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The Magic of Lemon Drop Pie
An uplifting novel about a heartbroken young pie maker who is granted a magical second chance to live the life she didn't choose. . . . from the bestselling author of The Enlightenment of Bees.
Lolly Blanchard's life only seems to give her lemons. Ten years ago, after her mother's tragic death, she broke up with her first love and abandoned her dream of opening a restaurant in order to keep her family's struggling Seattle diner afloat and care for her younger sister and grieving father. Now, a decade later, she dutifully whips up the diner's famous lemon meringue pies each morning while still pining for all she's lost.
As Lolly's thirty-third birthday approaches, her quirky great-aunt gives her a mysterious gift--three lemon drops, each of which allows her to live a single day in a life that might have been hers. What if her mom hadn't passed away? What if she had opened her own restaurant in England? What if she hadn't broken up with the only man she's ever loved? Surprising and empowering, each experience helps Lolly let go of her regrets and realize the key to transforming her life lies not in redoing her past but in having the courage to embrace her present.
Lolly Blanchard's life only seems to give her lemons. Ten years ago, after her mother's tragic death, she broke up with her first love and abandoned her dream of opening a restaurant in order to keep her family's struggling Seattle diner afloat and care for her younger sister and grieving father. Now, a decade later, she dutifully whips up the diner's famous lemon meringue pies each morning while still pining for all she's lost.
As Lolly's thirty-third birthday approaches, her quirky great-aunt gives her a mysterious gift--three lemon drops, each of which allows her to live a single day in a life that might have been hers. What if her mom hadn't passed away? What if she had opened her own restaurant in England? What if she hadn't broken up with the only man she's ever loved? Surprising and empowering, each experience helps Lolly let go of her regrets and realize the key to transforming her life lies not in redoing her past but in having the courage to embrace her present.
352 pages, Paperback
First published August 2, 2022
About the author
Rachel Linden
19 books1,124 followersRachel Linden is a novelist and international aid worker whose adventures in over fifty countries around the world provide excellent grist for her writing. She is the author of The Magic of Lemon Drop Pie, The Enlightenment of Bees, Becoming the Talbot Sisters, and Ascension of Larks. Currently Rachel lives with her family on a sweet little island near Seattle, WA where she enjoys creating stories about strong women facing big challenges, travel, food, and second chances at love. She promises her readers a happy, or at least very hopeful, ending and infuses each of her stories with a touch of magical realism.
To learn more about Rachel Linden, visit her at www.rachellinden.com or connect with her on Facebook at www.facebook.com/authorRachellinden/ or Instagram at www.instagram.com/rachellinden_writer
To learn more about Rachel Linden, visit her at www.rachellinden.com or connect with her on Facebook at www.facebook.com/authorRachellinden/ or Instagram at www.instagram.com/rachellinden_writer
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August 9, 2022
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"Trying to change the past is pointless. We can only change our future by the choices we make today.”
I loved this book so much. I am really getting into magical realism this year and I am so here for it. I loved the way Rachel Linden was able to write about a strong, independent woman, even though she has doubts about some of her choices in life. The author was also able to blend magical realism with romance seamlessly. I am not a huge romance fan so I really enjoyed how the story just touched on the romantic angle enough to give me some heart feels without going overboard.
The book deals with loss, grief, finding one's self, and what-ifs. It also points out that we should be careful what we wish for...and Lolly goes through every single one. Don't we all wish we could have a chance to see "what would have happened if I took a different road"?
Lolly was an excellent protagonist and I cheered her on throughout, while she made some tough decisions about her future. She was a very complex, well-rounded character and her story was heartfelt, magical, and not to be missed. The fact that lemon meringue is my favourite pie had no bearing on this review. All. The. Stars.
I borrowed this one from my local library, thanks Toronto Public Library!
"Trying to change the past is pointless. We can only change our future by the choices we make today.”
I loved this book so much. I am really getting into magical realism this year and I am so here for it. I loved the way Rachel Linden was able to write about a strong, independent woman, even though she has doubts about some of her choices in life. The author was also able to blend magical realism with romance seamlessly. I am not a huge romance fan so I really enjoyed how the story just touched on the romantic angle enough to give me some heart feels without going overboard.
The book deals with loss, grief, finding one's self, and what-ifs. It also points out that we should be careful what we wish for...and Lolly goes through every single one. Don't we all wish we could have a chance to see "what would have happened if I took a different road"?
Lolly was an excellent protagonist and I cheered her on throughout, while she made some tough decisions about her future. She was a very complex, well-rounded character and her story was heartfelt, magical, and not to be missed. The fact that lemon meringue is my favourite pie had no bearing on this review. All. The. Stars.
I borrowed this one from my local library, thanks Toronto Public Library!
August 2, 2022
3.5 stars, rounded up
"'You can't keep holding on to the vision of the future you imagined you'd have, the way you thought things would turn out. You have to let the present be what it is--broken, flawed, painful, but real.'"
This latest book by Linden is filled with magical realism and has a lot to say about regrets and learning how to let go of dreams that don't fit anymore.
Lolly Blanchard is about to turn thirty-three and she has many regrets about how her life has progressed so far. As she looks back at a list of life goals she wrote when she was thirteen, she realizes that she hasn't accomplished any of them. She hasn't opened up her own restaurant in England, she hasn't kept her family together, and she doesn't have romantic love in her life. Many things were upset for her when her mother unexpectedly died, and Lolly has spent her adult life helping her father keep their struggling family restaurant open. When her great aunt gives her some magical lemon drops, Lolly has the opportunity to go live three different days of lives that "might have been."
This novel moves between the past and the present, with the reader learning what happened in the past that has led to Lolly being so stuck in the present. I didn't really connect with Lolly at first, I felt like she was living in the past in her head, like she was trying to achieve someone else's dreams rather than her own. When I finally got to the sections that showed the why of all of those things, it made me like her and identify with her struggles more. I wishes those reveals could have been a bit sooner.
There's a great deal of food for thought here, and when Lolly goes to visit her mom, the wisdom she imparts is universal and I connected deeply with it as a reader. "'If you cling so tight to something that's already broken, to a life and dream that can never come true, you don't have space in your life for anything else, for the good and real plan Bs.'"
This is a meaningful tale that readers will connect with, especially if you have wondered what would happen if you had taken another path in life.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
"'You can't keep holding on to the vision of the future you imagined you'd have, the way you thought things would turn out. You have to let the present be what it is--broken, flawed, painful, but real.'"
This latest book by Linden is filled with magical realism and has a lot to say about regrets and learning how to let go of dreams that don't fit anymore.
Lolly Blanchard is about to turn thirty-three and she has many regrets about how her life has progressed so far. As she looks back at a list of life goals she wrote when she was thirteen, she realizes that she hasn't accomplished any of them. She hasn't opened up her own restaurant in England, she hasn't kept her family together, and she doesn't have romantic love in her life. Many things were upset for her when her mother unexpectedly died, and Lolly has spent her adult life helping her father keep their struggling family restaurant open. When her great aunt gives her some magical lemon drops, Lolly has the opportunity to go live three different days of lives that "might have been."
This novel moves between the past and the present, with the reader learning what happened in the past that has led to Lolly being so stuck in the present. I didn't really connect with Lolly at first, I felt like she was living in the past in her head, like she was trying to achieve someone else's dreams rather than her own. When I finally got to the sections that showed the why of all of those things, it made me like her and identify with her struggles more. I wishes those reveals could have been a bit sooner.
There's a great deal of food for thought here, and when Lolly goes to visit her mom, the wisdom she imparts is universal and I connected deeply with it as a reader. "'If you cling so tight to something that's already broken, to a life and dream that can never come true, you don't have space in your life for anything else, for the good and real plan Bs.'"
This is a meaningful tale that readers will connect with, especially if you have wondered what would happen if you had taken another path in life.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
October 19, 2024
✩ 3.45 stars ✩
What to Expect:
➼ Magical Realism
➼ “What If?”
➼ Second Chance
➼ Magic Lemon Drops
➼ Familial Duty & Sacrifice
➼ Life After Loss
➼ Finding Closure
➼ Letting Go of Unfulfilled Dreams
➼ “Grass isn’t always greener”themes
➼ First Person POV
After her mother’s tragic passing, Lolly put her dreams on hold to stay close to home and support her family. Believing it was the right thing for him, she also broke up with the love of her life so she would not hold him back as he pursued his doctorate. Now ten years later, Lolly looks back on her life and wonders, “what if?” How different would her life be if she had taken more chances and done things differently?
Magical Realism is a pretty hit or miss genre for me, and it’s even more rare that I’m truly satisfied by a plot that includes time travel. I often feel conflicted by the concept of the butterfly effect and the fact that the changes the characters make impact so many other people in that reality. The author did a great job of including this concept, but making it more of a cautionary tale. The lemon drops only allowed her to glimpse that possible life for 1 day and her actions did not have an impact on her own reality. A lot of her experiences supported the idea that “the grass isn’t always greener,” and helped her to see that no life is perfect. There was also a slight twist at the end that made for an extremely satisfying ending. 👌🏻
I don’t want to give too much away, but this story was very well crafted and equally well written. I think it’s important to note that this is really Lolly’s story and the romance aspect of the plot was a very minimal. It was a great book, but if you’re reading this for the romance, you might be a bit disappointed since it wasn’t the main focus.
“Continue to look for the light in your life - it is always present somewhere, some small thing to be grateful for, something to celebrate, a way to give joy to others, a new way to grow.”
✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼
Pre-read: This doesn’t quite match my fall vibe, but Libby calls the shots. 🍋✨
What to Expect:
➼ Magical Realism
➼ “What If?”
➼ Second Chance
➼ Magic Lemon Drops
➼ Familial Duty & Sacrifice
➼ Life After Loss
➼ Finding Closure
➼ Letting Go of Unfulfilled Dreams
➼ “Grass isn’t always greener”themes
➼ First Person POV
After her mother’s tragic passing, Lolly put her dreams on hold to stay close to home and support her family. Believing it was the right thing for him, she also broke up with the love of her life so she would not hold him back as he pursued his doctorate. Now ten years later, Lolly looks back on her life and wonders, “what if?” How different would her life be if she had taken more chances and done things differently?
Magical Realism is a pretty hit or miss genre for me, and it’s even more rare that I’m truly satisfied by a plot that includes time travel. I often feel conflicted by the concept of the butterfly effect and the fact that the changes the characters make impact so many other people in that reality. The author did a great job of including this concept, but making it more of a cautionary tale. The lemon drops only allowed her to glimpse that possible life for 1 day and her actions did not have an impact on her own reality. A lot of her experiences supported the idea that “the grass isn’t always greener,” and helped her to see that no life is perfect. There was also a slight twist at the end that made for an extremely satisfying ending. 👌🏻
I don’t want to give too much away, but this story was very well crafted and equally well written. I think it’s important to note that this is really Lolly’s story and the romance aspect of the plot was a very minimal. It was a great book, but if you’re reading this for the romance, you might be a bit disappointed since it wasn’t the main focus.
“Continue to look for the light in your life - it is always present somewhere, some small thing to be grateful for, something to celebrate, a way to give joy to others, a new way to grow.”
✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼
Pre-read: This doesn’t quite match my fall vibe, but Libby calls the shots. 🍋✨
August 2, 2022
This is a Women's Fiction with Magical Realism. I did not love this book, but I did not hate it. I found that I did not connect to the characters in this book. I think the main character did not know where her life was going, so I did not know what to want for the character. I also feel we did not get a lot of feelings from the characters until closer to the end of the book. I just wanted to get more of the characters feelings or a connection to the characters. I did like the storyline/plot. The ending was good, but I saw it ending like that way before the ending. I was kindly provided an e-copy of this book by the publisher (Berkley Books) or author (Rachel Linden) via NetGalley, so I can give an honest review about how I feel about this book. I want to send a big Thank you to them for that.
July 31, 2022
Be honest. Pay attention. Seek joy.
Lolly Blanchard is in a rut. The family restaurant is barely breaking even and takes up all of her time. A diary from her junior high days reminds her of the goals her early teen self had:
1. Live in another country.
2. Own my own restaurant somewhere amazing.
3. Fall in love.
4. Help my family be happy together 4 ever.
5. Get my own horse.
Her life is a lemon. Not one completed. She is determined to cross at least one item off the list in the next month. Where to start? Then Aunt Gert shares three magical lemon drops with Lolly. Each piece of candy has the power to transport her to a place where a wrong is made right. The spell lasts for one day. What will she choose? How will she feel when she comes back to her everyday life? I loved the "What if" component of this book. Also, the ways Lolly takes bits and pieces from each magical day to make her life better in the present. A lovely read that was a homerun for me. Even includes a recipe for Lemon Drop Pie. I can just taste and smooth sweet-tart filling and see that mile high meringue.
Thank you to Berkley and Edelweiss+ for DRC in exchange for an honest review.
Lolly Blanchard is in a rut. The family restaurant is barely breaking even and takes up all of her time. A diary from her junior high days reminds her of the goals her early teen self had:
1. Live in another country.
2. Own my own restaurant somewhere amazing.
3. Fall in love.
4. Help my family be happy together 4 ever.
5. Get my own horse.
Her life is a lemon. Not one completed. She is determined to cross at least one item off the list in the next month. Where to start? Then Aunt Gert shares three magical lemon drops with Lolly. Each piece of candy has the power to transport her to a place where a wrong is made right. The spell lasts for one day. What will she choose? How will she feel when she comes back to her everyday life? I loved the "What if" component of this book. Also, the ways Lolly takes bits and pieces from each magical day to make her life better in the present. A lovely read that was a homerun for me. Even includes a recipe for Lemon Drop Pie. I can just taste and smooth sweet-tart filling and see that mile high meringue.
Thank you to Berkley and Edelweiss+ for DRC in exchange for an honest review.
August 1, 2022
A wonderful mix of One Italian Summer and In a Holidaze. This book was the feel good read I didn’t realize I needed. Although I’m not a huge fan of magical realism, Rachel Linden’s use of it here is just that, “magical”.
Although the first few chapters felt a bit slow, as soon as it I began to connect to Lolly and Rory, I was all in. Before I knew it, I was completely invested in Lolly finding her happily ever after and devastated at the thought that in the end, that may not be with Rory.
A heartwarming read that soothes the soul, this is the perfect end of summer read.
Thank you to Berkley Publishing and @prhaudio for an ALC of this audiobook in exchange for my honest review.
Although the first few chapters felt a bit slow, as soon as it I began to connect to Lolly and Rory, I was all in. Before I knew it, I was completely invested in Lolly finding her happily ever after and devastated at the thought that in the end, that may not be with Rory.
A heartwarming read that soothes the soul, this is the perfect end of summer read.
Thank you to Berkley Publishing and @prhaudio for an ALC of this audiobook in exchange for my honest review.
August 15, 2022
This is a beautiful story of magical realism. I did struggle to connect with the main character for the first half, but I felt like it all came together pretty well. Lolly is going to be 33 soon and she is saddened to realize she hasn’t achieved any of her big dreams for herself. when her mother died 10 years before she gave up her engagement to the man she loved and her dreams of opening her own restaurant to take care of her little sister, grieving father, and their struggling diner in Seattle. Lolly is given a chance to see what she might have have had if she’d made different choices when her great aunt gives her some magical lemon drops. The story was sweet and a fun read even though it dealt with some pretty serious topics.
August 26, 2022
This is a sweet read about the choices we make, the regrets we have, and finding the courage to pursue our own happiness. Likable characters, scrumptious food descriptions, and believable life hurdles give this a depth above and beyond a Hallmark movie plot. It's predictable and heartwarming—the perfect uplifting read in between heavier books or when you're feeling blue. I made the pie from the recipe listed at the end, and it was delicious!
December 16, 2025
I previously enjoyed The Secret of Orange Blossom Cake, so I was looking forward to this book. It did not disappoint.
Lolly’s family has owned a diner that her grandparents established. Lolly grew up helping out, but when her mother died ten years ago, Lolly put aside her own plans to take a bigger role in the diner. Each morning she bakes her mother’s secret recipe for lemon meringue pie, she helps her dad, and has helped raise and support her younger sister. But now the diner is in jeopardy, and it has her questioning her decisions. What does she have in life?
Her birthday is coming soon, and she discovers a list of life goals she had written in middle school. She wonders about the life that might have been - if her mom hadn’t died, if she had pursued her dream of opening a restaurant abroad… but mostly if she hadn’t broken off her relationship with the man she’d loved since she was a girl, and who she suspects she will always love.
Her aunt gives her three lemon drop candies. She tells her that each one can transport her to a day in her life if she’d chosen an alternate path. As she experiences these days, she sees them with a new perspective. She knows she wants to change her life, but what is the best way to do that? This is entertaining, sweet, empowering, and inspirational… as I try to determine my path forward. 4-1/2 rounded to 5.
Lolly’s family has owned a diner that her grandparents established. Lolly grew up helping out, but when her mother died ten years ago, Lolly put aside her own plans to take a bigger role in the diner. Each morning she bakes her mother’s secret recipe for lemon meringue pie, she helps her dad, and has helped raise and support her younger sister. But now the diner is in jeopardy, and it has her questioning her decisions. What does she have in life?
Her birthday is coming soon, and she discovers a list of life goals she had written in middle school. She wonders about the life that might have been - if her mom hadn’t died, if she had pursued her dream of opening a restaurant abroad… but mostly if she hadn’t broken off her relationship with the man she’d loved since she was a girl, and who she suspects she will always love.
Her aunt gives her three lemon drop candies. She tells her that each one can transport her to a day in her life if she’d chosen an alternate path. As she experiences these days, she sees them with a new perspective. She knows she wants to change her life, but what is the best way to do that? This is entertaining, sweet, empowering, and inspirational… as I try to determine my path forward. 4-1/2 rounded to 5.
October 17, 2023
"The reality of the universe far transcends the paltry boundaries of your own understanding. As the great Saint Augustine once said, ‘Miracles are not contrary to nature, but only contrary to what we know about nature.’”
It's really good and seemed like that kind of a book that comes into your life at just the right moment!
Art by Charles (ectleticartwork)
"Be honest. Pay attention. Seek joy."
P.S.I rarely listen to music while reading but this sunshiny song Ta vedette (Your Star) by Iliona seems fitting for the Lolly and Rory story, I discovered it after already finishing this beautiful book. It also brings summer back every time I listen to this song :)
It's really good and seemed like that kind of a book that comes into your life at just the right moment!
Art by Charles (ectleticartwork)
"Be honest. Pay attention. Seek joy."
P.S.I rarely listen to music while reading but this sunshiny song Ta vedette (Your Star) by Iliona seems fitting for the Lolly and Rory story, I discovered it after already finishing this beautiful book. It also brings summer back every time I listen to this song :)
May 31, 2022
The Magic of Lemon Drop Pie is a delightful story of lost love and second chances. It asks the question, “What if I go could back and make a different decision?” The characters are endearing and the “road not taken” plot is one of my favorites. In this book, Lolly gets to explore some roads not taken. Will she choose one of them? Can she? The book transitions well between the past, the present, and possible futures. It is a fun dream–magic lemon drops that can change your life. Mix together a sweet romance with a few “what ifs” and some fairy dust in the form of lemon drops, and you have an entertaining read. I really enjoyed all of it, from the captivating cover to the lemon meringue pie.
I received a free copy of this book from Berkley Publishing via Netgalley. My review is voluntary and my opinions are my own.
I received a free copy of this book from Berkley Publishing via Netgalley. My review is voluntary and my opinions are my own.
July 22, 2022
If you love a touch of magical realism in your books, you might love Lemon Drop Pie! This is a sweet wholesome story that came together in the end so beautifully. I don’t typically do well with magical realism, but this was subtle enough for me and it worked out! I loved it.
March 2, 2022
I kept waiting for this to get better, but it didn't, at least for me. Forced, saccharine, mopey, and weirdly structured, this would be ok to suggest to Women's Fiction readers, but not a standout.
The lemon drop magic will appeal to reader who like books like What Alice Forgot, but the story gets more and more predictable as it progresses.
eARC from NetGalley.
The lemon drop magic will appeal to reader who like books like What Alice Forgot, but the story gets more and more predictable as it progresses.
eARC from NetGalley.
January 6, 2023
As sweet as “Lemon Drop Pie”, with a dash of magic, this little story is a version of the popular trope on missed opportunities, the chance to revisit oneself in time and whether to consider taking a chance on altering personal history for elusive “happiness”.
At the age of thirty-three, Lolly is feeling frazzled and lost in a life of dead ends. Her frustration and sorrow hits its peak when her younger sister finds the diary which spelled out in her life goals, and Lolly believes that she hasn’t reached any of them. On the brink of an exciting life in her early twenties, a major tragedy changed her life path and she is still struggling as a caregiver for her family. At this crossroads, her eccentric aunt offers her those lemon drops- a unique moment to arrive at another moment in time where she is connected to something or someone - and perhaps find a resolution.
At its heart, The Magic of Lemon Drop Pie is a love story. Although it attempts to urge the reader to follow their “bliss”, rather than shaping their lives around others perpetually, the hopeful message is that if you ride everything out, you will find and shape your own version of happily ever after. Dear Aunt Gert and Eve stake their claims on bliss independently; the bliss we are following for the remaining characters definitely is tightly intertwined with finding, finding again or hanging out with that love interest.
It’s a light, quick story- optimistic and refreshing. Great food and flavour references and a tasty pie recipe, which I won’t bake (gluten free pastry just isn’t wonderful).
Love and lemon pie- if you’re in the mood for a taste of either, this is the book for you. But really- take the wisdom offered with a grain of salt! :)
At the age of thirty-three, Lolly is feeling frazzled and lost in a life of dead ends. Her frustration and sorrow hits its peak when her younger sister finds the diary which spelled out in her life goals, and Lolly believes that she hasn’t reached any of them. On the brink of an exciting life in her early twenties, a major tragedy changed her life path and she is still struggling as a caregiver for her family. At this crossroads, her eccentric aunt offers her those lemon drops- a unique moment to arrive at another moment in time where she is connected to something or someone - and perhaps find a resolution.
At its heart, The Magic of Lemon Drop Pie is a love story. Although it attempts to urge the reader to follow their “bliss”, rather than shaping their lives around others perpetually, the hopeful message is that if you ride everything out, you will find and shape your own version of happily ever after. Dear Aunt Gert and Eve stake their claims on bliss independently; the bliss we are following for the remaining characters definitely is tightly intertwined with finding, finding again or hanging out with that love interest.
It’s a light, quick story- optimistic and refreshing. Great food and flavour references and a tasty pie recipe, which I won’t bake (gluten free pastry just isn’t wonderful).
Love and lemon pie- if you’re in the mood for a taste of either, this is the book for you. But really- take the wisdom offered with a grain of salt! :)
June 28, 2022
Could goals you made in seventh grade affect your life when you are in your thirties?
Lolly works at the family diner and feels like her life is a lemon.
One day her sister came across her diary and the goals she had written in seventh grade. She looked at those goals and wondered if she still wanted them. She definitely didn’t want a horse.
Aunt Gert summoned Lolly to her cottage after seeing the diary and gave her three lemon drops.
She told Lolly to wish for something she would like to happen, take one of the lemon drops at bedtime, and she would dream about that and live for a day in her wish.
How did that turn out?
Lolly wasn't sure she wanted to live in some of these dreams, but the one where she got to be with her mother would have been one she would love to live in.
The other two dreams were ones about owning her own restaurant somewhere amazing and visiting the man she always loved and never got to be with.
THE MAGIC OF LEMON DROP PIE is a sweet, heartwarming, uplifting read with a character you will fall in love with.
A truly enjoyable read that gives some great advice but also a few heartaches. 5/5
This book was given to me by the publisher via NetGalley for an honest review.
Lolly works at the family diner and feels like her life is a lemon.
One day her sister came across her diary and the goals she had written in seventh grade. She looked at those goals and wondered if she still wanted them. She definitely didn’t want a horse.
Aunt Gert summoned Lolly to her cottage after seeing the diary and gave her three lemon drops.
She told Lolly to wish for something she would like to happen, take one of the lemon drops at bedtime, and she would dream about that and live for a day in her wish.
How did that turn out?
Lolly wasn't sure she wanted to live in some of these dreams, but the one where she got to be with her mother would have been one she would love to live in.
The other two dreams were ones about owning her own restaurant somewhere amazing and visiting the man she always loved and never got to be with.
THE MAGIC OF LEMON DROP PIE is a sweet, heartwarming, uplifting read with a character you will fall in love with.
A truly enjoyable read that gives some great advice but also a few heartaches. 5/5
This book was given to me by the publisher via NetGalley for an honest review.
May 1, 2022
Lolly is about to turn 33 when her younger sister reminds her of her life goals from an old Lisa Frank notebook she used in middle school. And Lolly has accomplished none of them. So she makes it her new mission to complete at least one before her birthday next month. Should be easy, right? But Lolly is carrying the weight of the world on her shoulders, running her family's diner and keeping her family together after her mom died. But when her great aunt offers her a way to see what her life would have been like had she made different decisions, she's torn on what to do.
Y'all. I have so many things to say. Where to start? This book started off okay, but kind of tepid. It just got more boring after that. We jump back in forth both in time and between these "what if" scenarios and it was hard to keep track, especially with what the timeline of Lolly and Rory's relationship. At one point, during a "what if" day, Lolly says something about how she must have actually been in a relationship with Rory in that reality and she wonders what happened, making it sound like they never got together in the original timeline...but later we find out they were together. Then, she has this "never call me again!" moment, but they just kind of skim over that and hook back up later.
Then there's the diner. First, have you ever known a diner that serves breakfast, but doesn't open until 8am? Then, they don't even make their own food for breakfast! It's just pastries they buy from a bakery. THEN, Lolly wanted to open a restaurant of her own, but the only thing she makes for the diner is pie...she never does any regular cooking. Then, there's the ending. It's made to look like the diner has this huge following of loyal customers, but we never meet any of the customers in the actual story. It just felt super forced.
Y'all. I have so many things to say. Where to start? This book started off okay, but kind of tepid. It just got more boring after that. We jump back in forth both in time and between these "what if" scenarios and it was hard to keep track, especially with what the timeline of Lolly and Rory's relationship. At one point, during a "what if" day, Lolly says something about how she must have actually been in a relationship with Rory in that reality and she wonders what happened, making it sound like they never got together in the original timeline...but later we find out they were together. Then, she has this "never call me again!" moment, but they just kind of skim over that and hook back up later.
Then there's the diner. First, have you ever known a diner that serves breakfast, but doesn't open until 8am? Then, they don't even make their own food for breakfast! It's just pastries they buy from a bakery. THEN, Lolly wanted to open a restaurant of her own, but the only thing she makes for the diner is pie...she never does any regular cooking. Then, there's the ending. It's made to look like the diner has this huge following of loyal customers, but we never meet any of the customers in the actual story. It just felt super forced.
August 29, 2023
Four and a half stars
Lolly Blanchard and Rory Shaw met and became friends as children. Then friendship turned into something more. Lolly and Rory envisioned a future together but life had other plans it seemed. Her mothers death propels Lolly into taking over her role in the family diner, supporting her grieving father and caring for her much younger sister Daphne. The romance between Lolly and Rory implodes. Ten years later regrets for all she has lost linger.
After Lolly, just about to turn thirty three, finds an old journal written when she was thirteen with her dreams for the future, her Aunt Gert gives her a surprising gift. the gift is three lemon drops. Each one has the capacity to transport her for a day to a life that might have been hers.But sometimes as Lolly discovers one choice affects so many more things. Will she find the solution to shelving those regrets and forging a future?
Lolly is a likeable character, hardworking, caring, and so often putting the needs of others before her own. Aunt Gert is a rather flamboyant character who adds interest and Lolly’s friend Eve is a supportive friend. All the characters come across well.
I did wonder about the name Lolly but towards the ending the significance of the name emerges..
Women’s fiction with a touch of magic realism I thoroughly enjoyed this story of family, friendship, love, grief , regrets and choices. Maybe a tad predictable but just a sweet and tangy read. Lemon meringue pie features heavily. You may even find a recipe to enjoy making as well.
Lolly Blanchard and Rory Shaw met and became friends as children. Then friendship turned into something more. Lolly and Rory envisioned a future together but life had other plans it seemed. Her mothers death propels Lolly into taking over her role in the family diner, supporting her grieving father and caring for her much younger sister Daphne. The romance between Lolly and Rory implodes. Ten years later regrets for all she has lost linger.
After Lolly, just about to turn thirty three, finds an old journal written when she was thirteen with her dreams for the future, her Aunt Gert gives her a surprising gift. the gift is three lemon drops. Each one has the capacity to transport her for a day to a life that might have been hers.But sometimes as Lolly discovers one choice affects so many more things. Will she find the solution to shelving those regrets and forging a future?
Lolly is a likeable character, hardworking, caring, and so often putting the needs of others before her own. Aunt Gert is a rather flamboyant character who adds interest and Lolly’s friend Eve is a supportive friend. All the characters come across well.
I did wonder about the name Lolly but towards the ending the significance of the name emerges..
Women’s fiction with a touch of magic realism I thoroughly enjoyed this story of family, friendship, love, grief , regrets and choices. Maybe a tad predictable but just a sweet and tangy read. Lemon meringue pie features heavily. You may even find a recipe to enjoy making as well.
August 9, 2022
4/4.5 stars!
This was a deliciously sweet story with a side of magical realism perfect to cleanse the reading palate.
I’ve really been enjoying books with a time travel/change the past storyline this year, and was so excited to read
THE MAGIC OF LEMON DROP PIE.
Lolly is a woman in her thirties trying to keep her family diner afloat, and living out her Mother’s dream before she died, realizing that she wishes things turned out differently for herself. When Lolly’s Great Aunt gives her magical lemon drops and the opportunity to revisit her life and what could have been, she jumps at the chance.
Overall it was a lighthearted story, and I really enjoyed it!
*many thanks to Berkley/Netgalley and Uplit Reads campaign for the gifted copy for review
This was a deliciously sweet story with a side of magical realism perfect to cleanse the reading palate.
I’ve really been enjoying books with a time travel/change the past storyline this year, and was so excited to read
THE MAGIC OF LEMON DROP PIE.
Lolly is a woman in her thirties trying to keep her family diner afloat, and living out her Mother’s dream before she died, realizing that she wishes things turned out differently for herself. When Lolly’s Great Aunt gives her magical lemon drops and the opportunity to revisit her life and what could have been, she jumps at the chance.
Overall it was a lighthearted story, and I really enjoyed it!
*many thanks to Berkley/Netgalley and Uplit Reads campaign for the gifted copy for review
August 7, 2022
Review coming soon.
May 7, 2025
عمل ساحر عن الحب و الأسرة و عن الاختيارات الحياتية.
حكاية لولي و أسرتها و أحلامها التي توقفت بعد وفاة والدتها و اضطلاعها بشؤون والدها و شقيقه و مطعم العائلة .
نتابع حكايتها و نتعرف على مسارات بديلة لحياتها و كيف أن اختياراتها يمكن أن تتغير و ان تغير حياة من يحيطون بها الى ان نصل معها إلى فكرة العيش و الاستمتاع باللحظة الراهنة و العمل على تطوير الذات.
حكاية لولي و أسرتها و أحلامها التي توقفت بعد وفاة والدتها و اضطلاعها بشؤون والدها و شقيقه و مطعم العائلة .
نتابع حكايتها و نتعرف على مسارات بديلة لحياتها و كيف أن اختياراتها يمكن أن تتغير و ان تغير حياة من يحيطون بها الى ان نصل معها إلى فكرة العيش و الاستمتاع باللحظة الراهنة و العمل على تطوير الذات.
April 21, 2024
Oh, this one was so sweet. Had some elements that reminded me of The Good Part. I don’t know what it is about magical realism, but I just love it so much. 🥹
May 8, 2026
Story 4 stars. Narration 4.5 stars
Find your bliss… That phrase is used over and over in this book about a woman who is trying to keep her family together and save the family’s restaurant after her mother’s death. She’s had and lost her great love because of this. I spent a great deal of the book either feeling sorry for her or being frustrated with her. Things didn’t have to be the way they are. Her eccentric great aunt moved there after her mother’s death and now waits tables at the diner. She’s 80 and has lived a huge life. She has a magical way to let her niece go and live one day to see what would happen on 3 separate occasions. She has to choose wisely on who she would want to be with for a day. Yes, there’s magic involved. It’s hard to explain exactly. I enjoyed the listen even though I thought it was too long due to all the angst involved. The heroine does a lot of thinking over and over again about all the what if’s. To be honest that got a bit redundant and as I said I got a bit frustrated by her. Still, it was a good listen, one that makes you think about finding your bliss. Narration was good.
Find your bliss… That phrase is used over and over in this book about a woman who is trying to keep her family together and save the family’s restaurant after her mother’s death. She’s had and lost her great love because of this. I spent a great deal of the book either feeling sorry for her or being frustrated with her. Things didn’t have to be the way they are. Her eccentric great aunt moved there after her mother’s death and now waits tables at the diner. She’s 80 and has lived a huge life. She has a magical way to let her niece go and live one day to see what would happen on 3 separate occasions. She has to choose wisely on who she would want to be with for a day. Yes, there’s magic involved. It’s hard to explain exactly. I enjoyed the listen even though I thought it was too long due to all the angst involved. The heroine does a lot of thinking over and over again about all the what if’s. To be honest that got a bit redundant and as I said I got a bit frustrated by her. Still, it was a good listen, one that makes you think about finding your bliss. Narration was good.
June 19, 2025
My friend picked me up, dusted me off, dried my tears and loaned me this book with a little bag of lemon candies. It was just the perfect medicine to combat my week full of disappointments. Books are prescriptive reading! If you’ve read this one, you’ll know how much encouragement the author stuffs between the pages.
This book centers around the idea that life often ends up different than we expect and is joined by two other subplots focused on the hidden cost of dreams and the difference between happiness and bliss.
Have you read/seen A Christmas Carol? Then you’ll like this one. It’s this holiday favourite with a modern-day focus on well-being/positive mindset/mindfulness.
It opens with 33-year-old Lolly Blanchard finding a list she’d written when she was 13 - a life goals list and plan for her next twenty years. Sadly, nothing had turned out the way Lolly had imagined and she continually finds herself stuck in the sticky dilemma of duty versus her desire. When her aunt gives her three lemon drop candies and instructions on when to take them and what to do … her life changes.
If things have ever fallen apart for you and you don’t know if you can make anything good come from the broken pieces, this one’s for you. If you want to know the essence of following your bliss rather than chasing happiness, this one’s for you. If you are in a funk, looking for a way out, this one’s for you.
I started reading this with a box of Kleenex on Sunday and by last night, I was smiling, sipping on a chilled Limonana and chatting about holiday memories (past and yet to come) with my husband. This book helped me pivot. I begrudgingly gave the book back to my friend last night, but I need to source a copy for myself. This is one of those books you need for your ‘forever’ bookshelf.
Did you know it’s been made into a Hallmark movie?
This book centers around the idea that life often ends up different than we expect and is joined by two other subplots focused on the hidden cost of dreams and the difference between happiness and bliss.
Have you read/seen A Christmas Carol? Then you’ll like this one. It’s this holiday favourite with a modern-day focus on well-being/positive mindset/mindfulness.
It opens with 33-year-old Lolly Blanchard finding a list she’d written when she was 13 - a life goals list and plan for her next twenty years. Sadly, nothing had turned out the way Lolly had imagined and she continually finds herself stuck in the sticky dilemma of duty versus her desire. When her aunt gives her three lemon drop candies and instructions on when to take them and what to do … her life changes.
If things have ever fallen apart for you and you don’t know if you can make anything good come from the broken pieces, this one’s for you. If you want to know the essence of following your bliss rather than chasing happiness, this one’s for you. If you are in a funk, looking for a way out, this one’s for you.
I started reading this with a box of Kleenex on Sunday and by last night, I was smiling, sipping on a chilled Limonana and chatting about holiday memories (past and yet to come) with my husband. This book helped me pivot. I begrudgingly gave the book back to my friend last night, but I need to source a copy for myself. This is one of those books you need for your ‘forever’ bookshelf.
Did you know it’s been made into a Hallmark movie?
September 13, 2022
4.5 stars. Absolutely adorable and heartfelt. Was always excited to come back and read it after putting it down. Audio was well done. Thank you @prhaudio for my ALC
This book was an absolute delight. I was told it was like a hallmark movie and in my humble opinion I can see the parallels only this was way better.
I loved the message of following what drives you, and of now getting so fixated in the past that you forget the place you are now…with the people who love you.
I loved seeing Lolly decide what mattered most in her life. There is a romance in this book (friends to lovers - my favorite) but it is not the focused upon element to the story. It was killing me to find out if Lollys happiness in this area would be with who she wanted or something else entirely.
This made me want to make, hug my mom, and soak in every moment that makes life worth while. I loved it. If you are looking for a feel good book going into fall, this would be the one I would recommend.
Once I started, I listened every chance I could but I was so caught up in this sweet story. Thank you @prhaudio for my ALC.
This book was an absolute delight. I was told it was like a hallmark movie and in my humble opinion I can see the parallels only this was way better.
I loved the message of following what drives you, and of now getting so fixated in the past that you forget the place you are now…with the people who love you.
I loved seeing Lolly decide what mattered most in her life. There is a romance in this book (friends to lovers - my favorite) but it is not the focused upon element to the story. It was killing me to find out if Lollys happiness in this area would be with who she wanted or something else entirely.
This made me want to make, hug my mom, and soak in every moment that makes life worth while. I loved it. If you are looking for a feel good book going into fall, this would be the one I would recommend.
Once I started, I listened every chance I could but I was so caught up in this sweet story. Thank you @prhaudio for my ALC.
August 27, 2022
TITLE: THE MAGIC OF LEMON DROP PIE
AUTHOR: Rachel Linden
PUB DATE: 08.02.2022 Now Available
Heartwarming
Hopeful
Heavenly
Lolly is almost thirty three, and full of regrets on the what-ifs of life, and with the help of her quirky aunt and three lemon drops, Lolly is able to take a glimpse of the what-ifs and rediscover her courage to move past her grief.
Reading THE MAGIC OF LEMON DROP PIE by Rachel Linden is like drinking warm tea that soothes your soul. Every time I picked up the book, I see my face with a huge smile and ready to escape once again to a Danish diner in Seattle, at a quaint village in England, or wherever Linden happens to take her readers, we are sure to find the magic of comforting foods and the love of family.
I highly recommend this book if you love reading about uplifting stories with a magical touch.
AUTHOR: Rachel Linden
PUB DATE: 08.02.2022 Now Available
Heartwarming
Hopeful
Heavenly
Lolly is almost thirty three, and full of regrets on the what-ifs of life, and with the help of her quirky aunt and three lemon drops, Lolly is able to take a glimpse of the what-ifs and rediscover her courage to move past her grief.
Reading THE MAGIC OF LEMON DROP PIE by Rachel Linden is like drinking warm tea that soothes your soul. Every time I picked up the book, I see my face with a huge smile and ready to escape once again to a Danish diner in Seattle, at a quaint village in England, or wherever Linden happens to take her readers, we are sure to find the magic of comforting foods and the love of family.
I highly recommend this book if you love reading about uplifting stories with a magical touch.
February 28, 2026
Lolly's mother died when she was young and Lolly ended up raising her younger sister and stayed home to run their diner instead of living her own life, it felt like her duty.
Wouldn't it be nice to test out alternate lives if you could, see what could of happened if you made different choices. This book creatively took me there with Lolly as she deals with grief, regret and roads not taken.
My second book by this author and there seems to be bit of a formula to her stories didn't make me enjoy it any less. Light, warm wisdom in a familiar formula.
Wouldn't it be nice to test out alternate lives if you could, see what could of happened if you made different choices. This book creatively took me there with Lolly as she deals with grief, regret and roads not taken.
My second book by this author and there seems to be bit of a formula to her stories didn't make me enjoy it any less. Light, warm wisdom in a familiar formula.
August 9, 2025
مكتوب برقة وصدق، كأنك بتتفرج علي فيلم جدًا بس هي حقيقي كانت رواية جميلة وصادقة ومليانة مشاعر وسؤال ماذا لو، وطرق أخري لتقدير الحياة التي نحياها والتركيز علي حاضرنا، استمتعت بيها جدًا❤️
November 6, 2026
If an uplifting magical realism read sounds like your current mood look no further. The Magic of Lemon Drop Pie has all the right vibes without losing the gravity that is necessary for novels of this nature to maintain depth.
Lolly is 32, flailing, and wondering what might have been. What if her mother hadn't died? What if she had not given up her restaurant dreams to keep the family diner afloat? What if she had ended up with the love of her life?
She is unhappy and unfulfilled in so many areas of life it is hard to figure out what the first step of a new beginning looks like.
🍋🍋🍋Lolly's 80-year-old great-aunt gives her three lemon drops with specific instructions.🍋🍋🍋
Each of these provides a peak at the reality that would have existed if these "What Ifs" were different. It is the kind of story that you should not expect huge explanations because this is magical realism not SCI-FI, it's best just to go with it. I found the journey to be worthwhile. 💜💜 The narration by Katie Koster was a fantastic fit for the material. I kept finding longer trails to walk, more errands to run, and chores to complete. Great audiobooks make me a more productive human! 🤣
Some things aren't meant to be mended, she said finally, gently. Sometimes it's in the breaking that the light can finally shine through.
🍋💜🥧I might have to bake a lemon drop pie because it is my favorite and as a sweet bonus the recipe is included!🥧💜🍋
Happiness is fleeting, fickle, often based on our circumstances....If you chase happiness, you will more often than not end up disappointed by the very nature of life. Life is hard, brutal at times, and often unfair. But following your bliss, that's entirely different. It means facing your present reality with honesty, and courage, and in the midst of it all, continuing to pursue each spark of joy, even if it is the tiniest pinpoint in the darkness of your life. Do not give up. Continue to look for the light in your life-it is always present somewhere, some small thing to be grateful for, something to celebrate, a way to give joy to others, a new way to grow. Move toward the light in life, seek it out no matter what. This is the essence of what it means to follow your bliss. You must be honest. Pay attention. Seek joy.
Lolly is 32, flailing, and wondering what might have been. What if her mother hadn't died? What if she had not given up her restaurant dreams to keep the family diner afloat? What if she had ended up with the love of her life?
She is unhappy and unfulfilled in so many areas of life it is hard to figure out what the first step of a new beginning looks like.
🍋🍋🍋Lolly's 80-year-old great-aunt gives her three lemon drops with specific instructions.🍋🍋🍋
Each of these provides a peak at the reality that would have existed if these "What Ifs" were different. It is the kind of story that you should not expect huge explanations because this is magical realism not SCI-FI, it's best just to go with it. I found the journey to be worthwhile. 💜💜 The narration by Katie Koster was a fantastic fit for the material. I kept finding longer trails to walk, more errands to run, and chores to complete. Great audiobooks make me a more productive human! 🤣
Some things aren't meant to be mended, she said finally, gently. Sometimes it's in the breaking that the light can finally shine through.
🍋💜🥧I might have to bake a lemon drop pie because it is my favorite and as a sweet bonus the recipe is included!🥧💜🍋
August 2, 2022
The Magic of Lemon Drop Pie
by Rachel Linden
Berkley Publishing Group, Berkley
Pub Date: Aug 2
What a compelling novel about second and third chances, granted to Lolly on her 33rd birthday. She still grieves her Mom who died 10 years ago. Rues the missed opportunity to start her own restaurant, foiled by coming home to Seattle to care for her grieving family and to help keep their diner going.
As she makes lemon meringue pies every morning à la Groundhog Day, she still longs for the man she loved but lost and wishes she could recover everything that's passed her by.
Only the gift from her great-aunt of three lemon drops, each granting her a day to live what she still yearns for, does Lolly receive the greatest gift of all: Knowledge that to realize her dreams, she must let go of the past and open her heart to what's possible now.
Highly recommended for lovers of second chances and compelling romance.
Thanks to the author, Berkley Publishing Group, and NetGalley for the ARC; opinions are mine.
#TheMagicofLemonDropPie #RachelLinden #berkleypublishinggroup #NetGalley #romancefiction #restaurantfiction #secondchancenovels #grieffiction #lostlovenovels #bookstagramcommunity
by Rachel Linden
Berkley Publishing Group, Berkley
Pub Date: Aug 2
What a compelling novel about second and third chances, granted to Lolly on her 33rd birthday. She still grieves her Mom who died 10 years ago. Rues the missed opportunity to start her own restaurant, foiled by coming home to Seattle to care for her grieving family and to help keep their diner going.
As she makes lemon meringue pies every morning à la Groundhog Day, she still longs for the man she loved but lost and wishes she could recover everything that's passed her by.
Only the gift from her great-aunt of three lemon drops, each granting her a day to live what she still yearns for, does Lolly receive the greatest gift of all: Knowledge that to realize her dreams, she must let go of the past and open her heart to what's possible now.
Highly recommended for lovers of second chances and compelling romance.
Thanks to the author, Berkley Publishing Group, and NetGalley for the ARC; opinions are mine.
#TheMagicofLemonDropPie #RachelLinden #berkleypublishinggroup #NetGalley #romancefiction #restaurantfiction #secondchancenovels #grieffiction #lostlovenovels #bookstagramcommunity
July 28, 2022
The Magic of Lemon Drop Pie reminded me of Sliding Doors with a touch of metaphysics. As Lolly Blanchard's thirty-third birthday approaches, she realizes she hasn't achieved any of her childhood dreams and goals. Lolly is stuck running her family's struggling diner, her family hasn't recovered from her mother's untimely death, and the man she has been in love with for years is married to another woman. She also had to give up her dream of living in another country and running her own restaurant. Unexpectedly, Lolly gets a chance to explore what-ifs when her great aunt gives her three magical lemon drops that can show Lolly three different versions of her life.
The Magic of Lemon Drop Pie is a well-written and heartwarming story about second chances, learning to let go of regrets, and embracing the life you have. I am a fan of the "Sliding Doors" trope, and I enjoyed this book very much.
*ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley
The Magic of Lemon Drop Pie is a well-written and heartwarming story about second chances, learning to let go of regrets, and embracing the life you have. I am a fan of the "Sliding Doors" trope, and I enjoyed this book very much.
*ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley
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