VBT: Review ~ Sweet on You by Darlene Panzera

Fans of Debbie Macomber will love THE CUPCAKE DIARIES: Sweet on You, the first in the new and exciting three-book romantic comedy, by Darlene Panzera. Set in the small seaport town of Astoria, Oregon, Sweet on You begins the delicious and charming mini-series with Andi Burke’s adventure through love and cupcakes.

Sisters Andi and Kim, along with best friend Rachel, haven’t had the best luck in recent months: unemployment, divorce, and heartbreak. After so many disappointments, what can the trio do to change things around? Open up a much needed gourmet cupcake shop of course!

Andi has always had a dream—a kitchen big enough to bake and dance in, while still being able to support her dear daughter Mia, and hopefully find true love (one day). Could opening up a cupcake shop make it all a reality?

Together, the best friends are determined to open up Creative Cupcakes. But, with no business experience or money to finance the project it seems their dream won’t come true. Until, Jake Hartman, the hunky Astoria Sun reporter, offers to partner up with them.

Trying to hold it together as a single mom hasn’t been easy, and the thought of dating hasn’t crossed Andi’s mind since her divorce. But, the way Jake keeps looking at her might change her mind. After all, what could go wrong?

Plenty! There's a shady tattoo parlor behind their shop and a crowd of crazy Zumba dancers out front—ready to ruin them. The trio is forced to think quick to counter the attacks from Zumba fanatic Pat, while still finding a way to bring in business. It seems the only thing that’s going right is Andi's blooming romance with Jake. As if things weren’t hard enough, Jake’s media crew captures a story that could shut them both down forever.

Avon Romance / Amazon / Barnes and Noble



About the Author:

Darlene Panzera is the winner of the “Make Your Dreams Come True” contest sponsored by Avon Books. The win led her novella, The Bet, to be published with Debbie Macomber’s Family Affair. The award-winning novella (chosen in a blind-read by Debbie Macomber) was then published as a full length novel retitled, Bet You’ll Marry Me. Born and raised in New Jersey, Darlene is now a resident of the Pacific Northwest where she lives with her husband and three children. When not writing she enjoys spending time with her family, two horses, and loves: camping, hiking, photography, and lazy days at the lake.

Author Links:

Website / Facebook / Twitter



My Thoughts:

This was a really quick read. I had mixed feelings about this book. Overall, I did like it. There were just a few things that prevented me from really liking it a lot.

I felt like the characters didn't have enough back story. I like to really know the characters of the books that I read. I didn't get that connection with these characters.

Andi and her father don't get along. Why? What is her dad's issue?

Rachel's man left her. Why?

What is with Kim and tattoos? Why doesn't their dad seem to be as hard on her?

Maybe it's just me. I did say this was a fast read, I just wanted more of a connection.

I Especially liked the way Andi and Jake met. This book was sweet and cute.

This was a clean romance. There is not much steam just one kiss.

I thought the spat between the Zumba girls and the Cupcake clan was ingenious.

If you're looking for a sweet super fast read you should give this a go.

I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.



Thank you for commenting! Don't forget to enter the Comment Incentive Giveaway. The link can be found at the top of the page!