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Dove Pond #3
The Secret Recipe of Ella Dove
Three lives converge as a wildly talented baker returns to Dove Pond to face her past in this entry in the charming series that proves that sometimes miracles really do happen...
Ella Dove is an acclaimed baker whose desserts spark vivid, cherished memories in those who taste them. A restless soul, Ella goes wherever the wind takes her—but driven by a haunting dream, she’s coming home to Dove Pond. Years ago, her mentor, Angela Stewart Harrington, falsely accused Ella of stealing her beloved family recipe book, known as the Book of Cakes. Now, Ella believes it’s time for them to reconcile.
Angela has her own share of amends to make. Her daughter Jules has never forgiven her for divorcing her father, and they’ve been estranged ever since. But just as Angela begins to hope that she and Jules might mend their tattered relationship, a miscommunication turns into a lie that could destroy everything.
Meanwhile, Jules’s son Gray is shocked that Ella, his first love and his first heartbreak, has returned to Dove Pond. But even though he knows Ella is a wanderer and will soon leave, he’s unable to stop himself from falling for her once again. Can Gray find a way to convince Ella to give him, and their town, a serious chance? Or is he once again on the road to a broken heart?
With so much at stake, Ella, Angela, and Gray must learn to accept each other—flaws and all—forgive the many mistakes of their pasts, and trust that love can, and will, always find a way.
Ella Dove is an acclaimed baker whose desserts spark vivid, cherished memories in those who taste them. A restless soul, Ella goes wherever the wind takes her—but driven by a haunting dream, she’s coming home to Dove Pond. Years ago, her mentor, Angela Stewart Harrington, falsely accused Ella of stealing her beloved family recipe book, known as the Book of Cakes. Now, Ella believes it’s time for them to reconcile.
Angela has her own share of amends to make. Her daughter Jules has never forgiven her for divorcing her father, and they’ve been estranged ever since. But just as Angela begins to hope that she and Jules might mend their tattered relationship, a miscommunication turns into a lie that could destroy everything.
Meanwhile, Jules’s son Gray is shocked that Ella, his first love and his first heartbreak, has returned to Dove Pond. But even though he knows Ella is a wanderer and will soon leave, he’s unable to stop himself from falling for her once again. Can Gray find a way to convince Ella to give him, and their town, a serious chance? Or is he once again on the road to a broken heart?
With so much at stake, Ella, Angela, and Gray must learn to accept each other—flaws and all—forgive the many mistakes of their pasts, and trust that love can, and will, always find a way.
352 pages, Paperback
First published August 15, 2023
399 people are currently reading
6790 people want to read
About the author
Karen Hawkins
59 books2,987 followersNew York Times and USA Today bestselling author Karen Hawkins writes novels that have been praised as touching, witty, charming, and heartwarming. A native Southerner who grew up in the mountains of East Tennessee where storytelling is a way of life, Karen recently moved to frosty New England with her beloved husband and multiple foster dogs. The Dove Pond books are a nod to the thousands of books that opened doors to more adventures, places, and discoveries than she ever imagined possible. To find out more about Karen, follow her at:
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 355 reviews
August 21, 2023
3.5 stars, cute story overall.
I have enjoyed this series, starting with The Book Charmer, then A Cup of Silver Linings. There are some novellas but I haven't read those. The series features a family of seven Dove sisters, each of whom possesses a special ability.
Ella Dove is an accomplished pastry chef with a huge internet following, and has returned to Dove Pond against her better judgment. She keeps having vivid dreams of a cupcake chasing her and she wakes up with strawberry frosting somewhere on her body. She knows that she's being nudged to approach Angela Harrington, her former mentor, who accused her of stealing their family's heirloom cookbook, The Book of Cakes. Ella didn't steal it, but the accusation fractured her relationship with Angela, Angela's daughter Jules, and Jules's two sons. One of the sons, Gray, was in a relationship with Ella and then she broke his heart because of her wanderlust.
I enjoyed returning to Dove Pond, but got a little annoyed with Ella's stubbornness and inability to recognize what was right in front of her. I also didn't care for Angela and Jules, I felt like many of the characters seemed like caricatures rather than real people. Most of the characters lacked any sort of empathy, and Angela's lying went on way, way too long.
Overall, I love the touches of magical realism in this story and it's endearing enough that I continue to follow the tales of the sisters. There are recipes included for the delectably described desserts (although I would have liked even more of them, like for the scones and cinnamon rolls) and it was fun to get caught up with the sisters from the previous books.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
I have enjoyed this series, starting with The Book Charmer, then A Cup of Silver Linings. There are some novellas but I haven't read those. The series features a family of seven Dove sisters, each of whom possesses a special ability.
Ella Dove is an accomplished pastry chef with a huge internet following, and has returned to Dove Pond against her better judgment. She keeps having vivid dreams of a cupcake chasing her and she wakes up with strawberry frosting somewhere on her body. She knows that she's being nudged to approach Angela Harrington, her former mentor, who accused her of stealing their family's heirloom cookbook, The Book of Cakes. Ella didn't steal it, but the accusation fractured her relationship with Angela, Angela's daughter Jules, and Jules's two sons. One of the sons, Gray, was in a relationship with Ella and then she broke his heart because of her wanderlust.
I enjoyed returning to Dove Pond, but got a little annoyed with Ella's stubbornness and inability to recognize what was right in front of her. I also didn't care for Angela and Jules, I felt like many of the characters seemed like caricatures rather than real people. Most of the characters lacked any sort of empathy, and Angela's lying went on way, way too long.
Overall, I love the touches of magical realism in this story and it's endearing enough that I continue to follow the tales of the sisters. There are recipes included for the delectably described desserts (although I would have liked even more of them, like for the scones and cinnamon rolls) and it was fun to get caught up with the sisters from the previous books.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
August 7, 2023
A baker, frosting, a stolen cookbook and reconnections are the name of the game in The Secret Recipe of Ella Dove
Ella Dove, a well-known baker has returned to Dove Pond after a reoccurring dream and the sudden appearances of frosting on her. Yes, yes, there is some magic in this book! Ella and her sister all have unique magic within them. Each sister has her own unique gift. Ella has always gone here and there but has come back to Dove Pond, to seek advice, reconcile, and reconnect. Years ago, her mentor, Angela Stewart Harrington, accused Ella of stealing a beloved family cookbook, Book of Cakes, that has been handed down for generations.
Angela has also come back to town to reconnect with her daughters, Jules, who has been distant since Angela divorced her father. Jules also happens to be the mother of Gray, who Ella once dated. It is a tangled web indeed that these women did weave.
Coming home can mean many things to individuals. It can be scary after being gone for so long, it can be a wonderful time to reconned with family, friends, and to feel your roots. Both Ella and Angela are hoping to reconnect, but can they rebuild their relationship that was damaged by the accusation of theft?
This book was a joy to read. I enjoyed the little bits of magic, the sense of family, love, community, romance, and reconnection. The characters are likeable, quirky, and fun. At the core, this book is about relationships, and I was cheering for all the relationships in this book. I enjoyed the journey that many of the characters went on in this book.
Charming, heartwarming, well written and a delight to read!
Thank you to Gallery Books and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
Ella Dove, a well-known baker has returned to Dove Pond after a reoccurring dream and the sudden appearances of frosting on her. Yes, yes, there is some magic in this book! Ella and her sister all have unique magic within them. Each sister has her own unique gift. Ella has always gone here and there but has come back to Dove Pond, to seek advice, reconcile, and reconnect. Years ago, her mentor, Angela Stewart Harrington, accused Ella of stealing a beloved family cookbook, Book of Cakes, that has been handed down for generations.
Angela has also come back to town to reconnect with her daughters, Jules, who has been distant since Angela divorced her father. Jules also happens to be the mother of Gray, who Ella once dated. It is a tangled web indeed that these women did weave.
Coming home can mean many things to individuals. It can be scary after being gone for so long, it can be a wonderful time to reconned with family, friends, and to feel your roots. Both Ella and Angela are hoping to reconnect, but can they rebuild their relationship that was damaged by the accusation of theft?
This book was a joy to read. I enjoyed the little bits of magic, the sense of family, love, community, romance, and reconnection. The characters are likeable, quirky, and fun. At the core, this book is about relationships, and I was cheering for all the relationships in this book. I enjoyed the journey that many of the characters went on in this book.
Charming, heartwarming, well written and a delight to read!
Thank you to Gallery Books and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
September 3, 2023
Yikes. So not good. I loved the first book and was a bit worried about the direction of the series with the second one. Now the third book has me saying, these are not romance books. And they are barely about the so called special Dove sisters. The third one focuses on Ella Dove, and since there are 7 sisters, I assume there will be four more books. I’ll just get them via a library if I get an urge to see what’s going on.
The book follows Ella Dove who returns to Dove Pond after disturbing dreams. She realizes she needs to convince Angela Stewart Harrington she didn’t steal her so called book of cakes. Complications arise though when she rekindles her “relationship” with Angela’s grandson Gray.
Cons:
1. Ella is barely in this book. The first couple of pages starts off strong with us following Ella after the death of the father and her feeling lost since she doesn’t seem to have a special gift. But she gets it and I was looking forward to us getting to read about her baking. Doesn’t happen. She’s a minor character throughout this book.
2. The main character in this book is an elderly woman named Angela, mother of Jules from Moonlight Cafe. Most of the book follows her and her “reasons” for being back in town and why she doesn’t like Ella Dove. She should have been cut from the book and it should have primarily focused on Ella and Gray.
3. The love interest, Gray, is beyond boring and there are barely any scenes between him and Ella. If this is a romance book (hi I don’t think it is) we needed more development of the two of them. I’m supposed to get more than he’s hopelessly in love with her (for reasons that never get explained but that is what happens when storylines are not developed) and she has more than lukewarm feelings for him.
4. Most of the book is honestly about the Stewart family and they are not interesting enough for me to care about.
5. You get two lousy scenes with Sarah, Ava, and Ella which makes zero sense since readers will recall from book #1 Sarah believes all her sisters have to come home to Dove Pond. Why wouldn’t they be hanging out more or interacting?
Also I have no clue how old everyone is. Sarah was just born at the beginning of this book and Ella was 7. So I’m assuming Ella is in her late 30s? And she supposedly went to bakery school, lived in Paris, and had a social media following in the millions?
The book follows Ella Dove who returns to Dove Pond after disturbing dreams. She realizes she needs to convince Angela Stewart Harrington she didn’t steal her so called book of cakes. Complications arise though when she rekindles her “relationship” with Angela’s grandson Gray.
Cons:
1. Ella is barely in this book. The first couple of pages starts off strong with us following Ella after the death of the father and her feeling lost since she doesn’t seem to have a special gift. But she gets it and I was looking forward to us getting to read about her baking. Doesn’t happen. She’s a minor character throughout this book.
2. The main character in this book is an elderly woman named Angela, mother of Jules from Moonlight Cafe. Most of the book follows her and her “reasons” for being back in town and why she doesn’t like Ella Dove. She should have been cut from the book and it should have primarily focused on Ella and Gray.
3. The love interest, Gray, is beyond boring and there are barely any scenes between him and Ella. If this is a romance book (hi I don’t think it is) we needed more development of the two of them. I’m supposed to get more than he’s hopelessly in love with her (for reasons that never get explained but that is what happens when storylines are not developed) and she has more than lukewarm feelings for him.
4. Most of the book is honestly about the Stewart family and they are not interesting enough for me to care about.
5. You get two lousy scenes with Sarah, Ava, and Ella which makes zero sense since readers will recall from book #1 Sarah believes all her sisters have to come home to Dove Pond. Why wouldn’t they be hanging out more or interacting?
Also I have no clue how old everyone is. Sarah was just born at the beginning of this book and Ella was 7. So I’m assuming Ella is in her late 30s? And she supposedly went to bakery school, lived in Paris, and had a social media following in the millions?
August 15, 2023
Thank you Gallery and Netgalley for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
In this installment of the Dove Pond series we're introduced to Ella Dove, the wanderlust spirit of the bunch of sisters. We join her on her journey of figuring out what her heart and head are guiding her with. Chasing your dreams as you've done all your life or capture the dreams you never knew you needed and take a chance. That's the heartfelt story behind Ella Dove. We're introduced to a new set of characters in Dove Pond that are part of Ella Dove's life: The Stewarts. Angela, Jules, Gray and Mark. The mystery is set behind a book of recipes that went missing and Ella is the accused culprit.
Like all the books so far in this series, we're able to reconnect with the characters we've grown to love and know in Dove Pond and get more glimpses into their lives as well. Aunt Jo, Sarah, Ava, Zoe, etc...Stepping back into the world that Karen Hawkins made us fall in love with to begin with. The interweaving of the lives of these characters is what makes the story so enjoyable.
I absolutely love the world of Dove Pond and the magical presence it has become. It feels like going home to friends and family everytime I open the books. The added bonus at the end of this book were some very special recipes from the wonderful characters of the Dove Pond series! This series has become one of my absolute favorites to revisit over and over again. In traditional Dove Pond series books, we're introduced in a way to a new sister that the next installment will be about and I'm absolutely thrilled to begin the new one as soon as it's announced!! I cannot recommend this series enough to others! The only negative thing I have to say about it, is the waiting for the next one to come out.
In this installment of the Dove Pond series we're introduced to Ella Dove, the wanderlust spirit of the bunch of sisters. We join her on her journey of figuring out what her heart and head are guiding her with. Chasing your dreams as you've done all your life or capture the dreams you never knew you needed and take a chance. That's the heartfelt story behind Ella Dove. We're introduced to a new set of characters in Dove Pond that are part of Ella Dove's life: The Stewarts. Angela, Jules, Gray and Mark. The mystery is set behind a book of recipes that went missing and Ella is the accused culprit.
Like all the books so far in this series, we're able to reconnect with the characters we've grown to love and know in Dove Pond and get more glimpses into their lives as well. Aunt Jo, Sarah, Ava, Zoe, etc...Stepping back into the world that Karen Hawkins made us fall in love with to begin with. The interweaving of the lives of these characters is what makes the story so enjoyable.
I absolutely love the world of Dove Pond and the magical presence it has become. It feels like going home to friends and family everytime I open the books. The added bonus at the end of this book were some very special recipes from the wonderful characters of the Dove Pond series! This series has become one of my absolute favorites to revisit over and over again. In traditional Dove Pond series books, we're introduced in a way to a new sister that the next installment will be about and I'm absolutely thrilled to begin the new one as soon as it's announced!! I cannot recommend this series enough to others! The only negative thing I have to say about it, is the waiting for the next one to come out.
August 23, 2023
A cozy, light-hearted read that moved at a leisurely pace. This one didn’t hook me like the others, with it taking much longer for me to finish compared to the previous two. I think for me, the main drama came off a bit extreme with the enemies of the main protagonist seeming like a caricature.
I’m definitely invested in the series as a whole and absolutely love the concept, I just think this one wasn’t as much my cup of tea as the previous two. If anything I was left desiring more of Ella’s special gift, but it wasn’t as prevalent as the other two sister’s (Sarah and Ava) we were previously introduced to. I actually forgot this had a magical element throughout most of the reading, and didn’t feel like Ella’s gift was even utilized like how heavily they were in Sarah’s and Ava’s stories. I did enjoy the way the story wrapped up, and I’m excited to be acquainted with another sister in the coming years!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the early reviewer copy!
I’m definitely invested in the series as a whole and absolutely love the concept, I just think this one wasn’t as much my cup of tea as the previous two. If anything I was left desiring more of Ella’s special gift, but it wasn’t as prevalent as the other two sister’s (Sarah and Ava) we were previously introduced to. I actually forgot this had a magical element throughout most of the reading, and didn’t feel like Ella’s gift was even utilized like how heavily they were in Sarah’s and Ava’s stories. I did enjoy the way the story wrapped up, and I’m excited to be acquainted with another sister in the coming years!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the early reviewer copy!
September 5, 2023
Karen Hawkins delivers such heartwarming, enjoyable reads with the Dove Pond series. I’ve loved getting to know every one of the Dove sisters and Ella is my favorite so far. I loved the glimpse into the social media empire she has created and the nuts and bolts of what goes on behind the scenes to grow it. The magical realism is always my favorite part and I chuckled every time she found a little bit of baking product on her. The characters are always fun and quirky and the town itself draws you in and makes you wish you lived there. Can’t wait to read the next one!
July 20, 2023
Ella was the rolling stone of the Dove family. Not one to be tied down to place or person, she found herself coming home in order to solve the mystery of her recurring nightmare. While searching for an answer to that problem, she discovered solutions to many other questions in her life.
This is my fourth trip to Dove Pond, and it was lovely as expected. This story had several concurrent storylines, similar to the structure of the other Dove Pond books, which Hawkins tied together quite nicely.
This was a story of homecoming. Both Angela and Ella were returning to Dove Pond. Angela came in hopes of mending the relationship with her daughter, while Ella was hoping to find the root cause of her cupcake nightmares. (Yes, you read that correctly)
As a mother, my heart ached for Angela. She simply wanted a relationship with her only child, and it pained her that there was a rift between them. The issues started with Angela's divorce and departure from Dove Pond and grew due to her friendship with Ella. When she returned, there was a misunderstanding which had her daughter being quite sympathetic towards her. I didn't think it was wise of Angela to let a misunderstanding go uncorrected for so long, but it did result in some amusing situations. I was happy to see the bond between Angela, her daughter, and her grandson's grow stronger, and I had a lot of hope for this family in the end.
Homecoming is always an interesting theme, and I liked the angle explored in Ella's situation. She felt a lot of pressure in Dove Pond, the pressure of being a Dove and the expectations that come with the name. Over the course of the story, she did recognize her love for both the people and town of Dove Pond. This part of the story delighted me because this town was so charming and had won its way into my heart. I also want to see all the Dove sisters reunited and cannot help wondering what it would be like to have them all in the one place.
There was a romantic storyline at play, too. I have to give any man who makes a play for Ella a lot of credit because she was so resistant to giving her heart away. She never really recovered from the death of her father and was left a bit scarred by the way her mother suffered that loss. Why put yourself out there just to lose it all, that was what Ella thought. But, there was a man who wanted to make a life with her. This was a second chance romance (my favorite), and I was rooting for the couple the whole time. They shared a lot of history, and though I understood Ella's fears, I wanted more for her, and this hero was the right person for her to make a life with.
As with the other books, this was packed with warmth, humor, and touches of magic. I adored the rapport between the sisters, seeing Dove Pond through Ella's eyes, her friendship with Angela, catching up with characters from previous books, and seeing Ella finally find a home. This was another wonderful visit to Dove Pond, and I hope there will be more.
*ARC provided by publisher
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This is my fourth trip to Dove Pond, and it was lovely as expected. This story had several concurrent storylines, similar to the structure of the other Dove Pond books, which Hawkins tied together quite nicely.
This was a story of homecoming. Both Angela and Ella were returning to Dove Pond. Angela came in hopes of mending the relationship with her daughter, while Ella was hoping to find the root cause of her cupcake nightmares. (Yes, you read that correctly)
As a mother, my heart ached for Angela. She simply wanted a relationship with her only child, and it pained her that there was a rift between them. The issues started with Angela's divorce and departure from Dove Pond and grew due to her friendship with Ella. When she returned, there was a misunderstanding which had her daughter being quite sympathetic towards her. I didn't think it was wise of Angela to let a misunderstanding go uncorrected for so long, but it did result in some amusing situations. I was happy to see the bond between Angela, her daughter, and her grandson's grow stronger, and I had a lot of hope for this family in the end.
Homecoming is always an interesting theme, and I liked the angle explored in Ella's situation. She felt a lot of pressure in Dove Pond, the pressure of being a Dove and the expectations that come with the name. Over the course of the story, she did recognize her love for both the people and town of Dove Pond. This part of the story delighted me because this town was so charming and had won its way into my heart. I also want to see all the Dove sisters reunited and cannot help wondering what it would be like to have them all in the one place.
There was a romantic storyline at play, too. I have to give any man who makes a play for Ella a lot of credit because she was so resistant to giving her heart away. She never really recovered from the death of her father and was left a bit scarred by the way her mother suffered that loss. Why put yourself out there just to lose it all, that was what Ella thought. But, there was a man who wanted to make a life with her. This was a second chance romance (my favorite), and I was rooting for the couple the whole time. They shared a lot of history, and though I understood Ella's fears, I wanted more for her, and this hero was the right person for her to make a life with.
As with the other books, this was packed with warmth, humor, and touches of magic. I adored the rapport between the sisters, seeing Dove Pond through Ella's eyes, her friendship with Angela, catching up with characters from previous books, and seeing Ella finally find a home. This was another wonderful visit to Dove Pond, and I hope there will be more.
*ARC provided by publisher
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February 24, 2024
Interesting little book. I checked this out from my library as a “Blind Date with a Book” for Valentine’s Day. I loved the fun of not knowing what I was getting.
Ella annoyed me. She was restless and couldn’t stay put, blah blah blah. That was brought up throughout the book. Jules held the biggest grudge over a cookbook and dragged her family into her grudgefest, too. Gray was, by far, my favorite character. He was the most stable, and yet people treated him like he would fall apart over any little thing. Aunt Jo was great, too. She and Gray were fantastic characters.
I thought the dream with the cupcake chasing Ella was so kooky. And then icing would show up somewhere on her. And what was with Gray boiling liquids and melting plastic when he touched them
if he was thinking of Ella? Very odd.
Ella annoyed me. She was restless and couldn’t stay put, blah blah blah. That was brought up throughout the book. Jules held the biggest grudge over a cookbook and dragged her family into her grudgefest, too. Gray was, by far, my favorite character. He was the most stable, and yet people treated him like he would fall apart over any little thing. Aunt Jo was great, too. She and Gray were fantastic characters.
I thought the dream with the cupcake chasing Ella was so kooky. And then icing would show up somewhere on her. And what was with Gray boiling liquids and melting plastic when he touched them
if he was thinking of Ella? Very odd.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 24, 2023
I didn’t even finish it. I read the majority but just couldn’t take reading the rest. So boring. I need a more exciting book right now I think.
January 9, 2025
Setting: NC (i think) Asheville mentioned
Dove Pond (small town)
This is the third in a series but can be read as a standalone.
Seven Dove sisters. Each has a special gift. Ella’s is baking that tastes exceptional and brings up good memories for the consumer.
There is not too much magical realism (mr) which startled me when it first appeared in the story; I went into this read “blind”. The effect of mr also lent a cartoonish (and funny) aspect to the story for this reader.
As other reviewers noted .. the Stewarts seemed to be more main characters than Ella.
This tale kept me interested to the end. I definitely want to read Sarah’s book and possibly more in this series.
3.5 stars rounded up.
Dove Pond (small town)
This is the third in a series but can be read as a standalone.
Seven Dove sisters. Each has a special gift. Ella’s is baking that tastes exceptional and brings up good memories for the consumer.
There is not too much magical realism (mr) which startled me when it first appeared in the story; I went into this read “blind”. The effect of mr also lent a cartoonish (and funny) aspect to the story for this reader.
As other reviewers noted .. the Stewarts seemed to be more main characters than Ella.
This tale kept me interested to the end. I definitely want to read Sarah’s book and possibly more in this series.
3.5 stars rounded up.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 1, 2023
I really enjoy this series. I listened to the audiobook on Scribd and really enjoyed the narrators. I really like this series and hope there's more. 🤞
April 29, 2023
Ella Dove, an amazing baker and media influencer queen, has returned home to Dove Pond. I love the small-town feel of this book. Friends, family drama, and a touch of magic pulled me in from the first page and I didn't want to put the book down. I'm loving the Dove Pond series. I'm truly hoping for another book in this series to come soon. Thanks to author Karen Hawkins, Galley Books, and NetGalley for this enjoyable read. I received a complimentary copy of this ebook. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
January 18, 2024
If I could give this book negative stars I would. If multiple people (Some 20 PLUS years older than the mc) accused me of stealing a cookbook and held a grudge against me and I tried to reconcile even though I DIDNT STEAL THE DAMN BOOK and then finally figured out that hey I DIDNT STEAL THE STUPID BOOK I would honestly to god lose my shit pack up and move back to France. This was by far the stupidest book ive ever read in my entire life.
September 8, 2023
This was another fun and enjoyable read for me. The Secret Recipe of Ella Dove is the third book in a series by author Karen Hawkins. They all center around the 7 Dove sisters that were born and grew up in Dove Pond. What I enjoy the most about reading these books is that they all have a bit of magic in them. The author writes magical realism so it’s almost believable and it adds just a touch of whimsy to the stories. This book centers around the sister Ella. She’s a bit of a wanderer. Her specialty is baking and she has a huge social network following. She also has a fellow back at home in Dove Pond who is deeply in love with her. This story centers around that love between her and Gray and all the obstacles of lies, and complicated family members that they have to deal with. It was a great read and I love how the story concluded. The little found surprise at the end I believe will be the premise to the next book by this author. This is a series I thoroughly enjoy and highly recommend. I’d like to thank Abigail Cardello at Simon & Schuster for inviting me to read it by sending me a widget and NetGalley for the arc. I’m giving this a 5 star rating and can’t wait to read what’s next by Karen Hawkins!
August 15, 2023
The Dove Pond series is amazing! Each book focuses on one of the seven sisters of the Dove family. And each sister seems to have their own special talent, with a little magic thrown in. That's what I enjoy the most about all of these books—the touch of magical realism that the author adds to the story. I'd like to believe that we all have a bit of that in our lives.
In The Secret Recipe of Ella Dove, Ella finds herself back to Dove Pond, a place she really doesn't want to be, but knows that there is something she has to set right. She's only going to stay a few days, maybe a few weeks at the most, until the issue is resolved. But in true Dove Pond fashion, things don't always work out that easily in this small, friendly town.
I love the complexity of the relationships of all of the characters and I especially love the lengths that Angela goes to, to get what she is looking for in her relationship with her daughter. So not only is there the wonderful, magical storyline of the Dove sister, there are so many other great characters that you can't help but love. I love my trips back to Dove Pond and can't wait for more.
I highly recommend The Secret Recipe of Ella Dove, as well as this whole series, for some major escape reading. You're going to love it!
In The Secret Recipe of Ella Dove, Ella finds herself back to Dove Pond, a place she really doesn't want to be, but knows that there is something she has to set right. She's only going to stay a few days, maybe a few weeks at the most, until the issue is resolved. But in true Dove Pond fashion, things don't always work out that easily in this small, friendly town.
I love the complexity of the relationships of all of the characters and I especially love the lengths that Angela goes to, to get what she is looking for in her relationship with her daughter. So not only is there the wonderful, magical storyline of the Dove sister, there are so many other great characters that you can't help but love. I love my trips back to Dove Pond and can't wait for more.
I highly recommend The Secret Recipe of Ella Dove, as well as this whole series, for some major escape reading. You're going to love it!
October 7, 2023
I love Dove Pond and the Dove sisters! Reading this book was like coming home again. I wish I could live there too and be a Dove sister with a special ability.
This is book three in the series, and this one focuses on Ella and her magical baking.
I didn't quite love this one as much as the first two, but it was still very enjoyable. What I really did love was Ella coming home and finally being a part of Dove Pond.
What I didn't like as much were some of the side characters. One in particular was actually very annoying.
Overall, though, it was another great addition to this series, and I can't wait to see what's in store for the Dove sisters next.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.
This is book three in the series, and this one focuses on Ella and her magical baking.
I didn't quite love this one as much as the first two, but it was still very enjoyable. What I really did love was Ella coming home and finally being a part of Dove Pond.
What I didn't like as much were some of the side characters. One in particular was actually very annoying.
Overall, though, it was another great addition to this series, and I can't wait to see what's in store for the Dove sisters next.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.
August 11, 2025
This is my third Dove Pond Novel and the one I liked least.
Starting with Ella.. I couldnt connect with her at all. Too selfish, too stubborn. She knows she's going to hurt people (men) but still continuous to seduce them "just for the fun"?!
And the Stewart family? how sick is their behaviour? all of them except Gray. He acted normal.
But what I missed most was the magical aspect! Yes, there was some mentioning when they ate Ella's cupcakes and went down memory lane but this was so sporadically 🫤
One never really learns about her magical abilities.
The rest of the book was just about Ella Superstar and Influencer and likes etc etc.
There is a sneak preview of the next book attached, Tay's story...
I will see whether I continue these ..
Starting with Ella.. I couldnt connect with her at all. Too selfish, too stubborn. She knows she's going to hurt people (men) but still continuous to seduce them "just for the fun"?!
And the Stewart family? how sick is their behaviour? all of them except Gray. He acted normal.
But what I missed most was the magical aspect! Yes, there was some mentioning when they ate Ella's cupcakes and went down memory lane but this was so sporadically 🫤
One never really learns about her magical abilities.
The rest of the book was just about Ella Superstar and Influencer and likes etc etc.
There is a sneak preview of the next book attached, Tay's story...
I will see whether I continue these ..
Read
April 21, 2023DRC from Edelweiss and Simon & Schuster
Ella Dove is a renown baker. Anyone who eats her desserts will recall a memory, it is her special power. All the Dove sister have one. But Ella doesn't like to be tied down to one place or one relationship. She moves around a lot. When she keeps having the same nightmare every night and finding frosting on her hand, arm, forehead she knows she has to head home to Dove Pond and set things right with Angela, an older friend who she has had a falling out with. But Angela has come to Dove Pond with her own agenda, to set things right with her daughter Jules. And Gray, Jules son, is shocked to see Ella again, but also glad. maybe he can get a second chance with her.
Part of the Dove Pond series - but could be read and enjoyed without reading the others first.
Ella Dove is a renown baker. Anyone who eats her desserts will recall a memory, it is her special power. All the Dove sister have one. But Ella doesn't like to be tied down to one place or one relationship. She moves around a lot. When she keeps having the same nightmare every night and finding frosting on her hand, arm, forehead she knows she has to head home to Dove Pond and set things right with Angela, an older friend who she has had a falling out with. But Angela has come to Dove Pond with her own agenda, to set things right with her daughter Jules. And Gray, Jules son, is shocked to see Ella again, but also glad. maybe he can get a second chance with her.
Part of the Dove Pond series - but could be read and enjoyed without reading the others first.
July 14, 2023
Karen Hawkins is one of my go to authors for Magical Realism, and The Secret Recipe of Ella Dove does not disappoint.
The Secret Recipe of Ella Dove is the third book in the Dove Pond Series, about seven sisters who have various skills that bring a touch of magic into people’s lives… and couldn’t we all use more of that.
This book focuses on Ella, a social media star and a baker. When you eat one of her baked items you are overcome with wonderful scenes from your past that you associate with what you are eating. Ella is always looking for happiness elsewhere, so when she comes back this time to Dove Pond she hopes it’s a brief visit and she can apologize for a thing she didn’t do and the weird thing that keeps happening to her will stop.
Which leads us to Angela Stewart Harrington, who used to be Ella’s friend, and Angela’s family. Angela wants to be closer to her daughter, Jules, so she too comes back to Dove Pond, but after a miscommunication that Angela doesn’t correct right away, she starts keeping secrets and pulls Ella into these secrets through a bit of blackmail.
Although this may sound confusing, Hawkins incorporates all the drama, love, and story lines perfectly, and leaves the reader with a bit of hope that true love and real magic does exist.
The Secret Recipe of Ella Dove is the third book in the Dove Pond Series, about seven sisters who have various skills that bring a touch of magic into people’s lives… and couldn’t we all use more of that.
This book focuses on Ella, a social media star and a baker. When you eat one of her baked items you are overcome with wonderful scenes from your past that you associate with what you are eating. Ella is always looking for happiness elsewhere, so when she comes back this time to Dove Pond she hopes it’s a brief visit and she can apologize for a thing she didn’t do and the weird thing that keeps happening to her will stop.
Which leads us to Angela Stewart Harrington, who used to be Ella’s friend, and Angela’s family. Angela wants to be closer to her daughter, Jules, so she too comes back to Dove Pond, but after a miscommunication that Angela doesn’t correct right away, she starts keeping secrets and pulls Ella into these secrets through a bit of blackmail.
Although this may sound confusing, Hawkins incorporates all the drama, love, and story lines perfectly, and leaves the reader with a bit of hope that true love and real magic does exist.
November 13, 2023
If you haven’t read any of Karen Hawkins books about Dove Pond, you’re missing out! The books are about family and friends and set in a small town atmosphere. The Dove sisters each have their own unique qualities about each one of them that brings an extra special touch to each of the books. This book is about Ella’s journey back to Dove Pond. There’s something that happened back before she left Dove Pond and she’s determined to deal with it.
August 26, 2023
Thanks to Net Galley for the ARC
I’ve come to really enjoy the Dove Pond series (this is #3, I believe). This like it’s predecessors is sweet and charming and what we hope is best about small towns. A little romance, some wonderful quirky characters, all rolled into a quick read. Great for a little vacation escape.
I’ve come to really enjoy the Dove Pond series (this is #3, I believe). This like it’s predecessors is sweet and charming and what we hope is best about small towns. A little romance, some wonderful quirky characters, all rolled into a quick read. Great for a little vacation escape.
December 1, 2025
This story expounded on the wanderlust sister, Ella Dove. She returns home to make amends and falls in love with someone from her past. His family is part of the forgiveness that she is working on. Sweet story line that helps the reader understand more about the Dove sisters and their little town.
September 12, 2023
Wish I could visit Dove Pond in real life, but I will settle for reading this lovely, -rich series, each one focusing on a different Dove woman Love, love love it!
April 27, 2024
Probably more of a 3.5. This was my least favorite in the Dove Pond series. I just didn’t like Ella as much as the other sisters who have been protagonists in the first two books. I do really enjoy the setting of Dove Pond and the quirky cast of characters that appears in each book, though.
August 2, 2024
These books are very safe. Small magical town, everything happens exactly how you would think, & sometimes it’s just nice to read about nice things.
January 22, 2025
*3.5 stars
August 9, 2025
Again not the best title. Book Charmer still my favorite, but enjoy the Doves and other characters.
August 31, 2023
I only vaguely remember what happened in the first 2 books. But I remember loving them and wanting to read this one. Hoping we get a 4th book
October 12, 2024
I love this series. The Dove Pond ensemble is fabulous. Feels like a very real small town. This one wasn’t my favorite, necessarily, just because the baking was a little peripheral as was her gift. It didn’t feel as whimsical as the others. But the character development and sweetness of the tory is still just spot on.
March 30, 2025
Well, I just didn't care for Ella, Angela or Jules, the main characters of this Dove Pond book. Oh, the magic is there and the town of Dove Pond is still a marvel (and what I wouldn't give to live there!); this is what provides for that extra star. But this Dove sister story just doesn't have the same panache.
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