The Little Brooklyn Bakery - Julie Caplin

Available here

Goodreads Blurb:
When Sophie Bennings arrives in New York, love is the last thing on her mind. Still reeling from a painful break up, she throws herself into her work as a food editor on a top-notch magazine.
Columnist Todd McLennan is everything that Sophie wishes she didn’t want. Like the gorgeous bakery below her Brooklyn apartment, he’s as tempting as the sugary cupcakes on daily display. Surely a little of something you fancy can do you good?
As Sophie and Todd get to know one another, a love of food isn’t the only passion they share. In the city that never sleeps, has Sophie finally met the man of her dreams…?

My Review:
Fun, light and sweet - I was addicted and was soon fully immersed in Sophie's story. It helps I have a never ending affection for New York but this book ticked all the boxes of a warm, chick-lit rom-com with added yummy food/cakes and sexy phwoar factor.

I was hooked - read it in a couple of sittings and stayed up past my bedtime as I was so into it. I hadn't read the previous book in the series - but it doesn't matter as this works as a stand alone anyway. I will be rectifying that though, no doubt about it.

Sophie, or should I say Lady Sophie, is a nice girl who is wronged by a terrible, and not in the least bit appealing, man. I wasn't really expecting the scenario that played out with their relationship but I already knew it would be the best thing to happen for Sophie. She is a really likable character, to be honest I would've done the same and legged it to New York so I was supportive and all for her doing well from the start.
 
Todd is our phwoar factor. From the way he is described he is one hot male lead. He is charming, playful and just what Sophie needs to bring her out of herself in New York. You know he is deeper than his "play boy" image as you can see how much he cares for people i.e. his cousin Bella (who I think is a brilliant best friend type character for Sophie!)

I loved the sense of community and friendships within the book. As I mentioned I love New York and I have always been blown away by how friendly people are there. I was once told nobody in New York would be friendly or interested in conversation but, like in this book, they are! I loved the authors descriptions of locations - taking me back to some places and making me feel like I was exactly there with them all. It makes me want to head over and check out Brooklyn some more.

Definitely a binge worthy read - I can't wait to take a trip to Copenhaden and Paris next!
Comfy Rating: 👍👍👍👍👍

A Year at Castle Court - Holly Hepburn

Available here

Goodreads:

Sadie is a single mum, nursing a broken heart. Her best friend from childhood, Cat, is burned out from working long hours as a chef in Paris. In need of a change, they decide to invest in their dream – running their own handmade biscuit shop in gorgeous Castle Court, a three-storey food court tucked away behind Chester's bustling streets.

They soon discover that Castle Court has its own community –  but not everyone welcomes the new business. Luckily, there's support in the form of the delectable Jaren, who owns the Dutch waffle house opposite Smart Cookies, and Swiss chocolate-shop owner, Elin. And if all else fails, the friends can drown their sorrows in Seb's cocktail bar on the third floor!

My Review:

Split into four parts, this is an easy-going and enjoyable read that is well written with characters you will adore (and some you will not). I wouldn't say it is a totally predictable read but with experience comes the knack of being able to correctly foresee who Sadie and Cat would end up falling in love with. I don't think this is a really bad thing though as the story to get there was not straight forward, it had surprises that I did not expect.

The friendship between Sadie and Cat is brilliantly written, it is easy, loving and realistic - with each character going through ups and downs and finding constant support in the other. The sense of community at Castle Court is another strong theme throughout the story - I actually would love to find somewhere like Castle Court as it all sounded divine. 

As mentioned, things were not always going to plan with their shop 'Smart Cookies' or personally for Sadie or Cat, it makes you wonder how many 'mini disasters' some people could put up with but with their friends, they seem to sort any issue out very quickly. 

Holly's writing is bright, cheerful and very enjoyable, this book was a lovely treat to snuggle up with. Just a bit of a warning - you'll find yourself searching for some biscuits or other edible goodness after this!

I would definitely recommend this book for anyone looking for something easy going, relatable characters and smiles along the way. 

Comfy Rating: 👍👍👍👍