The only thing Bri Duval loves more than baking petit fours is romance. So much so, she’s created her own version of the famous Parisian lovelock wall at her bakery in Story, Kansas. She never expects it to go viral–or for Trek Magazine to send travel writer Gerard Fortier to feature the bakery. He’s definitely handsome, but Bri has been holding out for a love story like the one her parents had, … had, and that certainly will not include the love-scorned-and-therefore-love-scorning Gerard.Just when it seems Bri’s bakery is poised for unprecedented success, a series of events threaten not just her business but the pedestal she’s kept her parents on all these years. Maybe Gerard is right about romance. Or maybe Bri’s recipe just needs to be tweaked.Novelist Betsy St. Amant invites you to experience this sweet story of how love doesn’t always look the way we expect–and maybe that’s a good thing.
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Thank you in advance to Revell (a division of Baker Books) for providing a complimentary review copy through the Revell Reads Blogger Program. A positive review was not required and all words are my own.
This is the first book I’ve read by Betsy St. Amant, and after reading the blurb, I really wanted to read this story. So, I was honestly surprised how honest and realistic it was when it came to romance.
The cover, which is more fitting for a Valentine’s Day release, is cute and sweet – and that drew me in. But, it’s the inside where the story actually has its heart and soul in this seemingly standalone read.
Bri loves romance – everything about it. Her view is from the oh-so-sweet romance/marriage her late parents had, or so she thinks they had.
Gerard hates it – doesn’t do weddings, love, or romance. Most of his discontent is from someone he admired, as well as a failed relationship.
Then there are the two elderly owners of The Pastry Puff – a sweet little bakery where Bri works, where her mother had once worked.
The plot? Trying to save the Pastry Puff from Bri’s ex-boyfriend Charles who wants to put in a coffee chain.
But, this isn’t the “aw, shucks; pretty cute; feel good” type of romance.
It is the type of book that puts everything into an honest, realistic perspective that still remains hopeful at the core. This is where the reader will either see it as a weakness, or like me, recognize it as the strength of the story. The pessimistic love approach was something I honestly didn’t like, but it didn’t hinder the story, more like helped it and guided it to the climax and lesson. But, there are also dashes of humor along the way. More of this negative perspective comes from Gerard who doesn’t sugar-coat things.
Despite him seeming like my ideal man (6’ 2”; dark hair; broad shoulders; I prefer lighter eyes though) – he is definitely not the hero of the story. If anything he is the anti-hero. But, he balances out the story without coming off too abrasive. He isn’t that romantic either.
There to write an article about the love-lock wall and the bakery, he is using this assignment to leap ahead to what he thinks are greater things – politics, third world economics. And, he makes no secret of how he really feels about The Pastry Puff. This is all told in what seems like the perfect “Hallmark” movie way. And, things don’t get off to a great start for Bri when he walks into the bakery.
The author made an interesting point with one couple’s engagement – “it was easy to love when everything is perfect, it is a lot harder to love during a mess.
And, it doesn’t help that Gerard is also in that mess. From making Bri re-think romance, to re-thinking “Pride and Prejudice”, the man always had something to say. Even calling Bri “cupcake” most of the time.
There were times I was over him and his condescending nature. But, was he right about romance?
Not only does the success of the Pastry Puff depend on Gerard’s article, but also a “make or break” event – a wedding which is saved by Gerard in an uncharacteristic way.
Another interesting side of this story was Bri learning about her parents’ romance as well as some letters. I really loved how the author put this mystery in there, and what is more interesting is how this connects Bri and Gerard in a way they didn’t know.
Bri ends up learning that real love is hard, messy, loud, full of grit, kindess, patience, and forgiveness. While she was busy looking for her idea of romantic love, she learned something new.
The romance between the two doesn’t really pick up until about two-thirds (2/3) of the way in. And, Gerard’s turn-around isn’t an overnight epiphany. The author keeps it real and authentic to his character.
One plot point I wanted to see the conclusion of was about Gerard’s mom. I wanted to see how that was going to end – her getting help, or him to stop enabling her. That was about the only thing I missed when it came to the end.
I did end up crying sad, happy, and messy tears at the end which was realistic and beautiful.
One thing that made this such a quick and fun read was St. Amant’s use of short chapters. That is one thing I honestly love when reading – short chapters. It, to me, makes the story go fast without lingering. Not that I won’t read a “long” chapter book, just a preference. And, with the author’s writing, this sails right through to the end. It’s almost like a walk in the park.
It isn’t like she is rushing the action though. I was definitely hooked after the first chapter, and wanted to keep reading while wanting to put it down and daydream about love.
While it is distributed by Revell, a Christian/faith themed publisher, there are very few references to God or the bible in this. There are more at the end. But, these are not preachy in tone or an integral part of the story. There is a moment when Gerard reconsiders going to church and listens to a pastor who admits he still sins here or there. It is a refreshing take on faith.
There are some references to domestic violence and alcohol abuse. These are minor and not a huge part of the story, but readers sensitive to these subjects should take note.
Fans of the author and/or genre are sure to enjoy this book. And, after reading it, I am definitely inclined to seek out her next novel; if not her past ones as well.
Bri worked at The Pastry Puff Bakery which is owned by Mabel and Agnes who see.themselves as matchmakers after setting up different couples and now they have decided Bri is next as one of there success stories but will it work. Gerard is a writer for Trek Magazine and now he has been told by Peter who is the Managing director and wants him to write about romance for his next assignment so now Gerard is of to The Pastry Puff Bakery to write his article about all that is going on there even though he is not happy about it. When Bro and Gerard meet things do not go as planned or very smoothly but will everything work out to bring in more business or not. This is the first book that I have read by Betsy St Amant and I have to say that it was a brilliant story and so well written and I definitely recommend you read it.
I voluntarily reviewed an Arc copy of this book.
Come immerse yourself in charming Story, Kansas and a quaint bakery with a reputation for romance. The two elderly owners, sisters Mable and Agnes, are known as the Love Angels for their matchmaking abilities. For some much needed publicity, a travel magazine is sending a feature writer, Gerard Fortier, to do an article. Will love bloom between Gerard and Manager Bri Duval?
With hints of Paris and the Locks of Love Bridge, this story is filled with surprises. From Bri’s dreams to disappointments, the author underpins her story with faith, witty remarks and wise counsel. “Which was more loving? Suppressing concern to avoid awkwardness or delivering honesty in love?”
Serious issues are woven among cute banter. This is an enjoyable story with great heart and genuine characters. A contemporary author I will certainly read again.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the Revell Reads Blogger Program. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
3.5 stars
“The only thing Bri Duval loved more than romance was a perfectly executed French macaron.”
Working with sweets all day in a small town bakery keeps Bri Duval thinking about . . . . . well naturally, she thinks about sweets, leaving it up to her iconic aunts to share in Story, Kansas’ actual matchmaking duties. . . . . until, they hit the big leagues with a nearly love-at-first-sight story that goes viral. Now the whole world (actually, maybe just part of the whole world) knows about Bri’s little version of a Parisian love-lock wall tucked conveniently behind the Pastry Puff.
The social media buzz about the Kansas love-lock wall draws the attention of a Chicago based travel magazine, whose editor decides to send one of his best journalists (who just happens to be a confirmed bachelor) on location to write a feature article about Bri and the infamous wall. All preconceived notions about the keys to love go flying out the door the moment Gerard Fortier comes sauntering up to Bri’s counter, complaining about the coffee. He’s handsome, he’s blunt, he dares to call her “cupcake”, but can she deem him friend or foe? Will the power of Gerard’s words sway public opinion, for unfortunately the future of the Pastry Puff hangs in the balance.
This sweet little story has its hiccups, but that’s simply what they were . . . leaving plenty of room for deeper, more significant themes to shine through the ups and downs of everyday life in a delightful fictional town. It’s the sort of book that improves with every page and ultimately satisfies one’s longing for a happily-ever-after that doesn’t have to be perfect.
” . . . there was an unfinished story lingering in the back of his mind . . . . Theirs.”
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. The opinions stated above are entirely my own.l
“Somehow, being in Story – more specifically, watching Bri interact with her community – was like having a front-row seat to a play, one deserving of a snack and the full experience.”
Contemporary romcom doesn’t get better than this! Nestled in a tiny town called Story, Kansas, this novel brings together everything that makes contemporary romance delicious – a quirky and charming small-town life, a fun premise, a well-paced plot with some surprises, deep and multi-dimensional characters who are totally lovable, excellent banter and witty dialogue, and gentle reminders of spiritual truths that often get lost in the busyness of life. And this book will definitely make you hungry so you’d better grab a snack before settling down for a wonderful read that will make you laugh out loud, hurt, sigh, and feel satisfied as the story unfolds.
Bri and Gerard are complete opposites; Bri is the cheerful, naive, romantic pastry chef who is compassionate and loving. She finds fulfillment in embracing her community and hates taking risks. Gerard is a toughened and embittered world-travel writer whose sole goal is a promotion and thrives on adrenaline. Yet they’re thrown together by a meddlesome boss who sends Gerard to write about a love-drenched French-themed cafe and two meddling “love angels” who find every opportunity to push Bri towards Gerard. Delightful small-town life tumbles around them as they work on the article; both Bri and Gerard learn life lessons as their worlds careen closer together with late night snack deliveries, freezing dives into a fountain, late autumn picnics, and old love letters.
If you enjoy contemporary romance, you will absolutely love this book.
I received a copy of the book from Revell/Baker House Publishing Group and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.
Betsy St. Amant is a new-to-me author, and my first taste of her writing was definitely sweet! I loved the small town of Story, Kansas, and the quirky characters who call it home. Bri and Gerard are the epitome of opposites attracting – homebody Bri dreams of a romance like her parents’, while career-focused Gerard never stays in one place for long and is a little jaded after a broken engagement.
If this story were a petit four, the supporting characters would be the icing on top! Mabel and Agnes, the owners of the bakery, are the charming matchmakers who are like aunts to Bri. Casey and Nathan’s love story provides both funny and heartwarming moments too. This book has all the charm and sweetness of a Hallmark movie with a spiritual depth that fans of Melissa Tagg and Tari Faris will enjoy.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. Thank you, Revell!
This was an interesting book, where I went back and forth between liking and being annoyed.
Bri Duval is a baker in small town Story, Kansas. Somehow or another, Gerald’s editor from Trek Magazine, has found a viral video and wants him to do a story on this bakery. Which from the way that Trek Magazine is designed is not really one that caters to a bakery, especially with a romantic slant. There was nothing about the bakery where you could receive a thrill of anticipation or energy from visiting. Perhaps if Gerald had worked for a different magazine, with a different audience, perhaps I would have believed this initial story plot better.
The story of her parents I kept waiting to pop up sooner in the story, but I had to wait closer to the end of the book for the drama to begin and then it started with a flourish.
All people are flawed and I did enjoy this aspect, where people often say, do and act in ways that are counterintuitive in how they should act. At least in the world of fiction.
The ending was good, honestly unexpected. I did feel like there were some parts where we are introduced to characters and then they never resolve within the book the purpose of their appearance. I understand Sandra, but it makes me curious the full purpose of Charles and the question of “why”. Instead of suppositions as to why, the answer of why would have been more satisfactory.
Then we have the elderly sisters. I understand their part and their nosy ways, but sometimes they just distracted from the story.
But despite all these flaws, I still enjoyed the book and read it from start to finish. I would read it again and see what I missed the first time around. In the future, I will definitely consider reading another book by St. Amant.
Revell Publishing provided the copy I read for this review. All opinions expressed are my own.
The kind of romance that leaves you breathless, a love story worthy of the pedestal upon which she has placed her parents’; nothing else is worthy of Bri Duval, and she’s quite happy to stay single until she finds it. With her parents gone, she has nothing left to teach her about love, aside from a collection of letters to her mother that reveal a romance to which no other compares.
As head baker at the Pastry Puff, Bri fills the role her mother previously held, caring for the patrons who are her small town neighbors and perpetually trying to find the missing secret ingredient to her mother’s famous macaron recipe. She knows everyone in Story, Kansas, until the day Gerard Fornier walks through the door of the Pastry Puff and rubs her the wrong way. Gerard is writing an article about the love lock wall and the love angels of the Pastry Puff, and he may be the ticket to saving the bakery from declining sales. The trouble is that Gerard is hardly a fan of love and manages to clash with Bri at every turn.
The other problem is that Bri most certainly is not falling in love with Gerard and Gerard is not, under any circumstances, falling in love with Bri. And when Bri’s romantic foundation is shaken to its core, Gerard is not supposed to be the one to console her. Is it possible that this love-foul adrenaline addict can help save the Pastry Puff, the love lock wall, and her hopes of a fairytale romance? You’ll have to read the book to find out!
Thank you to the author and publisher for allowing me a copy of this book to read and review. All opinions in this review are my own and are completely genuine.
I usually stay away from “romance” novels. They usually are too mushy for me. But this one was more a study of human behavior. Bri is hanging on to a past she hopes is real but finds out it wasn’t what she thought it was. Gerald uses a failed relationship as a guide for all female relationships. This book explores how impressions of our past can taint the present and future. Bri and Geard seem to be polar opposites, but they are exactly what the other needed to grow. As with so many books of this type, you want to yell at the characters to just talk with one another. But in this novel, they do talk and eventually work things out. It’s a feel good book with just enough romance to make it interesting without all the “mush”.
Boy meets girl and sparks fly, not here, they meet and you can feel the negative tension in the air. This was not a warm and fuzzy read, it actually was a rather hard to get through for me.
The title refers to the love connections with locks on a fence, and that is nice, but the story did drag. Of course there is a person who wants it all gone, the fence and the bakery.
Come and visit Bri, Gerard, and the Aunts, along with Charles!
Hang on, the ending does get better and some of the answers come, not always what we want, but it does have a sweet ending, and more baking.
I received this book through NetGalley and the Publisher Revell, and was not required to give a positive review.
The Key to Love
by Betsy St. Amant
Rating: 4/5
Release date: October 13, 2020
I’ve haven’t read many books by Betsy St. Amant, but I did enjoy her contribution to A Year of Weddings so I was excited to have the opportunity to read this gem. I was not disappointed and the author doesn’t skimp on the story which pleasantly surprised me. Although I will say, by reading the title, I was hoping for music inspired theme but alas, the “key” has nothing to do with music but with locks and keys.
Bri Duval is a classic romantic at heart thanks to the beautiful love story her parents demonstrated for her before they tragically passed away. She is a talented baker of Parisian treats at the struggling, local bakery, The Pastry Puff, in Story, Kansas. Her beloved mother taught her everything she knew except for her secret ingredient for the macarons, so Bri is constantly trying to perfect the recipe. Even though Paris’ famous lovelock bridge was taken down, Bri has created her own lovelock wall at her bakery and decides to film the shop’s successful love stories. The video goes viral, and Trek Magazine wants to do a feature on the bakery shop. Gerard Fortier is the man sent to write the article, and he and Bri do not hit it off right away. With a little bit of Elizabeth and Darcy first impressions vibes, the two just don’t seem to get along and only seem to push each other’s buttons. Gerard is a man who doesn’t ever want to put down roots but instead travels the world in search of his next article. He does, however, desire to be promoted so he can write on topics that really matter, so he’s determined to complete this sappy article despite his opinions on love. As Gerard begins to get to know Bri, obstacles to the bakery’s success keep getting in the way. Can Gerard and Bri find a way to come together and find real love?
I really enjoyed the story and loved how it didn’t seem rushed. So many times watching Hallmark movies, I’m always yelling at the screen that the couple have only known each other for a few days. lol. I appreciate the slow burn and snark that occurs between the couple. I appreciate that the concept of what romance and love is is explored. The small town vibes were charming and made me want to go visit (especially since I’m so close to Kansas). My mouth was constantly watering at the desserts, and I was googling where I could find some petit fours and macarons. The struggling bakery also gave me “You’ve Got Mail” vibes, which made me smile.
Highly recommend if you enjoy romantic comedies set in a small town.
My thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of the book. All opinions expressed here are entirely my own. No positive review was expected and no compensation received.
This is my first book by Betsy St. Amant and I was hooked after just the first chapter. Don’t worry I am not going to give away a lot about the book because then you would not be able to experience the joy of reading it in the same way but I will just say that one thing that Betsy mentions in that first chapter reminded me of a movie called The Princess Diaries. Also, there is one part of the story that I can definitely say tells me if you loved Courtney Walsh’s Paper Hearts book then you will love this one too. Betsy does such an amazing job of describing things that I can picture myself sitting right there inside Pastry Puff and drinking a cup of coffee while eating a really great macaroon! Even if for some reason you are not drawn in just by looking at the gorgeous cover of this book I still ask that if you like romance books with a little bit of comedy thrown in that you give this book a chance. I just don’t believe you’ll regret it if you do.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of the book in order to give an honest review.
Sometimes, the best relationships start out in the worst way–the characters don’t meet “cute”–they meet “snarly”. Such is the case with “The Key to Love”, from author Betsy St. Amant. In the little town of Story, Kansas, there exists a charmingly quaint French-inspired pastry shop called “The Pastry Puff”. The shop is owned by Agnes and Mabel–two ladies of a certain age and attitude who are unrepentant matchmakers. Their baker–the creator of divine delicacies–is Abrielle “Bri” Duval. While Bri has recreated the famous Parisian “Love Lock Wall” (lovers declare their undying love by attaching a lock to the wall and throwing away the key) outside the sweet shop, she is decidedly somewhat sour on romance. Also disillusioned with lasting love is reporter Gerard Fortier, sent by his employer to do a story on the bake shop and the wall after they become a hit on social media. Bri and Gerald, each with their own personal issues, take an immediate dislike to each other, and their initial conversations consist of verbal sparring. However, they both have a lot at stake–Bri wants to eventually buy the bake shop, and Gerard wants to move ahead to more significant reporting assignments. They will have to work together, and learn to like each other, in order to reach both of their goals. Along the way, the sparks between them just might turn in a different direction–antagonism may turn to attraction. Are their differences too great and their life plans too different for love to have its way? Is there a chance for a sweet and happy future together? It will take a great leap of faith–and some heavenly guidance–but if Bri and Gerard put their hearts and heads together, they may just find “the key to love”.
Book Copy Gratis Revell Books via LibraryThing
I was lured in by the synopsis on the book’s back cover and sure glad I was. This book was just plain good fun to read. A heroine who thinks love must be picture perfect to be perfect love is holding out for a love like her mother and father had. A jaded world traveling reporter is assigned to a little bakery in a small town that claims to have a market on love and marriage. What follows is just complete fun all the way around. And lessons are learned, too, and hurts get healed. Recommended.
*My thanks to Revell Publishing for a copy of this book via Net Galley. The opinion in this review is entirely my own.
Fans of contemporary romance who enjoy books incorporating small towns, food, and bakeries into the storyline and Hallmark movies may want to check out The Key to Love by Betsy St. Amant. I was immediately drawn to this book by its gorgeous cover and premise of the storyline. Once I read the blurb, I was definitely interested in reading this book. While the storyline has great potential, I was hoping to connect to the characters more. No matter what genre I am reading, the connections that I as a reader make with the characters are what remains with me long after the final page.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine.