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Christmas on Castle Street #2
Christmas at Carly's Cupcakes
It's December on Castle Street; the fairy lights are twinkling, snow has settled and the festive season is in full swing.
For Carly, the owner of Carly's Cupcakes, it's the busiest time of year getting everyone's Christmas treats ready on time. However with her clumsy sister, Bethany, as a co-worker, it's proving a difficult task. They say you shouldn't mix work with family. Maybe they have a point...
As Christmas approaches, Carly is also eagerly awaiting the return of her best friend to Whitsborough Bay. Liam has no idea he's been the object of her affection since their schooldays. After years of pining after him, can Carly pluck up the courage to finally tell him how she really feels by 25th December?
Could a little festive magic make all of Carly's wishes come true this Christmas...?
A heartwarming, short festive story of friendship and family from bestseller Jessica Redland. You can find out what happens to Carly next through exploring her best friend Tara's story in Starry Skies Over The Chocolate Pot Café .
This is a new and updated version of Christmas at Carly's Cupcakes which has been previously published.
’Pure Christmas magic! Mix in some fairy lights, snow and sweets and you have a perfect holiday tale.’
’It is a feel-good story that lets you escape into a beautiful setting.’
’My first Christmas book of this year and it will be hard to beat.’
’This well-crafted story was a quick and engaging read that captivated, entertained, and squeezed the heart.’
’This was the right story at the right uplifting, heartwarming and engrossing.’
’I can’t begin to tell you how much I love Jessica’s books’
’Jessica Redland can't put a word wrong, her books are a real pleasure to read, so well written and you feel as though you are part of the story.’
’Another absolutely fantastic read by a truly fantastic author.’
For Carly, the owner of Carly's Cupcakes, it's the busiest time of year getting everyone's Christmas treats ready on time. However with her clumsy sister, Bethany, as a co-worker, it's proving a difficult task. They say you shouldn't mix work with family. Maybe they have a point...
As Christmas approaches, Carly is also eagerly awaiting the return of her best friend to Whitsborough Bay. Liam has no idea he's been the object of her affection since their schooldays. After years of pining after him, can Carly pluck up the courage to finally tell him how she really feels by 25th December?
Could a little festive magic make all of Carly's wishes come true this Christmas...?
A heartwarming, short festive story of friendship and family from bestseller Jessica Redland. You can find out what happens to Carly next through exploring her best friend Tara's story in Starry Skies Over The Chocolate Pot Café .
This is a new and updated version of Christmas at Carly's Cupcakes which has been previously published.
’Pure Christmas magic! Mix in some fairy lights, snow and sweets and you have a perfect holiday tale.’
’It is a feel-good story that lets you escape into a beautiful setting.’
’My first Christmas book of this year and it will be hard to beat.’
’This well-crafted story was a quick and engaging read that captivated, entertained, and squeezed the heart.’
’This was the right story at the right uplifting, heartwarming and engrossing.’
’I can’t begin to tell you how much I love Jessica’s books’
’Jessica Redland can't put a word wrong, her books are a real pleasure to read, so well written and you feel as though you are part of the story.’
’Another absolutely fantastic read by a truly fantastic author.’
197 pages, Paperback
Published August 13, 2020
802 people are currently reading
1127 people want to read
About the author
Jessica Redland
61 books1,146 followersI was born in Teesside but now live in Scarborough on the stunning North Yorkshire Coast. My home inspired the creation of the fictional seaside town of Whitsborough Bay where I set many of my books although the Hedgehog Hollow series takes readers to a gorgeous new countryside setting in the Yorkshire Wolds.
I live with my husband, our teenage daughter and sprocker spaniel, Ella. I'm a self-confessed stationery addict with a ridiculously large collection of notepads who loves chocolate (although it doesn't love me), hedgehogs, 80s music, collectible teddy bears and lighthouses.
Other than a career detour into retail to set up and run my own teddy bear shop (the inspiration for novel Bear With Me), I've always worked in HR, specialising in resourcing, coaching and L&D. Writing always had to take a back seat to the day job until June 2020 when I left the world of HR to become a full-time author. I'm so very grateful to anyone who has bought or borrowed my books in whatever format, helping me fulfil a long-held dream of writing full-time. I still can't believe I get to spend every day chatting to my fictional friends and making stuff up.
I live with my husband, our teenage daughter and sprocker spaniel, Ella. I'm a self-confessed stationery addict with a ridiculously large collection of notepads who loves chocolate (although it doesn't love me), hedgehogs, 80s music, collectible teddy bears and lighthouses.
Other than a career detour into retail to set up and run my own teddy bear shop (the inspiration for novel Bear With Me), I've always worked in HR, specialising in resourcing, coaching and L&D. Writing always had to take a back seat to the day job until June 2020 when I left the world of HR to become a full-time author. I'm so very grateful to anyone who has bought or borrowed my books in whatever format, helping me fulfil a long-held dream of writing full-time. I still can't believe I get to spend every day chatting to my fictional friends and making stuff up.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 360 reviews
December 22, 2018
Favorite Quotes:
The bullies called Carly “Bear Trap” thanks to a mouthful of metal, and Liam’s nickname was “Skindiana Bones.” It was one of the reasons he and Carly had become such good friends: outcasts together.
Liam had come up with the genius name, “The Biscuit Bunch,” because the large group of girls had been carbon copies of each other at school, exactly like a packet of biscuits: same haircut, same way of wearing their skirt and tie, same coat, same shoes, same bag … and same merciless bullying.
Before I hug you all goodbye, does anyone have anything else they want to confess? Nobody else tried to play tonsil hockey with Joshua? No? That’s a relief.
‘This isn’t your way of telling me that you really do want to run off with The Chief Biscuit?’ Liam’s expression turned very solemn and, for a moment, Carly’s stomach sank. ‘It’s an interesting proposition… But why would I want biscuits when I can have cake?’
My Review:
I have come to the end of my treasure chest of Jessica Redland books. I may go into withdrawal as I have been gleefully binging on her clever words with great delight. Written in the 3rd person and laced with bright wit and observational levity, this well-crafted story was a quick and engaging read that captivated, entertained, and squeezed the heart. Ms. Redland has such agile word skills and deftly tucks in imaginative and creative details and lush descriptions that elevate an excellent story into an exceptional one. I adore her and fervently hope she is banging away on her next mesmerizing tale, as I am eager to return to my vast collection of quirky friends residing in the quaint village of Whitsborough Bay.
The bullies called Carly “Bear Trap” thanks to a mouthful of metal, and Liam’s nickname was “Skindiana Bones.” It was one of the reasons he and Carly had become such good friends: outcasts together.
Liam had come up with the genius name, “The Biscuit Bunch,” because the large group of girls had been carbon copies of each other at school, exactly like a packet of biscuits: same haircut, same way of wearing their skirt and tie, same coat, same shoes, same bag … and same merciless bullying.
Before I hug you all goodbye, does anyone have anything else they want to confess? Nobody else tried to play tonsil hockey with Joshua? No? That’s a relief.
‘This isn’t your way of telling me that you really do want to run off with The Chief Biscuit?’ Liam’s expression turned very solemn and, for a moment, Carly’s stomach sank. ‘It’s an interesting proposition… But why would I want biscuits when I can have cake?’
My Review:
I have come to the end of my treasure chest of Jessica Redland books. I may go into withdrawal as I have been gleefully binging on her clever words with great delight. Written in the 3rd person and laced with bright wit and observational levity, this well-crafted story was a quick and engaging read that captivated, entertained, and squeezed the heart. Ms. Redland has such agile word skills and deftly tucks in imaginative and creative details and lush descriptions that elevate an excellent story into an exceptional one. I adore her and fervently hope she is banging away on her next mesmerizing tale, as I am eager to return to my vast collection of quirky friends residing in the quaint village of Whitsborough Bay.
November 13, 2022
3.5 stars
This was a super sweet Christmas book. It started off a bit rough, the narrators accent threw me off a bit and I wasn't sure about the story line with the sister, but I'm happy to report that the further I read the more I enjoyed it. The romance was cute, friends to lovers, but that definitely wasn't the focus of the story. Liam and Carly were adorable and I'd check out more from this author in the future.
This was a super sweet Christmas book. It started off a bit rough, the narrators accent threw me off a bit and I wasn't sure about the story line with the sister, but I'm happy to report that the further I read the more I enjoyed it. The romance was cute, friends to lovers, but that definitely wasn't the focus of the story. Liam and Carly were adorable and I'd check out more from this author in the future.
Audio book source: Hoopla
Story Rating: 3.5 stars
Narrators: Emma Swan
Narration Rating: 3 stars
Genre: Holiday romance
Length:5h 58m
August 2, 2020
This is a delightful story that is set in the North Yorkshire seaside town of Whitsborough Bay during the four weeks preceding Christmas. Carly has her own bakery where she designs and bakes her own cupcakes and specialty cakes. She loves what she does and her shop is in the center of the picturesque town where she lives in the flat over the shop. The heart of this story is the relationship between Carly and her sister Bethany, who has had a rough time finding her footing in a career. After Bethany was attacked at her last job, Carly took her under her wing and brought her into the shop to work. Unfortunately, Carly has to fix lots of mishaps Bethany makes but she cannot bring herself to fire her. Bethany has a self esteem problem and looks at herself as a loser. Bethany and her boyfriend Joshua are to get married on December 22nd and as the date draws near, she gets more stressed. The whole story revolves around this situation and what we do for our loved ones sometimes at our own expense.
Another side to the story is Carly's best friend, Liam, who is serving in the Army in Afghanistan. The two bonded at age eleven because they were both shunned and bullied in school, considered outcasts. Carly wishes that their relationship would move pass the friend relationship to a romantic relationship. Both have dated others but it never lasted. What will happen when Liam comes home for Christmas? Can Carly get the courage to tell Liam how she feels? Will it destroy their friendship?
The story takes place in a lovely setting with a close knit and supportive set of shop owners during the most festive time of the year. It brings to the forefront how important our family and friends are to us and how we should make the most of our time. It is a lovely story that brought a smile to my face as it ended.
This is a refreshed and updated version of a book previously released. It is my first by the author and I plan to read other books in the series.
I received a complimentary ARC from Boldwood Books through NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine only.
Another side to the story is Carly's best friend, Liam, who is serving in the Army in Afghanistan. The two bonded at age eleven because they were both shunned and bullied in school, considered outcasts. Carly wishes that their relationship would move pass the friend relationship to a romantic relationship. Both have dated others but it never lasted. What will happen when Liam comes home for Christmas? Can Carly get the courage to tell Liam how she feels? Will it destroy their friendship?
The story takes place in a lovely setting with a close knit and supportive set of shop owners during the most festive time of the year. It brings to the forefront how important our family and friends are to us and how we should make the most of our time. It is a lovely story that brought a smile to my face as it ended.
This is a refreshed and updated version of a book previously released. It is my first by the author and I plan to read other books in the series.
I received a complimentary ARC from Boldwood Books through NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine only.
November 6, 2020
This was absolutely delightful!
November 13, 2022
THREE POINT FIVE STARS
CHRISTMAS AT CARLY’S CUPCAKES
● Carly (28) - owner of Carly’s Cupcakes
● has 3 Christmas wishes:
● 1st wish - her sister Bethany (20) be able to see the positives in her life
● 2nd wish - her best friend, Liam, can come home for Christmas
● 3rd wish - being more than friends with Liam
● women’s fiction + a love story
CHRISTMAS AT CARLY’S CUPCAKES
● Carly (28) - owner of Carly’s Cupcakes
● has 3 Christmas wishes:
● 1st wish - her sister Bethany (20) be able to see the positives in her life
● 2nd wish - her best friend, Liam, can come home for Christmas
● 3rd wish - being more than friends with Liam
● women’s fiction + a love story
Audiobook source: Hoopla
Narrator: Emma Swan
Length: 5H 58M
September 19, 2020
CHRISTMAS AT CARLY’S CUPCAKES is a slow burn contemporary story that I was pulled in to from the very first page. To be honest, I fell in love with the cover the minute I saw it. I knew I would read it anyway, because I keep seeing my blogging friends reading her books, but the cover really pulled me in. I loved everything about this beautiful story and I’m excited to recommend it to my reading friends. Jessica Redland has a way of grabbing her readers and she never lets us go. CHRISTMAS AT CARLY’S CUPCAKES is the first book I’ve ever read by Jessica Redland but it surely won’t be the last. I loved every single page of this heart warming story.
CHRISTMAS AT CARLY’S CUPCAKES really takes a turn that will have you unable to put this beautiful story down. Neither Liam or Carly have ever told each other how they really feel. It was cute watching these two dance around their feelings for each other. They have been friends since they were kids and bonded because they were both picked on. The bullies called Carly “Bear Trap” because of her braces and Liam’s nickname was “Skindiana Bones” because he was so skinny.
CHRISTMAS AT CARLY’S CUPCAKES is filled with twists and turns and had me staying up way too late one night to finish! I had to know where Jessica Redland was taking us and what would happen to Carly and Liam. I really loved how the whole community came to Carly and Liam’s aid and only wanted them to feel loved and realize that they were home. There is so much heart in Jessica’s writing that I was left with a huge smile on my face and my heart very happy. I could totally see CHRISTMAS AT CARLY’S CUPCAKES becoming a Hallmark movie and I would love to see it. All of the characters are very interesting and believable, so much so that I felt as if I’ve known them for a long time. I would love to hang out with all of the Castle Street merchants . I’m sure they could teach me a thing or two and I know they would keep my laughing all day long! I love how Jessica did that to me each and every time.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through Netgalley and Rachel’s Random Resources . All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.
CHRISTMAS AT CARLY’S CUPCAKES really takes a turn that will have you unable to put this beautiful story down. Neither Liam or Carly have ever told each other how they really feel. It was cute watching these two dance around their feelings for each other. They have been friends since they were kids and bonded because they were both picked on. The bullies called Carly “Bear Trap” because of her braces and Liam’s nickname was “Skindiana Bones” because he was so skinny.
CHRISTMAS AT CARLY’S CUPCAKES is filled with twists and turns and had me staying up way too late one night to finish! I had to know where Jessica Redland was taking us and what would happen to Carly and Liam. I really loved how the whole community came to Carly and Liam’s aid and only wanted them to feel loved and realize that they were home. There is so much heart in Jessica’s writing that I was left with a huge smile on my face and my heart very happy. I could totally see CHRISTMAS AT CARLY’S CUPCAKES becoming a Hallmark movie and I would love to see it. All of the characters are very interesting and believable, so much so that I felt as if I’ve known them for a long time. I would love to hang out with all of the Castle Street merchants . I’m sure they could teach me a thing or two and I know they would keep my laughing all day long! I love how Jessica did that to me each and every time.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through Netgalley and Rachel’s Random Resources . All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.
May 30, 2022
*Hearts Desire*
**4.5 Stars**
Carly is fulfilling one of her biggest dreams, she is the proud owner of Carly’s Cupcakes.
Something is missing her true hearts desire who sees her only as a friend ….
She has secretly been in love with Liam her best friend since their school days. After some failed relationships she knuckles down to hard work and she has her hands full with her clumsy sister Bethany who seems to drop or ruin the cakes she is decorating. This is costing Carly time and money, she finds it hard to let Bethany go as she has been through a lot. Her protective big sister act may not be helping Bethany
This book also features the subject of bullying at the school where they both met. It also shows how Liam and Carly were both oddballs and united in their many clashes with the so called Biscuit Bunch
Carly also has a secret she is going to confess all to Liam. Will she be brave enough to tell him how she feels or does this mean risking their friendship, how will Liam take it? As she is waiting for him to arrive back to Whitsborough Bay on leave from the army, she is on tender hooks because her sister Bethany calls off her wedding and disappears thinking she is not good enough for anyone, what is behind it?
A dream of a book to read and listen to.
**4.5 Stars**
Carly is fulfilling one of her biggest dreams, she is the proud owner of Carly’s Cupcakes.
Something is missing her true hearts desire who sees her only as a friend ….
She has secretly been in love with Liam her best friend since their school days. After some failed relationships she knuckles down to hard work and she has her hands full with her clumsy sister Bethany who seems to drop or ruin the cakes she is decorating. This is costing Carly time and money, she finds it hard to let Bethany go as she has been through a lot. Her protective big sister act may not be helping Bethany
This book also features the subject of bullying at the school where they both met. It also shows how Liam and Carly were both oddballs and united in their many clashes with the so called Biscuit Bunch
Carly also has a secret she is going to confess all to Liam. Will she be brave enough to tell him how she feels or does this mean risking their friendship, how will Liam take it? As she is waiting for him to arrive back to Whitsborough Bay on leave from the army, she is on tender hooks because her sister Bethany calls off her wedding and disappears thinking she is not good enough for anyone, what is behind it?
A dream of a book to read and listen to.
September 7, 2020
I am loving Jessica Redland's Whitsborough Bay stories. This wonderful story features Carly Travis, the owner of the bakery known as Carly's Cupcakes. She is well known for her amazing cakes and is getting busier all the time. When her sister, Bethany, suffers a terrible incident at her previous job she ends up with a case of PTSD. Carly invites her to come and work with her, which she agrees to immediately. The only problem is that she can't decorate anything and Carly ends up with even more work, and losing money. Carly's best friends since school days, Liam, is in the army and has gotten leave to be home for Christmas. Carly has loved him for years, and is hoping she will have the nerve to tell him so.
This was a fun contemporary, second chance romance. One of the things I like about this series is that Jessica Redland always includes some kind of serious issue. This one touches on bullying. While in school, there was a clique of girls that were quite mean to Carly, calling her "Bear Trap" and teasing Liam with the name "Skindiana Jones". They disliked this group that they dubbed "The Biscuits" into adulthood. There is a scene where they come fact to face with the "Head Biscuit" that I loved. While dealing with Carly's business, Bethany's mistakes as well as her upcoming wedding, Liam and Carly grow closer together and finally let the other know how they feel. I do enjoy the dialogue and banter in these books. They are well developed and have me zipping through them in a pleasant afternoon. Her writing is descriptive and I can picture the scene and the setting being described. I only have one more book to read in this series and am afraid to read it until she has another story ready for me to jump into. Emma Swan narrated this book for my read/listen. I have come to enjoy her voice, expression and tone as she narrates the books in this series.
This was a fun contemporary, second chance romance. One of the things I like about this series is that Jessica Redland always includes some kind of serious issue. This one touches on bullying. While in school, there was a clique of girls that were quite mean to Carly, calling her "Bear Trap" and teasing Liam with the name "Skindiana Jones". They disliked this group that they dubbed "The Biscuits" into adulthood. There is a scene where they come fact to face with the "Head Biscuit" that I loved. While dealing with Carly's business, Bethany's mistakes as well as her upcoming wedding, Liam and Carly grow closer together and finally let the other know how they feel. I do enjoy the dialogue and banter in these books. They are well developed and have me zipping through them in a pleasant afternoon. Her writing is descriptive and I can picture the scene and the setting being described. I only have one more book to read in this series and am afraid to read it until she has another story ready for me to jump into. Emma Swan narrated this book for my read/listen. I have come to enjoy her voice, expression and tone as she narrates the books in this series.
December 30, 2021
Knew I’d enjoy this book! The second in the Castle Street series. Read in 2 sittings.
This is the third book that I’ve read by Jessica Redland and they are such lovely reads. I’ve got a lovely lot of them on my kindle to read now, I just need to remember not to be greedy with them!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ from me.
This is the third book that I’ve read by Jessica Redland and they are such lovely reads. I’ve got a lovely lot of them on my kindle to read now, I just need to remember not to be greedy with them!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ from me.
December 17, 2018
It is so close to Christmas and my heart is all warmed up in yet another book by Jessica Redland. I am on a triple roll, my mind is seeped into the characters of Castle Street
This was a beautiful story of the cupcake and baking queen Carly who had a delightful shop filled with these goodies. Her sister Bethany helped her in running the shop, but she was a bit of a klutz. And Carly was hiding a secret for 18 years. Everything was revealed 2 days before Christmas
My second book by Jessica Redland, the story not only brought out the love between sisters, it also showed the camaraderie that existed between all the others on the Street who pulled in to help Carly in crisis.
The book had romance in it, and it was cute and delightful. It dealt with shades of bullying too. But relationship between sisters was the main theme. The writing caused me to curl up with my kindle. The cakes caused me to order one (I don't even like cakes). The romance in friendship made me long for one.
But soon my niggles crept up on me, the sister was drowning in insecurity a wee bit more, and I got really irritated when she ran away and did not inform. Apparently, she forgot to see the phone... Who does that now, we are stuck to our phones...
But the book kept me totally engrossed in the story, some moments came alive and I could see the entire scene. I loved the book and I was so happy the book loved me back.
February 8, 2021
They have been friends for 16 years and he has never made a move. They barely communicated at times. That's not true love. That's weak tea. I normally like this author but every once in a while she has a heroine who pines and is celibate or settles for a mediocre guy. This one does both.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 5, 2021
2.5
Short, easy read. Hallmark channel-esq. It was lacking a little character development for my taste.
Short, easy read. Hallmark channel-esq. It was lacking a little character development for my taste.
September 8, 2020
Christmas, cupcakes, and second chances
Christmas at Carly's Cupcakes by Jessica Redland is a sweet and romantic short story about family, friendship, and second chances in love.
Our thanks to the author, Boldwood Books, and Rachel Random Resources for the advanced reader's copy.
Carly owned a successful cupcake shop and focused on her career more than on her erratic love life. Her commitment-reluctant ex-boyfriend, Jasper, had had no problem marrying someone else, and she had not dated anyone ever since.
Jasper hurt her pride more than her heart. Her real soulmate and best friend in the whole world was Liam. A lovely man that helped her survive the bullies during her school years.
But she was friend-zoned, and Liam had a girlfriend and was stationed in Afganistan with the army.
Luckily, things at the shop were going great, or at least they were until her sister came to work with her...
The relationship between Carly and her sister Bettany was very intricated. They reminded me a little of Elinor and Marianne from Sense and Sensibility. While Carly was all reason, Bettany was much more dramatic and quite a little selfish.
It was lovely to see how strong Carly's love for her sister was and how eventually, like Marianne, Bettany matured.
The setting was very Christmassy, and there was plenty of cake. You might want to have some cupcakes at hand while reading.
Christmas at Carly's Cupcakes is a lovely Christmas tale of family, friendship, love, and dreams coming true.
Disclosure: I received an ARC of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Christmas at Carly's Cupcakes by Jessica Redland is a sweet and romantic short story about family, friendship, and second chances in love.
Our thanks to the author, Boldwood Books, and Rachel Random Resources for the advanced reader's copy.
Carly owned a successful cupcake shop and focused on her career more than on her erratic love life. Her commitment-reluctant ex-boyfriend, Jasper, had had no problem marrying someone else, and she had not dated anyone ever since.
Jasper hurt her pride more than her heart. Her real soulmate and best friend in the whole world was Liam. A lovely man that helped her survive the bullies during her school years.
But she was friend-zoned, and Liam had a girlfriend and was stationed in Afganistan with the army.
Luckily, things at the shop were going great, or at least they were until her sister came to work with her...
The relationship between Carly and her sister Bettany was very intricated. They reminded me a little of Elinor and Marianne from Sense and Sensibility. While Carly was all reason, Bettany was much more dramatic and quite a little selfish.
It was lovely to see how strong Carly's love for her sister was and how eventually, like Marianne, Bettany matured.
The setting was very Christmassy, and there was plenty of cake. You might want to have some cupcakes at hand while reading.
Christmas at Carly's Cupcakes is a lovely Christmas tale of family, friendship, love, and dreams coming true.
Disclosure: I received an ARC of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
October 29, 2017
I do love a good cupcake and Carly's cupcakes is filled to the brim with cakes, icing, funny moments and a story of two sisters.
One sister is lucky in love, unlucky in career choices, is a bit clumsy and suffers from self esteem issues. The other has a fabulous cake shop, but is lusting after her best friend who is away with the army. Two very different sisters in one run up to Christmas including bitchy bridesmaids, some slight icing disasters, self esteem issues and fingers crossed a happy ending for each of them.
This is another fabulous return to Whitsborough Bay, and I always love seeing what previous main characters are getting up to now. It is a location that is really starting to feel very familiar to me, having read seven books there so far, and I just love it and the people. Christmas at Carly's Cupcakes though is a completely standalone novella, you don't need any prior knowledge to enjoy it.
Bethany as a character that frustrated me, Carly's younger sister who is convinced everything she touches will go wrong. I wanted to knock some sense into her, as she had plenty of good points, in amongst the ditzy, clumsiness of her nature. It is clear though how much her fiance loves her.
Carly just has the magic touch when it comes to cakes, she is imaginative and very creative and I loved the thoughts of all of her Christmas cakes and celebration cakes. I could really picture them and taste, and just wish I had had some cupcakes to hand while reading this story.
Another thoroughly enjoyable book by Jessica Redland that I loved every second of.
Thank you to Jessica Redland for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
One sister is lucky in love, unlucky in career choices, is a bit clumsy and suffers from self esteem issues. The other has a fabulous cake shop, but is lusting after her best friend who is away with the army. Two very different sisters in one run up to Christmas including bitchy bridesmaids, some slight icing disasters, self esteem issues and fingers crossed a happy ending for each of them.
This is another fabulous return to Whitsborough Bay, and I always love seeing what previous main characters are getting up to now. It is a location that is really starting to feel very familiar to me, having read seven books there so far, and I just love it and the people. Christmas at Carly's Cupcakes though is a completely standalone novella, you don't need any prior knowledge to enjoy it.
Bethany as a character that frustrated me, Carly's younger sister who is convinced everything she touches will go wrong. I wanted to knock some sense into her, as she had plenty of good points, in amongst the ditzy, clumsiness of her nature. It is clear though how much her fiance loves her.
Carly just has the magic touch when it comes to cakes, she is imaginative and very creative and I loved the thoughts of all of her Christmas cakes and celebration cakes. I could really picture them and taste, and just wish I had had some cupcakes to hand while reading this story.
Another thoroughly enjoyable book by Jessica Redland that I loved every second of.
Thank you to Jessica Redland for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
December 17, 2018
A really lovely Christmas romance .. Forget that the main character owns a Cupcake shop, it is much better written than you thinking, Oh no, not again !!
I enjoyed the main characters and the storyline developed nicely, with each having equal billing .. I liked the setting, would so love to visit that Town for festive shopping ..
I enjoyed the main characters and the storyline developed nicely, with each having equal billing .. I liked the setting, would so love to visit that Town for festive shopping ..
August 8, 2023
Carly has a successful business running Carly Cupcake on Whitsborough Bay. Learning that her childhood best friend/crush, Liam and his girlfriend are moving in together. Carly decides to stop gushing over Liam and move on. Alongside moving on, Carly’s sister Bethany, is working alongside Carly, but unlike Carly, she’s not the best cake decorators, but has got amazing customer service skills. Carly is trying her best to show Bethany there are many positives in life. One of which is Bethany getting married. However, Bethany is always looking at the negatives in life.
We soon learn that Liam is single and will be back in Whitsborough Bay for Christmas. As Christmas is coming so is the day of Bethany and Joshua big day. But Bethany walks out (not only from her relationship but also the family) because she feels useless with everything she does.
Every time Liam and Carly have a moment, something comes up. Stories from the past, with the help of Liam, they found Bethany. Bethany opens up and talks about having panic attacks because of something happening that happened at previous job.
Carly, unfortunately not talk about her feelings towards Liam as she always feared the worst; what if the feeling were not reciprocated, will they still be friends if it wasn’t? We find out that the Liam had has feeling towards Carly, but like Carly he also feared the worst and therefore left to join the army.
They say distance makes the heart grow fonder.
Favourite Quotes:
“…as though we were two jigsaw pieces that had been designed to fit together and had finally been united.”
“…we were beginning to think we’d have to bang your heads together.”
“…he’ll be gutted that he lost the bet and I get to choose the next 5 Netflix films. I feel a serious dose of rom-coms coming on.”
We soon learn that Liam is single and will be back in Whitsborough Bay for Christmas. As Christmas is coming so is the day of Bethany and Joshua big day. But Bethany walks out (not only from her relationship but also the family) because she feels useless with everything she does.
Every time Liam and Carly have a moment, something comes up. Stories from the past, with the help of Liam, they found Bethany. Bethany opens up and talks about having panic attacks because of something happening that happened at previous job.
Carly, unfortunately not talk about her feelings towards Liam as she always feared the worst; what if the feeling were not reciprocated, will they still be friends if it wasn’t? We find out that the Liam had has feeling towards Carly, but like Carly he also feared the worst and therefore left to join the army.
They say distance makes the heart grow fonder.
Favourite Quotes:
“…as though we were two jigsaw pieces that had been designed to fit together and had finally been united.”
“…we were beginning to think we’d have to bang your heads together.”
“…he’ll be gutted that he lost the bet and I get to choose the next 5 Netflix films. I feel a serious dose of rom-coms coming on.”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 15, 2020
Although I haven't yet read any of Jessica Redland's other novels, including any from this Whitsborough Bay series, the attractive cover design of this one caught my eye and I thought the premise of the book sounded wonderful.
Christmas at Carly's Cupcakes
was a lovely story and I especially liked the protagonist, whom I found to be caring, efficient and rather long-suffering, as well as being someone to whom I could really relate. Carly's hapless and disorganised sister, Bethany, has been working alongside her in the cupcake bakery for four months and the contributions from Bethany were appreciated as she attempted to master the art of decorating sponge cakes.
I adored the charming setting of Castle Street in the North Yorkshire seaside town of Whitsborough Bay, especially as I have lived near the area myself. The Christmas theme was extremely enchanting with it's festive allure and the story's overall tone was so snug and uplifting, bringing with it all that delicious homemade baking and the heady aromas of sugar, icing and cupcakes, not to mention the snow angels!
This was a beautifully written, heartwarming story of love, friendship, community spirit, dreams, second chances, and forgiveness. Dashes of sparkling romance and friction kept things fizzing and everything was wrapped up very nicely in the end.
A wonderful novella with a really strong Christmas feel, this is a book that I will certainly be recommending to friends and family.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this novel at my request from Boldwood Books via Rachel’s Random Resources. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
I adored the charming setting of Castle Street in the North Yorkshire seaside town of Whitsborough Bay, especially as I have lived near the area myself. The Christmas theme was extremely enchanting with it's festive allure and the story's overall tone was so snug and uplifting, bringing with it all that delicious homemade baking and the heady aromas of sugar, icing and cupcakes, not to mention the snow angels!
This was a beautifully written, heartwarming story of love, friendship, community spirit, dreams, second chances, and forgiveness. Dashes of sparkling romance and friction kept things fizzing and everything was wrapped up very nicely in the end.
A wonderful novella with a really strong Christmas feel, this is a book that I will certainly be recommending to friends and family.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this novel at my request from Boldwood Books via Rachel’s Random Resources. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
August 17, 2020
Magical story
Sister's Carly and Bethany working in Carlys Cupcakes shop in the north Yorkshire seaside town of Whitsborough Bay. Bethany has been working along side her sister for four months with zero talent a liability. Carly has plenty of patience with her. Been very protective of her after what she been through. Bethany is getting married to Joshua on the 22nd December just before the festive season. Carly has had a big crush on someone that's lasted sixteen years now nobody else compares to him. This is such a delightful feel good book, but a few tears will be shed, so keep tissues handy. To hug a bear, this is all about believing in yourself. Two sisters,two best friends,two partners. I loved every bit of it till a joyful ending.
Sister's Carly and Bethany working in Carlys Cupcakes shop in the north Yorkshire seaside town of Whitsborough Bay. Bethany has been working along side her sister for four months with zero talent a liability. Carly has plenty of patience with her. Been very protective of her after what she been through. Bethany is getting married to Joshua on the 22nd December just before the festive season. Carly has had a big crush on someone that's lasted sixteen years now nobody else compares to him. This is such a delightful feel good book, but a few tears will be shed, so keep tissues handy. To hug a bear, this is all about believing in yourself. Two sisters,two best friends,two partners. I loved every bit of it till a joyful ending.
July 31, 2020
This was the right story at the right moment: uplifting, heartwarming and engrossing.
I loved the Christmas atmosphere, the fleshed out characters and the lovely setting.
It made me wish it was Christmas and I strongly recommend it.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.
I loved the Christmas atmosphere, the fleshed out characters and the lovely setting.
It made me wish it was Christmas and I strongly recommend it.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.
September 17, 2020
Loved it
A heartwarming tale of never giving up on your best friend. Through years of heartache, bullying and building a successful business to boot.
Loved the characters even the spiky ones and the love Carly has for her sister Bethany even when faced with the destruction she caused. Glad I chose this book and I look forward to reading more in the future.
A heartwarming tale of never giving up on your best friend. Through years of heartache, bullying and building a successful business to boot.
Loved the characters even the spiky ones and the love Carly has for her sister Bethany even when faced with the destruction she caused. Glad I chose this book and I look forward to reading more in the future.
November 7, 2022
Christmas, cupcake bakers, and best friends? Pretty quintessential Christmas romance plot, but this one did have more depth than I was expecting as it explored family and friend relationships, too, as well as some mental health awareness. I enjoyed this Christmas-y story!
December 18, 2021
Reading Holiday Books to Feel Something
https://youtu.be/ecGnOvhcyh4
https://youtu.be/ecGnOvhcyh4
March 2, 2022
Loved this ready for number 3
October 11, 2020
The weather outside is frightful, so thank goodness author Jessica Redland has crafted such a heartwarming read. Set against a snowy backdrop in the idyllic Whitsborough Bay, Christmas at Carly’s Cupcakes whips up a lot of fun thanks in large part to Carly herself. A usually strong, intent woman, lately she’s been worrying about relationships, both familial and romantic. Her focus is constantly being torn between potential one-sided love pointed at longtime crush Liam and managing a sister who’s stuck in a constant state of emotional distress. There’s plenty of drama in tension in these scenes alone to keep the pages turning.
Then, of course, there are the delicious cakes, snowy evenings, and absolute festive joy that permeate the rest of the book. Redland weaves a bit of charm through her tight prose, making sure the story clips along while offering up plenty of sweet detours. She understands exactly how to build a community of characters who seem to genuinely care for each other, even—or perhaps especially—when some of the action looks bleak.
Yet all of this wrapping—like the best presents—is deceptively simple. Beneath the pretty paper and bow, the lovely characters and festive joyousness, is a thoughtful undercurrent. Redland doesn’t shy away from difficult subjects, and here she tackles bullying and its long-term effects. These passages, where Carly has to address both her schooldays and the aftermath, are incredibly powerful without being overwhelming. She’s seamlessly meshed these with the sweeter aspects in a way that realistically showcases its impact.
By infusing a ton of heart with a bit of romantic magic, Redland has delivered a brilliant read.
Note: I received a free ARC of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
Review also posted at https://pluckedfromthestacks.wordpres...
Then, of course, there are the delicious cakes, snowy evenings, and absolute festive joy that permeate the rest of the book. Redland weaves a bit of charm through her tight prose, making sure the story clips along while offering up plenty of sweet detours. She understands exactly how to build a community of characters who seem to genuinely care for each other, even—or perhaps especially—when some of the action looks bleak.
Yet all of this wrapping—like the best presents—is deceptively simple. Beneath the pretty paper and bow, the lovely characters and festive joyousness, is a thoughtful undercurrent. Redland doesn’t shy away from difficult subjects, and here she tackles bullying and its long-term effects. These passages, where Carly has to address both her schooldays and the aftermath, are incredibly powerful without being overwhelming. She’s seamlessly meshed these with the sweeter aspects in a way that realistically showcases its impact.
By infusing a ton of heart with a bit of romantic magic, Redland has delivered a brilliant read.
Note: I received a free ARC of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
Review also posted at https://pluckedfromthestacks.wordpres...
December 18, 2020
This is the perfect book to read around christmas time! The setting is really christmassy with snow and decorations, the story is sooo magical and adorable and the characters are so nice! This book is about sisterhood, entrepreneurship, bullying, friendship and of course love! The romance in this book is so nice! I absolutely adored this part! So if you are looking for a nice christmas romance, you can pick up this book! You won't be disappointed!
August 25, 2020
Its almost Christmas at Whitsborough bay and this time around, we are to spend time with Carly at her cupcake shop. Things are not going too well, the workload being extraordinarily high and Carly's sister being in the way.
This visit to the town was about how our protagonist manages to live a little, find new friends and move on with her life. She has the classic elder sibling need to protect her sister by making excuses for her, while the sister would be furious if she heard the reasons. I liked the sister angle more and would have loved the book if the entire narrative had been from her point of view. I was not enamoured by Carly and her predicaments. It felt a little difficult to invest in her long-hidden feelings for some reason while simultaneously hanging on to her day-to-day of running her shop.
The most crucial part of the entire book has to be the writing style. It is simple, while still conveying the required emotions. Any fan of the genre will not go wrong picking up any books by the author because they are filled with vibrant women in unique jobs. I already have another queued up to read.
I received an ARC thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, but the review is entirely based on my own reading experience.
This visit to the town was about how our protagonist manages to live a little, find new friends and move on with her life. She has the classic elder sibling need to protect her sister by making excuses for her, while the sister would be furious if she heard the reasons. I liked the sister angle more and would have loved the book if the entire narrative had been from her point of view. I was not enamoured by Carly and her predicaments. It felt a little difficult to invest in her long-hidden feelings for some reason while simultaneously hanging on to her day-to-day of running her shop.
The most crucial part of the entire book has to be the writing style. It is simple, while still conveying the required emotions. Any fan of the genre will not go wrong picking up any books by the author because they are filled with vibrant women in unique jobs. I already have another queued up to read.
I received an ARC thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, but the review is entirely based on my own reading experience.
September 13, 2020
The night the lights are turned on in Castle Street has to be one of my favourite moments in any of the many Christmas books I’ve ever read, and I’m delighted to report that this book gave me another chance to be there on that rather special night. And “special” is a word I think I really must use again about this really gorgeous read.
I loved Carly from the moment I met her – her sister Bethany maybe a little less, as her ham-fisted efforts put Carly’s chances of a successful and profitable Christmas severely at risk. But she’s a character with real issues and problems, much loved by her sister who’s trying really hard to give her a reason to believe in herself again. The story is just wonderful – a lovely little community that pull together when things become really difficult, a supportive friendship with Tara at the Chocolate Pot Cafe, plenty of tension and drama. And then there’s that remote possibility of romance – if Carly’s willing to be brave and risk her long friendship with Liam by telling him how she really feels about him.
I just loved everything about this book – the beautiful cakes, the teddy bears, the snow angels in the farmer’s field, the friendships, the focus on family, the darker moments from the past, the tentative romance and the sheer joy that follows. And, do you know, I think there are times that a review doesn’t have to be very long at all – this is the perfect small Christmassy package, beautifully written, an excellent story, an emotional and thoroughly entertaining read. Put it on your pre-Christmas reading list without delay – you’ll love it too.
I loved Carly from the moment I met her – her sister Bethany maybe a little less, as her ham-fisted efforts put Carly’s chances of a successful and profitable Christmas severely at risk. But she’s a character with real issues and problems, much loved by her sister who’s trying really hard to give her a reason to believe in herself again. The story is just wonderful – a lovely little community that pull together when things become really difficult, a supportive friendship with Tara at the Chocolate Pot Cafe, plenty of tension and drama. And then there’s that remote possibility of romance – if Carly’s willing to be brave and risk her long friendship with Liam by telling him how she really feels about him.
I just loved everything about this book – the beautiful cakes, the teddy bears, the snow angels in the farmer’s field, the friendships, the focus on family, the darker moments from the past, the tentative romance and the sheer joy that follows. And, do you know, I think there are times that a review doesn’t have to be very long at all – this is the perfect small Christmassy package, beautifully written, an excellent story, an emotional and thoroughly entertaining read. Put it on your pre-Christmas reading list without delay – you’ll love it too.
November 16, 2020
This is a super sweet story that is perfect for Christmas. It needs to be made into a Hallmark Movie.
Carly is busy getting desserts ready for her Christmas customers and helping her sister plan for her wedding right before Christmas. But as her sister keeps messing up orders at the shop Carly is afraid she will not get the work done on time. Carly's whole life is her cupcake shop, but when her best friend Liam is coming home from Afghanistan, she thinks that maybe it's the time to tell him the truth of her feelings.
Carly is busy getting desserts ready for her Christmas customers and helping her sister plan for her wedding right before Christmas. But as her sister keeps messing up orders at the shop Carly is afraid she will not get the work done on time. Carly's whole life is her cupcake shop, but when her best friend Liam is coming home from Afghanistan, she thinks that maybe it's the time to tell him the truth of her feelings.
September 23, 2020
I started this book this morning and I have finished it this evening. What a gorgeous book. I was worried having not read any other in the series that I wouldn't know people or I would have missed the stories for characters but I didn't need to worry. I am loving Jessica Redlands writing style and her characters. The story is full of love, hope, excitement, with a little bit about ptsd and all topped off with a huge dollop of cake! And who doesn't love cake?!?! Thank you so much to netgalley, the publishers and Jessica for the opportunity to read this book for my honest opinion
One of the easiest 5 star reviews I've given this year
One of the easiest 5 star reviews I've given this year
October 2, 2020
The story was pretty cute. It is definitely a story about Christmas time rather than Christmas day, but this worked for me – I found it really festive and quite lovely (lots of lovely snow!)
Once I got past the bits where Bethany’s situation is established (which felt a little bit awkward at times) I really got into this and enjoyed it enough that I’m really keen to check out the other Christmassy books in the series.
Once I got past the bits where Bethany’s situation is established (which felt a little bit awkward at times) I really got into this and enjoyed it enough that I’m really keen to check out the other Christmassy books in the series.
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