SWEET INDULGENCE

A newly established businesswoman looks for love, hindered by a concerned grandmother, nosy aunt, and headstrong sister in this series opener.

Annie McPherson is dedicated to getting her new business, Sweet Indulgence Cupcakery, off the ground and her meddling Grandmother Lilly and Auntie Patty off her back. Establishing her independence and her own household are the first steps for Annie, but then her business unexpectedly brings Jack Powell into her life. An instant attraction draws them together at every turn, sparked by meetings that Jack often engineers to ingratiate his way into Annie’s life. Since he’s a limousine driver for his family’s tourism company, Annie worries whether her family will judge him financially worthy of her. He proves himself a well-established and devoted suitor who shows consideration for both Annie and her family. But the return of Annie’s sister Mary, a wild child and impulsive character, from a European vacation threatens to derail the couple’s romance. Is this development only a bump in the road? Will Annie and Jack overcome their past negative experiences in the game of love and their meddling families to come together in a committed relationship? White (Sweet Magnolia, 2018, etc.) is a veteran author who has written several novels and series. Her professionalism shows in her polished structure and dialogue, which eschew the common mistakes of novices. The inviting book is a standard contemporary romance that’s on the tame side, with only vague references to physical intimacy that go no further than explicitly described kisses. The biggest disappointment comes from the series’ structure. Since this installment’s story must lead right into the next book, it lacks a firm ending, leaving readers without adequate resolution. In addition, the plot is a bit predictable and lacks romantic tension.

A cozy, clean, contemporary romance.