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Cape Cod Creamery #2
The Secret to Happiness
Escape to Cape Cod--where you just might find the secret to happiness
Callie Dixon had the world by its tail . . . until it all slipped away. Fired from her dream job after making a colossal mistake, she's escaped to her aunt's home on Cape Cod for time to bounce back. Except it isn't a home, it's an ice cream shop. And time isn't going to help, because Callie's bounce has up and left. There's a reason she made that mistake at work and she's struggling to come to terms with it.
Things go from bad to worse when Callie's cousin Dawn drags her to a community class about the secret to happiness. Happiness is the last thing Callie wants to think about right now, but instructor Bruno Bianco--a curiously gloomy fellow--is relentless. He has a way of turning Callie's thoughts upside down. Her feelings, too.
Could Bruno be right when he says that hitting rock bottom is the very best place to be? If so, how is that supposed to help her find exactly what--or who--has been missing all along?
Callie Dixon had the world by its tail . . . until it all slipped away. Fired from her dream job after making a colossal mistake, she's escaped to her aunt's home on Cape Cod for time to bounce back. Except it isn't a home, it's an ice cream shop. And time isn't going to help, because Callie's bounce has up and left. There's a reason she made that mistake at work and she's struggling to come to terms with it.
Things go from bad to worse when Callie's cousin Dawn drags her to a community class about the secret to happiness. Happiness is the last thing Callie wants to think about right now, but instructor Bruno Bianco--a curiously gloomy fellow--is relentless. He has a way of turning Callie's thoughts upside down. Her feelings, too.
Could Bruno be right when he says that hitting rock bottom is the very best place to be? If so, how is that supposed to help her find exactly what--or who--has been missing all along?
320 pages, Paperback
First published May 1, 2023
98 people are currently reading
4900 people want to read
About the author
Suzanne Woods Fisher
73 books3,966 followersSuzanne Woods Fisher is the bestselling, award winning author of fiction and non-fiction books about the Old Order Amish for Revell Books, host of the radio-show-turned-blog Amish Wisdom, a columnist for Christian Post and Cooking & Such magazine.
Her interest in the Amish began with her grandfather, who was raised Plain. A theme in her books (her life!) is that you don’t have to “go Amish” to incorporate the principles of simple living.
Suzanne lives in California with her family and raises puppies for Guide Dogs for the Blind. To her way of thinking, you just can't life too seriously when a puppy is tearing through your house with someone's underwear in its mouth.
Suzanne can be found on-line at: www.suzannewoodsfisher.com
Her interest in the Amish began with her grandfather, who was raised Plain. A theme in her books (her life!) is that you don’t have to “go Amish” to incorporate the principles of simple living.
Suzanne lives in California with her family and raises puppies for Guide Dogs for the Blind. To her way of thinking, you just can't life too seriously when a puppy is tearing through your house with someone's underwear in its mouth.
Suzanne can be found on-line at: www.suzannewoodsfisher.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 297 reviews
May 23, 2023
THE SECRET TO HAPPINESS is not the first book I’ve read by Suzanne Woods Fisher and it won’t be the last. She has a way of grabbing her readers and she never lets us go and now I’m kicking myself for not making time to read all of her books! THE SECRET TO HAPPINESS is the second book In the Cape Cod Creamery series. If you are a believer in “everything happens for a reason” you are going to love this book! Such a fun story and look at this beautiful cover!
Besides the condition of the creamery, the women in this story are going through their own problems. THE SECRET TO HAPPINESS introduces the reader to the gorgeous oceanside town of Chatham Massachusetts. I personally have been there and it is breath taking. I’ve been to the magnificent hotel in this story, The Chatham Bars Inn, for tea and it is amazing! Anyway, Callie Dixon is living her dream by being an executive chef, that is until she serves spoiled food to a group of two hundred people. She is immediately fired. With nowhere else to go she moves in with her aunt and cousin to their ice cream store in Cape Cod. On a side note, be prepared to crave ice cream the entire time you are reading this beautiful story and for Leo the cowboy to steal your heart!
THE SECRET TO HAPPINESS is filled with forgiveness, family, and love and had me staying up way too late one night to finish! I had to know where Suzanne Woods Fisher was taking us and what would happen to these wonderful characters. Dawn drags her cousin to a class that teaches the secret to happiness and that is where Callie meets Bruno Bianco, the teacher. There is so much heart in Suzanne’s writing that I was left with a huge smile on my face and my heart very happy. 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. Now I need to figure out how to fit more of Suzanne’s books into my reading plans! I can totally see THE SECRET TO HAPPINESS becoming a Hallmark movie that I would surely watch. I loved watching these women grow and come into their own. The secondary characters are just as important as Bruno and Callie and you will come to love them all.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell Books. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Besides the condition of the creamery, the women in this story are going through their own problems. THE SECRET TO HAPPINESS introduces the reader to the gorgeous oceanside town of Chatham Massachusetts. I personally have been there and it is breath taking. I’ve been to the magnificent hotel in this story, The Chatham Bars Inn, for tea and it is amazing! Anyway, Callie Dixon is living her dream by being an executive chef, that is until she serves spoiled food to a group of two hundred people. She is immediately fired. With nowhere else to go she moves in with her aunt and cousin to their ice cream store in Cape Cod. On a side note, be prepared to crave ice cream the entire time you are reading this beautiful story and for Leo the cowboy to steal your heart!
THE SECRET TO HAPPINESS is filled with forgiveness, family, and love and had me staying up way too late one night to finish! I had to know where Suzanne Woods Fisher was taking us and what would happen to these wonderful characters. Dawn drags her cousin to a class that teaches the secret to happiness and that is where Callie meets Bruno Bianco, the teacher. There is so much heart in Suzanne’s writing that I was left with a huge smile on my face and my heart very happy. 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. Now I need to figure out how to fit more of Suzanne’s books into my reading plans! I can totally see THE SECRET TO HAPPINESS becoming a Hallmark movie that I would surely watch. I loved watching these women grow and come into their own. The secondary characters are just as important as Bruno and Callie and you will come to love them all.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell Books. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
March 31, 2023
The Secret to Happiness is Suzanne Woods Fisher’s newest book due out May 2023. I love this cover with all the popsicles on it. Callie Dixon was living her dream job until she accidentally served bad food to a group of 200 people. She was immediately fired and moved in with her aunt at an ice cream shop in Cape Cod. This book is about forgiveness, family, relationships, and second chances. I loved the characters and it’s a great story. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this early release in exchange for my honest review.
May 28, 2023
Great second in the series!
As Dawn and Marnie finish their first year of owning their ice cream shop, their cousin/niece Callie invites herself to stay with them. It's tight quarters and Callie is completely disengaged following an embarrassing and public end to her last job as master chef.
This novel brings to light a number of great topics in an engaging and entertaining way. I particularly loved six year old cowboy Leo. What a charmer!
Can't wait for the next in the series.
As Dawn and Marnie finish their first year of owning their ice cream shop, their cousin/niece Callie invites herself to stay with them. It's tight quarters and Callie is completely disengaged following an embarrassing and public end to her last job as master chef.
This novel brings to light a number of great topics in an engaging and entertaining way. I particularly loved six year old cowboy Leo. What a charmer!
Can't wait for the next in the series.
May 5, 2023
I dream of going to Cape Cod, after reading Fishers books it's like I have been there. The writing and the descriptions are so real. This series has been Fishers best. She does contemporary so well.
I gave this book 4 stars and I can't wait for Fishers next book.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required, and all views expressed are our own.
May 3, 2023
This book began with me feeling that I was really not going to like it or the main character at all, but I was intrigued enough to keep going and I’m glad I did.
While Callie’s personality bugged me a lot at the beginning, I learned to like her more later on. She’s the kind of person that seems to think her way is the one and only way. While there may be chef’s out there who are that judgmental of other people’s cooking, I thankfully don’t know them. I think I would have felt very similar to Dawn’s feelings toward Callie.
For the most part I really enjoyed the characters in this book. In fact, Leo the cowboy completely stole the show for me. He was very possibly one of my favorite characters with Bruno coming close behind and Lincoln another favorite. I also liked Kevin and his passion for retaining old architecture. Marnie was insightful and Dawn was fun.
The plot was intriguing, but I kept waiting and hoping for the gospel to come through and remind Callie that her one and only true source of joy had to come through Jesus Christ first and most of all. The thing that kept this novel from turning into a three star was the fact that it did finally come though not as strong as I had hoped. There were so many opportunities where it could have been made clearer and more distinct, but I was glad that it was at least there. And on the other hand, there were a lot of good practical reminders in this novel that were exactly what I needed to hear.
This was a sweet story, but also had several moments of sadness or grief, showing the reality of life in all of its joys and sorrows. It had lessons of forgiveness, hope, and happiness. I loved all the inspirational ice cream quotes, and I am definitely intrigued to try more by this author.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author/publisher for promotional purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest opinions.
While Callie’s personality bugged me a lot at the beginning, I learned to like her more later on. She’s the kind of person that seems to think her way is the one and only way. While there may be chef’s out there who are that judgmental of other people’s cooking, I thankfully don’t know them. I think I would have felt very similar to Dawn’s feelings toward Callie.
For the most part I really enjoyed the characters in this book. In fact, Leo the cowboy completely stole the show for me. He was very possibly one of my favorite characters with Bruno coming close behind and Lincoln another favorite. I also liked Kevin and his passion for retaining old architecture. Marnie was insightful and Dawn was fun.
The plot was intriguing, but I kept waiting and hoping for the gospel to come through and remind Callie that her one and only true source of joy had to come through Jesus Christ first and most of all. The thing that kept this novel from turning into a three star was the fact that it did finally come though not as strong as I had hoped. There were so many opportunities where it could have been made clearer and more distinct, but I was glad that it was at least there. And on the other hand, there were a lot of good practical reminders in this novel that were exactly what I needed to hear.
This was a sweet story, but also had several moments of sadness or grief, showing the reality of life in all of its joys and sorrows. It had lessons of forgiveness, hope, and happiness. I loved all the inspirational ice cream quotes, and I am definitely intrigued to try more by this author.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author/publisher for promotional purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest opinions.
May 3, 2023
The Secret to Happiness by Suzanne Woods Fisher is the second book in the Cape Cod Creamery series. I was anxious to continue the series after reading the first book as I like the characters and the setting.
Callie Dixon is Dawn Dixon's high achieving cousin. Only she made a mistake. A big mistake in her field as an executive chef of a large hotel. After she is fired from her job, she sees Aunt Marnie Dixon at Ice Cream school when she is working there and she begs Marnie to let her come visit awhile--so Dawn and Marnie make room for her to stay at The Creamery. Callie is beyond sad at the state of her life--and she has some other concerns she hasn't shared with anyone yet. Cousin Dawn suggests she go to a community class about the secret of happiness. The instructor, Bruno Bianco, does help Callie in more ways than she could have imagined. In the meantime, Dawn and Kevin are back to planning their wedding. Little Cowboy Leo also visits the Creamery and cheers Callie up.
I just enjoyed most all the characters in The Secret to Happiness. Again, Fisher deals with some heavy topics but I think she does it quite well. While I appreciate the lighter parts of the book, the heavier parts are often part of all of our lives so this felt realistic. I read most of The Secret to Happiness in one day. I liked seeing the changes in Callie. I also like the developing friendship between Marnie and Lincoln Hayes. I didn't really care for Dawn's actions and attitudes but there are people like that in the real world that we need to learn to deal with. There is some romance in this book, but it deals with a lot of relationship and life issues in a beautiful way. There is a Christian faith element to some of the characters. I could really relate to some of what was going on in this book as well as some of the characters, although the situations were different than my life. However, there are some themes I well understood in the book. I think other readers would feel similarly. Already I am looking forward to the 3rd book in the series to read Brynn's story and see how the other character's lives have progressed.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions within this review are my own.
Callie Dixon is Dawn Dixon's high achieving cousin. Only she made a mistake. A big mistake in her field as an executive chef of a large hotel. After she is fired from her job, she sees Aunt Marnie Dixon at Ice Cream school when she is working there and she begs Marnie to let her come visit awhile--so Dawn and Marnie make room for her to stay at The Creamery. Callie is beyond sad at the state of her life--and she has some other concerns she hasn't shared with anyone yet. Cousin Dawn suggests she go to a community class about the secret of happiness. The instructor, Bruno Bianco, does help Callie in more ways than she could have imagined. In the meantime, Dawn and Kevin are back to planning their wedding. Little Cowboy Leo also visits the Creamery and cheers Callie up.
I just enjoyed most all the characters in The Secret to Happiness. Again, Fisher deals with some heavy topics but I think she does it quite well. While I appreciate the lighter parts of the book, the heavier parts are often part of all of our lives so this felt realistic. I read most of The Secret to Happiness in one day. I liked seeing the changes in Callie. I also like the developing friendship between Marnie and Lincoln Hayes. I didn't really care for Dawn's actions and attitudes but there are people like that in the real world that we need to learn to deal with. There is some romance in this book, but it deals with a lot of relationship and life issues in a beautiful way. There is a Christian faith element to some of the characters. I could really relate to some of what was going on in this book as well as some of the characters, although the situations were different than my life. However, there are some themes I well understood in the book. I think other readers would feel similarly. Already I am looking forward to the 3rd book in the series to read Brynn's story and see how the other character's lives have progressed.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions within this review are my own.
February 13, 2025
I absolutely adored this book. I actually enjoyed it more than the one before it. The characters from the first book were main characters in this second book also, and their story line picks up where it left off, but Callie, Marlenes niece and Callies cousin, comes to visit unexpectedly after her life pretty much falls apart. With her visit, come a few new characters. It's almost immediate that Marlene and Dawn notice that Callie is not at all herself, and the story progresses into a pretty deep journey that Callie has to take through fear, anxiety and depression. What she goes through is so relatable, and I found myself rooting hard for her to be able to get back on her feet. Little Leo stole my heart for sure! And Bruno was such a great balance for Callie and I ended up really loving their story. I wouldn't say this one is heavy, but it does hit some heavy topics. Loved the small town feel and community feel in this one just as much as I did in the second one. As well as the how huge of a difference support system can make in the life of someone who feels that their world is falling apart. I was a little disappointed that Marlene and Link didn't seem to have an "ending" since this is what I'm guessing is the last book in the series. But I loved this book and would recommend this short series for sure, and will read more books by this author.
Last note, I listened to this on audio book and Stephanie Cozart is the audio book narrator, so of course the narration was great!
Last note, I listened to this on audio book and Stephanie Cozart is the audio book narrator, so of course the narration was great!
May 2, 2023
Callie could not feel worse after losing her dream job. When a friend asks her to teach at Ice Cream School, she bumps into her aunt Marnie and jumps at the chance for a respite on Cape Cod at the shop owned by her aunt and cousin Dawn.
What fun! A story about ice cream, and a girl searching for her lost happiness, complete with a cute little cowboy, and an author of a book on happiness who makes her work for the answers. Callie’s journey makes you wonder what is really important in life and who is in charge. “Who are you letting tell your story?” “Contentment is better than happiness.”
Along the way we are treated to awesome sunrises, nosy neighbors, interesting facts about ice cream making and how family pulls together. But do not forget about the romance in unlikely places and getting to know more about the characters from book one: The Sweet Life.
* I received a complimentary copy of this book from Library Thing Early Readers Program. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
What fun! A story about ice cream, and a girl searching for her lost happiness, complete with a cute little cowboy, and an author of a book on happiness who makes her work for the answers. Callie’s journey makes you wonder what is really important in life and who is in charge. “Who are you letting tell your story?” “Contentment is better than happiness.”
Along the way we are treated to awesome sunrises, nosy neighbors, interesting facts about ice cream making and how family pulls together. But do not forget about the romance in unlikely places and getting to know more about the characters from book one: The Sweet Life.
* I received a complimentary copy of this book from Library Thing Early Readers Program. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
February 28, 2024
5 Stars.
I'm just starting with that. While I really really enjoyed the first book in this series, this one took it up a notch. Not only did I get to enjoy the previous characters Dawn and Marnie, but we added cousin Callie. This one really had so much amazing life advice throughout using the Secret to Happiness class and book that Callie was attending/reading. And the message of faith was so gently woven...and the "breaking" of Callie was so very realistic.
I think too many of us have walked where Callie has walked. Or maybe we are more identifiable with Dawn. And the ADHD of Marnie being recognized and celebrated in her uniqueness in this book was just beautiful. The wedding scene descriptions was so beautiful I could just close my eyes and perfectly imagine it. I myself would LOVE to visit the Creamery!
There isn't anything about this book I didn't like. The characters had enough baggage to be believable. The men in the book were simply amazing examples of Godly men. Leo was absolutely adorable.
Highly recommend and I can't wait to read book #3!
I'm just starting with that. While I really really enjoyed the first book in this series, this one took it up a notch. Not only did I get to enjoy the previous characters Dawn and Marnie, but we added cousin Callie. This one really had so much amazing life advice throughout using the Secret to Happiness class and book that Callie was attending/reading. And the message of faith was so gently woven...and the "breaking" of Callie was so very realistic.
I think too many of us have walked where Callie has walked. Or maybe we are more identifiable with Dawn. And the ADHD of Marnie being recognized and celebrated in her uniqueness in this book was just beautiful. The wedding scene descriptions was so beautiful I could just close my eyes and perfectly imagine it. I myself would LOVE to visit the Creamery!
There isn't anything about this book I didn't like. The characters had enough baggage to be believable. The men in the book were simply amazing examples of Godly men. Leo was absolutely adorable.
Highly recommend and I can't wait to read book #3!
February 26, 2024
As much as I loved the first book in this series, The Secret to Happiness offers a rich, layered story with deep, flawed, and (sometimes) loveable characters.
I love a book rich in faith and full of spiritual nuggets from Scripture, and at first, I was disappointed not to find them. That's when I realized they had been there all along. Fisher used a subtler approach to revealing the truth of God's love and our need for it in this book, but she used the approach that someone with Callie's past needed (with an overbearing father demanding she follow his directions... can you see how a Father God might have repulsed someone in her fragile state?).
Each person in this story had lessons to learn--lessons in love, trust, faith, triumph over fear, patience, forgiveness... so many things!
And reading the first chapter of the next book? Big mistake. Huge. How on earth am I supposed to keep from going nuts until it arrives???
I love a book rich in faith and full of spiritual nuggets from Scripture, and at first, I was disappointed not to find them. That's when I realized they had been there all along. Fisher used a subtler approach to revealing the truth of God's love and our need for it in this book, but she used the approach that someone with Callie's past needed (with an overbearing father demanding she follow his directions... can you see how a Father God might have repulsed someone in her fragile state?).
Each person in this story had lessons to learn--lessons in love, trust, faith, triumph over fear, patience, forgiveness... so many things!
And reading the first chapter of the next book? Big mistake. Huge. How on earth am I supposed to keep from going nuts until it arrives???
August 15, 2023
I’ve really enjoyed this series. I hope she continues it.
April 24, 2025
A cute little story about finding happiness, even in dark circumstances. Very slow paced, but I enjoyed it.
September 5, 2023
This was so good! I think my first read outside the Amish genre that I think of Suzanne. Now I have to read the first one because number 3 is on the way. When Callie loses her high profile job for poisoning the entire Food Safety Conference. But that was how she ended up in a temporary minimum wage job for a few weeks. That is where she meets her aunt for the first time in awhile. Callie kind of bullies her way into visiting her aunt with a no end date. After losing her job, she is devastated. She falls into a deep depression that she can’t pull herself out. Her cousin is not happy sharing her tiny bedroom with Callie. I won’t giveaway anything else. Well worth reading I received an e-form ARC from the publisher and NetGalley. This did not affect my honest review. I try to review every book I read. Be sure to read the first book before this one. I read out of sequence and it really kinda ruined the first one for me.
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April 8, 2023
About a month ago, I read and reviewed a novel that talked about how to be happy. In many respects this is another novel on the same premise. I don't know if this is a statement about society in general, or if this is the trendy thing to write about. The Secret to Happiness is the second book in the Cape Cod Creamery series by Suzanne Woods Fisher.
Imagine, if you will, that you are at the top of your career, but you make a mistake that ends up harming hundreds of people and you lose your job. Where do you go to lick your wounds? For Callie, that is to go to your favorite aunt's and just bury yourself in misery. Callie's cousin, Dawn, wishes (in the beginning) that Callie had never shown up. There's just too much history and it's a history where Dawn always came in second to Callie, no matter what she did. To get Callie out of her mopes, Dawn makes her go to a class on finding happiness put on by the local community college as an outreach. The instructor of the class makes her look deep within herself to find the roots of her unhappiness and dig out the things that prevent her from being happy.
The approach to finding happiness in the two books I read are quite different. In this book there is a more contemplative approach, whereas in the other one, the approach is more focused on doing things. I find I am more drawn to the contemplative process that lends itself to finding the ways within herself be be happy regardless of circumstances.
I thing every reader's favorite character will be Leo the Cowboy. He is charmingly clueless about social niceties (knocking on doors before entering) while at the same time endearing with the way he gives love so guilelessly. He is a little surprise for Callie that I wish I could write about here, but it would give away a major plot line of the book.
I can easily give this book four stars. It's lighthearted, heart-warming, and fun. At the same time, it's soul-wrenchingly sad in parts. There is a lot to understanding where Callie comes from, what motivates her, and how she overcomes some rather grievous circumstances to come out on top.
Revell Publishing provided the copy I read for this review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.
Imagine, if you will, that you are at the top of your career, but you make a mistake that ends up harming hundreds of people and you lose your job. Where do you go to lick your wounds? For Callie, that is to go to your favorite aunt's and just bury yourself in misery. Callie's cousin, Dawn, wishes (in the beginning) that Callie had never shown up. There's just too much history and it's a history where Dawn always came in second to Callie, no matter what she did. To get Callie out of her mopes, Dawn makes her go to a class on finding happiness put on by the local community college as an outreach. The instructor of the class makes her look deep within herself to find the roots of her unhappiness and dig out the things that prevent her from being happy.
The approach to finding happiness in the two books I read are quite different. In this book there is a more contemplative approach, whereas in the other one, the approach is more focused on doing things. I find I am more drawn to the contemplative process that lends itself to finding the ways within herself be be happy regardless of circumstances.
I thing every reader's favorite character will be Leo the Cowboy. He is charmingly clueless about social niceties (knocking on doors before entering) while at the same time endearing with the way he gives love so guilelessly. He is a little surprise for Callie that I wish I could write about here, but it would give away a major plot line of the book.
I can easily give this book four stars. It's lighthearted, heart-warming, and fun. At the same time, it's soul-wrenchingly sad in parts. There is a lot to understanding where Callie comes from, what motivates her, and how she overcomes some rather grievous circumstances to come out on top.
Revell Publishing provided the copy I read for this review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.
April 24, 2023
The Secret to Happiness, book 2 in the Cape Cod Creamery series was amazing. I read it in less than a weekend. I absolutely fell in love with Callie from the beginning and fell more in love with Dawn and Marnie. Kevin and Lincoln definitely endeared me more to themselves this book also and my absolute favorite character of all is Leo, the Cowboy. This book was amazing on so many levels and one where the message resonates long after the last page is read. This series is sweet and wonderful for summer, but also has a message for those of us who like substance in their books. I cannot wait for the third book in the series, having read the first chapter at the end of this book. The wedding? Absolutely a dream!
I was given a complimentary copy of this book to read and all opinions were my own.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book to read and all opinions were my own.
May 16, 2023
Rating: 5 Stars!!
Review:
Thank you to Librarything for picking me to win this FREE ARC COPY in a giveaway on their website earlier this year!! Even tho this is only the 2nd book ive read in The Cape Cod Creamery Series im really loving it!!
The Characters were so fun and enjoyable to read about. Dawn and Callie were my favorites. I really felt for Callie especially when she had fear of having MS like her Mother did so many years ago.
The Setting was beautifully described which made me feel like i was actually in Cape Cod, Massachusetts while reading, especially when the scenery was described.
Overall Another Phenomenal Book in this Contemporary Romance Series about a Mother and Daughter who run a Creamery in Cape Cod!! Can't wait to read Book 3 when it comes out later this year!!
Review:
Thank you to Librarything for picking me to win this FREE ARC COPY in a giveaway on their website earlier this year!! Even tho this is only the 2nd book ive read in The Cape Cod Creamery Series im really loving it!!
The Characters were so fun and enjoyable to read about. Dawn and Callie were my favorites. I really felt for Callie especially when she had fear of having MS like her Mother did so many years ago.
The Setting was beautifully described which made me feel like i was actually in Cape Cod, Massachusetts while reading, especially when the scenery was described.
Overall Another Phenomenal Book in this Contemporary Romance Series about a Mother and Daughter who run a Creamery in Cape Cod!! Can't wait to read Book 3 when it comes out later this year!!
November 21, 2023
I enjoyed the first book in the series and looked forward to this one. It did not disappoint, in fact I loved it even more. What was so great was that even though we have a new character(s) and story, the characters from the first book were still included. I enjoyed seeing their stories continue. Looks like book 3 will add another character to love.
The "book" in the book, The Secret to Happiness, had a lot of great quotes and ideas. Self help in a fiction book. Loved it!
The "book" in the book, The Secret to Happiness, had a lot of great quotes and ideas. Self help in a fiction book. Loved it!
May 13, 2023
This is the second book in the series but can easily be read and enjoyed as a standalone. This is the story of Callie Dixon, a master chef who finds herself unexpectedly unemployed. So she flees to hide out in Cape Cod with her Aunt Marnie and cousin Dawn. Dawn and Marnie are running an ice cream shop and barely making ends meet because it’s winter and all of the tourists have disappeared. After days of watching Callie malinger in bed, Dawn decides that she needs an intervention to her depression and insists that she go to a class called “The Secret to Happiness.” The instructor is a forbidding, non-smiling and stern man names Bruno Bianco, a man who is wise beyond his years and very intuitive about what is actually happening in Callie’s life. He begins to advise her in subtle ways that make her think and when she starts reading his book about finding happiness, she ultimately discovers what her problem is and what she needs to do about it. This book was brilliantly written, with a sub-plot (Dawn’s wedding plans) and a book within a book (as Callie reads Bruno’s instruction manual and shares with the readers). I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know Callie and the way she was talented and determined but not very self-confident. The way the author weaves the story around the dynamic changes in Callie and her attitude is amazing and so engaging! The characters were all well-developed and totally realistic and relatable. The messages are loss, redemption and ultimately hope for the future. This is a book not to be missed because it is entertaining as well as thought-provoking, causing me to think about what I would do if I had one goal in life and that one goal was suddenly taken away. How would I respond to that change, and would I still be able to find happiness? This is a book that held me tightly in its grasp and did not let me go until I discovered what Callie found, her own secret to happiness.
Disclaimer
Discloure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell via Netgalley. I also purchased my own copy to enjoy again and again! I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, “Guidelines Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”
Disclaimer
Discloure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell via Netgalley. I also purchased my own copy to enjoy again and again! I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, “Guidelines Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”
May 23, 2023
I was selected to read this book on NetGalley and was so excited to read this book!! Callie loses her job as a chef so she runs to her Aunt and cousin ice cream shop. Once there she can hardly get out of bed. Not only depressed about her job but her mother had MS at Callie age and she believes she might has it as well. Talked in to taking a self help class her and her instructor start working together so Callie can heal and work through her fears. Can she learn to go on with her life??
I had a great time reading this book. Now it’s not a Rom Com. It deals with depression, anxiety, and illness. The subjects are dealt with well. The cast of characters are wonderful and the storyline is solid. I highly recommend this book and series. Great read!!
I had a great time reading this book. Now it’s not a Rom Com. It deals with depression, anxiety, and illness. The subjects are dealt with well. The cast of characters are wonderful and the storyline is solid. I highly recommend this book and series. Great read!!
April 13, 2023
Can I just say, that cover!?! Wow--love it!! (And I'd like a real popsicle like that, please, LOL! Yummm!)
Similar to the first book in this series, _The Secret to Happiness_ was a bit of a slow build for me. It picked up just over the halfway point and proved well worth it!
As ever, in a book about food, I set it down hungry every time. Fisher vividly brought the food world to life, and tied together the loose ends quite nicely. I was really curious how it would all pan out, and ultimately quite pleased. (I also saw that a) a Book 3 is coming, yay--and b) it's about Dawn's BFF Brynn! Excitement!)
I also would really like to visit Cape Cod now. And Boston. :) ("And Boston, I love Boston!" #FatheroftheBrideII)
One phrase that was oft repeated in the book: "Everything happens for a reason." I do wish that had been fleshed out a bit more than it was; yes, God is sovereign and can redeem any situation--indeed, Romans 8:28-31 speaks directly to his working all things for good to those who love him. However, the phrase is somewhat incomplete (and overused, in my very humble opinion). So I don't hijack my review with a soapbox :D, Grotto Network and Christianity.com have some good articles on the topic. Still, I appreciated what Fisher was getting at, and it certainly provided food for thought (and didn't detract much :D from the read). Still worthwhile!
Looking forward to Brynn's story soon!
I received an eARC of the book from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
Similar to the first book in this series, _The Secret to Happiness_ was a bit of a slow build for me. It picked up just over the halfway point and proved well worth it!
As ever, in a book about food, I set it down hungry every time. Fisher vividly brought the food world to life, and tied together the loose ends quite nicely. I was really curious how it would all pan out, and ultimately quite pleased. (I also saw that a) a Book 3 is coming, yay--and b) it's about Dawn's BFF Brynn! Excitement!)
I also would really like to visit Cape Cod now. And Boston. :) ("And Boston, I love Boston!" #FatheroftheBrideII)
One phrase that was oft repeated in the book: "Everything happens for a reason." I do wish that had been fleshed out a bit more than it was; yes, God is sovereign and can redeem any situation--indeed, Romans 8:28-31 speaks directly to his working all things for good to those who love him. However, the phrase is somewhat incomplete (and overused, in my very humble opinion). So I don't hijack my review with a soapbox :D, Grotto Network and Christianity.com have some good articles on the topic. Still, I appreciated what Fisher was getting at, and it certainly provided food for thought (and didn't detract much :D from the read). Still worthwhile!
Looking forward to Brynn's story soon!
I received an eARC of the book from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
August 2, 2023
Series should be read in order.
Family from book 1 continues their story in this book. Enjoyable story and I also liked the narrator. (Stephanie Cozart)
Family from book 1 continues their story in this book. Enjoyable story and I also liked the narrator. (Stephanie Cozart)
February 27, 2025
4 stars
Completed: Jan. 30/25
Series: Cape Cod Creamery, #2
Format: Audiobook borrow from Everand
Challenge Prompt: TBBS's "book cover is your favourite colour" -- turquoise
Book #13 of 2025: This is the middle book in a nice series centered around an ice cream business taken on by a widow and her daughter. This novel went beyond romance and actually focused more on personal and health issues.
This novel is largely about Callie, the niece to Marnie and cousin to Dawn from book 1. She is an accomplished executive chef at a young age who has lost her job and her way. Plagued and scared by a secret she's holding, she goes to see her aunt and cousin.
Gone is the vivacious, effervescent, positive person they've always known. She is a shell of her former self. Through patience and support, along with "positivity classes," based on a self-help book, Callie seeks to find the key to happiness.
I am not a fan of self-help books so I was a little concerned about that aspect. However, Bruno (author said book) is just so sincere and real that the reader can't help but respect him.
Callie's journey isn't smooth or without peaks and valleys. Like real life! Bruno is unwavering in his support as are Marnie and Dawn. However, Dawn's is more from a selfish perspective due to a lifetime of competitiveness with Callie.
Leo, a young boy, is the bonus within this novel. You can't help but fall in love with him just as Callie did. I also appreciated seeing a couple different groups of people working together as a unit, stronger together. Dawn and Marnie remain as central characters in this book as well.
The novel comes around to highlight that God's mercy, love, and direction are central to true happiness and peace. He can work through adults, children, books, life-altering moments, and everything else.
Completed: Jan. 30/25
Series: Cape Cod Creamery, #2
Format: Audiobook borrow from Everand
Challenge Prompt: TBBS's "book cover is your favourite colour" -- turquoise
Book #13 of 2025: This is the middle book in a nice series centered around an ice cream business taken on by a widow and her daughter. This novel went beyond romance and actually focused more on personal and health issues.
This novel is largely about Callie, the niece to Marnie and cousin to Dawn from book 1. She is an accomplished executive chef at a young age who has lost her job and her way. Plagued and scared by a secret she's holding, she goes to see her aunt and cousin.
Gone is the vivacious, effervescent, positive person they've always known. She is a shell of her former self. Through patience and support, along with "positivity classes," based on a self-help book, Callie seeks to find the key to happiness.
I am not a fan of self-help books so I was a little concerned about that aspect. However, Bruno (author said book) is just so sincere and real that the reader can't help but respect him.
Callie's journey isn't smooth or without peaks and valleys. Like real life! Bruno is unwavering in his support as are Marnie and Dawn. However, Dawn's is more from a selfish perspective due to a lifetime of competitiveness with Callie.
Leo, a young boy, is the bonus within this novel. You can't help but fall in love with him just as Callie did. I also appreciated seeing a couple different groups of people working together as a unit, stronger together. Dawn and Marnie remain as central characters in this book as well.
The novel comes around to highlight that God's mercy, love, and direction are central to true happiness and peace. He can work through adults, children, books, life-altering moments, and everything else.
May 10, 2023
I enjoyed this book immensely. I am in awe of the wonder that it is. The story will always be in my heart. The characters nestled themselves in my heart as I read. I didn't just read the book but somehow the author wrote in such a way that I was invited into the story. My heart felt what the characters were feeling. I loved how the characters lived their life of faith and witnessing God without even trying.
Reading this book was a holy moment me. I was invested in it.
Highly recommended
I received a copy of this book from Revell and this is my honest opinion.
Reading this book was a holy moment me. I was invested in it.
Highly recommended
I received a copy of this book from Revell and this is my honest opinion.
June 16, 2025
This second book was just as amazing as the first. Same characters I fell in love with from book one with lovable new ones too. Suzanne Woods Fisher added these new characters so seamlessly! Looking forward to the third book!!
My review for book #1 The Sweet Life
My review for book #3 Love on a Whim
My review for book #1 The Sweet Life
My review for book #3 Love on a Whim
June 29, 2023
Rating 3 stars because for the kind of book it was, it was really good. I just don’t like books that are like hallmark movies. It did get easier to read once I got over that, and it was cutesy. Everything came together. Quick read.
April 13, 2023
Can you name three things that have made you happy today?
Let me share my three. One, the birds singing the sun awake this morning. Two, a beautiful blue sky and nicely warm Maine day. Three, I just read Suzanne Woods Fisher's second book in the Cape Cod Creamery series. I didn't want to set it aside.
It is nice to be back with Marnie and her daughter Dawn. They have started settling into their new life at their ice cream business and home. Dawn and Kevin are back planning their wedding. Marnie has willingly gone to ice cream making school and now, things may change again. Her niece Callie, a professional chef, is working at the school and has invited herself to go back to Cape Cod with her surprised aunt.
I received an advanced reader's copy from Revell Publishing via NetGalley. This is my own personal opinion about it. It is an excellent story. Callie isn't herself at all. The talkative, bubbly personality is nearly non-existent which has shocked her cousin Dawn. She enrolls the seemingly depressed Callie in The Secret to Happiness class. The woman is not happy to be there. College Professor Bruno Bianco, the unsmiling man with "puppy dog eyes" challenges Callie as he teaches the weekly class.
This book made me think and will have me looking for the happy things in my days ahead. There is a lot going on in its depth, change, grief, fear, potential life changing medical issues and career loss; all things I have personally lived with in different ways. It's a very touching story. Endearing characters including the loveable Leo the cowboy and Marnie's very good friend, Lincoln are important to the novel. I've learned there is a third book underway, and I look forward to it.
Let me share my three. One, the birds singing the sun awake this morning. Two, a beautiful blue sky and nicely warm Maine day. Three, I just read Suzanne Woods Fisher's second book in the Cape Cod Creamery series. I didn't want to set it aside.
It is nice to be back with Marnie and her daughter Dawn. They have started settling into their new life at their ice cream business and home. Dawn and Kevin are back planning their wedding. Marnie has willingly gone to ice cream making school and now, things may change again. Her niece Callie, a professional chef, is working at the school and has invited herself to go back to Cape Cod with her surprised aunt.
I received an advanced reader's copy from Revell Publishing via NetGalley. This is my own personal opinion about it. It is an excellent story. Callie isn't herself at all. The talkative, bubbly personality is nearly non-existent which has shocked her cousin Dawn. She enrolls the seemingly depressed Callie in The Secret to Happiness class. The woman is not happy to be there. College Professor Bruno Bianco, the unsmiling man with "puppy dog eyes" challenges Callie as he teaches the weekly class.
This book made me think and will have me looking for the happy things in my days ahead. There is a lot going on in its depth, change, grief, fear, potential life changing medical issues and career loss; all things I have personally lived with in different ways. It's a very touching story. Endearing characters including the loveable Leo the cowboy and Marnie's very good friend, Lincoln are important to the novel. I've learned there is a third book underway, and I look forward to it.
May 15, 2023
Huge thanks to Revell Fiction for my gifted copy of The Secret To Happiness Book Two in the Cape Cod Creamery Series by Suzanne Woods Fisher. Loved this sweet story and read it in one sitting.
Callie Dixon, high achiever, brilliant chef, has made a name for herself even at her young age. A successful restaurant and business, all is well until it isn't. One mistake cost her dearly, and Callie finds herself escaping to her Aunt and Cousin's house in Cape Cod to try to recover, she hasn't told either of them what went wrong. I loved the escape this books gives the reader. I could totally see the small town ice cream shop in my mind, and oh boy was I craving Ice Cream while reading this. To try and help Callie recover, her cousin innocently insists she take a local class given by an author, the subject? The secret to happiness. Come along on this lovely story that hits topics of illness, mistakes, career, self accountability, family, love, friendship, all woven with lush descriptions of food and ice cream. Looking forward to the next book. #icecream #capecod #revellfiction #suzannewoodsfisher #revellreads #thesecrettohappiness #reviewer #gifted #contemporaryromance #christianfiction
Callie Dixon, high achiever, brilliant chef, has made a name for herself even at her young age. A successful restaurant and business, all is well until it isn't. One mistake cost her dearly, and Callie finds herself escaping to her Aunt and Cousin's house in Cape Cod to try to recover, she hasn't told either of them what went wrong. I loved the escape this books gives the reader. I could totally see the small town ice cream shop in my mind, and oh boy was I craving Ice Cream while reading this. To try and help Callie recover, her cousin innocently insists she take a local class given by an author, the subject? The secret to happiness. Come along on this lovely story that hits topics of illness, mistakes, career, self accountability, family, love, friendship, all woven with lush descriptions of food and ice cream. Looking forward to the next book. #icecream #capecod #revellfiction #suzannewoodsfisher #revellreads #thesecrettohappiness #reviewer #gifted #contemporaryromance #christianfiction
May 9, 2023
I’ve never been to Cape Cod, but The Secret to Happiness makes me want to visit!
I felt for Callie from the first page and understood her needing an escape. She’s had a rough go of it, and things get even more topsy turvy when she is coaxed into going to a community class on happiness. Bruno is there to help, whether she wants it or not.
There are various types of characters in this story, and I could place someone from my own life into some of those roles, which made it even more interesting. The characters, setting, and difficult topics all kept my interest, but I especially liked the elements of faith and forgiveness the author incorporated.
First Line: Two months ago, Callie Dixon had been the executive chef at one of the largest convention hotels in Boston, a hotel so highly esteemed that the Food Safety Conference chose to hold their annual meeting there.
Series: Cape Cod Creamery book 2
Genre: Christian Contemporary Fiction
Author: Suzanne Woods Fisher
Page Count: 294
#CoverLoverBookReview received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions are 100% mine.
I felt for Callie from the first page and understood her needing an escape. She’s had a rough go of it, and things get even more topsy turvy when she is coaxed into going to a community class on happiness. Bruno is there to help, whether she wants it or not.
There are various types of characters in this story, and I could place someone from my own life into some of those roles, which made it even more interesting. The characters, setting, and difficult topics all kept my interest, but I especially liked the elements of faith and forgiveness the author incorporated.
First Line: Two months ago, Callie Dixon had been the executive chef at one of the largest convention hotels in Boston, a hotel so highly esteemed that the Food Safety Conference chose to hold their annual meeting there.
Series: Cape Cod Creamery book 2
Genre: Christian Contemporary Fiction
Author: Suzanne Woods Fisher
Page Count: 294
#CoverLoverBookReview received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions are 100% mine.
June 9, 2023
I was very excited to read another installment of the Cape Cod Creamery and was even more intrigued when the story mainly revolved around Callie, Dawn’s cousin. To be able to hear both sides of how Callie and Dawn viewed each other gave a great insight into what I was going to start to read.
While reading this I couldn’t help but laugh or feel frustrated with Callie. The one part I did agree with was Callie needed gentle prodding to do things, even though she didn’t want to. I really liked the interaction between Callie and Leo and Bruno. Both of them brought out the best in Callie and it showed she was learning from both of them.
Sometimes tough love is what we need to have from our loved ones to get better. We might not like the way it happens, but we all grow stronger in the end.
I received a complimentary copy of the book from Revell Publishers through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
While reading this I couldn’t help but laugh or feel frustrated with Callie. The one part I did agree with was Callie needed gentle prodding to do things, even though she didn’t want to. I really liked the interaction between Callie and Leo and Bruno. Both of them brought out the best in Callie and it showed she was learning from both of them.
Sometimes tough love is what we need to have from our loved ones to get better. We might not like the way it happens, but we all grow stronger in the end.
I received a complimentary copy of the book from Revell Publishers through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
April 15, 2023
I absolutely adored this story!
This story is full of sweet surprises. Some I loved and some I didn't
What my most favorite thing was "visiting " Cape Cod and its residents again.
Little Leo the Cowboy is my favorite character because of his bubbly happy self. He has such energy that I'd dearly love to have. He's a sweetheart, to be sure.
Marnie is my 2nd favorite. She has gone through so much and still bounces back no matter what. I love her determination to do that.
Marnie is someone that I feel like I've known my whole life. That's just how her personality is. I'm glad I got to know her a little more.
God, love, family, and friendship means the world to me.
I was able to connect to that.
This is one of the many things I loved about this book. The connection.
Ms. Woods does an incredible job of bringing the characters' feelings out and making them realistic.
I give this book 5 stars for a job well done! I highly recommend it!
You'll not want to put this story down until it is finished!
Absolutely adored this book!
My thanks for a copy of this book. I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
This story is full of sweet surprises. Some I loved and some I didn't
What my most favorite thing was "visiting " Cape Cod and its residents again.
Little Leo the Cowboy is my favorite character because of his bubbly happy self. He has such energy that I'd dearly love to have. He's a sweetheart, to be sure.
Marnie is my 2nd favorite. She has gone through so much and still bounces back no matter what. I love her determination to do that.
Marnie is someone that I feel like I've known my whole life. That's just how her personality is. I'm glad I got to know her a little more.
God, love, family, and friendship means the world to me.
I was able to connect to that.
This is one of the many things I loved about this book. The connection.
Ms. Woods does an incredible job of bringing the characters' feelings out and making them realistic.
I give this book 5 stars for a job well done! I highly recommend it!
You'll not want to put this story down until it is finished!
Absolutely adored this book!
My thanks for a copy of this book. I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
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