Short Take Reviews: Make It Sweet & The Invitation

 


MAKE IT SWEET

Kristin Callihan
Published: February 23, 2021
Source: Library Loan
4.25 stars

In Make It Sweet, main characters Emma and Luc were both at a crossroads in their careers. Emma had just lost her fan-favorite role on a wildly popular TV series. Luc had suffered a career-ending injury that left the hockey player bitter and dealing with lingering health issues. They both happened to take refuge at, Rosemont, a sprawling estate on the California coast owned by Luc’s grandmother.

It was so easy to want the most for Emma and Luc. Both were facing uncertain futures (Luc even more so since hockey was no longer an option for him) which gave them a unique understanding of one another. I loved how Luc’s grumpy demeanor was no match for Emma’s (usually) positive vibe. Their banter was so delicious (I adored how they flirted back and forth, and their chemistry was fire!) and speaking of delicious… hello, Chef Luc! This guy’s culinary creations were a main attraction in the story, and I wanted to taste everything he offered (ahem).

Make It Sweet may not have been anything terribly new or unforgettable, but it was a solid romance, with characters I loved, and I enjoyed every minute I spent with them.


Vi Keeland
Published: January 16, 2021
Source: Library Loan
4 stars

Stella’s ex-roommate left her in the lurch (skipped out on the rent and stole her favorite shoes) so Stella didn’t feel bad about using the ex-roomie’s invitation to attend a swanky society wedding. There she met Hudson, the bride’s brother, and the sparks were flying. But when he figured out she was a wedding crasher, and took a little revenge, Stella made her escape… but left her phone. Retrieving it from his office several days later was humbling, but also led to a friendship with his sister (the new bride) and a huge opportunity for her fledgling business. And maybe a new romance…

Stella was a totally likable character and it was easy to pull for her success – both professionally and personally. Her business model for personalized perfumes was unique and I liked how focused and driven she was. Hudson was single dad perfection (seriously, the moments with his daughter were everything) and once he came around and the relationship with Stella started, he was all in. I really liked how these two were up front with each other, didn’t play stupid games, and basically acted like adults. While the “twist” at the end wasn’t much of a surprise (it was pretty obvious from early on how it was going to play out), it didn’t detract from my enjoyment of the story. 


HAVE YOU READ EITHER OF THESE BOOKS?

12 comments

  1. I loved Make It Sweet so I'm thrilled you liked it too, Tanya! I loved what you had to say about Luc and Emma's characters.

    Single dad you say?? I'm going to go get this book!

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  2. Make it Sweet sounds pretty cute. I'm always a fan of a guy who can cook! I've seen The Invitation around and wondered about it. I've read these authors before and enjoyed their writing so I'll have to pick it up sometime! Glad to hear you enjoyed both romances!

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    1. Make It Sweet was one of those that delivered more than I expected. Truly likable characters in that one.

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  3. I know you love a good hockey player story, so I'm glad this one worked out for you. It sounds like such a cute romance!

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  4. I have The Invitation on my Kindle and am glad to hear you enjoyed it - Vi Keeland doesn't disappoint!

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  5. I'm glad you enjoyed Make It Sweet. I enjoyed that one. The food description were everything!

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  6. I've had The Invitation on my Kindle for awhile, so I'm glad to hear you enjoyed it!

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    1. Keeland is one that I turn to for quick and easy reads... nothing super memorable, but solid romances.

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