An exceptional debut that sparkles with magic, humor, charm and plenty of heart, Don’t Call Me Cupcake is a sensational romantic read I devoured in a single sitting!

The Holloway Girls have lived on Pine Cove Island for generations and they’ve always been a little bit kooky and a little bit different. Like her grandmother before her, Emma Holloway loves baking wishes into her special cupcakes granting the recipient good luck, sweet dreams and plenty of blessings – although with her dire financial situation, a house that is in dangerous need of some R&R and her business, Fairy Cakes, to keep afloat, it looks like Emma could do with some luck herself! Still, she cannot imagine doing anything other than living on Pine Cove Island and baking cupcakes, but the arrival of Hunter Kane might end up forcing her to do just that!

When Emma hears that Hunter is about to open a fancy restaurant and bakery right on her doorstep serving French pastries and mouth-watering baked goods, she is absolutely incandescent with rage! She is already struggling to keep the wolf from the door and a roof over her head as it is, if a restaurant opens up on her doorstep and takes all her customers away she would be finished! But Emma refuses to wallow in self-pity and eat her entire body weight in cupcakes. If Hunter Kane wants a fight, then he is going to get one – even if he is the sexiest guy Emma has ever clapped eyes on!

When the town committee forces them to work together for the summer festival, Emma and Hunter are thrust into close proximity together. Emma is willing to do absolutely anything to drive her nemesis out of town and save her business, but she hadn’t counted on Hunter’s charm, charisma and red-hot kisses! As sworn enemies become secret lovers, will Emma and Hunter find the courage to admit the truth about the depth of their feelings for one another? Or is their relationship doomed to fail?

Tara Sheets is certainly a name to watch out for because she is a writer who is destined for contemporary romance superstardom! Don’t Call Me Cupcake is a zesty-paced page-turner you will simply not be able to put down. Sparkling with witty repartee, searing emotional intensity, richly drawn characters, captivating drama and a dollop of magic, Don’t Call Me Cupcake is a delicious and delectable contemporary romance sure to appeal to fans of Jill Shalvis and Sarah Morgan.

A fabulous read that ticks all the right boxes, Don’t Call Me Cupcake is a fantastic debut readers shouldn’t dare miss!

Not realizing that the gorgeous man she sells three Sweet Success cupcakes to -- cupcakes that she's baked the key to success in by way of magic -- is her new rival, Emma Holloway is as nice as pie. But when she learns the truth and that the town council are forcing them to work together on the upcoming summer festival, Emma decides she's going to use her magic for personal reasons. Will she be able to create the perfect recipe to make Hunter leave or will their intense chemistry prove to be too much for the pair to resist?

What a fun and highly entertaining read Ms. Sheets has delivered in this first book of her Holloway Girls series where the main characters were incredible and the dialogue was a wonderful combination of intense moments and playful banter that had me loving these two together. The way this story started drew me in immediately, as the heroine is a warm, inviting and interesting character that had me reading quickly, determined to discover more about her. However, it was from the moment the hero and heroine meet where this story really comes alive, as these two together make this story an absolute page turner, especially once the heroine learns who he is. Will she find a way to run him out of town?

With the main characters, both were relatable, likeable and had me loving every interaction between them, especially since the heroine is so determined to see Hunter gone, but finds it difficult to resist him. Really, he's magnetic, confident and as delicious as her cupcakes sounds (if not more). I also liked that he didn't let the heroine's attitude get to him once she discovers who he is. Will he be able to win her over? Yet, what I liked most of all about the hero was how determined he was to help the heroine, even though it doesn't seem he's offering his help for the right reasons.

While the heroine, she's resilient, courageous and I loved her determination to see the hero gone. Will she be able to go through with her plan? Will she be able to create the perfect recipe to get what she wants? I also liked how protective the townspeople were of the heroine because she's special and has already been through so much and doesn't deserve to lose anything more than she already has. Yet, what I liked most of all about the heroine was the way she stood up to her ex, which is proven by the moments she interacts with him that show she is no longer the doormat, dreamy-eyed girl she was when they were together.

Overall, Ms. Sheets has delivered one of the best books I've read this year where the chemistry between this couple was heady and convincing; the romance a little on the sweet side because it doesn't go into a lot of detail in the moments where the hero and heroine become intimate; and the ending had me worried for the main characters because of what happens, but had me loving how things turn out for the pair because they're so good together. However, it was the epilogue that wrapped this story up brilliant because of the surprise the hero had for the heroine. I would recommend Don't Call Me Cupcake by Tara Sheets, if you enjoy the enemy to lovers trope, small town romances or books by authors Kelly Moran, Peggy Jaegar, Donna Kauffman and Sharla Lovelace.

Emma and Juliet Holloway are the last left on Pine Cove Island, cousins with a special magical inheritance (if not much money). Emma is known on the island as a baker of some talent: her cupcakes sold at her shop Fairy Cakes bring hope, healing, peace and determination to those lucky enough to sample them. When Hunter appears in the shop, she offers him the cupcake she feels will best help him in his endeavors, a cupcake that brings success. It isn’t until she discovers that he’s the owner of the new restaurant that will cause her struggling bakery even more problems, that she discovers her mistake.

It’s been a struggle with dwindling profits, a house that is falling down around her, and now, a new puppy that her cousin Juliette has dropped off. With the upcoming summer festival, source of her plans to pay off both a mortgage, her shop rent and perform necessary repairs now a joint venture between her and Hunter – she’s convinced that no good can come of this, no matter how intriguing the man is.

Throughout the story, we are treated to Emma’s reliance on routine and specific information: a mother with wanderlust, an unknown father, a childhood as one of the ‘weird” kids, and the struggles with her business, relationships with anyone but her very opinionated house aren’t in Emma’s plans. But Hunter makes all of those worries dim….. at least momentarily, even as she and Juliette with her ‘plant magic’ are planning a special cupcake to encourage Hunter to move on and far far away.

So damn cute and adorable, especially with the sentient house that has very decided and definite opinions about the people in Emma’s life. And that connection with Hunter, that they both are determined to ignore, until they can’t ignore the pull…. Both Hunter and Emma, with a tiny bit of advice and pushing from other townspeople, finally come to their senses in the most dramatic ways possible. But, it’s the sweetness of their interactions (when they aren’t bickering), and the electric chemistry that mixes with the wondrous magical moments that weave through the recipes, the plants, and even the island. A lovely start to a new series – and plenty of fun for those who want a different flavor of bakery story.

I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.

Review first appeared at <a href=” https://wp.me/p3OmRo-9K9/” ><a> I am, Indeed </a>

Emma and Hunter are a cute couple. Emma owns a bakery that is much more than it seems. When she accidentally sells her competition a cupcake that helps with his success she finds her life is full of complications, humor, surprise, and possibly romance. Thank you for allowing me to read this and write about it.

Don’t Call Me Cupcake was such a delight! I highly recommend it! I loved the characters, including the house and Buddy the dog.

When I picked it up, I wasn’t sure how I’d feel about the paranormal aspect, but I needn’t have worried. The author did a terrific job of weaving the magical aspects into the story.

I can’t wait for the next book in the series.

I received a copy of this story from NetGalley for an honest review, but I also bought a paperback copy of the book because I loved it and wanted to support the author.

What a fun book to read!! I loved everything about it! It takes place in a sleepy northern pacific town on an island off the coast of Washington. Quaint, enticing, mesmerizing! I was loving the scenic detail and could picture it in my head perfectly!

Emma Holloway owns the local cupcake shop called Fairy Cakes. She bakes special cupcakes that have magical charms attached to them and the person that eats them benefits from the charm. So if you are down, she has a positive attitude cupcake, or if you are sick, there is a be well cupcake. Some of the locals are skeptical of Emma's charms and the Holloway family legacy. They just call them crazy, weird, odd, you name it! But others.... they have seen the magic work first hand! And oh my, I would love to get my hands on some of these scrumptious sounding cupcakes! They sounded so refreshing and yummy! I think I was drooling at one point! lol! This book seriously made me google for cupcakeries in my area!!

Emma is struggling financially though. Her grandmother that recently passed, came with medical bills. They mortgaged the house to pay them, and the cake shop isn't really clearing enough. Emma keeps telling herself everything will be better after the festival.

Hunter comes into the bakery to get some coffee and a cupcake. Emma sells him a sweet success cupcake only to find out later, he is the owner of a new restaurant setting up shop in town and they plan to have a bakery on site. Then to make matters worse, she finds out she has to share the festival catering with his new restaurant! She has to do something to make him leave because the shop is her only way to make money. If it goes down, so does she. With the help of her green thumb cousin Juliette, they combine their magic and intend to coerce Hunter into leaving town with a special cupcake made just for him.

But Hunter and Emma have this off the charts attraction to each other. And every plan seems to take a detour! I especially enjoyed all the other characters-the town's people, her puppy, and the wildly hilarious house! Yes the house!! It truly had a say in whatever Emma was doing...or not doing!!

The whole thing was a wonderful romance that was a delight to read! A great start to the series that I definitely recommend you pick it up! I am looking forward to reading the next Holloway Girls book which is Juliette's story!!

reviewed by Deb

Rating 4.5/5*
This is a heartwarming, magical, tasty romantic treat with lovely characters in a delightful island community setting. 

The magical element comes from the Holloway Girls, both of whom have very different magical abilities. Emma's skill is in creating cupcakes that gift the person eating it with beneficial effects, such as sweet dreams, feeling well, bliss or success - the effects are always positive. Unfortunately Emma gives not one but three of her success cakes to the handsome stranger who has eaten them before she discovers he's going to open a restaurant that could mean the end of her 'Fairy Cakes' business..... After this inauspicious introduction, she then finds out that she has to work with him and share in the preparations for the summer festival - but she's almost destitute and can't afford to share!

With dilemmas like this around and her home in urgent need of repair, Emma and her cousin decide to create a cupcake that will make him want to leave and to stay away. However, when a jasmine charm spills and attraction between Emma and Hunter grows, who knows what mischief her sentient home, an unwanted puppy, her ex-boyfriend and love can cause! Add in the great range of island characters and they're definitely the ingredients for recipe for a magical story to escape into! I'll definitely be looking out for future stories in this series.

I requested and was given a copy of this novel, via NetGalley, with no obligation. This is my honest review of the book after choosing to read it.

I LOVED this book. I would have liked more magical elements, but the writing was amazing. The small town of Pine Cove came to life, the characters were layered, and the ending...oh the ending. I'm so thankful to have gotten to read this book. I'll be reading the next Holloway novel.

What a fun book to read!! I loved everything about it! It takes place in a sleepy northern pacific town on an island off the coast of Washington. Quaint, enticing, mesmerizing! I was loving the scenic detail and could picture it in my head perfectly!

Emma Holloway owns the local cupcake shop called Fairy Cakes. She bakes special cupcakes that have magical charms attached to them and the person that eats them benefits from the charm. So if you are down, she has a positive attitude cupcake, or if you are sick, there is a be well cupcake. Some of the locals are skeptical of Emma's charms and the Holloway family legacy. They just call them crazy, weird, odd, you name it! But others.... they have seen the magic work first hand! And oh my, I would love to get my hands on some of these scrumptious sounding cupcakes! They sounded so refreshing and yummy! I think I was drooling at one point! lol! This book seriously made me google for cupcakeries in my area!!

Emma is struggling financially though. Her grandmother that recently passed, came with medical bills. They mortgaged the house to pay them, and the cake shop isn't really clearing enough. Emma keeps telling herself everything will be better after the festival.

Hunter comes into the bakery to get some coffee and a cupcake. Emma sells him a sweet success cupcake only to find out later, he is the owner of a new restaurant setting up shop in town and they plan to have a bakery on site. Then to make matters worse, she finds out she has to share the festival catering with his new restaurant! She has to do something to make him leave because the shop is her only way to make money. If it goes down, so does she. With the help of her green thumb cousin Juliette, they combine their magic and intend to coerce Hunter into leaving town with a special cupcake made just for him.

But Hunter and Emma have this off the charts attraction to each other. And every plan seems to take a detour! I especially enjoyed all the other characters-the town's people, her puppy, and the wildly hilarious house! Yes the house!! It truly had a say in whatever Emma was doing...or not doing!!

The whole thing was a wonderful romance that was a delight to read! A great start to the series that I definitely recommend you pick it up! I am looking forward to reading the next Holloway Girls book which is Juliette's story!!

Okay, I’m hooked. I’m not even going to lead into the “I’m hooked” part of this review. I adored just about everything about this charmed romance (grin) and I cannot wait to get my reading hands on the next story in this series. So, yeah, this one is a story that I’ll re-read just for the fun of it in those moments when I need that kind of lift.

Emma and Hunter are so right together. That special kind of magic when two souls know each other but circumstances are going to make getting together a challenge, add some charmed magic, a want to smother in hugs puppy and great secondary characters and you have a story that will capture any Paranormal Romance or Contemporary Romance reader’s imagination and attention.

Frankly, I’d love to talk about Don’t Call Me Cupcake but the story blurb already tells you a lot about this story… and I do not want to risk taking away the fun of this magically intriguing romance. I had a great time in this world, the characters are lively and realistic, the banter between Emma and Hunter is full of funny moments and emotional longing, their house – oh, my word, wait til you read about the house. No, zipping lips right now. If you love anything magical then I strongly suggest you check out Tara Sheets’ universe. It’s a really good story with characters you’ll enjoy… and the promise of more to come. I’d recommend this story and will keep my eyes wide open for the release of Don’t Touch My Petunia (I love these titles) due out Fall of 2018. I’ve just added another author to my favorites list.

*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*

I picked up Emma and Hunter's story on a whim last month and I absolutely loved it. From the start I was enthralled in their magical story. Emma is the type of person you want to be your bff. She's fun and unique and she has charmed all of Pine Cove Island residents. Hunter though he doesn't quite believe she has magic and he is a bit hard headed and determined but sexy and loving as well. If you love a entertaining, quirky contemporary romance with a touch of magic then I highly recommend Don't Call Me Cupcake!

4.5 Stars
I just loved this book. The small town setting hooked me right away. Then one of my favorite parts the magic element. That interested me so much. Especially with Emma because her craft is in the kitchen baking. When Hunter comes to town to open competition for Fairy Cakes he becomes enemy number one. Too bad he's charming and good looking. I was a little iffy about him in the beginning, but I shouldn't have worried because Emma is going to bring out a side of him that will surprise him. Tara Sheets has gained a reader. She had a great combination heart and humor. I love a book with humor in it. I would definitely recommend you give this one a read.

Tara Sheets must have had one of Emma’s Sweet Success cupcakes because Don't Call Me Cupcake is a sweet successful charming hit with this reader. It has richly developed characters in a smooth full-flavored plot that had me from beginning. I loved the small-town atmosphere where quirky is not just accepted but expected too.

Like Hunter I felt as if I had walked into a magical place that while it wasn’t perfect, it had so many perfect merits to it. I loved the author’s voice, the way her words made the story come to life in my mind and the charm of a slower pace within the town which came across in the flow of the novel. Mystical, magical and contemporary, all rolled into one exceptional story. This is a new author that I can’t wait to see more of her books.

This was a really good read! The writing flowed well, and I thought that the characters were developed nicely. This is a first for me from this author, and the writing grabbed my attention from the start. This is more of a clean romance than I'm used to. Nothing is described more than a kiss. Sex is alluded to, but never part of the story. Emma and Hunter were good together, even though it took both of them way too long to see it. I got a little frustrated with both of them at different times. Emma, because she was too stubborn to see what was right in front of her face, and Hunter because he was too afraid to let himself fall. The house made a pretty weird secondary character, but it was written well. Juliette was a good friend to Emma, and it will be interesting to see who catches her eye.
I voluntarliy reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book.

I received this book for free from NetGalley for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.Anytime there is cooking involved with the main character as a baker, chef or restaurant owner, I have to consider reading. Magic is my favorite speculative fiction. So I easily convinced myself to read <strong>Don't Call Me Cupcake.</strong>

The setting is a small waterfront town in the pacific Northwest. There are some old families, including the Holloways and some quirky people, as well as plenty of small businesses. Emma is the baker with a specialty in cupcakes. She's kind, generous and talented. She's also had some troubles and has an ex-fiance who was a big mistake.  Emma continues to work hard and do her best. I totally want some of her cupcakes!

Hunter comes to town as a real estate developer and opening a new waterfront restaurant and bakery. He will be competition to Emma and he seems to be only about the money. They have to work together on the food part of the summer festival, so they get to know each other. Hunter and Emma are attracted even though they don't want to be.

The standard of the rich guy and the girl down on her luck and in trouble financially is not my favorite and is all too common.  These characters were likable and even the townspeople were well drawn enough to make a fun story. Overall, they work things out with a few ups and downs. The town and its festival are interesting as we get to know the folks here. I loved the magic and Emma's house and her dog, Buddy.

I look forward to the next story in <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/series/215382-the-holloway-girls" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><em><strong>The Holloway Girls series </strong></em></a> in September and after reading the first chapter of <strong>Don't Touch My Petunia</strong>, expect some fireworks as Emma's cousin Juliette clashes with an old high school crush returning to town. Plus there's more I want to learn about this family and the town.

<img class="wp-image-29431 alignleft" src="https://booksofmyheart.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/305/2018/04/PQ5_DCMC-300x157.jpg" alt="" width="617" height="323" />

Tara Sheets presents readers with a sweet read that will satisfy every reader's sweet tooth. Don't Call Me Cupcake introduces Emma and Juliette Holloway, cousins in a line of women with special gifts. Emma bakes charms into her cupcakes that grant wishes, such as uplifted spirits or sunny skies, to those who eat them. Unknowingly, Emma sells her Sweet Success cupcakes to Hunter Kane who is opening a high-end restaurant across from Fairy Cakes. Now, the only way to save her bakery is to get Hunter out of the picture.

Humorous and just plain adorable, Don't Call Me Cupcake is the feel-good romance you need in your life right now! Emma is a young woman whose abilities and family legacy mean everything to her. Hurt in the past by a mother with the gift of wanderlust and the man she thought she'd spend the rest of her life with, Emma has emerged with a spine of steel and a determination to never be hurt again. Yet, when she has to work with Hunter in preparation for Pine Cove's summer festival she finds herself bending to his charms. Hunter is making his mark on Pine Cove. He's making big changes in an effort bring in more tourists and expand his business. He finds the locals, and their old fashioned way of doing business, quite quirky. When Emma and Hunter work together, though, they both learn that change can be a good thing and it's okay to slow down and smell the cupcakes. Emma does not make it easy for Hunter to get close, but her feisty attitude adds to the light-heartedness of the story. The general cast of the story are perfect for this small town setting as they provide support to Emma, or create drama that could potentially ruin her.

Don't Call Me Cupcake closes with a strong finish that has my mouth watering for more! I highly recommend reading Tara Sheets' work, starting with this award-winning debut!
*ARC provided in consideration for review*

Sometimes you’re just in the mood for something sugary sweet with a touch of spice and humor, folks. That seems to adequately describe this debut author’s new bewitching romantic book series. Emma’s been making cupcakes laced with luck, health, and happiness for some time now thanks to some magic and recipes handed down from her likewise enchanted ancestors.

Her cousin partner in crime, Juliette, also has been gifted with magical abilities, mainly the gift of a garden thumb. That girl can grow anything, anywhere, anytime. When these two join forces to preserve and hold off Hunter, the hero, from single handedly changing their island wharf neighborhood as they know it, well, things get messy in and out of Emma’s enchanted home and Fairy Cakes kitchen.

With a very leisurely pace, there is some mild relationship angst as unexpected feelings get mixed into the fray as Emma and Hunter slowly but surely get to know one another.

The sweet cover and streamlined synopsis pretty much portrays exactly what you’ll get with this one. If you enjoy a small town, mostly fade to black/not overly graphically steamy, enemies to lovers with a touch of good natured paranormal, you’ll likely want to read this series.

There is a prologue for book 2, Don’t Touch My Petunias, included at the very end. You’ll get a glimpse of Juliette facing off with Logan, a handsome returning to his hometown hero, whose history with her is likely going to set off quite a bit of magic and relationship sparks, as well.

Title: Don’t Call Me Cupcake, Series: The Holloway Girls (Book 1), Author: Tara Sheets, Pages: 304, stand-alone but part of a series, romantic read with a touch of paranormal, enemies to lovers, fade to black/not overly steamy scenes, no lusty language, HEA, no love triangle, no cheating, former ex-boyfriend causes trouble, reluctant to love knucklehead hero. Rating: 3.5 stars

Book 1 - Don’t Call Me Cupcake
Book 2 - Don’t Touch My Petunias

(I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own. I was not given any payment or compensation for this review, nor is there any affiliation or relationship between this reviewer and the author/publisher/NetGalley.)

Don’t Call Me Cupcake by Tara Sheets
Book #1: The Holloway Girls
Source: Netgalley and purchase
My Rating: 4½/5 stars

Emma Holloway’s life has taken a downward turn in the last few years. Since the death of her beloved grandmother, nothing seems to be going Emma’s way. Her jerk of a fiancé left her, her grandmother died, her business isn’t doing well, and her home is falling apart. Yes, things could definitely be better for Emma Holloway. What couldn’t be better is Emma’s attitude. Despite all the difficulties, Emma always has a smile, a cheerful disposition, and the will to see herself through the difficulties to better times.

The residents of Pine Cove Island know all about the Holloway’s and their gifts. Many believe in the magic the Holloway’s possess and others just think they’re a crazy family with even crazier stories. For those who believe, Emma’s shop, Fairy Cakes is a place of refuge, a place to find wonderful baked goods with a bit of extra baked into every bite. Need a bit of energy or motivation? Emma has a cupcake for that! Need a boost in the love department? Emma has a cupcake for that! Need a touch of good luck? Yes! Emma has a cupcake for that. If you need it, Emma has it and that has endeared her to most of Pine Cove’s residents.

Hunter Kane is new to Pine Cove Island and he has BIG plans for the lazy tourist town. First up on the agenda is checking out the competition, Fairy Cakes. With pointed questions and a willingness to try the goods, Hunter sees his new bakery shutting down the competition in no time flat. Once the competition is out of the way, Hunter can proceed with the rest of his plans which include buying out the entire street, revitalizing the area, and bringing in more tourists and loads of money. Once he’s done with Pine Cove Island, Hunter will move on to the neighboring islands and repeat his success. To Hunter’s mind, he’s doing everyone involved a favor and they should be grateful for his time and attention.

When Emma sorts out Hunter’s game, she is beyond furious and comes up with a plan to get him and his plans out of town, permanently. With the help of her also gifted cousin, the women concoct a potion that, once consumed will cause to Hunter to leave town and never have the desire to return. In order to get Hunter to eat the cupcake with the potion, Emma will have to cozy up to the enemy and gain his trust. Hunter isn’t at all hard on the eyes but being nice to him is a tall order Emma isn’t at all sure she can handle. Until she actually spends time with him and gets to know that man behind the evil plans.

Hunter isn’t at all sure he believes the stories about Emma and her family, but he sure likes her and wants to get to know her a bit better. Emma makes Hunter think of things like love and romance, emotions he was quite certain he had locked away for good after his last disastrous relationship. Emma is committed to her business despite the hardships, she loves her crumbling home, she is devoted to her fellow residents and their shared traditions and has no intention of letting any of it go. Emma opens Hunter’s eyes to what life can be like in a small town, where everyone knows your name and your business, and still welcomes you with open arms. Trouble is, Hunter has no idea Emma is plotting against him . . . .

The Bottom Line: Confession time: I totally judged this book by its cover and title!! While I may have started off on a very superficial foot with the book, I quickly discovered a gem in between the adorable covers. Sheets has created a quirky little world on Pine Cove Island that, for better or worse, seems to revolve around Emma Holloway and her family. Hunter is the typical “fix all your problems” rich guy who has some valuable lessons to learn while on Pine Cove Island. He doesn’t expect Emma (or a crusty old property owner!) to be his guide to what life could be like, but he and the reader are in for a load of surprises. Emma isn’t willing to just give in to Hunter and with the help of her cousin, her friends, many locals, and her cantankerous old house, Emma fights for what she loves and holds dear. I am such a huge fan of quirky characters and stories, and Don’t Call Me Cupcake has quirky in spades. It also has all the feels, just the right amount of drama (Emma’s ex!), some really funny bits (the house kills me!), and an HEA that is so well-deserved on every level. This is a sweet read with an appropriate heat level I found utterly charming and difficult to put down. I can’t wait for round two, Don’t Touch My Petunia and sincerely wish the Holloway family were far larger than they are 😊

I was looking forward to this novel, but unfortunately, I just couldn’t get into it. There is nothing actually wrong with the novel, I just couldn’t connect to it in any way. The overall feel of the novel is cute, the characters are quirky in a way that can only be found in a close-knit small town. The heroine has heart as well as drive though I felt she lacked conviction to stick her guns when it concerned the hero. The paranormal aspect also felt out of place. As someone who loves paranormal with their romance, it was odd to me that I thought the story would have been just as good without it.

The author has a nice writing style that allows the story to flow easily. Unfortunately, as I have said before, there was nothing wrong with the story and I cannot justify giving it a lower rating just because I wasn't in the mood to read what the author wrote. If you are looking for a cute contemporary read with heart and magic, I recommend it. Just because I didn’t like doesn’t mean you won’t.

Well wasn't that the most charming book I've read in a long time! I've been in a bit of a slump lately in that I have no motivation to read, but Don't Call Me Cupcake entirely enamored me from start to finish. You're going to want to add this one to your TBRs, friends!

The entire concept of Don't Call Me Cupcake was so unique. It was refreshing to read something different in the romance genre and Tara Sheets certainly knew how to deliver. The Holloway girls are known on Pine Cove Island for their gifts. The heroine, Emma Holloway, can bake charmed cupcakes. Her bakery has a cupcake for everything ranging from a luck-bringer to a hangover-cure! I love how important Emma's gift was to her. It was a tie to her grandmother and she was proud of her abilities. Emma was a great heroine. She was the kind of heroine I actually want so badly to be real so I can befriend her. She has got a heart of gold and she was always willing to help the people around her. She was also incredibly devoted and hardworking. Even when life wasn't entirely rosy for her, she made the best of what she can. At the start of Don't Call Me Cupcake, she was battling with financial issues as her jerk of a fiance had run away with all of her savings. Despite her shabby situation, she was willing to do everything she could to save her family's home and legacy.

Enter Hunter Kane. He was a big city fellow in town opening up a fancy restaurant, which had the potential to steal Emma's business and leave her in even more despair. Gahh! I just love heroes like Hunter. He started off in the book being this stoic, stubborn and very goal-oriented man, but as he got to know Pine Cove and its residents, a different side of him emerged. He grew a soft spot for Emma and found himself being completely enchanted by Emma and her fieriness around him, which forced him to be a better version of himself. There were times when I wanted to shake Hunter by the shoulders because he would make some dumb mistake, but this was a guy with honest and pure intentions. Plus, he was someone who learned from his mistakes, which made him even more attractive in my eyes. Besides Emma and Hunter, I also loved each and every one of the secondary characters in Don't Call Me Cupcake. Juliette, Emma's cousin who happened to have an affinity for plants, was the best. I loved the close-knit bond between these two women. Then there was Buddy, the cute little puppy who wreaks havoc in Emma's life, but the good kind. And I was also a big fan of Emma's sentient house - yes, you read that right! All of the secondary characters and elements in the book only served to amplify my delight.

The romance between Emma and Hunter in Don't Call Me Cupcake was a rivals-to-more romance. As you can imagine, there was a hint of animosity between the two, understandably so! However, fate has something else in store for them. As they keep running across each other, their attraction continued to grow. I loved loved loved the two of them together. Anytime they were in a scene together I was just grinning like a fool. They were just so adorable. I loved how even though the sex scenes in Don't Call Me Cupcake happened behind the scenes, the chemistry between Emma and Hunter was always prevalent. I was telling Nereyda this, but I actually appreciated the lack of steamy scenes because I was starting to get bored with the abundance of them in some of the books I was reading. Anyways, I digress. The romance was just really really good and it's one reason I devoured this story.

Don't Call Me Cupcake was an instant 2018 favorite for me. I will certainly be going back and re-reading this one in the future. While I wait for Juliette's book, which also promises to be amazing from that snippet at the end of this book, I hope you guys will check out Don't Call Me Cupcake. I promise you'll fall in love with Pine Cove Island in all its charming package.