Review: Sugar Rush by Donna Kauffman

Sweet Stuff
Book 1 in the Cupcake Club series
Author: Donna Kauffman
Publisher: Brava
Genre: Contemporary Romance
ISBN: 0758266340
Author's website: Link

When baker extraordinaire Leilani Trusdale leaves New York City for Georgia's sleepy Sugarberry Island, her past follows in the form of her former boss, Baxter Dunne. Baxter, otherwise known as Chef Hot Cakes, wants to film his hit cooking show in her tiny cupcakery. Last time they worked together, Baxter's molten chocolate brown eyes and sexy British accent made Lani's mouth water and her cheeks blush the colour of raspberry filling...Lani's friends are convinced that this time around, Baxter is the missing ingredient in her recipe for happiness. But convincing Lani will be a job for Baxter himself. And he'll need more than black velvet frosting to sweeten the deal...

Leilani Trusdale has always had a love for baking. Lani decides to leave New York City and head to Sugarberry Island to escape her past. She knows she is making the right decision well, that is until her former boss, Baxter Dunne makes an appearance in her shop. Chef Hot Cakes wants to film a season of his show there, but it's that all he is there for?

Every one of Lani’s friends is convinced this time around Baxter is what she needs in her life to make it complete. Although, Lani doesn’t believe so, Baxter will have his work cut out for him for sure. Can Lani get past the betrayal that she thinks Baxter caused in the past and him the chance he has been waiting for?

I really did enjoy this book from the beginning to the very end. The story wasn’t just filled with baking yummy treats, but romance, friendship and a second chance. Lani is a strong heroine who has made some major changes and takes even more chances with her heart.

Baxter was a bit complex. There was so much that happened to him that made him the man he is today. He has had a thing for Lani since the day he took her under his wing to teach her everything she needed to know. Now it is time to get to know the new her, the real her. He doesn’t just have the sexiest British accent but the dreamy looks to go along with it. I want my own Baxter.

Everything about this story was fun and lovable. Kauffman brings in some very funny and creative scenes with frosting and dancing. I found myself smiling and laughing throughout the entire book. I also enjoyed all the emotions that were brought out in each character. Each one has a special quality about them that just adds to the story. The friendships are made of the richest fillings that will keep you craving more. It all made me want to move to Sugarberry Island.

I am truly excited to read the next book in the series, Sweet Stuff, which is due out February 2012. I can’t get enough of this new town, characters and the romances that have bloomed and will continue to bloom in this new series.

Reviewed by Danielle