tantissimo a Stars Hollow. La cittadina è tranquilla, una piccola comunità dove tutti gli abitanti sono pronti a darsi una mano. Puoi trovare il caffè più buono alla tavola calda o mangiare una meravigliosa torta nella pasticceria all’angolo. Un posto da sogno, dove mi trasferirei immediatamente.
Ma innamorarsi di un luogo è un elemento molto labile. L’intreccio narrativo è debole. Gira tutto intorno a Carolanne e ai suoi sentimenti, il fatto di non essere entrata in empatia con lei non mi ha permesso di apprezzare pienamente il romanzo. Romanzo che, invece, sono sicura piacerà molto a chi desidera approcciarsi per la prima volta ad un poliziesco soft, ma non vuole rinunciare ad una bella storia d’amore.
Recensione di Loreads – Torta nuziale con delitto di Nancy Naigle – suspense romance, terzo volume della serie Adams Grove pubblicato oggi, 5 marzo da Amazon Crossing
Se avete voglia di una lettura leggera e romantica con un pizzico di suspense, Torta nuziale con delitto fa proprio al caso vostro. Torniamo per la terza volta ad Adams Grove, la piccola cittadina bomboniera così simile alle fittizie Stars Hollow di “Una mamma per amica” o Cabot Cove de “La signora in giallo”. Dopo aver conosciuto Jill e il suo meraviglioso Bovaro nel primo romanzo, adesso è il turno di Carolanne Baxter, la giovane avvocatessa di successo che, dopo aver lavorato a New York, torna nella sonnacchiosa cittadina che le ha dato i natali, decisa ad affrontare i fantasmi del passato che avevano decretato il suo trasferimento nella Grande Mela. La prematura morte della madre, quando era piccola, e i successivi problemi di alcolismo del padre hanno fatto crescere Carolanne nella ferma convinzione che innamorarsi non sia una buona idea. Il suo passato l’ha inevitabilmente segnata e la donna preferisce affermarsi professionalmente, dare una mano alla sua migliore amica Jill, che presto sposerà Garrett, e aiutarla anche nell’allestimento del piccolo centro dell’artigianato. Non le rimane, di certo, il tempo per innamorarsi, nonostante la palpabile attrazione che la lega a Connor Buckham, suo socio e amico. I due si conoscono da sempre e Connor ha cercato in tutti i modi di abbattere le barriere che tengono serrato e prigioniero il cuore di Carolanne. Ma la donna è fermamente decisa a non lasciarsi andare. Non è fatta per l’amore, l’impegno a lungo termine.
“Solo all’idea di sposarsi, un giorno, le pulsazioni di Carolanne fecero un salto triplo degno di una pattinatrice sul ghiaccio, e non in senso positivo. Non avrebbe mai lasciato che la propria felicità dipendesse da qualcun altro.”
Il motivo di tanta reticenza ha radici molto lontane: la morte della madre e i problemi di alcolismo di Ben, il padre, hanno fatto crescere la donna senza un punto di riferimento. I rapporti con il genitore sono ancora molto tesi, anche se l’uomo non beve più da tanto tempo.
La nonna di Jill, Pearl, era stata l’amorevole donna che si era presa cura di Carolanne, crescendola come una figlia. Famose erano le sue previsioni amorose: possedeva il dono di accoppiare coloro che, secondo lei, sarebbero finiti insieme. E una di queste previsioni, prima di morire, riguardava proprio Carolanne e Connor. Nessuno ha mai osato contraddire le premonizioni di Pearl, ma Carolanne non vuole arrendersi all’evidenza, nonostante l’affiatamento con il collega e amico.
Ad Adams Grove, intanto, arriva una giovane donna di nome Gina. Nessuno sembra conoscerla. La ragazza è in cerca delle sue origini. Durante i festeggiamenti per il matrimonio di Jill e Garrett, viene rinvenuta priva di vita, annegata. I sospetti ricadono subito su Ben, che aveva accolto Gina a casa sua offrendole ospitalità. Per Carolanne diventa necessario scagionare il padre dall’accusa di omicidio e ricostruire il suo rapporto con lui. Ma Ben è davvero colpevole?
Per chi, come me, è abituato a letture più adrenaliniche, la parte poliziesca della storia è stata di facile risoluzione. Avevo individuato vittima, movente e assassino prima che il delitto venisse commesso. Per questo, “Torta nuziale con delitto” non mi ha particolarmente entusiasmata. L’elemento giallo è marginale perché il romanzo ha tinte decisamente più rosa.
Ho trovato la protagonista antipatica come poche. Carolanne vuole affermare la sua indipendenza, è convinta che ignorare i problemi sia il giusto modo per affrontarli. Non vuole arrendersi ai sentimenti che la legano al suo socio, ma gli lancia segnali contraddittori. Connor è invece l’uomo ideale, giovane rampante, innamorato, leale, pronto a tutto pur di conquistarla. Carolanne, ma quanto sei scema!
Ciò che ho davvero amato di questo libro è l’ambientazione. Adams Grove, come vi dicevo inizialmente, somiglia tantissimo a Stars Hollow. La cittadina è tranquilla, una piccola comunità dove tutti gli abitanti sono pronti a darsi una mano. Puoi trovare il caffè più buono alla tavola calda o mangiare una meravigliosa torta nella pasticceria all’angolo. Un posto da sogno, dove mi trasferirei immediatamente.
Ma innamorarsi di un luogo è un elemento molto labile. L’intreccio narrativo è debole. Gira tutto intorno a Carolanne e ai suoi sentimenti, il fatto di non essere entrata in empatia con lei non mi ha permesso di apprezzare pienamente il romanzo. Romanzo che, invece, sono sicura piacerà molto a chi desidera approcciarsi per la prima volta ad un poliziesco soft, ma non vuole rinunciare ad una bella storia d’amore.
July 27, 2017
For years, Carolanne Baxter dreamed of a life beyond Adams Grove. Being the daughter of the town drunk was no picnic, so when college offered her a chance for escape, she took it. Now Carolanne has returned home, finally ready to make amends with her father, Ben, and to celebrate the wedding of her best friends Jill and Garrett. Of course, the fact that Connor Buckham, her sexy new law partner and Garrett’s best man, happens to be the same guy the town matchmaker named as Carolanne’s perfect match...well! That’s just icing on the cake.
But Carolanne’s hopes for a fresh start are dashed when a dead body surfaces during Jill and Garrett’s wedding reception...and Ben Baxter becomes the prime suspect. The murder throws the town into uproar, threatening to destroy the tentative peace between father and daughter--and to derail the budding romance between Carolanne and Connor. Has the matchmaker’s perfect streak come to end? Or will the truth finally bring Carolanne the happy ending she’s dreamed of for so long?
So I enjoyed this book but I wish it had a little more action like the last 2 had. Still it was a great story-line and a mystery to solve. I love having the mystery to go along with my romance. If you love the same a I do please give this series a try. Now I'm getting ready to start the next book.
But Carolanne’s hopes for a fresh start are dashed when a dead body surfaces during Jill and Garrett’s wedding reception...and Ben Baxter becomes the prime suspect. The murder throws the town into uproar, threatening to destroy the tentative peace between father and daughter--and to derail the budding romance between Carolanne and Connor. Has the matchmaker’s perfect streak come to end? Or will the truth finally bring Carolanne the happy ending she’s dreamed of for so long?
So I enjoyed this book but I wish it had a little more action like the last 2 had. Still it was a great story-line and a mystery to solve. I love having the mystery to go along with my romance. If you love the same a I do please give this series a try. Now I'm getting ready to start the next book.
May 7, 2017
Romance with a lot of southern charm and a side of mystery, That is this book....
This is the second book I have read in the series, and I'm already on the third (yes, I've read them out of order).... these characters are addictive, the book makes me feel as though I am actually living in Adams Grove.... Carol Ann has moved back to her hometown, where she is a partner in a law firm with Connor, who she is attracted to... The problem is, she has sworn off men, she is never going to get married... but fade might have different plans for her... really loved the back and forth between these two, And I was definitely happy with the ending... and I have to say the wedding cake at Jill and Garretts wedding was the coolest thing EVER....
This is the second book I have read in the series, and I'm already on the third (yes, I've read them out of order).... these characters are addictive, the book makes me feel as though I am actually living in Adams Grove.... Carol Ann has moved back to her hometown, where she is a partner in a law firm with Connor, who she is attracted to... The problem is, she has sworn off men, she is never going to get married... but fade might have different plans for her... really loved the back and forth between these two, And I was definitely happy with the ending... and I have to say the wedding cake at Jill and Garretts wedding was the coolest thing EVER....
December 29, 2017
For some reason when I think of Nancy Naigle's writing I always think of Christmas books but in reality she has written more sweet romances than Christmas books. I don't know how I found this one but I'm glad I did. The characters were great, the dialogue was smart and sharp, the romance was there and on top of all that - there was a murder to solve.
Although this is the third book in the series, you can read it as a stand alone book and not miss anything (that is what I did) but if you are like me, you will want to go back and pick up more of the books in this series both before and after this one.
This is a sweet, heartwarming story that will make you smile.
Although this is the third book in the series, you can read it as a stand alone book and not miss anything (that is what I did) but if you are like me, you will want to go back and pick up more of the books in this series both before and after this one.
This is a sweet, heartwarming story that will make you smile.
December 27, 2020
2.5 Carolanne has returned to Adams Grove and is a law partner with sexy Conner. At the wedding reception of her friends Jill and Garrett, a dead body is found. The main suspect is Carolanne's father, the town drunk with whom she has an iffy relationship. As she tries to solve the murder, Carolanne's future [predicted by the town's matchmaker] with Conner is in jeopardy. Why, when Carolanne has repeatedly, ad nauseum, stated she is not looking for a romantic relationship, does she do a turnabout so quickly? Some poor writing - changing tenses, preposition no-nos - to name a couple.
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