I really enjoyed this clean romance/mystery book. The author has become a favorite of mine because she writes stories that are easy to relate to and has wonderful biblical truths scattered throughout. Her characters are always charismatic and fun to get to know.

The title is so perfect for this charming story. Starli is very driven and is determined to make her restaurant a success. I loved the name of the restaurant which is called Apple Blossoms. It is a charming place that has become very popular. The atmosphere is trendy and overall the food has been good. Starli suddenly finds herself in need of a top notch chef. I wonder who will walk in the door to become the chef that everybody raves about?

The bright star in this story is the dashing Sir Joel Peterman-Blair. He has come all the way from England to become Starli's chef and save the day. The banter between them is hysterical. Starli instantly is all business like around him which he finds charming. The man is a breath of fresh air and easy on the eyes. I loved how Starli kept trying to hide her true feelings about Joel. The main reason she doesn't want to get involved with him or any man is because she doesn't trust them. She had a horrible marriage that was both physically and emotionally abusive. People wonder why she never turned her husband in, but who would believe her? Her husband was a police officer and well liked. When he is killed in an accident, she can finally breathe a little. It doesn't take long for her ex- brother-in-law to start stalking her. He is a bully and blames Starli for his brothers death. It can't be fun having to look over your shoulder constantly.

The mystery in the story is good and kept me guessing who was behind sabotaging the restaurant. The obvious choice would be the ex-brother-in-law, but maybe he has someone else doing his dirty work? Joel is all about keeping Starli safe while trying to find out who is trying to destroy her livelihood. Reading hoe their relationship develops is the icing on the cake. It is a great book that really focuses on trust and letting go of past hurts. I can't wait for the author's next book.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion. ( )

I enjoyed reading this romantic mystery but I don’t think it was quite as good as the first in the series. I love the town and the minor characters but I didn’t always care for the main characters in this story. I did like the mystery though. I received a copy of this book from Celebratelit for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will. ( )

‘It’s impossible,’ said Pride
‘It’s risky,’ said Experience
‘It’s pointless,’ said Reason
‘Give it a try,’ whispered the Heart
- Unkown

A most enjoyable way to spend an afternoon! Starli is the proud owner of Apple Blossoms, an upscale restaurant. She is also a survivor of domestic abuse. Learning to trust anyone, especially a man, is almost impossible. The new chef, Joel, is a Sir from England, having been knighted for his extensive volunteer work with the downtrodden. His experience in the kitchen brings a whole new level to the offerings. Can she learn to trust him enough to give him authority over the food?
Along with the tension in the workplace, the author has the reader wondering why the ongoing harassment cannot be stopped. From almost being run off the road, to break ins and even fire, the mystery kept me trying to figure out what was really going on!
I enjoyed observing how much Starli changed throughout the book, as she learns to give the Lord her anger, hurt and mistrust and as a result realizes what forgiveness means.
I received an ARC through CelebrateLit. The impressions and opinions are my own. ( )