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Against All Expectations #6
Unrivaled
Lucy Kendall returns from a tour of the Continent, her luggage filled with the latest fashions and a mind fired by inspiration. After tasting Europe's best confections, she's sure she'll come up with a recipe that will save her father's struggling candy business and reverse their fortunes. But she soon discovers that their biggest competitor, the cheat who swindled her father out of his prize recipe, has now hired a promotions manager--a cocky, handsome out-of-towner who gets under Lucy's skin.
Charlie Clarke's new role at Standard Manufacturing is the chance of a lifetime. He can put some rough times behind him and reconnect with the father he's never known. The one thing he never counted on, however, was tenacious Lucy Kendall. She's making his work life miserable...and making herself impossible for him to forget.
Charlie Clarke's new role at Standard Manufacturing is the chance of a lifetime. He can put some rough times behind him and reconnect with the father he's never known. The one thing he never counted on, however, was tenacious Lucy Kendall. She's making his work life miserable...and making herself impossible for him to forget.
387 pages, Paperback
First published March 1, 2013
38 people are currently reading
2938 people want to read
About the author
Siri Mitchell
17 books749 followersalso published under the name Siri L. Mitchell & Iris Anthony
Siri Mitchell graduated from the University of Washington with a business degree and worked in various levels of government. As a military spouse, she has lived all over the world, including Paris and Tokyo. Siri enjoys observing and learning from different cultures. She is fluent in French and loves sushi.
But she is also a member of a strange breed of people called novelists. When they’re listening to a speaker and taking notes, chances are, they’ve just had a great idea for a plot or a dialogue. If they nod in response to a really profound statement, they’re probably thinking, “Yes. Right. That’s exactly what my character needs to hear.” When they edit their manuscripts, they laugh at the funny parts. And cry at the sad parts. Sometimes they even talk to their characters.
Siri wrote 4 books and accumulated 153 rejections before signing with a publisher. In the process, she saw the bottoms of more pints of Ben & Jerry’s than she cares to admit. At various times she has vowed never to write another word again. Ever. She has gone on writing strikes and even stooped to threatening her manuscripts with the shredder.
Siri Mitchell graduated from the University of Washington with a business degree and worked in various levels of government. As a military spouse, she has lived all over the world, including Paris and Tokyo. Siri enjoys observing and learning from different cultures. She is fluent in French and loves sushi.
But she is also a member of a strange breed of people called novelists. When they’re listening to a speaker and taking notes, chances are, they’ve just had a great idea for a plot or a dialogue. If they nod in response to a really profound statement, they’re probably thinking, “Yes. Right. That’s exactly what my character needs to hear.” When they edit their manuscripts, they laugh at the funny parts. And cry at the sad parts. Sometimes they even talk to their characters.
Siri wrote 4 books and accumulated 153 rejections before signing with a publisher. In the process, she saw the bottoms of more pints of Ben & Jerry’s than she cares to admit. At various times she has vowed never to write another word again. Ever. She has gone on writing strikes and even stooped to threatening her manuscripts with the shredder.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 204 reviews
November 18, 2021
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star
Early High School Teens- Two Stars
Older High School Teens- Three Stars
My personal Rating- Two Stars (and a half)
It’s my second time reading this novel, and while I definitely enjoyed it more the first time around, I still found this book to be very interesting with the candy factories and rivalry. I found myself getting quite into the rivalry, actually! Both Lucy & Charlie had their moments where I wasn’t liking their choices (Lucy because of her dirty tricks and Charlie drinking and gambling a bit), but overall, I thought the book was pretty realistic in their thoughts and actions—if you were in their shoes, that is.
I’m not sure if I really enjoy the enemies-to-lovers tropes, which this book is for the majority, though. I think it’s always the “I’m so mad at this person/I hate this person, but I can’t help look at their lips” parts that make me unsettled and wrinkle my nose in displeasure.
It was interesting to see both main character’s parts in a 1st person point of view, which isn’t common.
The faith content was…different in this book and both Lucy and Charlie’s questions/disgruntlements (?) weren’t wrapped up by the end, which I thought was unfortunate. Lucy also had her moments—such as being so annoyed with Charlie she thinks that Hell is too good of a place for him. That really rubbed me the wrong way, personally. It showed herself as the selfish, mean, and rude person another person said that she was when she was younger, but still. I thought that was completely not necessary to say.
While somewhat clean in most regards, there was some comments that would go over the heads of some readers. I’ll still recommend “Like a Flower in Bloom” by this author more than this novel.
Full Content Review to Come.
Lowered from a 4 star rating to 2.5 rating on 11/16/2021.
New Teens- One Star
Early High School Teens- Two Stars
Older High School Teens- Three Stars
My personal Rating- Two Stars (and a half)
It’s my second time reading this novel, and while I definitely enjoyed it more the first time around, I still found this book to be very interesting with the candy factories and rivalry. I found myself getting quite into the rivalry, actually! Both Lucy & Charlie had their moments where I wasn’t liking their choices (Lucy because of her dirty tricks and Charlie drinking and gambling a bit), but overall, I thought the book was pretty realistic in their thoughts and actions—if you were in their shoes, that is.
I’m not sure if I really enjoy the enemies-to-lovers tropes, which this book is for the majority, though. I think it’s always the “I’m so mad at this person/I hate this person, but I can’t help look at their lips” parts that make me unsettled and wrinkle my nose in displeasure.
It was interesting to see both main character’s parts in a 1st person point of view, which isn’t common.
The faith content was…different in this book and both Lucy and Charlie’s questions/disgruntlements (?) weren’t wrapped up by the end, which I thought was unfortunate. Lucy also had her moments—such as being so annoyed with Charlie she thinks that Hell is too good of a place for him. That really rubbed me the wrong way, personally. It showed herself as the selfish, mean, and rude person another person said that she was when she was younger, but still. I thought that was completely not necessary to say.
While somewhat clean in most regards, there was some comments that would go over the heads of some readers. I’ll still recommend “Like a Flower in Bloom” by this author more than this novel.
Full Content Review to Come.
Lowered from a 4 star rating to 2.5 rating on 11/16/2021.
July 27, 2015
Lucy is determined to save her father’s candy business. Too bad her major competition stole her father’s most successful recipe—the one for Royal Taffy. But Lucy is certain she can invent something just as good. The question is whether she can before her mother manages to marry her off into high society.
Charlie Clarke is the antithesis of well-bred. His father ditched Charlie’s mother and her children, then remarried, started up a super successful candy business, and lives the high life. When Charlie finds himself on the wrong side of the law, moving in with his father becomes the only option. Charlie knows he doesn’t belong. He’s ready to skip town as soon as—well—as soon as he figures out that crazy girl who seems bound and determined to ruin his father’s candy business.
Tons of fun and two likeable main characters. Nothing is quite as simple as both would like to believe, and the battle between the two of them is well worth the read. Pure fun.
Charlie Clarke is the antithesis of well-bred. His father ditched Charlie’s mother and her children, then remarried, started up a super successful candy business, and lives the high life. When Charlie finds himself on the wrong side of the law, moving in with his father becomes the only option. Charlie knows he doesn’t belong. He’s ready to skip town as soon as—well—as soon as he figures out that crazy girl who seems bound and determined to ruin his father’s candy business.
Tons of fun and two likeable main characters. Nothing is quite as simple as both would like to believe, and the battle between the two of them is well worth the read. Pure fun.
March 29, 2013
This review can also be found on Book Girl of Mur-y-Castell-blog.
This is a sweet story.
Yes, it tells about two rivalling families making candy to the point where you start to drool reading the descriptions—or was that just me?—but it also tells about overcoming past mistakes and accepting second chances. Forgiveness. Things Christian fiction revolves around.
I know, it’s shocking, but sometimes I try to read out of my comfort zone and anything to do with religious fiction is way, way out of my comfort zone. Sometimes it pays off, other times it doesn’t, but look at that blurb:
A young woman wanting to go into business with her father and to make little bites of heaven? Yes, please.
So here’s the conflict. Not only is her father unwell, Lucy lives at a time when when women in business were frowned upon. At least if you were of a certain social class it was a no no. There are also other more personal obstacles than figuring out the recipe for the next best candy or how to sell it. She has the spirit but is it enough to succeed?
I was surprised to see that Unrivaled was told from two alternating point of views and that of the two, I liked Charlie’s voice better. In a way it was indistinguishable from Lucy’s voice, but his actions didn’t make me sympathise with the “bad parent” or want to pull my hair out like Lucy’s did.
I don’t think this is quite true. For someone who isn’t willing to compromise Charlie goes along with his parents' plans and lets his life be turned upside down without a word of protest. Nor is his father’s approval the top most thing on his mind. Charlie’s more interested in learning why he left in the first place.
The rivalry itself was quite fun. Lucy especially did a few callous things to sabotage her competitor.
If you can’t guess the answer to that, let me introduce you to Agatha Christie, an author who’ll blow your mind. But in all seriousness, as long as we’re talking about the future in candy making their dreams look to be quite safe even if not in a way they imagined. As for the romance riddled with insta-love, the outlook isn’t as bright. I wasn’t exactly moved by the sweetness of that side of the novel, but that’s better for my teeth anyway.
It is a sweet story and I’m glad I read it but I’m ready to go back to darker themes.
I received an Advanced Readers Copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
This is a sweet story.
Yes, it tells about two rivalling families making candy to the point where you start to drool reading the descriptions—or was that just me?—but it also tells about overcoming past mistakes and accepting second chances. Forgiveness. Things Christian fiction revolves around.
I know, it’s shocking, but sometimes I try to read out of my comfort zone and anything to do with religious fiction is way, way out of my comfort zone. Sometimes it pays off, other times it doesn’t, but look at that blurb:
Lucy Kendall always assumed she'd help her father in his candy-making business, creating recipes and aiding him in their shared passion.
A young woman wanting to go into business with her father and to make little bites of heaven? Yes, please.
But after a year traveling in Europe, Lucy returns to 1910 St. Louis to find her father unwell and her mother planning to sell the struggling candy company. Determined to help, Lucy vows to create a candy that will reverse their fortunes.
So here’s the conflict. Not only is her father unwell, Lucy lives at a time when when women in business were frowned upon. At least if you were of a certain social class it was a no no. There are also other more personal obstacles than figuring out the recipe for the next best candy or how to sell it. She has the spirit but is it enough to succeed?
St. Louis newcomer Charlie Clarke is determined to help his father dominate the nation's candy industry.
I was surprised to see that Unrivaled was told from two alternating point of views and that of the two, I liked Charlie’s voice better. In a way it was indistinguishable from Lucy’s voice, but his actions didn’t make me sympathise with the “bad parent” or want to pull my hair out like Lucy’s did.
Compromise is not an option when the prize is a father's approval, and falling in love with a business rival is a recipe for disaster when only one company can win.
I don’t think this is quite true. For someone who isn’t willing to compromise Charlie goes along with his parents' plans and lets his life be turned upside down without a word of protest. Nor is his father’s approval the top most thing on his mind. Charlie’s more interested in learning why he left in the first place.
The rivalry itself was quite fun. Lucy especially did a few callous things to sabotage her competitor.
Will these two star-crossed lovers let a competition that turns less than friendly sour their dreams?
If you can’t guess the answer to that, let me introduce you to Agatha Christie, an author who’ll blow your mind. But in all seriousness, as long as we’re talking about the future in candy making their dreams look to be quite safe even if not in a way they imagined. As for the romance riddled with insta-love, the outlook isn’t as bright. I wasn’t exactly moved by the sweetness of that side of the novel, but that’s better for my teeth anyway.
It is a sweet story and I’m glad I read it but I’m ready to go back to darker themes.
I received an Advanced Readers Copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
February 17, 2020
Unrivaled is a historical Christian romance novel. Sometimes when reading books with several different sub genres, we ask ourselves which one is the most represented in this novel? Our answer is definitely Historical; similar to the only other Siri Mitchell story I have read previously. There is very little faith based Christian content woven into the story. Honestly, the story felt simply like the faith content was thrown in at the end as an “oops” with little care. The romance was... childish? I couldn’t keep track of who was “mad” or who “hated” each other, as every chapter they had different feelings. Going off on the fact that love is not a feeling, this annoyed me and i wasn’t rooting for Lucy & Charlie in the love department. I was however, hoping they both with make personal progress and spiritual growth- some of which happened.
On a positive note- let’s get one thing straight. The historical info and all the research Mitchell had to have done on candy making was impressive. I really enjoyed reading about the process and the ends and outs of the business.
I am considering trying another Mitchell novel to see if I can find a novel with a more mature romance or little to none.
On a positive note- let’s get one thing straight. The historical info and all the research Mitchell had to have done on candy making was impressive. I really enjoyed reading about the process and the ends and outs of the business.
I am considering trying another Mitchell novel to see if I can find a novel with a more mature romance or little to none.
July 28, 2013
This was a sweet and airy confection of a book (couldn't resist the candy metaphors, probably because the book is showered with too many of them), with little substance. I get that this genre is supposed to be pretty fluffy, but the plot development and characterization in this sometimes rubbed me the wrong way.
First of all, at the beginning of the book Charlie's mother remarries even though her husband is still alive. She got a divorce, but that doesn't really mean anything. It just nettles me that her character and "Honest Andy," who she marries, were supposed to be such upstanding Christian characters when they were basically committing adultery. Apparently the author doesn't subscribe to that view, though.
Charlie's turn-around wasn't very believable. He was apparently quite lawless and rough-and-tumble in his days brushing shoulders with Chicago gangsters, and then he tries to act like a gentleman, and then he wants Lucy Kendall and he gets her. Where is the growth in his character? Did any of this change him or make him a better person?
The attempts at weaving faith into this were a bit ludicrous. The only character who really talks about her faith was a daffy, somewhat incoherent, perpetually-smiling acquaintance that both main characters were always attempting to dodge. I'm fine if the book doesn't talk about faith—in fact, I'd prefer it if it were shown more than told—but I dislike how it was tacked on in in a haphazard manner that was never resolved.
Lucy's arc, if it may be called that, was also a bit of a stretch. She just suddenly started trusting Charlie? Also, how poor can her family really be if they are able to keep their coachman, maid, cook, etc.?
It annoyed me how the romance in this was primarily based on mere physical attraction. Charlie basically lusts after Lucy, they nearly kiss when they hardly know each other, and later they do kiss a few times. And then there was this choice morsel (from page 281):
What was with Mr. Alfred Arthur? He seemed to be a bit of a jellyfish. I was confused with what was going on with him and Evelyn . . . and then he jilted Lucy (in a rather ungallant way, I thought) and disappeared from the book. What happened to his business?
As for the conclusion, did Charlie just agree to the lease arrangement because he liked Lucy? Is her family still moving to Denver?
I'm being pretty harsh on this book, I know. I realize that it wasn't meant to be anything too deep—just clean, escapist, historical fiction romance. I guess it is, but these things did bother me a little. This isn't a bad book, and if you are looking for something light (and are prepared to start craving candy), it might be just the thing.
Disclaimer: I was sent a free copy of this book from Bethany House in exchange for my honest review. I received no monetary compensation and all opinions are my own.
First of all, at the beginning of the book Charlie's mother remarries even though her husband is still alive. She got a divorce, but that doesn't really mean anything. It just nettles me that her character and "Honest Andy," who she marries, were supposed to be such upstanding Christian characters when they were basically committing adultery. Apparently the author doesn't subscribe to that view, though.
Charlie's turn-around wasn't very believable. He was apparently quite lawless and rough-and-tumble in his days brushing shoulders with Chicago gangsters, and then he tries to act like a gentleman, and then he wants Lucy Kendall and he gets her. Where is the growth in his character? Did any of this change him or make him a better person?
The attempts at weaving faith into this were a bit ludicrous. The only character who really talks about her faith was a daffy, somewhat incoherent, perpetually-smiling acquaintance that both main characters were always attempting to dodge. I'm fine if the book doesn't talk about faith—in fact, I'd prefer it if it were shown more than told—but I dislike how it was tacked on in in a haphazard manner that was never resolved.
Lucy's arc, if it may be called that, was also a bit of a stretch. She just suddenly started trusting Charlie? Also, how poor can her family really be if they are able to keep their coachman, maid, cook, etc.?
It annoyed me how the romance in this was primarily based on mere physical attraction. Charlie basically lusts after Lucy, they nearly kiss when they hardly know each other, and later they do kiss a few times. And then there was this choice morsel (from page 281):
One more step, one more inch, and I could have devoured her.Oh, dear. That has got to be one of the worst exchanges I’ve ever read. Thankfully, there aren’t too many others like it in the book. I get that there is a business rivalry and attraction going on simultaneously, but this is kind of over-the-top. We're never told what they even see in each other, beyond the physical. Lucy seems to have a vague sense that he is easy to talk to, but what does that even mean? I guess that's my main gripe with this genre, judging solely off the handful of books of this sort that I have read. The romances are often just so . . . so shallow.
Or murdered her.
“You’d better just—just—watch out!” I’d never wanted to strangle or kiss a girl so badly in all my life. It must have been the headache. Or the whiskey.
What was with Mr. Alfred Arthur? He seemed to be a bit of a jellyfish. I was confused with what was going on with him and Evelyn . . . and then he jilted Lucy (in a rather ungallant way, I thought) and disappeared from the book. What happened to his business?
As for the conclusion, did Charlie just agree to the lease arrangement because he liked Lucy? Is her family still moving to Denver?
I'm being pretty harsh on this book, I know. I realize that it wasn't meant to be anything too deep—just clean, escapist, historical fiction romance. I guess it is, but these things did bother me a little. This isn't a bad book, and if you are looking for something light (and are prepared to start craving candy), it might be just the thing.
Disclaimer: I was sent a free copy of this book from Bethany House in exchange for my honest review. I received no monetary compensation and all opinions are my own.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 14, 2013
I read most of this book in one sitting. Once it hooked me I found it quite engrossing. It had a few mysterious elements to it as well as some rags to riches themes. Perhaps the most touching was the desire of a son for his father's love. The heroine was a bit harder to bond with because she was pretty self-centered and prickly, but she had her moments when you felt sorry for her. At the same time I had a hard time connecting with her. I think she'd spurned the hero one too many times, which made me lose my affection for her. So while I was glad how it ended, I wasn't sighing and excited because I was still trying to figure out what the hero loved about her beyond the pretty face and the passion for candy-making.
A few times I wondered about secondary characters like Jenny and Sam and how they might put a damper on things. I thought they would have more scandalous roles than they ended up with. That would've make things more agonizing for sure. At any rate, I enjoyed the story. It was compelling reading and the chapters were short enough to make you think, "I'll just read one more" and then before you know it you've finished the book. I liked how the author switched chapters between the hero and heroine's points of view. Charlie seemed like more of a nice guy than expected given his history, but it was his concern for the poor and children who had to work to help feed their families that really made me love him. The kiss to shut the heroine up was quite yummy as well. All in all, I enjoyed it.
A few times I wondered about secondary characters like Jenny and Sam and how they might put a damper on things. I thought they would have more scandalous roles than they ended up with. That would've make things more agonizing for sure. At any rate, I enjoyed the story. It was compelling reading and the chapters were short enough to make you think, "I'll just read one more" and then before you know it you've finished the book. I liked how the author switched chapters between the hero and heroine's points of view. Charlie seemed like more of a nice guy than expected given his history, but it was his concern for the poor and children who had to work to help feed their families that really made me love him. The kiss to shut the heroine up was quite yummy as well. All in all, I enjoyed it.
July 22, 2013
I’ve definitely enjoyed several of Siri Mitchell’s books and Unrivaled was no exception. This was a sweet story – in more ways than one!
Unrivaled is the story of Lucy, a candy maker’s daughter, who comes home from England ready to create a candy that will blow all other candies away and save her family’s business. There’s just one problem – their rivals, Royal Taffy, are out to blow their candy shop out of business. With her father sick, Lucy must find a way to save the business without him. In steps Charlie, a handsome new man in town. Abandoned by his father at a young age, Charlie now finds his father wanting him to help him in his thriving business – Royal Taffy. Seeking his father’s love, Charlie agrees to do anything in order to help his father’s business. Even helping to sabotage the beautiful Lucy’s family shop.
Will Lucy and Charlie ever learn to get along? Or will their differences keep them distant from each other? Pick up this sweet tale to find out what happens between these two young people who only want to help their father’s succeed.
Reading about candy definitely made my mouth water! I suggest picking up some candy to read along with this book. I definitely enjoyed this book very much. The characters became real to me as I entered their world and I was sucked into the story. I enjoyed learning about the process of creating candy and seeing the rivalry between two different candy businesses. This book is another great read from a great author!
I received a free ecopy of this book from Bethany House Publishers through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review. I received no compensation for this review and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions stated are my own.
http://mustlovereading.wordpress.com/
Unrivaled is the story of Lucy, a candy maker’s daughter, who comes home from England ready to create a candy that will blow all other candies away and save her family’s business. There’s just one problem – their rivals, Royal Taffy, are out to blow their candy shop out of business. With her father sick, Lucy must find a way to save the business without him. In steps Charlie, a handsome new man in town. Abandoned by his father at a young age, Charlie now finds his father wanting him to help him in his thriving business – Royal Taffy. Seeking his father’s love, Charlie agrees to do anything in order to help his father’s business. Even helping to sabotage the beautiful Lucy’s family shop.
Will Lucy and Charlie ever learn to get along? Or will their differences keep them distant from each other? Pick up this sweet tale to find out what happens between these two young people who only want to help their father’s succeed.
Reading about candy definitely made my mouth water! I suggest picking up some candy to read along with this book. I definitely enjoyed this book very much. The characters became real to me as I entered their world and I was sucked into the story. I enjoyed learning about the process of creating candy and seeing the rivalry between two different candy businesses. This book is another great read from a great author!
I received a free ecopy of this book from Bethany House Publishers through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review. I received no compensation for this review and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions stated are my own.
http://mustlovereading.wordpress.com/
February 21, 2017
A story about candy! What could get better than that? I was super excited when I found this book! Luckily, I was not disappointed. I stayed up late into the night, finishing this book. I just couldn’t put it down.
Lucy and Charlie were wonderful main characters. They fought, they flirted, and they were just a perfect couple. I really liked the first scene in which they met. They didn’t know who the other was and they acted like normal people. And then when they found out–whew! That was awesome!
I was super interested in this because apparently back in that era, candy business was a big thing. And each company’s recipe was theirs and theirs only.
The cover was pretty good. It wasn’t amazing but still good. I really liked the fact that she held a candy recipe in her hand, and it kind of looked like she was hiding it from the guy. This cover deserves 3 stars. Random note: To those of you who watched the TV show Agent Carter, doesn’t the guy on the cover look like Daniel Sousa? Yeah, I know, that was random, but I had to ask.
The book was wonderful! I have to say once again that it is a favorite of mine. I definitely liked that fact that it wasn’t just some mushy romance. It held historical facts as well as fiction. So, yeah, definitely five stars!
Title: Unrivaled
Author: Siri Mitchell
Author’s Website: http://www.sirimitchell.com/
This review is written in my own opinions and words.
Lucy and Charlie were wonderful main characters. They fought, they flirted, and they were just a perfect couple. I really liked the first scene in which they met. They didn’t know who the other was and they acted like normal people. And then when they found out–whew! That was awesome!
I was super interested in this because apparently back in that era, candy business was a big thing. And each company’s recipe was theirs and theirs only.
The cover was pretty good. It wasn’t amazing but still good. I really liked the fact that she held a candy recipe in her hand, and it kind of looked like she was hiding it from the guy. This cover deserves 3 stars. Random note: To those of you who watched the TV show Agent Carter, doesn’t the guy on the cover look like Daniel Sousa? Yeah, I know, that was random, but I had to ask.
The book was wonderful! I have to say once again that it is a favorite of mine. I definitely liked that fact that it wasn’t just some mushy romance. It held historical facts as well as fiction. So, yeah, definitely five stars!
Title: Unrivaled
Author: Siri Mitchell
Author’s Website: http://www.sirimitchell.com/
This review is written in my own opinions and words.
October 4, 2016
The cover. The storyline. The writing. I wanted to love this and at the beginning I was sure I'd give it five stars. By the middle, although I had enjoyed it so much, I realized God and church had only been mentioned maybe two times in passing. I really liked the scene when Winnie talked to Charles about God. That was great! By the point when Charles takes Arthur to a bar, I was going to lower my rating to about 2.5 stars. And don't get me started on Lucy! I couldn't believe how she acted (not that I want perfect characters, but still...).
The end boosted my rating a bit more. I was glad that both Lucy and Charles saw their problems and planned to fix them, but there still wasn't a focus on God like I would have preferred. I loved all the involvement with the candy and chocolate. If you plan to read this, have a stash of chocolate handy because you are going to want it!! I simply loved how well she described the taste and texture of the chocolate.
The Messenger is still better in my opinion (especially with the romance). I plan to read more by this author, as I love her writing and style.
The end boosted my rating a bit more. I was glad that both Lucy and Charles saw their problems and planned to fix them, but there still wasn't a focus on God like I would have preferred. I loved all the involvement with the candy and chocolate. If you plan to read this, have a stash of chocolate handy because you are going to want it!! I simply loved how well she described the taste and texture of the chocolate.
The Messenger is still better in my opinion (especially with the romance). I plan to read more by this author, as I love her writing and style.
April 12, 2013
Thank you to Bethany House for my review copy. I loved the theme of candy and company rivalry. I started with liking Lucy who was determined and strong willed. Her antics of holding on to her father's buisness were at times childish. I did like the portrayal of Lucy's mother not being overly meddling to the point of annoyance. I loved how Charlie learned and built his relationship back after being hurt and angry over his father leaving of the family. In the end Lucy and Charlie come together after obstacle and overcoming their undenaiable attraction to each other. A very pleasant read
March 24, 2017
In Lucy Kendall's life, all should be perfect, but it's just not. She wants to be involved in her father's candy company, especially now that his health is failing so dreadfully, but he wanted her to have better opportunities, and her mother is most insistent that Lucy become a lady and marry well instead. The notion doesn't seem so bad when she meets a charming young man entirely by chance and then keeps him encountering him. At least, he seems an ideal choice for her esteem until she discovers that his name is Charlie Clark and he is, in fact, the son of the man who stole her father's original candy company that makes Royal Taffy and has profited mightily from it.
Charlie himself is drawn to Lucy more deeply than he imagined possible. Having only recently joined the father who left him, his mother, and siblings in the lurch so many years ago, Charlie is unfamiliar with the animosity and rivalry between the Kendalls and the Clarks. What he is used to is the gang mentality of Chicago where he came from, and it displeases him to see some of the same tactics being used in St. Louis, albeit on a smaller scale, both from his father, and from Lucy who thinks herself a Christian.
Charlie is torn. Lucy is torn. It seems there is no hope for this couple to find true love, but of course, they must, because there's no other option.
Unrivaled is a very cute book. I liked Lucy most of the time, liked Charlie all of the time, and absolutely loved the setting, and of course, there is a happily ever after. I will say that the book cover totally threw me. It in no way, shape, or form reflects the story between the pages. There should have been candy making somewhere on that cover because Lucy prefers spending time in the kitchen swathed in an apron stirring candy syrup than all dolled up. The cover, beautiful as it, is not an accurate representation of the story.
Ultimately, while I liked the book, about halfway through it started getting repetitive. The same scenes, the same types of conversations, and I totally did not buy how Lucy's fiancé disappeared from her life. That felt dreadfully contrived. So, only 3 stars for me, and I wish it could have been more. I do like Siri Mitchell's writing a lot, this one just felt too forced. Maybe next time!
Also, this book has been read for a Book Scattergories challenge, and Charlie Clark meets the requirements for this week's read of a male lead with a name that starts with C.
Charlie himself is drawn to Lucy more deeply than he imagined possible. Having only recently joined the father who left him, his mother, and siblings in the lurch so many years ago, Charlie is unfamiliar with the animosity and rivalry between the Kendalls and the Clarks. What he is used to is the gang mentality of Chicago where he came from, and it displeases him to see some of the same tactics being used in St. Louis, albeit on a smaller scale, both from his father, and from Lucy who thinks herself a Christian.
Charlie is torn. Lucy is torn. It seems there is no hope for this couple to find true love, but of course, they must, because there's no other option.
Unrivaled is a very cute book. I liked Lucy most of the time, liked Charlie all of the time, and absolutely loved the setting, and of course, there is a happily ever after. I will say that the book cover totally threw me. It in no way, shape, or form reflects the story between the pages. There should have been candy making somewhere on that cover because Lucy prefers spending time in the kitchen swathed in an apron stirring candy syrup than all dolled up. The cover, beautiful as it, is not an accurate representation of the story.
Ultimately, while I liked the book, about halfway through it started getting repetitive. The same scenes, the same types of conversations, and I totally did not buy how Lucy's fiancé disappeared from her life. That felt dreadfully contrived. So, only 3 stars for me, and I wish it could have been more. I do like Siri Mitchell's writing a lot, this one just felt too forced. Maybe next time!
Also, this book has been read for a Book Scattergories challenge, and Charlie Clark meets the requirements for this week's read of a male lead with a name that starts with C.
May 9, 2013
Age Appropriate For: 12 and up for reading level and romance
Best for Ages: 16 and up
I didn’t think that Siri Mitchell could match The Messenger, but she managed to with Unrivaled.
One of the reasons I was so eager to read this book was the fact it was set around candy making and candy factories. I had never read a book with candy making as a main part of it. The candy making parts of the book were obviously well researched, and were delightful. They felt very real, but not so much detail that I got bored.
The overall story was amazing. Like with her last two books, one third in I was wondering how she was going to stretch the book for 400 pages. Two chapters from the end, I wondered how she was going to wrap up everything. She once again delivered a satisfying ending that made me sigh with contentment.
The best thing about this book had to be the amazing way Siri made me wonder who was right. Often books try to create a situation where the reader is supposed to wonder who is telling the truth. Most of the time, however, they fall short of truly creating that feeling. By the middle of the book, Siri had me wondering which set of parents were twisting the truth and who was right.
I really loved the message of this book, especially since it was subtle and woven into the story flawlessly. The end justifies the means is an ever growing belief, and this book looks into what that could cost you, but still has a happy ending.
I highly recommend this book for historical fiction lovers, sweet romance lovers, and readers who can't get enough of extremely well written fiction.
I received this book from Bethany House in exchange for my honest review. I was under no obligation to write a positive review. The opinions in this review are entirely my own.
Best for Ages: 16 and up
I didn’t think that Siri Mitchell could match The Messenger, but she managed to with Unrivaled.
One of the reasons I was so eager to read this book was the fact it was set around candy making and candy factories. I had never read a book with candy making as a main part of it. The candy making parts of the book were obviously well researched, and were delightful. They felt very real, but not so much detail that I got bored.
The overall story was amazing. Like with her last two books, one third in I was wondering how she was going to stretch the book for 400 pages. Two chapters from the end, I wondered how she was going to wrap up everything. She once again delivered a satisfying ending that made me sigh with contentment.
The best thing about this book had to be the amazing way Siri made me wonder who was right. Often books try to create a situation where the reader is supposed to wonder who is telling the truth. Most of the time, however, they fall short of truly creating that feeling. By the middle of the book, Siri had me wondering which set of parents were twisting the truth and who was right.
I really loved the message of this book, especially since it was subtle and woven into the story flawlessly. The end justifies the means is an ever growing belief, and this book looks into what that could cost you, but still has a happy ending.
I highly recommend this book for historical fiction lovers, sweet romance lovers, and readers who can't get enough of extremely well written fiction.
I received this book from Bethany House in exchange for my honest review. I was under no obligation to write a positive review. The opinions in this review are entirely my own.
March 27, 2013
Review on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/review/R3QRQVU7...
Review on my blog (to be posted 4/1): http://christianbookshelfreviews.blog...
4.5 stars.
Unrivaled was a tantalizing read! Having also read and enjoyed one of Siri Mitchell's previous novels, The Messenger, I knew she wrote good books and I look forward to reading more of them. :)
I loved how unique Unrivaled's story was! I haven't read many, if any, books with candy making being a central theme. It was fascinating to read about all of the candy creations.
Charlie and Lucy were great main characters. I really liked how the book was written - first person, switching from Lucy to Charlie every chapter. I loved being able to see from both of their view points. Winnie was another great character - I loved some of the things she said.
Overall, I really, really enjoyed Unrivaled and loved the message in the book. I was so close to giving it 5 stars, but since the beginning was a little slow (though not unenjoyable), I decided to go with 4.5 stars. I recommend Unrivaled if you enjoy historical romances. Oh, and if you have a sweet tooth, be prepared to really crave sweets while reading this book - I did! :)
*I received this book for free for my review. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.*
Review on my blog (to be posted 4/1): http://christianbookshelfreviews.blog...
4.5 stars.
Unrivaled was a tantalizing read! Having also read and enjoyed one of Siri Mitchell's previous novels, The Messenger, I knew she wrote good books and I look forward to reading more of them. :)
I loved how unique Unrivaled's story was! I haven't read many, if any, books with candy making being a central theme. It was fascinating to read about all of the candy creations.
Charlie and Lucy were great main characters. I really liked how the book was written - first person, switching from Lucy to Charlie every chapter. I loved being able to see from both of their view points. Winnie was another great character - I loved some of the things she said.
Overall, I really, really enjoyed Unrivaled and loved the message in the book. I was so close to giving it 5 stars, but since the beginning was a little slow (though not unenjoyable), I decided to go with 4.5 stars. I recommend Unrivaled if you enjoy historical romances. Oh, and if you have a sweet tooth, be prepared to really crave sweets while reading this book - I did! :)
*I received this book for free for my review. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.*
November 24, 2015
From author Siri Mitchell comes a fresh new story… a delicious tale of candy-making and one man and woman who fall for each other quickly, yet whose fathers happen to be longtime rivals.
Unrivaled was a delightful tale of making candy and the sweetness of love, yet sobered by the truth of what bitterness and a “must-win” attitude can do to a person. The plot is twisted up with lies, deception, and dirty tricks, yet softened with a beautiful love story that might end the two candy-makers’ squabble forever.
I was quickly caught up into the story, and enjoyed it, especially the detailed parts of making candy. What a charming twist to a historical romance novel! One thing that I didn’t like about Unrivaled, though, was the fact that Mr. Clarke (the father) was greedy and selfish, even to the end. The fact that he kept saying that he deserved the new candy recipe, and that Lucy owed it to him, bothered me a lot. It showed he was still greedy as ever, and wanted desperately to get his hands on that stunning new candy. I would like to have seen him have a change of heart before the book ended.
Nevertheless, Lucy and Charlie had such an enchanting story together. Yes, some of it was filled with distrust and anger, but in the end, they both realized what mattered most, and embraced the love they shared. With candy and romance coupled, Unrivaled made a truly sweet novel!
Unrivaled was a delightful tale of making candy and the sweetness of love, yet sobered by the truth of what bitterness and a “must-win” attitude can do to a person. The plot is twisted up with lies, deception, and dirty tricks, yet softened with a beautiful love story that might end the two candy-makers’ squabble forever.
I was quickly caught up into the story, and enjoyed it, especially the detailed parts of making candy. What a charming twist to a historical romance novel! One thing that I didn’t like about Unrivaled, though, was the fact that Mr. Clarke (the father) was greedy and selfish, even to the end. The fact that he kept saying that he deserved the new candy recipe, and that Lucy owed it to him, bothered me a lot. It showed he was still greedy as ever, and wanted desperately to get his hands on that stunning new candy. I would like to have seen him have a change of heart before the book ended.
Nevertheless, Lucy and Charlie had such an enchanting story together. Yes, some of it was filled with distrust and anger, but in the end, they both realized what mattered most, and embraced the love they shared. With candy and romance coupled, Unrivaled made a truly sweet novel!
July 28, 2014
This was my first book by this author and in this series, I am not sure what the first 5 were about or if it would of made a difference, I didn't feel like I missed anything so I am going with no it would not have.
This book is about making candy. How could you not like it.
We have the Lucy who is just back from a trip about Europe with her aunt and uncle (the only real reason they are in this book as you don't hear much from them after). She comes to her farther being very ill and unable to run their candy company.
Then we have Charles Clarke who is sent to live with his father (who left his and the family many many years ago) who starts helping his father run another candy company (that at one time belonged to Lucy's dad).
This book is historical but done well.
We have romance, mystery, friendships, candy making, social events, all things that make up a good book.
This book is about making candy. How could you not like it.
We have the Lucy who is just back from a trip about Europe with her aunt and uncle (the only real reason they are in this book as you don't hear much from them after). She comes to her farther being very ill and unable to run their candy company.
Then we have Charles Clarke who is sent to live with his father (who left his and the family many many years ago) who starts helping his father run another candy company (that at one time belonged to Lucy's dad).
This book is historical but done well.
We have romance, mystery, friendships, candy making, social events, all things that make up a good book.
May 31, 2017
The subtle language and the warp speed relationship made this book just not great. Wh*** should not be in a Christian book. Combined with the fact that they say they came to believe then when they meet in the chapel he says that prayer wasn't really doing any good. UGH. This book irritated me. Their relationship didn't build. It went from her hating him, to somehow him saying he loved her????? They didn't even know each other. Just irritating.
August 4, 2013
Yikes - I normally like Siri Mitchell, but the heroine was completely and utterly unlikeable. What a bitch.
May 6, 2020
This book was an interesting look at candy rivalries, greed, achieving dreams, family relationships, sin, and forgiveness. It was a little slow in the beginning, but I enjoyed the ending.
April 9, 2013
What happens when desperation meets desperation, with a little candy making thrown in? You get Unrivaled, Siri Mitchell’s latest offering; a story about two desperate people. Exhibit A- desperate person- #1-a lovely young woman named Lucy Kendall who has just returned from a tour in Europe where she was hoping to gain inspiration from the fine confectioneries there in order to come home and create a new Pièce de résistance for her Father’s Candy Company-. Regrettably, her Father’s business has been going downhill for a while and Lucy’s great love for her Father and his candy company closing weighs heavily on her heart. Exhibit B- desperate person #2- Charlie Clarke who is new in town and just happens to be the son of a rival Candy company who is systematically running Lucy’s Father’s company out of business. Charlie grew up with a huge burden on his shoulders as his father whom he is now trying to become reacquainted with left him and his mother and sister when he was a young boy. This has created much hurt and many high walls between his Father and him. But now his father is trying to make amends by having Charlie work for him in his Candy business. Charlie is also trying to put his past behind him as he didn’t make the best choices and even had a run in with the law in Chicago before coming to St Louis where this novel takes place.
As this novel progresses, of course we have Charlie meeting up with Lucy and there is an immediate attraction between the two. You might say sparks were flying. However once the pair discovered who their parents were, we go from sparks to full-fledged fireworks! As each person tries their hardest to a) not be attracted to the other and B) try and run the other out of business, things continue to heat up and the back and forth between the two as they try to outmaneuver the other gets pretty intense.
Overall, I would say that I liked this story; I do believe each character goes on their own personal journey and grows as a result which is always what we want our characters to do. Where I had a little trouble with this story is I felt that the hero of the story tended to be more likable than the heroine. That’s a little problematic for me as I always want to be rooting the girl on (sister power!). Honestly I felt that the business dealings with each other got a little too underhanded and their tactics a bit too much and went on a bit too long and as a result, I found it a little unbelievable that all of a sudden at the end Boom!, they magically reconcile. That being said, Charlie is a pretty charming “rogue turned good “character and I greatly enjoyed reading his portions. ( Note, the book alternated first person point of view between Charlie and Lucy, which I did find interesting.)
So again, overall a good Historical Fiction Romance filled with candy making, intense business dealings and a pretty lovable hero to round things out.
3 Stars.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers in exchange fro an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
As this novel progresses, of course we have Charlie meeting up with Lucy and there is an immediate attraction between the two. You might say sparks were flying. However once the pair discovered who their parents were, we go from sparks to full-fledged fireworks! As each person tries their hardest to a) not be attracted to the other and B) try and run the other out of business, things continue to heat up and the back and forth between the two as they try to outmaneuver the other gets pretty intense.
Overall, I would say that I liked this story; I do believe each character goes on their own personal journey and grows as a result which is always what we want our characters to do. Where I had a little trouble with this story is I felt that the hero of the story tended to be more likable than the heroine. That’s a little problematic for me as I always want to be rooting the girl on (sister power!). Honestly I felt that the business dealings with each other got a little too underhanded and their tactics a bit too much and went on a bit too long and as a result, I found it a little unbelievable that all of a sudden at the end Boom!, they magically reconcile. That being said, Charlie is a pretty charming “rogue turned good “character and I greatly enjoyed reading his portions. ( Note, the book alternated first person point of view between Charlie and Lucy, which I did find interesting.)
So again, overall a good Historical Fiction Romance filled with candy making, intense business dealings and a pretty lovable hero to round things out.
3 Stars.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers in exchange fro an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
September 10, 2014
Lucy Kendall's father has recently suffered a heart attack and money is tight, so her mother is determined to sell his candy making business, City Confectionery. Lucy is equally determined to do all she can to save it, even if she needs to stoop to an advantageous marriage to take the pressure off. She decides maybe sabotaging their rival company, Standard Manufacturing, may yield the best results.
Charlie Clarke is a young man with a seedy past who is coerced into working for his father's lucrative candy business, even though his father deserted him when he was a child. It's hard for him to shake off the feelings of betrayal and regret he'd held onto for so long. Charlie's fond memories of eating Royal Taffy when he was small and destitute remind me of another Charlie and his attitude to sweets, but his father is certainly no good-natured Willy Wonka, in the way he chooses to operate his factory to maximise profits.
This is a fun, comic romance with underlying depth. Both protagonists have their own separate reasons for shunning God; Charlie for the seven-year-old boy he used to be who wasn't rescued, and Lucy because He'd given her a talent and passion for something she seemed to have no outlet for. The public reaction to some of her early attempts to save the company were interesting. I can't help wondering whether it really tasted so bad, or if Lucy was simply a trendsetter in the world of confectionery way ahead of her time.
The other characters are funny. Lucy's father keeps spouting his wisdom in candy analogies whenever he opens his mouth, such as, 'You can't save spun sugar once it begins to melt but you can turn it into something else.' I could understand her poor mother, old before her time, having poured so much of her life into somebody else's dream, with the feeling she has nothing to show for it. And I love Winnie Compton, who has the gift of being frank and seeing through people's ruses. (Sometimes I wished Charlie would fall for her instead of Lucy.)
Some of Lucy's reactions come across as way over the top. She's a pretty immature heroine, but being only 19, and brought up the way she was, it's easy to understand. Lucky for her, the man who wins her heart turns out to be Mr. Right. Some young girls are not so fortunate. I get the feeling she still has a lot of growing up to do, but she has a good heart and the love of man who, although not much older, is more stable because of his hard early years. Charlie will surely still have issues with her, but he knows what he's getting in for and won't mind. And she definitely learns her lesson, that sometimes her actions backfire, when the people she intends to hurt aren't really the people who end up getting hurt.
As for Charlie, I can't keep wondering whether he'll keep burying the rakish Charlie beneath the mask of the well-dressed, stuffy 'Charles' his father and step mother want him to be. I was hoping he'd tell his old man a thing or two, and although he did in a way, I can't help wondering whether Warren still got off far too lightly. Maybe Charlie's rebellious little woman will be equally good for him after all.
Charlie Clarke is a young man with a seedy past who is coerced into working for his father's lucrative candy business, even though his father deserted him when he was a child. It's hard for him to shake off the feelings of betrayal and regret he'd held onto for so long. Charlie's fond memories of eating Royal Taffy when he was small and destitute remind me of another Charlie and his attitude to sweets, but his father is certainly no good-natured Willy Wonka, in the way he chooses to operate his factory to maximise profits.
This is a fun, comic romance with underlying depth. Both protagonists have their own separate reasons for shunning God; Charlie for the seven-year-old boy he used to be who wasn't rescued, and Lucy because He'd given her a talent and passion for something she seemed to have no outlet for. The public reaction to some of her early attempts to save the company were interesting. I can't help wondering whether it really tasted so bad, or if Lucy was simply a trendsetter in the world of confectionery way ahead of her time.
The other characters are funny. Lucy's father keeps spouting his wisdom in candy analogies whenever he opens his mouth, such as, 'You can't save spun sugar once it begins to melt but you can turn it into something else.' I could understand her poor mother, old before her time, having poured so much of her life into somebody else's dream, with the feeling she has nothing to show for it. And I love Winnie Compton, who has the gift of being frank and seeing through people's ruses. (Sometimes I wished Charlie would fall for her instead of Lucy.)
Some of Lucy's reactions come across as way over the top. She's a pretty immature heroine, but being only 19, and brought up the way she was, it's easy to understand. Lucky for her, the man who wins her heart turns out to be Mr. Right. Some young girls are not so fortunate. I get the feeling she still has a lot of growing up to do, but she has a good heart and the love of man who, although not much older, is more stable because of his hard early years. Charlie will surely still have issues with her, but he knows what he's getting in for and won't mind. And she definitely learns her lesson, that sometimes her actions backfire, when the people she intends to hurt aren't really the people who end up getting hurt.
As for Charlie, I can't keep wondering whether he'll keep burying the rakish Charlie beneath the mask of the well-dressed, stuffy 'Charles' his father and step mother want him to be. I was hoping he'd tell his old man a thing or two, and although he did in a way, I can't help wondering whether Warren still got off far too lightly. Maybe Charlie's rebellious little woman will be equally good for him after all.
July 4, 2019
Any new Siri Mitchell release goes straight to my wish list. I was so excited to have the chance to review "Unrivaled," especially since it is set in St. Louis in 1910 and was about rival candy makers. How fun does that sound?
Upon her return from a long tour of Europe, Lucy Kendall is dismayed to find her father in poor health and her mother intent on selling their candy factory. Her dreams of coming home to take the unconventional place of running the business alongside her father are crushed. Determined that all they need is a new candy to bring the market back to their favor, Lucy sets to experimenting in the kitchen even as her mother is reintroducing her to society, intent on helping Lucy catch a suitable suitor.
Charlie Clarke is summoned to St. Louis by a long-estranged father. Now the successful businessman, Mr. Clarke wants to make up for his years of absense by training Charlie in the ways of the candy business. Charlie has had a hard upbringing in Chicago's south side, having to take care of his mother and sisters in whatever way possible. Charlie feels ridiculously out of place in the upper crust of St. Louis society... about as out of place as the lovely Miss Kendall. Lucy and Charlie strike up a friendship without knowing that it is his father that is about to put her father out of business. When the identities of their families are discovered, Lucy turns the tables and tries everything she can think of to disrupt Standard Manufacturing and promote City Confectionary. But Standard always seems to have a response before her actions even fall into place. Who is spying on Lucy and sharing her schemes with the enemy?
Determined beyond anything else to save City Confectionary, Lucy finds herself being courted by one of the most eligible bachelors in town. Marriage to Alfred Arthur would be the perfect solution to everything. Everything except her renegade heart.
For some reason, I didn't enjoy this book as much as I was hoping to. Lucy was just not a very nice person. While the fact that Charlie's past and Lucy's propensity towards sabotage were part of the theme that we can never measure up and need God's grace, I thought the spiritual follow-through was very poor. It seemed like the characters were still trying to be good enough on their own by the end. It would have been nice to see a better resolution on this, or to have characters in the first place whom I could more fully get behind. I felt this a rare miss for Mitchell, and already anticipate her upcoming 2014 release!
I received my copy of the book from the publisher in exchange for this honest review. All opinions are my own.
This review originated at http://reviewsbyerin.livejournal.com
Upon her return from a long tour of Europe, Lucy Kendall is dismayed to find her father in poor health and her mother intent on selling their candy factory. Her dreams of coming home to take the unconventional place of running the business alongside her father are crushed. Determined that all they need is a new candy to bring the market back to their favor, Lucy sets to experimenting in the kitchen even as her mother is reintroducing her to society, intent on helping Lucy catch a suitable suitor.
Charlie Clarke is summoned to St. Louis by a long-estranged father. Now the successful businessman, Mr. Clarke wants to make up for his years of absense by training Charlie in the ways of the candy business. Charlie has had a hard upbringing in Chicago's south side, having to take care of his mother and sisters in whatever way possible. Charlie feels ridiculously out of place in the upper crust of St. Louis society... about as out of place as the lovely Miss Kendall. Lucy and Charlie strike up a friendship without knowing that it is his father that is about to put her father out of business. When the identities of their families are discovered, Lucy turns the tables and tries everything she can think of to disrupt Standard Manufacturing and promote City Confectionary. But Standard always seems to have a response before her actions even fall into place. Who is spying on Lucy and sharing her schemes with the enemy?
Determined beyond anything else to save City Confectionary, Lucy finds herself being courted by one of the most eligible bachelors in town. Marriage to Alfred Arthur would be the perfect solution to everything. Everything except her renegade heart.
For some reason, I didn't enjoy this book as much as I was hoping to. Lucy was just not a very nice person. While the fact that Charlie's past and Lucy's propensity towards sabotage were part of the theme that we can never measure up and need God's grace, I thought the spiritual follow-through was very poor. It seemed like the characters were still trying to be good enough on their own by the end. It would have been nice to see a better resolution on this, or to have characters in the first place whom I could more fully get behind. I felt this a rare miss for Mitchell, and already anticipate her upcoming 2014 release!
I received my copy of the book from the publisher in exchange for this honest review. All opinions are my own.
This review originated at http://reviewsbyerin.livejournal.com
March 14, 2013
3.5/5
Source: Received an e-ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I read this author's She Walks in Beauty and I really enjoyed it so I was pleased to check out another title from her. My interest was further piqued about discovering that it was about candy makers in early twentieth century St. Louis. I don't think I've read many (any?) books set there so it would mean a new setting for me.
Lucy is the daughter of a brilliant confectioner but poor businessman who lost his candy company and has spent the intervening years trying to top his greatest success. Charlie is the son of the man who took over the candy company; long estranged from his father, he has the opportunity to rebuild those family ties. As Lucy frantically tries to save the family's fortune, she pushes against her mother's desire for a good marriage and wrestles with her own feelings for Charlie who she has dubbed the enemy. Meanwhile he wrestles with feelings of inadequacy as the dual narration takes us deep into both of their heads.
Favorite moment was definitely when sweet, nice Winnie Compton had a conversation about God with Charlie that poked at my thoughts about the God who Is versus the God I want. Charlie thinks that there should be more to the process of God forgiving him but Winnie teaches him that that's not how God works. Winnie later has a similar conversation with Lucy. I heard a sermon about that and then this book just magnified those thoughts. Regardless this book didn't feel very heavily Christian to me. Neither main character particularly likes attending church and although there is a pivotal scene of understanding in a church, I think non-Christian readers who like historical fiction would be fine with this book.
Second favorite moment would have to be reading about the actual history of candymakers, which was an intensely competitive field (see Charlie and the Chocolate Factory for a taste). The author's note at the end gives a little bit of insight in to this exciting time period.
Do you see what I don't mention? I didn't say anything about liking the main characters or their romance. That's because I didn't really like them. Lucy is incredibly obsessed with candy making and very naive about a couple of plot twists even as I yelled at her about what was occurring. Charlie wavers a lot on principles and what really matters (especially the lip service he pays to his mother and all her hard work while eagerly absorbing himself in his father's shady business practices). I found the writing and plot compelling enough but I really didn't like the characters and that dragged down the whole book.
Source: Received an e-ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I read this author's She Walks in Beauty and I really enjoyed it so I was pleased to check out another title from her. My interest was further piqued about discovering that it was about candy makers in early twentieth century St. Louis. I don't think I've read many (any?) books set there so it would mean a new setting for me.
Lucy is the daughter of a brilliant confectioner but poor businessman who lost his candy company and has spent the intervening years trying to top his greatest success. Charlie is the son of the man who took over the candy company; long estranged from his father, he has the opportunity to rebuild those family ties. As Lucy frantically tries to save the family's fortune, she pushes against her mother's desire for a good marriage and wrestles with her own feelings for Charlie who she has dubbed the enemy. Meanwhile he wrestles with feelings of inadequacy as the dual narration takes us deep into both of their heads.
Favorite moment was definitely when sweet, nice Winnie Compton had a conversation about God with Charlie that poked at my thoughts about the God who Is versus the God I want. Charlie thinks that there should be more to the process of God forgiving him but Winnie teaches him that that's not how God works. Winnie later has a similar conversation with Lucy. I heard a sermon about that and then this book just magnified those thoughts. Regardless this book didn't feel very heavily Christian to me. Neither main character particularly likes attending church and although there is a pivotal scene of understanding in a church, I think non-Christian readers who like historical fiction would be fine with this book.
Second favorite moment would have to be reading about the actual history of candymakers, which was an intensely competitive field (see Charlie and the Chocolate Factory for a taste). The author's note at the end gives a little bit of insight in to this exciting time period.
Do you see what I don't mention? I didn't say anything about liking the main characters or their romance. That's because I didn't really like them. Lucy is incredibly obsessed with candy making and very naive about a couple of plot twists even as I yelled at her about what was occurring. Charlie wavers a lot on principles and what really matters (especially the lip service he pays to his mother and all her hard work while eagerly absorbing himself in his father's shady business practices). I found the writing and plot compelling enough but I really didn't like the characters and that dragged down the whole book.
September 1, 2013
I recently received this book as a free review copy from the publisher in return for my honest review about what I thought about it.
Unrivaled
Falling in love could be a recipe for disaster.
Lucy Kendall returns from a tour of the Continent, her luggage filled with the latest fashions and a mind fired by inspiration. After tasting Europe's best confections, she's sure she'll come up with a recipe that will save her father's struggling candy business and reverse their fortunes. But she soon discovers that their biggest competitor, the cheat who swindled her father out of his prize recipe, has now hired a promotions manager - a cocky, handsome, out-of-towner who gets under Lucy's skin.
Charlie Clarke's new role at Standard Manufacturing is the chance of a lifetime. He can put some rough times behind him and reconnect with the father he's never known. The one thing he never counted on, however, was tenacious Lucy Kendall. She's making his work life miserable... and making herself impossible for him to forget.
My thoughts:
Lucy Kendall went on a tour of the continent, while she was gone her father got extremely sick, but she didn't know it. When she got home she found out and it upset her so much. She traveled to find the best candies for her fathers candy store. after finding out her mother plans to sell the candy shop, she convinces her mother to give her a month to try to saev his business. The candy shop means so much to Lucy!
Charlie Clarke a young man who got bailed out of jail by his soon to be step father. His father left his when he was just a young boy and he has worried about keeping a roof over his mothers and sisters head ever since. Now fifteen years later his father calls and offers him a job at the company his father owns.
I'm enjoying this book a lot. Hopefully you will enjoy it as much as I do! :)
About the author: Siri Mitchell is the author of nearly a dozen novels, among them the critically acclaimed Christy Award finalists Chateau of Echoes and The Cubicle Next Door. A graduate of the University of Washington with a degree in business, she has worked in many different levels of government. As a military spouse, she has lived in places as varied as Tokyo and Paris. Siri currently lives in the DC-metro area. Visit Siri's website here.
If you would like to buy her book you can do so at amazon
Thank you Bethany House for sending me this review book for me to read and reveiw!
Unrivaled
Falling in love could be a recipe for disaster.
Lucy Kendall returns from a tour of the Continent, her luggage filled with the latest fashions and a mind fired by inspiration. After tasting Europe's best confections, she's sure she'll come up with a recipe that will save her father's struggling candy business and reverse their fortunes. But she soon discovers that their biggest competitor, the cheat who swindled her father out of his prize recipe, has now hired a promotions manager - a cocky, handsome, out-of-towner who gets under Lucy's skin.
Charlie Clarke's new role at Standard Manufacturing is the chance of a lifetime. He can put some rough times behind him and reconnect with the father he's never known. The one thing he never counted on, however, was tenacious Lucy Kendall. She's making his work life miserable... and making herself impossible for him to forget.
My thoughts:
Lucy Kendall went on a tour of the continent, while she was gone her father got extremely sick, but she didn't know it. When she got home she found out and it upset her so much. She traveled to find the best candies for her fathers candy store. after finding out her mother plans to sell the candy shop, she convinces her mother to give her a month to try to saev his business. The candy shop means so much to Lucy!
Charlie Clarke a young man who got bailed out of jail by his soon to be step father. His father left his when he was just a young boy and he has worried about keeping a roof over his mothers and sisters head ever since. Now fifteen years later his father calls and offers him a job at the company his father owns.
I'm enjoying this book a lot. Hopefully you will enjoy it as much as I do! :)
About the author: Siri Mitchell is the author of nearly a dozen novels, among them the critically acclaimed Christy Award finalists Chateau of Echoes and The Cubicle Next Door. A graduate of the University of Washington with a degree in business, she has worked in many different levels of government. As a military spouse, she has lived in places as varied as Tokyo and Paris. Siri currently lives in the DC-metro area. Visit Siri's website here.
If you would like to buy her book you can do so at amazon
Thank you Bethany House for sending me this review book for me to read and reveiw!
April 11, 2013
3.5 stars
When Lucy returned from a tour of Europe, she found her father in bed recovering from a heart attack. She also discovered her mother plotting behind his back to sell their beloved candy business. Of course, her mother is only thinking of the stress the business has caused him. Lucy makes a deal with her mother to give her a month to come up with a new candy that will steal the hearts of everyone away from their biggest competitor, Standard Manufacturing. Standard's best-selling candy, Royal Taffy, is one tough candy to outdo, though!
Charlie has allowed himself to be pulled in with the wrong crowd. He spends too much time in prison because of the job he has, but he has to provide for his mother. Charlie's dad left them to fend for themselves years before. When the opportunity arrives to work with his dad at Standard Manufacturing, he reluctantly agrees.
When Lucy and Charlie meet, they don't know that they are actually rivals. They soon learn the truth, though.
As much as I try to stay away from reviews of books I'm due to review, I couldn't help but see many of my blogger friends didn't like this book. I hate to say I was really dreading reading it. It was only with great reluctance that I finally knew I had to finally pick it up. I was pleasantly surprised! I liked it! I didn't love it, but I liked it.
I enjoyed it as a light, entertaining book. I was thrilled at the humor throughout. I snickered and even laughed quite a few times! I can't say that the main characters are my favorite ever, but they were entertaining. They were pretty selfish people, but they grow, as you would expect. I didn't overly like how everything was tied up at the end.
Overall, Unrivaled wasn't my favorite book of Mitchell's, but I still enjoyed it. Plus, I just love that pretty blue dress on the cover! ;)
*I was provided a review copy through Litfuse Publicity in exchange for my honest opinion.
When Lucy returned from a tour of Europe, she found her father in bed recovering from a heart attack. She also discovered her mother plotting behind his back to sell their beloved candy business. Of course, her mother is only thinking of the stress the business has caused him. Lucy makes a deal with her mother to give her a month to come up with a new candy that will steal the hearts of everyone away from their biggest competitor, Standard Manufacturing. Standard's best-selling candy, Royal Taffy, is one tough candy to outdo, though!
Charlie has allowed himself to be pulled in with the wrong crowd. He spends too much time in prison because of the job he has, but he has to provide for his mother. Charlie's dad left them to fend for themselves years before. When the opportunity arrives to work with his dad at Standard Manufacturing, he reluctantly agrees.
When Lucy and Charlie meet, they don't know that they are actually rivals. They soon learn the truth, though.
As much as I try to stay away from reviews of books I'm due to review, I couldn't help but see many of my blogger friends didn't like this book. I hate to say I was really dreading reading it. It was only with great reluctance that I finally knew I had to finally pick it up. I was pleasantly surprised! I liked it! I didn't love it, but I liked it.
I enjoyed it as a light, entertaining book. I was thrilled at the humor throughout. I snickered and even laughed quite a few times! I can't say that the main characters are my favorite ever, but they were entertaining. They were pretty selfish people, but they grow, as you would expect. I didn't overly like how everything was tied up at the end.
Overall, Unrivaled wasn't my favorite book of Mitchell's, but I still enjoyed it. Plus, I just love that pretty blue dress on the cover! ;)
*I was provided a review copy through Litfuse Publicity in exchange for my honest opinion.
April 18, 2013
I've really enjoyed most of Siri Mitchell's previous novels, so I was looking forward to reading her latest one: Unrivaled. Not only is the cover very pretty (the girl looks like Lady Sybil!), but a plot involving candy is, of course, attractive to someone who happens to have a big sweet tooth. :)
I hate to say it, but honestly this book was a bit of a disappointment for me. It's difficult to explain why exactly. I feel like I never got really drawn in and attached to the story or the characters. Lucy and Charlie were both a bit ruthless with their tactics to succeed, but at the same time, they were wish-washy about the whole battling companies thing. One minute they're completely disgusted with each other and willing to do anything to take down the other candy company (Lucy especially), and the next minute they're wanting to kiss each other. Hm. Also, the chapters alternate between Lucy and Charlie's points of view, and it was a bit jarring. I felt that the ending wrapped up too quickly and wasn't very believable.
Also, I generally love Siri Mitchell's writing style. But quite often in Unrivaled, things were worded in unusual, awkward ways that left me puzzled or rereading sections. The main characters' conversations with Winnie Compton were completely bewildering.
I'm awfully sorry that this "review" is so vague! Something about this book just didn't click with me, and I'm having a hard time putting it into words. :) I didn't hate Unrivaled by any means. But I didn't love it...it didn't make me laugh or swoon or cry. I felt detached the entire time I was reading it.
Because I hate to leave this review on a negative note, I want to mention again that, with the exception of A Constant Heart, I have greatly enjoyed Siri Mitchell's previous historical fiction. She Walks In Beauty was definitely a favorite...I need to reread it soon!
{I received this book for free from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for an honest review.}
I hate to say it, but honestly this book was a bit of a disappointment for me. It's difficult to explain why exactly. I feel like I never got really drawn in and attached to the story or the characters. Lucy and Charlie were both a bit ruthless with their tactics to succeed, but at the same time, they were wish-washy about the whole battling companies thing. One minute they're completely disgusted with each other and willing to do anything to take down the other candy company (Lucy especially), and the next minute they're wanting to kiss each other. Hm. Also, the chapters alternate between Lucy and Charlie's points of view, and it was a bit jarring. I felt that the ending wrapped up too quickly and wasn't very believable.
Also, I generally love Siri Mitchell's writing style. But quite often in Unrivaled, things were worded in unusual, awkward ways that left me puzzled or rereading sections. The main characters' conversations with Winnie Compton were completely bewildering.
I'm awfully sorry that this "review" is so vague! Something about this book just didn't click with me, and I'm having a hard time putting it into words. :) I didn't hate Unrivaled by any means. But I didn't love it...it didn't make me laugh or swoon or cry. I felt detached the entire time I was reading it.
Because I hate to leave this review on a negative note, I want to mention again that, with the exception of A Constant Heart, I have greatly enjoyed Siri Mitchell's previous historical fiction. She Walks In Beauty was definitely a favorite...I need to reread it soon!
{I received this book for free from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for an honest review.}
April 23, 2013
This book took me by surprise in that it was a story of corporate competition in the saccharine sweet world of industrial candy making. It seems as though Royal Taffy has totally taken over the minds and actions of the characters as well as all the billboards and signage of the city in its effort to be the one and only beloved candy consumed by the populace. Whilst its smaller competitor makes a quality product, they simply don't have the drive, know-how, and funding to adequately oppose Royal Taffy.
Within the drama of the candy industry we have a not-so-sweet romance trying to blossom. Lucy's father was the developer and owner of Royal Taffy but lost it all in a take-over. Charlie comes on the scene as the long-lost son of Royal Taffy's wealthy owner. Lucy and Charlie are explicitly drawn to one another but also find themselves at constant war with each other mainly over their connection and involvement in the candy industry.
There is, however, a deeper and more personal struggle going on in their lives. It is a spiritual and moral battle confronting them. How will this corporate struggle, personal romance, and personal spiritual battle resolve?
This is basically a very light read and doesn't seem to have a lot of depth which makes it a very good read for relaxed/unwind reading. I grew a bit weary reading about Lucy's candy making and petty personality flaws but that is simply me and my take. It is a good book, very clean read (which makes it rank very high in my list of qualities), and employs flawed but redeemable characters. I have another of Siri Mitchell's books on my shelf to read and anticipate it will bring a few hours of pleasant enjoyment.
DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from Litfuse Publicity Group on behalf of the author and publisher, Bethany House a division of Baker Publishing Group in exchange for my honest review. Opinions expressed are solely my own.
Within the drama of the candy industry we have a not-so-sweet romance trying to blossom. Lucy's father was the developer and owner of Royal Taffy but lost it all in a take-over. Charlie comes on the scene as the long-lost son of Royal Taffy's wealthy owner. Lucy and Charlie are explicitly drawn to one another but also find themselves at constant war with each other mainly over their connection and involvement in the candy industry.
There is, however, a deeper and more personal struggle going on in their lives. It is a spiritual and moral battle confronting them. How will this corporate struggle, personal romance, and personal spiritual battle resolve?
This is basically a very light read and doesn't seem to have a lot of depth which makes it a very good read for relaxed/unwind reading. I grew a bit weary reading about Lucy's candy making and petty personality flaws but that is simply me and my take. It is a good book, very clean read (which makes it rank very high in my list of qualities), and employs flawed but redeemable characters. I have another of Siri Mitchell's books on my shelf to read and anticipate it will bring a few hours of pleasant enjoyment.
DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from Litfuse Publicity Group on behalf of the author and publisher, Bethany House a division of Baker Publishing Group in exchange for my honest review. Opinions expressed are solely my own.
June 9, 2013
Sometimes things have to get worse before life can get better. Charlie Clarke and Lucy Kendall are both at low points in their lives. Charlie finds himself behind bars for another man's crime and reluctantly agrees to work for his father as a way of creating a new start. Lucy returns from Europe to find her father gravely ill and his candy business, City Confectionery, near closure. Determined to create a new candy that will trump Royal Taffy, the candy recipe that was stolen from her father by the owner of Standard Manufacturing, Lucy's endeavors put her directly at odds with Charlie, the new promotions manager at Standard Manufacturing and son of the recipe thief. Any attraction and relationship between two people from such opposing stances seems impossible; yet, Lucy and Charlie find themselves drawn to each other over and over again. Read more in Unrivaled by Siri Mitchell.
I enjoyed reading Unrivaled by Siri Mitchell. The chapters alternated between Lucy's and Charlie's points-of-view (pov) and, contrary to my expectation, Charlie's pov was actually my favorite. Lucy's immaturity was annoying at times – Charlie probably thought the same thing about her quite often – but the character growth that she experienced soothed the irritation. The story line was intriguing and I liked reading about the actual candy-making process. I'm not sure if there is a sequel planned, but I did feel like there were a few open ends that weren't fully resolved. In spite of that, I found the ending to be a sweet treat and I do recommend this book to anyone looking for a clean, sweet romance.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
I enjoyed reading Unrivaled by Siri Mitchell. The chapters alternated between Lucy's and Charlie's points-of-view (pov) and, contrary to my expectation, Charlie's pov was actually my favorite. Lucy's immaturity was annoying at times – Charlie probably thought the same thing about her quite often – but the character growth that she experienced soothed the irritation. The story line was intriguing and I liked reading about the actual candy-making process. I'm not sure if there is a sequel planned, but I did feel like there were a few open ends that weren't fully resolved. In spite of that, I found the ending to be a sweet treat and I do recommend this book to anyone looking for a clean, sweet romance.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
April 1, 2021
STORY: Back from a whirlwind tour in Europe where she dined with some of England’s most prominent and has trunks full of the latest fashions, Lucy Kendall can think of nothing better than returning home to her home and father; a candy maker, Lucy grew up under his teaching. Upon her arrival, she is told by her mother that her father suffered a heart attack and plans are underway to sell their failing confectionary.
Horrified, Lucy refuses to see her father’s business go to his competition, Warren Clarke also the man who stole her father’s prize taffy recipe! More than mere upset sets Lucy’s heart aflutter with the unexpected arrival of the handsome Charlie. His past is mysterious, yet there is something kind about him. By the time Lucy finds out that he's actually her competition, it's too late.
Charlie has already fallen for Lucy, and for the first time, he wants to be better. For Lucy.
WHAT I LIKE
When the book arrived, I paged through, and was prepared for it to be something I’d have to force myself through. It’s not that the setting didn’t appeal, it’s the discovery of not only one first person prose but two that gave me this feeling. Fortunately, the alternating POV’s (every chapter) isn’t difficult in any means to follow; the book is such an “easy” read, which nearly makes up for any character faults. At times, you have to pause to remember whose perspective we’re in which is no great flaw since the writing is simplistically charming. Read this review in its entirety on Finding Wonderland.
With thanks to Litfuse and the publisher, Bethany House for the complimentary review copy.
© Copyright 2011-2021 Dreaming Under the Same Moon / Scribbles, Scripts and Such
Horrified, Lucy refuses to see her father’s business go to his competition, Warren Clarke also the man who stole her father’s prize taffy recipe! More than mere upset sets Lucy’s heart aflutter with the unexpected arrival of the handsome Charlie. His past is mysterious, yet there is something kind about him. By the time Lucy finds out that he's actually her competition, it's too late.
Charlie has already fallen for Lucy, and for the first time, he wants to be better. For Lucy.
WHAT I LIKE
When the book arrived, I paged through, and was prepared for it to be something I’d have to force myself through. It’s not that the setting didn’t appeal, it’s the discovery of not only one first person prose but two that gave me this feeling. Fortunately, the alternating POV’s (every chapter) isn’t difficult in any means to follow; the book is such an “easy” read, which nearly makes up for any character faults. At times, you have to pause to remember whose perspective we’re in which is no great flaw since the writing is simplistically charming. Read this review in its entirety on Finding Wonderland.
With thanks to Litfuse and the publisher, Bethany House for the complimentary review copy.
© Copyright 2011-2021 Dreaming Under the Same Moon / Scribbles, Scripts and Such
April 25, 2014
This novel starts out incredibly strong. Lucy Kendall has been on a year long tour of the continent. When she returns home it is to find her fathers confectionery on the brink of bankruptcy and her father a mere shadow of himself after a bad heart attack. Lucy wants nothing more than to create a delicious delight that will put City Confectionery back at the top of the candy competition in St. Louis. But to do that she will have to beat the Royal Taffy candy owned by a competing firm. A firm that had stolen the recipe to that candy, their prize money maker, from her father.
When Charlie Clarke meets a girl he'd like to get to know a whole lot better he has no idea that that girl's family owns the rival confectionery in town. But proving to Lucy that he's a good guy proves downright impossible when the two companies begin an all out war for the city's sweets lovers.
Normally it is the hero who cheats, badgers and steals his way through the book and has to come up with a big grovel at the end of the novel but in this case Lucy's family are the ones who lie, connive and cheat their way to the finish. I think I would have appreciated the grovel at the end more had it involved the whole family but only Lucy and her father are required to make amends and it feels as though they are being punished for being dreamers rather than for being cheaters. The most selfish character in the book is viewed as practical and gets off with nary a comeuppance.
At the start of the novel I loved the whole look at the world of candy making, the fascinating look at St. Louis at the turn of the century and the romance between Charlie and Lucy. By the end I was so exhausted with their shenanigans that I couldn't cheer for them as a couple.
When Charlie Clarke meets a girl he'd like to get to know a whole lot better he has no idea that that girl's family owns the rival confectionery in town. But proving to Lucy that he's a good guy proves downright impossible when the two companies begin an all out war for the city's sweets lovers.
Normally it is the hero who cheats, badgers and steals his way through the book and has to come up with a big grovel at the end of the novel but in this case Lucy's family are the ones who lie, connive and cheat their way to the finish. I think I would have appreciated the grovel at the end more had it involved the whole family but only Lucy and her father are required to make amends and it feels as though they are being punished for being dreamers rather than for being cheaters. The most selfish character in the book is viewed as practical and gets off with nary a comeuppance.
At the start of the novel I loved the whole look at the world of candy making, the fascinating look at St. Louis at the turn of the century and the romance between Charlie and Lucy. By the end I was so exhausted with their shenanigans that I couldn't cheer for them as a couple.
April 8, 2013
I am such a fan of Siri Mitchell that her books are nearly always on my "must have" list -- even before I know what they're about or what the reviews are like. This one does not make my favorites list though. The premise is good but it lacks . . . the depth that is normally present in her books. Her books are normally rich with material on theme, symbolism, character growth and qualities, historic information . . ..
There were two gems in this one: the candy descriptions and information (recipes would have been fun) and Charlie's character. I started off the book thinking Lucy was a great character but she seemed to sink lower and lower -- doing mean and bad things with irritating frequency. She was also self-absorbed. She didn't think about her friend Sam having a life, dreams, desires. She really only thought of how he could help her.
Charlie seemed to nearly always think of other people. He supported his mother and sisters at home, then wanted to help Lucy and make her more comfortable, wanted to help the workers at the factory, and he tried to please his father. He wasn't perfect, but you could see him trying and it was easy to relate to him. He tried to do the right thing.
The candy and historical information was fun, but it lacked real romance and sparks between our two leads.
The things I wasn't as fond of in this book wouldn't stop me from suggesting several of her past books, or reading something published by her in the future.
There were two gems in this one: the candy descriptions and information (recipes would have been fun) and Charlie's character. I started off the book thinking Lucy was a great character but she seemed to sink lower and lower -- doing mean and bad things with irritating frequency. She was also self-absorbed. She didn't think about her friend Sam having a life, dreams, desires. She really only thought of how he could help her.
Charlie seemed to nearly always think of other people. He supported his mother and sisters at home, then wanted to help Lucy and make her more comfortable, wanted to help the workers at the factory, and he tried to please his father. He wasn't perfect, but you could see him trying and it was easy to relate to him. He tried to do the right thing.
The candy and historical information was fun, but it lacked real romance and sparks between our two leads.
The things I wasn't as fond of in this book wouldn't stop me from suggesting several of her past books, or reading something published by her in the future.
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