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Corrigan Sisters #1
You're the Cream in My Coffee
In 1928, Chicago rocks to the rhythm of the Jazz Age. Prohibition is in full swing. Small-town girl Marjorie Corrigan, visiting the city for the first time, has sworn that coffee's the strongest drink that will pass her lips. But her quiet, orderly life turns topsy-turvy when she spots her high school sweetheart--presumed killed in the Great War--alive and well in a train station. Suddenly everything is up for grabs.
Although the stranger insists he's not who she thinks he is, Marjorie becomes obsessed with finding out the truth. To the dismay of her fiance and family, she moves to the city and takes a job at a department store so she can spy on him. Meanwhile, the glittering world of her roommate, Dot, begins to look awfully enticing--especially when the object of her obsession seems to be part of that world. Is it really so terrible to bob her hair and shorten her skirt? To visit a speakeasy? Just for a cup of coffee, of course.
But what about her scruples? What about the successful young doctor to whom she's engaged, who keeps begging her to come back home where she belongs? And what, exactly, is going on at the store's loading dock so late at night?
Amid a whirlwind of trials and temptations, Marjorie must make a choice. Will the mystery man prove to be the cream in her coffee--the missing ingredient to the life she years for? Or will he leave only bitterness in her heart?
Although the stranger insists he's not who she thinks he is, Marjorie becomes obsessed with finding out the truth. To the dismay of her fiance and family, she moves to the city and takes a job at a department store so she can spy on him. Meanwhile, the glittering world of her roommate, Dot, begins to look awfully enticing--especially when the object of her obsession seems to be part of that world. Is it really so terrible to bob her hair and shorten her skirt? To visit a speakeasy? Just for a cup of coffee, of course.
But what about her scruples? What about the successful young doctor to whom she's engaged, who keeps begging her to come back home where she belongs? And what, exactly, is going on at the store's loading dock so late at night?
Amid a whirlwind of trials and temptations, Marjorie must make a choice. Will the mystery man prove to be the cream in her coffee--the missing ingredient to the life she years for? Or will he leave only bitterness in her heart?
321 pages, Paperback
First published September 1, 2016
203 people are currently reading
1322 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Lamont Leo
19 books221 followers**THANK YOU, dear readers, for all the great reviews, and for choosing Moondrop Miracle, You're the Cream in My Coffee and Ain't Misbehavin for your book clubs. You're the bee's knees!** Author of Moondrop Miracle, You're the Cream in My Coffee and Ain't Misbehavin'. With a passion for all things historical, Jennifer Lamont Leo captures readers' hearts through stories set in times gone by. She is also a copywriter, editor, and journalist. An Illinois native, she holds a deep affection for Chicago and its rich history. Today she writes from the mountains of northern Idaho, where she shares her home with her husband, two cats, and abundant wildlife. Visit her at A Sparkling Vintage Life (http://www.JenniferLamontLeo.com/blog), as well as on Facebook, Bookbub, Twitter, and Pinterest.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 123 reviews
January 18, 2017
A witty romance about an engaged girl in the '20s. A fun read with a well-woven Christian heart and a few twists and turns. An enjoyable light read but the God-interactions felt real. A pleasure to read.
December 18, 2016
You're looking at the genre and wondering what in the world I was thinking, aren't you? I know, I know - me and romance books are like pickle juice and chocolate chip cookies. The cover caught my attention, though, and the storyline seemed pretty interesting.
The story is set in the roaring 20s (though there wasn't much talk of that, or much description either, minus the fact that prohibition was going on, the word "speakeasy" was used a few times, and their fashion choices) in the city of Chicago. Marjorie is a girl that needs to find herself and figure out what to do with her life, so when she bumps into who she swears is her ex-boyfriend, who died in the war, and spends a couple of days enjoying the art museum, she decides to stay in the city instead of heading back home to her small town, her family... and her fiance.
I really enjoyed this book... and actually had a hard time putting it down. I liked Marjorie quite a bit, even though she was a bit of a goody-goody and was very set in her Christian ways. Her new friend, Dot, who she met at work in Chicago, is the complete opposite of her, and they both learn a lot from each other as the story goes on.
Helen (Marjorie's sister) and Charlie (their brother) were both well-written characters, who grew in these pages, but Pop... he was my favorite. There wasn't much of him in the story, but when there was, he was exactly what Marjorie needed.
I consider this book more historical fiction and mystery than I do women's fiction, but I can see why the author chose to justify it as such, what with the mystery of Marjorie's future being discussed, and some of the things that her and Dot went through in the story. Finding out just who Peter was took Marjorie on an adventure (filled with inner turmoil) that gave the story more depth than I originally had expected.
Definitely a good story that I would highly recommend if you like those coming-of-age type things. Do keep in mind that there are some Christian points to the story. Marjorie and her family come from a God-fearing, church-going small town and there is a lot of speak of God, which I happened to enjoy.
Back to the topic of that book cover catching my eye. I wish it had actually depicted one of the two main characters. I had that girl (on the photo) in mind, but never once did what they were wearing ever coincide with that. I think, had the cover artist used the yellow hat or the blue gown (to find out more you have to actually read the story), it would have really tied that in more and gave me an aha moment (besides when the title was used in the story).
I absolutely loved the descriptions of working in the department store and all that she did there. What fun, and though not completely historically accurate with this particular store at this particular time, the author's description is pretty spot-on with things I have read.
Note: I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest and unbiased review.
The story is set in the roaring 20s (though there wasn't much talk of that, or much description either, minus the fact that prohibition was going on, the word "speakeasy" was used a few times, and their fashion choices) in the city of Chicago. Marjorie is a girl that needs to find herself and figure out what to do with her life, so when she bumps into who she swears is her ex-boyfriend, who died in the war, and spends a couple of days enjoying the art museum, she decides to stay in the city instead of heading back home to her small town, her family... and her fiance.
I really enjoyed this book... and actually had a hard time putting it down. I liked Marjorie quite a bit, even though she was a bit of a goody-goody and was very set in her Christian ways. Her new friend, Dot, who she met at work in Chicago, is the complete opposite of her, and they both learn a lot from each other as the story goes on.
Helen (Marjorie's sister) and Charlie (their brother) were both well-written characters, who grew in these pages, but Pop... he was my favorite. There wasn't much of him in the story, but when there was, he was exactly what Marjorie needed.
I consider this book more historical fiction and mystery than I do women's fiction, but I can see why the author chose to justify it as such, what with the mystery of Marjorie's future being discussed, and some of the things that her and Dot went through in the story. Finding out just who Peter was took Marjorie on an adventure (filled with inner turmoil) that gave the story more depth than I originally had expected.
Definitely a good story that I would highly recommend if you like those coming-of-age type things. Do keep in mind that there are some Christian points to the story. Marjorie and her family come from a God-fearing, church-going small town and there is a lot of speak of God, which I happened to enjoy.
Back to the topic of that book cover catching my eye. I wish it had actually depicted one of the two main characters. I had that girl (on the photo) in mind, but never once did what they were wearing ever coincide with that. I think, had the cover artist used the yellow hat or the blue gown (to find out more you have to actually read the story), it would have really tied that in more and gave me an aha moment (besides when the title was used in the story).
I absolutely loved the descriptions of working in the department store and all that she did there. What fun, and though not completely historically accurate with this particular store at this particular time, the author's description is pretty spot-on with things I have read.
Note: I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest and unbiased review.
March 21, 2017
I think if anyone would ask me a good Roaring Twenties story I'd recommend this one without question! Everything from bootlegging to the new fashions of the day sweeps you right into the 1920s.
There is some predictability in this story. I basically had everything figured out with a certain person, but I still thoroughly enjoyed Majorie's story. I was a little bothered by how she was drawn to Dot's lifestyle, but I love how the author showed her wrong-doing and made it clear that it wasn't a right lifestyle.
There's a great spiritual message throughout this. Not as strong as some I've read, but still very good. The romance was sweet. Majorie's infatuation of Peter was a little over the top at times, but never to the point that I thought she was stupid.
Definitely a book I'll be wanting to read again in the future!
There is some predictability in this story. I basically had everything figured out with a certain person, but I still thoroughly enjoyed Majorie's story. I was a little bothered by how she was drawn to Dot's lifestyle, but I love how the author showed her wrong-doing and made it clear that it wasn't a right lifestyle.
There's a great spiritual message throughout this. Not as strong as some I've read, but still very good. The romance was sweet. Majorie's infatuation of Peter was a little over the top at times, but never to the point that I thought she was stupid.
Definitely a book I'll be wanting to read again in the future!
December 24, 2016
I don’t typically read/enjoy books set in the Roaring 20s but this debut novel from Jennifer Lamont Leo is the clear exception. Marjorie Corrigan’s witty and winsome first person narration had me hooked from the very first page – as poor Marjorie attempts to explain to us (despite what we may have heard) what didn’t cause her fainting spell at the Orpheum during the Sunday matinee.
At the beginning of the novel, there are two guys in Marjorie’s life. Her fiance Richard (whom she describes as “thrifty, brave, clean”… clearly swoonworthy material is Richard) and her first love Jack who was declared missing in action/presumed dead during the Great War ten years earlier. If she’s perfectly honest with herself, Marjorie has never quite given up on Jack returning some day so when she spots “him”, alive and well, in a Chicago train station, her nice tidy life turns upside down.
Y’all. MY life turned upside down while I was reading You’re the Cream in my Coffee. Because I wanted so badly for this man to be Jack, for Marjorie’s sake. Shoot, I wanted him to be Jack for my sake, diehard romantic that I am. Let’s face it – Dr. Richard? Needed to go. And this Jack lookalike named Peter needed to be Jack. I may have gotten as obsessed as Marjorie with trying to figure out if Peter was really Jack or not. I’m not proud of it… but there it is. And at some point I didn’t even care (mostly) because Peter IS all kinds of swoonworthy!
But more than needing to figure out who Peter was, Marjorie needed to figure out who she was. Because somewhere along the way, while working in her dad’s dry goods store in tiny Kerryville IL and acquiescing to her stepmother’s wishes and conforming to what Dr. Richard thought she should be and do, Marjorie lost herself. And around about the time that Jack failed to return from the war, she lost a little bit of her faith too. And so her foray into the big city of Chicago is also about rediscovering herself – her talents, her dreams, her likes and dislikes – and reconnecting with God.
Bottom Line: Witty, entertaining, and romantic, You’re the Cream in My Coffee is a charming peek into the Jazz Age and Prohibition, wrapped in a great story with delightful characters. Jennifer Lamont Leo’s writing voice captures your attention right from the start, and the pace of the story never slows or drags. I was fully invested in the outcome, in the characters, and in the message of grace and restoration. I’m adding this author to my watch list and hoping for more from her in the near future!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.)
See my full review at Reading Is My SuperPower
At the beginning of the novel, there are two guys in Marjorie’s life. Her fiance Richard (whom she describes as “thrifty, brave, clean”… clearly swoonworthy material is Richard) and her first love Jack who was declared missing in action/presumed dead during the Great War ten years earlier. If she’s perfectly honest with herself, Marjorie has never quite given up on Jack returning some day so when she spots “him”, alive and well, in a Chicago train station, her nice tidy life turns upside down.
Y’all. MY life turned upside down while I was reading You’re the Cream in my Coffee. Because I wanted so badly for this man to be Jack, for Marjorie’s sake. Shoot, I wanted him to be Jack for my sake, diehard romantic that I am. Let’s face it – Dr. Richard? Needed to go. And this Jack lookalike named Peter needed to be Jack. I may have gotten as obsessed as Marjorie with trying to figure out if Peter was really Jack or not. I’m not proud of it… but there it is. And at some point I didn’t even care (mostly) because Peter IS all kinds of swoonworthy!
But more than needing to figure out who Peter was, Marjorie needed to figure out who she was. Because somewhere along the way, while working in her dad’s dry goods store in tiny Kerryville IL and acquiescing to her stepmother’s wishes and conforming to what Dr. Richard thought she should be and do, Marjorie lost herself. And around about the time that Jack failed to return from the war, she lost a little bit of her faith too. And so her foray into the big city of Chicago is also about rediscovering herself – her talents, her dreams, her likes and dislikes – and reconnecting with God.
Bottom Line: Witty, entertaining, and romantic, You’re the Cream in My Coffee is a charming peek into the Jazz Age and Prohibition, wrapped in a great story with delightful characters. Jennifer Lamont Leo’s writing voice captures your attention right from the start, and the pace of the story never slows or drags. I was fully invested in the outcome, in the characters, and in the message of grace and restoration. I’m adding this author to my watch list and hoping for more from her in the near future!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.)
See my full review at Reading Is My SuperPower
January 31, 2025
2025 // I love this book so much 🫶🏼
2016 // OHMYGOODNESS. This book just gave me so many happy feels. I love it oodles. <3 <3 Review to come eventually :)
2016 // OHMYGOODNESS. This book just gave me so many happy feels. I love it oodles. <3 <3 Review to come eventually :)
September 17, 2016
I thoroughly enjoyed this debut from Jennifer Lamont Leo. She's brought us a sweet friend in Marjorie and a delightful plot. Beyond that, Leo is a solid writer. I can't wait to read more of her work.
July 18, 2017
What a fun read. I loved the narrator voice in this book and I think that's one of the most important things with a book. Bravo. Though I predicted the end I wasn't disappointed. I think knowing how the story is going is comforting. Very enjoyable and I'll be looking forward to more books from this author.
February 7, 2019
I had a few friends really like this, so I picked it up for free and decided to give it a try. It was not my cup of tea (or coffee, if you prefer).
I was really saddened that the main character throws out a lot of the things she held dear. Even if she was considered prim, I liked her that way. And all of her decisions were based on selfish motives.
I didn't like the main guy at all. You never really got to know anything about him other then 1. he's hot. 2. He can punch well. 3. He's got a sob story backstory.
This book focused a bit to much on what was wrong with the '20s for my tastes. And the ending was conveniently happy for all involved.
Overall, I can see where some people would like this book, but it was not my type at all.
Content warning:
I was really saddened that the main character throws out a lot of the things she held dear. Even if she was considered prim, I liked her that way. And all of her decisions were based on selfish motives.
I didn't like the main guy at all. You never really got to know anything about him other then 1. he's hot. 2. He can punch well. 3. He's got a sob story backstory.
This book focused a bit to much on what was wrong with the '20s for my tastes. And the ending was conveniently happy for all involved.
Overall, I can see where some people would like this book, but it was not my type at all.
Content warning:
September 18, 2016
Very well written Christian fiction full of interesting characters.
1928-Meet our heroine, Majorie Corrigan, fainting, avoiding her wedding plans, becoming fodder for the town gossips and dealing with her not so nice step-mother. She is forced to go to a specialist in Chicago. As she is getting on the train back to her small hometown of Kerryville, she sees a man that looks like her true love, who died in the war, she makes a rash decision to get off the train and chase him down. From then on her life is turned upside down.Will she settle for a man she doesn't truly love and become a Doctor's wife? Or will she find a new love in Chicago?
I loved seeing Chicago through Majorie's eyes. The author clearly did her research into the time period to get things right. Marshall Field's, settlement communities, speakeasies, intrigue and romance. A great easy read with gentle reminders that God is always there for us, we are the ones who move away from Him.
I loved the story from beginning to end! I hope there will be a sequel!
1928-Meet our heroine, Majorie Corrigan, fainting, avoiding her wedding plans, becoming fodder for the town gossips and dealing with her not so nice step-mother. She is forced to go to a specialist in Chicago. As she is getting on the train back to her small hometown of Kerryville, she sees a man that looks like her true love, who died in the war, she makes a rash decision to get off the train and chase him down. From then on her life is turned upside down.Will she settle for a man she doesn't truly love and become a Doctor's wife? Or will she find a new love in Chicago?
I loved seeing Chicago through Majorie's eyes. The author clearly did her research into the time period to get things right. Marshall Field's, settlement communities, speakeasies, intrigue and romance. A great easy read with gentle reminders that God is always there for us, we are the ones who move away from Him.
I loved the story from beginning to end! I hope there will be a sequel!
November 17, 2016
Small-town girl Marjorie is visiting Chicago in 1928, away from her family and her fiancé, when she runs into the love of her life from ten years ago, a man presumed dead since he fought in the First World War. Though the man now denies knowing Marjorie, she stays on in Chicago to find out more about him. But she may have more to find out about herself in You're the Cream in My Coffee by author Jennifer Lamont Leo.
Ah! The Roaring Twenties so wonderfully depicted by this fun, glamorous, and vibrant cover art. It's rather intriguing, a woman holding a steaming cup of coffee (instead of a glass of something...else) during the era of Prohibition and speakeasies in the U.S. After reading the novel, I felt that the book blurb incorporated the title more meaningfully than the story itself did, but as Marjorie would say, "That's beside the point."
The point, here, is that this is quite a charming novel that kept me engrossed from start to finish. Marjorie's department store job in Chicago had me thinking so much about Selfridge's department store in London, so imagine my delight when Harry Selfridge's name popped up! (I did wonder, though, why he isn't mentioned in the Author's Note as a real historical figure, along with the real Marshall Field & Co. folks.) With all the various moving parts to Marjorie's journey, there was never a dull moment in the reading for me.
However, I did find the plot development odd in places. It seems that Marjorie comes to certain conclusions or resolutions, and then she resumes thinking or behaving as if she hasn't decided anything. I didn't quite buy into the central romance because I didn't see anything compelling that the (sudden, or present) feelings there were based on, didn't quite see what the attraction was. Also, the pacing of the last quarter or so of the novel is awkward, as if it's rushing to go here, there, and back again, trying to cram in all the final events.
Still, anyone who enjoys Christian historical and women's fiction should appreciate taking this spin back to the twenties. I'd definitely read this author again.
Ah! The Roaring Twenties so wonderfully depicted by this fun, glamorous, and vibrant cover art. It's rather intriguing, a woman holding a steaming cup of coffee (instead of a glass of something...else) during the era of Prohibition and speakeasies in the U.S. After reading the novel, I felt that the book blurb incorporated the title more meaningfully than the story itself did, but as Marjorie would say, "That's beside the point."
The point, here, is that this is quite a charming novel that kept me engrossed from start to finish. Marjorie's department store job in Chicago had me thinking so much about Selfridge's department store in London, so imagine my delight when Harry Selfridge's name popped up! (I did wonder, though, why he isn't mentioned in the Author's Note as a real historical figure, along with the real Marshall Field & Co. folks.) With all the various moving parts to Marjorie's journey, there was never a dull moment in the reading for me.
However, I did find the plot development odd in places. It seems that Marjorie comes to certain conclusions or resolutions, and then she resumes thinking or behaving as if she hasn't decided anything. I didn't quite buy into the central romance because I didn't see anything compelling that the (sudden, or present) feelings there were based on, didn't quite see what the attraction was. Also, the pacing of the last quarter or so of the novel is awkward, as if it's rushing to go here, there, and back again, trying to cram in all the final events.
Still, anyone who enjoys Christian historical and women's fiction should appreciate taking this spin back to the twenties. I'd definitely read this author again.
November 6, 2016
Here's my first impression. It's a rainy Saturday here on my mountain in Northern Idaho, but I'd planned to attend a book signing event at my favorite local-ish coffee shop this morning and I really didn't want the rain to deter me. I didn't have any high expectations, but attending local book events is important to me. It's my way of building community, and I need all the community building I can get here on my mountain. The author was clearly excited and a bit nervous sending her baby off to kindergarden, but she was surrounded by caring friends and family and that made me happy. I sat with my coffee and sweet treat reading the first 3 chapters of the book while still at the coffee shop, observing Jennifer and soaking up warmth on a rainy day. In just the first 3 chapters, I get a good warm feeling for the protagonist of this story, Marjorie and her everyday late 1920's life. Jennifer applies a light touch to the historical ambiance, not overdone or heavy handed. This is going to be a very cozy read. So Jennifer, I have just these couple of things to say to you, and indeed anyone who might be reading these comments... Well done you! If you need a pre-reader for book #2, just let me know.
August 24, 2017
You’re the Cream in My Coffee Book Review
You’re the Cream in My Coffee takes you back to 1920’s Chicago during prohibition. Naïve’ Marjorie runs from the prospect of marriage when she sees a man who looks just like her former fiancé, who died in the Great War. Securing a job at the prestigious Marshall Fields and rooming with Dot, a flamboyant flapper life gets more than interesting for Marjorie. It was fun to visit the era and experience Chicago through the eyes of a small-town girl. Jennifer Lamont Leo weaves a delightful story full of bootlegging, gangsters and fashion make-overs. I loved watching Marjorie find her true self and come to grips with convictions she took for granted because others told her so. Ms. Leo laced the symptoms of shell shock (PTSD) throughout the story and addressed the debate of prohibition as it presented itself back then. No modern twists in this plot. Jennifer is a master story-teller and I look forward to more from this author.
You’re the Cream in My Coffee takes you back to 1920’s Chicago during prohibition. Naïve’ Marjorie runs from the prospect of marriage when she sees a man who looks just like her former fiancé, who died in the Great War. Securing a job at the prestigious Marshall Fields and rooming with Dot, a flamboyant flapper life gets more than interesting for Marjorie. It was fun to visit the era and experience Chicago through the eyes of a small-town girl. Jennifer Lamont Leo weaves a delightful story full of bootlegging, gangsters and fashion make-overs. I loved watching Marjorie find her true self and come to grips with convictions she took for granted because others told her so. Ms. Leo laced the symptoms of shell shock (PTSD) throughout the story and addressed the debate of prohibition as it presented itself back then. No modern twists in this plot. Jennifer is a master story-teller and I look forward to more from this author.
December 30, 2016
Copy from Historical Fiction Virtual Book Tours for an honest review
I was on the fence about reviewing "You're the Cream in My Coffee" because , honestly-the cover. I wasn't really identifying with the cover, the plot and the title. But it was a fun and interesting read. Set in the roaring 20's, the setting of the story instantly grabbed my attention. Leo really set the time period and made it tangible. I also really liked how Leo provided two very contradictory forces, Marjorie is a girl from a small town in Idaho she sets out to experience life in the big city of Chicago. Marjorie's naiveté coupled with the challenges of a very fast paced society during the prohibition period. It would be hard for me to identify this book as a light read because of the historical setting but it was an enjoyable read about an equally enjoyable character.
I was on the fence about reviewing "You're the Cream in My Coffee" because , honestly-the cover. I wasn't really identifying with the cover, the plot and the title. But it was a fun and interesting read. Set in the roaring 20's, the setting of the story instantly grabbed my attention. Leo really set the time period and made it tangible. I also really liked how Leo provided two very contradictory forces, Marjorie is a girl from a small town in Idaho she sets out to experience life in the big city of Chicago. Marjorie's naiveté coupled with the challenges of a very fast paced society during the prohibition period. It would be hard for me to identify this book as a light read because of the historical setting but it was an enjoyable read about an equally enjoyable character.
August 27, 2019
What a fun story! It's not a traditional boy-meets-girl romance. I haven't read many stories set in the flapper era, but I really enjoyed this. The writing is fresh and the characters are likable. I'm looking forward to Jennifer Leo's next book!
Marjorie Corrigan is about to marry a doctor and become an important figure in their small town until she starts fainting at the oddest times. The trip to Chicago to discover the root of her problem opens a whole new chapter in her life. One that may not include a certain small-town doctor. Her new roommate poses nude and sings in a speakeasy. How's a wholesome girl from small-town America to survive in the fast-paced and occasionally dangerous world of prohibition Chicago?
Read it to find out!
Marjorie Corrigan is about to marry a doctor and become an important figure in their small town until she starts fainting at the oddest times. The trip to Chicago to discover the root of her problem opens a whole new chapter in her life. One that may not include a certain small-town doctor. Her new roommate poses nude and sings in a speakeasy. How's a wholesome girl from small-town America to survive in the fast-paced and occasionally dangerous world of prohibition Chicago?
Read it to find out!
December 27, 2016
If you enjoy Mr.Selfridge, you will love this
The author does a wonderful job of drawing us back to a time where women were just beginning to get an inkling of what life could look like following their dreams into the workplace. Marjorie find herself in the big city, chasing a mysterious stranger, and working in an upscale department store. Leo creates a rich world of vivid descriptions that immerses us into the roaring twenties and the days of prohibition. Great read!
The author does a wonderful job of drawing us back to a time where women were just beginning to get an inkling of what life could look like following their dreams into the workplace. Marjorie find herself in the big city, chasing a mysterious stranger, and working in an upscale department store. Leo creates a rich world of vivid descriptions that immerses us into the roaring twenties and the days of prohibition. Great read!
September 8, 2018
A fun read! While the 1920s is not a time period that I normally read, I found that I really enjoyed this one. Although I figured out early on how the story would unfold, I kept reading to see if I was correct. I also enjoyed the author’s sense of humor with the witty dialogue and even caught myself laughing out loud at one point.
September 26, 2016
This one had me turning the page and switching back and forth in my answer to the question, "Is he really Jack?" I think the author also captured the language of the time without going overboard like I have seen in other books set in the twenties.
December 29, 2017
4.5 stars
Ah, this was such a fun, thoughtful, and sweet read! You're the Cream in My Coffee by Jennifer Lamont Leo swept me right into the 1920s-30s era and kept me reading late into the night more than once. It had a little uniqueness from the average historical fiction, and a meaningful message and faith theme. And it was just completely adorable! *all the heart eyes* I loved Majorie and her journey. Dot, Charlie, Peter, Helen, Pop ... *hugs them all* I would love to read more. You're the Cream in My Coffee was exciting, authentic, wistful, and humorous, with a dash of mystery and suspense. It kept me guessing on certain things, and had me giggling here and there.
The stores, bobbed hair, dancing, and art classes - so delightful.
My only concern about this book is a couple of the characters engaging in romances without completely knowing where the other stood on faith issues. I think the Bible is pretty clear about not marrying unbelievers, so it makes me uncomfortable (even if said characters do end up becoming Christians in the end, or whatever.)
But other than that, You're the Cream in My Coffee was a real pleasure to read. Beyond just being fun and intriguing, I appreciated the lessons learned and impressed by the forgiveness, gentleness, and such shown by characters.
I love this era, and hope to read more by Jennifer Lamont Leo!
Ah, this was such a fun, thoughtful, and sweet read! You're the Cream in My Coffee by Jennifer Lamont Leo swept me right into the 1920s-30s era and kept me reading late into the night more than once. It had a little uniqueness from the average historical fiction, and a meaningful message and faith theme. And it was just completely adorable! *all the heart eyes* I loved Majorie and her journey. Dot, Charlie, Peter, Helen, Pop ... *hugs them all* I would love to read more. You're the Cream in My Coffee was exciting, authentic, wistful, and humorous, with a dash of mystery and suspense. It kept me guessing on certain things, and had me giggling here and there.
The stores, bobbed hair, dancing, and art classes - so delightful.
My only concern about this book is a couple of the characters engaging in romances without completely knowing where the other stood on faith issues. I think the Bible is pretty clear about not marrying unbelievers, so it makes me uncomfortable (even if said characters do end up becoming Christians in the end, or whatever.)
But other than that, You're the Cream in My Coffee was a real pleasure to read. Beyond just being fun and intriguing, I appreciated the lessons learned and impressed by the forgiveness, gentleness, and such shown by characters.
I love this era, and hope to read more by Jennifer Lamont Leo!
October 22, 2016
I'd been meaning to read more inspirational novels but I'd not yet found one that didn't seem to have an "older" feel to it. This novel was recommended by a friend at a writers conference, and was I ever glad that I picked it up.
The roaring 20s in Chicago was not a mellow place, so I was eager to see how the author would handle all that craziness. Tasteful omissions? Vague vulgarities? Neither of these. Leo offers a refreshing, funny, and interesting world in which the main character not only takes control of her life but also finds her faith again. It's fast paced, has perfect cliff hangers that made me keep on reading, and a whole host of well-developed characters.
I highly recommend this book to everyone, but especially those who love history and humor and a wonderful, clean read.
The roaring 20s in Chicago was not a mellow place, so I was eager to see how the author would handle all that craziness. Tasteful omissions? Vague vulgarities? Neither of these. Leo offers a refreshing, funny, and interesting world in which the main character not only takes control of her life but also finds her faith again. It's fast paced, has perfect cliff hangers that made me keep on reading, and a whole host of well-developed characters.
I highly recommend this book to everyone, but especially those who love history and humor and a wonderful, clean read.
August 28, 2016
I absolutely loved this book. I received a copy before it was released, and I didn't put it down. I stayed up until 1am to finish it. =) I laughed, I cried, and I had a fantastic time in 1920s Chicago with Marjorie Corrigan.
October 15, 2016
I enjoyed the book, story and character. Well written.
October 23, 2016
Full review to come after it appears in Historical Novel Review.
February 7, 2017
Enjoyed the setting! A deeper look at life in the 1920's.
May 14, 2020
"I wasted a lot of time feeling distant from God. Then I realized that He wasn't the one who backed off, it was me."
This is a new-to-me author who wooed me in with this first book I have read. Set in Illinois in the roaring twenties, filled with flapper ladies with bobbed hair, and wonderful twenties' expressions like "cat's pajamas," "bee's knees," etc. The characters were so realistic and believable. Two young women starred who got caught up in the twenties' fast flowing, prohibition booze, speakeasies, and gangster men. But they soon learned that wasn't the life they wanted, there was a price to pay for this kind of life, and their faith may have floundered but God still walked by their sides. A couple of "swoon worthy" heroes rounded out the delightful cast of this witty and enjoyable book that had a strong spiritual thread.
This is a new-to-me author who wooed me in with this first book I have read. Set in Illinois in the roaring twenties, filled with flapper ladies with bobbed hair, and wonderful twenties' expressions like "cat's pajamas," "bee's knees," etc. The characters were so realistic and believable. Two young women starred who got caught up in the twenties' fast flowing, prohibition booze, speakeasies, and gangster men. But they soon learned that wasn't the life they wanted, there was a price to pay for this kind of life, and their faith may have floundered but God still walked by their sides. A couple of "swoon worthy" heroes rounded out the delightful cast of this witty and enjoyable book that had a strong spiritual thread.
January 12, 2018
I don’t usually read “faith based” novels, especially those with a romance angle. The characters and circumstances are either too unrealistic or idealized, the plots formulaic, and the requisite Gospel/Biblical messages, rather than being inspiring, are often overly simplistic and forced (especially considering the authors are, essentially, “preaching to the choir”). I somehow was not aware what was at the heart of "You’re the Cream in My Coffee" when I won a copy in a Goodreads Giveaway. Imagine my delight to discover that none of the aforementioned turn-offs were present in this charming, fun read.
The novel is set in the Roaring Twenties, where we are introduced to Marjorie Corrigan, the main protagonist and first person narrator, who has serious “man troubles” and spends most of the novel trying to sort out her head and heart and negotiate a crisis of faith. She and her new roommate, Dot Rogers, are sales ladies in Marshall Field’s Dept. Store in Chicago. Marjorie, who is determined that nothing stronger than coffee will ever cross her lips, is most chagrined to learn that Dot, who wants to make it big as a jazz singer, regularly performs in a speakeasy and is dating its questionable owner.
The story follows the ups and downs, sometimes complicated but often humorous predicaments the two ladies experience as they try to find out who they really are and what they really want. There is more than one plot line to follow, which makes for an interesting, more substantial read than may first meet the eye.
Thankfully, the characters are not cardboard cutouts. Small-town Marjorie is refreshingly amusing, charmingly naïve but also spunky with a headstrong streak. The obviously "lapsed" Dot is a stunning, fast-talking gal who is partial to bobbed hair, hot red lipstick and scandalously knee-revealing skirts. Who will have the most influence on the other, and what will the consequences be?
The main spiritual theme involves faith and trust in God to work things out and make things right, despite how complicated or bleak circumstances may appear. As expected, the message is interjected at various points in the book. As a Christian and a writer myself, I prefer the “show, don’t tell” approach, but to my surprise I was almost—but not quite-- turned off when these predictable passages appeared. Jennifer Lamont Leo is a talented writer and I found myself devouring this appealing book in two days, which is the first novel in what is to be a series involving the story’s main characters. May I say that Ms. Leo is off to a “roaring” good start.
The novel is set in the Roaring Twenties, where we are introduced to Marjorie Corrigan, the main protagonist and first person narrator, who has serious “man troubles” and spends most of the novel trying to sort out her head and heart and negotiate a crisis of faith. She and her new roommate, Dot Rogers, are sales ladies in Marshall Field’s Dept. Store in Chicago. Marjorie, who is determined that nothing stronger than coffee will ever cross her lips, is most chagrined to learn that Dot, who wants to make it big as a jazz singer, regularly performs in a speakeasy and is dating its questionable owner.
The story follows the ups and downs, sometimes complicated but often humorous predicaments the two ladies experience as they try to find out who they really are and what they really want. There is more than one plot line to follow, which makes for an interesting, more substantial read than may first meet the eye.
Thankfully, the characters are not cardboard cutouts. Small-town Marjorie is refreshingly amusing, charmingly naïve but also spunky with a headstrong streak. The obviously "lapsed" Dot is a stunning, fast-talking gal who is partial to bobbed hair, hot red lipstick and scandalously knee-revealing skirts. Who will have the most influence on the other, and what will the consequences be?
The main spiritual theme involves faith and trust in God to work things out and make things right, despite how complicated or bleak circumstances may appear. As expected, the message is interjected at various points in the book. As a Christian and a writer myself, I prefer the “show, don’t tell” approach, but to my surprise I was almost—but not quite-- turned off when these predictable passages appeared. Jennifer Lamont Leo is a talented writer and I found myself devouring this appealing book in two days, which is the first novel in what is to be a series involving the story’s main characters. May I say that Ms. Leo is off to a “roaring” good start.
November 7, 2016
I do occasionally read Christian books but not that often. I dislike the ones that preach at me. Well, good news, this was definitely one of the better Christian fictions that I have read.
Cute story of a small town girl who goes to the big city and has adventures beyond what she would have believed could happen to her, a good, decent, small town girl who is engaged and about to be married to a young doctor.
During Prohibition speakeasys are filled with temptations, girls are flashing their knees and bobbing their hair but Marjorie Corrigan lives in a small town that is the furthest thing from temptation, until, she develops a mysterious ailment and is sent to a doctor in Chicago by her fiance and stepmother. About to return home, Marjorie bumps into a man at the train station and there her adventures begin. Until she is satisfied that the man in the station is not her long lost boyfriend, Jack, who disappeared in the War fifteen years ago, well she’s just not going home.
Nice story-line, and an interesting cast of characters. Here and there Marjorie’s good luck is a bit unbelievable but it is fiction after all. I enjoyed reading this book.
This book was won in a First Reads giveaway.
Cute story of a small town girl who goes to the big city and has adventures beyond what she would have believed could happen to her, a good, decent, small town girl who is engaged and about to be married to a young doctor.
During Prohibition speakeasys are filled with temptations, girls are flashing their knees and bobbing their hair but Marjorie Corrigan lives in a small town that is the furthest thing from temptation, until, she develops a mysterious ailment and is sent to a doctor in Chicago by her fiance and stepmother. About to return home, Marjorie bumps into a man at the train station and there her adventures begin. Until she is satisfied that the man in the station is not her long lost boyfriend, Jack, who disappeared in the War fifteen years ago, well she’s just not going home.
Nice story-line, and an interesting cast of characters. Here and there Marjorie’s good luck is a bit unbelievable but it is fiction after all. I enjoyed reading this book.
This book was won in a First Reads giveaway.
December 17, 2016
I knew Marjorie when she just a sweet little rough draft--so fun to come across her all grown up into a novel.
Marjorie is that small town girl who goes off to the city and makes changes. She changes her looks, her ambitions, her love interest. Chicago does that to 1920's kind of girl.
You're the Cream in my Coffee is the lively and sweet debut novel of Jenny Leo. The humorous situations that Marjorie often finds herself in are reminiscent of a Shakespearean plot in that is filled with misunderstandings, thwarted lovers, and secret identities. A well-researched novel that focuses on the alcohol issues related to Prohibition, WWI and PTSD, plus a look at the advent of the independent working girl, this the "bees knees" of a read.
Marjorie is that small town girl who goes off to the city and makes changes. She changes her looks, her ambitions, her love interest. Chicago does that to 1920's kind of girl.
You're the Cream in my Coffee is the lively and sweet debut novel of Jenny Leo. The humorous situations that Marjorie often finds herself in are reminiscent of a Shakespearean plot in that is filled with misunderstandings, thwarted lovers, and secret identities. A well-researched novel that focuses on the alcohol issues related to Prohibition, WWI and PTSD, plus a look at the advent of the independent working girl, this the "bees knees" of a read.
October 19, 2016
Jennifer Lamont Leo's debut novel is full of witty banter, fascinating historical details, and romance. There were so many laugh out loud moments that kept me wondering what move Marjorie Corrigan would make next. The first person account really made me feel I was living each moment with the protagonist. Seamlessly woven within the storyline was an important faith message of trust in the Lord's leading.
December 24, 2016
I enjoyed this book and will be looking for more by this author. While some parts of it were cliche, I found it enjoyable and entertaining. The time period was one of my favorites!
June 27, 2017
I was so pleasantly surprised by this story! Loved it.
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