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Haven Ridge #1
The Broken Hearts Bakery
Fifteen years ago, the town of Haven Ridge failed its most important mandate—to be a sanctuary for heartbroken citizens in need. Now it’s getting a second chance to set things right ...
When Gemma left her hometown of Haven Ridge, Colorado, years ago in a cloud of controversy, she swore she would never return. And she’s kept that promise, instead building her reputation as one of LA’s preeminent family law attorneys. But when her lifelong best friend begs her to come stay with her teen stepdaughter, Taylor, while she’s on a business trip, Gemma doesn’t have the heart to refuse. She’ll simply keep a low profile, do her honorary aunt duties, and be gone before anyone knows the difference.
But Haven Ridge seems to have a mind of its own, dragging Gemma unwillingly back into the community she’s tried so hard to leave behind and she soon finds herself caught up with new friends and old rivalries. When Taylor is the object of an ugly bit of teen bullying, Gemma does the only thing she knows how to ply her honorary niece with baked goods and words of affirmation. Soon, her temporary digs are ground zero for teenage girls seeking sugar and consolation for shockingly adult problems—which the girls soon dub The Broken Hearts Bakery.
Complicating matters is an unexpected reunion with Gemma’s high school sweetheart, Stephen, who is determined to change her mind about him, the town, and the nature of love itself. Because as it turns out, her niece isn’t the only one nursing a broken heart…
When Gemma left her hometown of Haven Ridge, Colorado, years ago in a cloud of controversy, she swore she would never return. And she’s kept that promise, instead building her reputation as one of LA’s preeminent family law attorneys. But when her lifelong best friend begs her to come stay with her teen stepdaughter, Taylor, while she’s on a business trip, Gemma doesn’t have the heart to refuse. She’ll simply keep a low profile, do her honorary aunt duties, and be gone before anyone knows the difference.
But Haven Ridge seems to have a mind of its own, dragging Gemma unwillingly back into the community she’s tried so hard to leave behind and she soon finds herself caught up with new friends and old rivalries. When Taylor is the object of an ugly bit of teen bullying, Gemma does the only thing she knows how to ply her honorary niece with baked goods and words of affirmation. Soon, her temporary digs are ground zero for teenage girls seeking sugar and consolation for shockingly adult problems—which the girls soon dub The Broken Hearts Bakery.
Complicating matters is an unexpected reunion with Gemma’s high school sweetheart, Stephen, who is determined to change her mind about him, the town, and the nature of love itself. Because as it turns out, her niece isn’t the only one nursing a broken heart…
343 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 1, 2023
31 people are currently reading
478 people want to read
About the author
Carla Laureano
23 books917 followersCarla Laureano is the RITA® Award-winning author of contemporary inspirational romance and Celtic fantasy (as C.E. Laureano). A graduate of Pepperdine University, she worked as a sales and marketing executive for nearly a decade before leaving corporate life behind to write fiction full-time. She currently lives in Denver with her husband and two sons, where she writes during the day and cooks things at night.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
August 21, 2023
I thoroughly enjoy Laureano's books. Her writing is beautiful.. so rich and fluid. And this book did not disappoint when it came to her words. It truly is a wonderful story.
The only "issue" I had was with content. Let me quickly say, this book is clean.. no language, no sex scenes (though some moments get steamy). This book was presented to me as Christian Fiction and it isn't. A few quick notes..
1. It is not anti-Christian, not at all.. but there is nothing in it to even suggest faith is part of the story.
2. Previous books by this author that were also labeled CF were. So expecting this one to be was not a unreasonable expectation.
3. I have no animosity toward the author for it not being CF nor am I opposed to reading something that is not CF.
4. Research after reading shows that some sites label it as CF and others don't.
I share this for other readers who might pick this up expecting CF. IF you only read CF... IF you do not like sexual innuendo (very tasteful not overdone) or steamy scenes... then this is not the book for you.
The only "issue" I had was with content. Let me quickly say, this book is clean.. no language, no sex scenes (though some moments get steamy). This book was presented to me as Christian Fiction and it isn't. A few quick notes..
1. It is not anti-Christian, not at all.. but there is nothing in it to even suggest faith is part of the story.
2. Previous books by this author that were also labeled CF were. So expecting this one to be was not a unreasonable expectation.
3. I have no animosity toward the author for it not being CF nor am I opposed to reading something that is not CF.
4. Research after reading shows that some sites label it as CF and others don't.
I share this for other readers who might pick this up expecting CF. IF you only read CF... IF you do not like sexual innuendo (very tasteful not overdone) or steamy scenes... then this is not the book for you.
February 16, 2025
This book was a disappointing miss for me. It's really quite a shame this author has departed from writing Christian fiction because her themes would fit well in that genre.
The way former enemies helped and comforted each other was my absolute favorite thing about this book.
The fierce loyalty Taylor and Liv felt toward Gemma was completely beautiful.
I loved how Gemma discovered the truth of divorce, that it's ugly for those going through it, and that that people's hopes and personalities can get crushed along the way.
The way Gemma found her gumption to stand up for her business ethics was excellent.
Now for the not so savory bits.
Teens chatted frankly about sex and whether or not to hold out or cave to keep their boyfriends. Gemma missed a humongous opportunity here. She talked to them about "you don't have to do anything you don't want to do," which is true. But she didn't guide them wisely toward the Bible and what God says about sex, that it's an intimate act He created to be between only a man and his wife, that outside of that relationship, diving into such an intimacy would be sinful and wrong.
It was strange that two full-grown women reverted to teen talk as if they were the ones currently in high school.
"We all got older and he just got hotter?"
"I know, right? UNFAIR."
It was sad that it was assumed small-town living was all about underage drinking--not exactly the sort of thing to be promoting in an already drunken society, and definitely not a good role model for teens.
"Did you even live in a small town if you didn't drink straight from the bottle while sitting on the tailgate of an older boy's truck?"
Alcohol was excessively mentioned.
The sexual content was excessive. The level was worse than the worst Hallmark movie I've ever seen but a couple notches better than a trashy Harlequin novel. This included innuendo, detailed tongue kissing, a lady straddling a guy while kissing him, lots of mentions of physical reactions to each other, lots of mentions of ogling people's bodies and muscles and overall "hotness," and more. "Falling hopelessly in lust" seemed to be the main theme of the book (this one definitely would NOT fit into the Christian fiction genre).
There were a couple of on-page curse words. It was implied that the leading lady was fond of "choice words." Not a great role model for a teen, so I'm not sure why she was put in charge of one.
A "true gentleman" wouldn't let things go beyond chaste behavior before putting a ring on her finger and giving her a wedding. Stephen did not meet those simple requirements, then or now.
Granny Pearl and the magic of Haven Ridge were was unrealistic as Irene Hannon's Charley and magical animals in the Hope Harbor series. They're great examples of why Magic Realism is a difficult genre for me.
I won't be continuing this series or trying any additional books by this author.
Content: crude sexual terms, woman called her stepdaughter a "wench," sexual innuendo, sexual immorality mentioned, sexual promiscuity talked about openly with teens (not stated as morally or biblically wrong), gambling, physical reactions excessive, detailed tongue kiss, expletives
The way former enemies helped and comforted each other was my absolute favorite thing about this book.
The fierce loyalty Taylor and Liv felt toward Gemma was completely beautiful.
I loved how Gemma discovered the truth of divorce, that it's ugly for those going through it, and that that people's hopes and personalities can get crushed along the way.
The way Gemma found her gumption to stand up for her business ethics was excellent.
Now for the not so savory bits.
Teens chatted frankly about sex and whether or not to hold out or cave to keep their boyfriends. Gemma missed a humongous opportunity here. She talked to them about "you don't have to do anything you don't want to do," which is true. But she didn't guide them wisely toward the Bible and what God says about sex, that it's an intimate act He created to be between only a man and his wife, that outside of that relationship, diving into such an intimacy would be sinful and wrong.
It was strange that two full-grown women reverted to teen talk as if they were the ones currently in high school.
"We all got older and he just got hotter?"
"I know, right? UNFAIR."
It was sad that it was assumed small-town living was all about underage drinking--not exactly the sort of thing to be promoting in an already drunken society, and definitely not a good role model for teens.
"Did you even live in a small town if you didn't drink straight from the bottle while sitting on the tailgate of an older boy's truck?"
Alcohol was excessively mentioned.
The sexual content was excessive. The level was worse than the worst Hallmark movie I've ever seen but a couple notches better than a trashy Harlequin novel. This included innuendo, detailed tongue kissing, a lady straddling a guy while kissing him, lots of mentions of physical reactions to each other, lots of mentions of ogling people's bodies and muscles and overall "hotness," and more. "Falling hopelessly in lust" seemed to be the main theme of the book (this one definitely would NOT fit into the Christian fiction genre).
There were a couple of on-page curse words. It was implied that the leading lady was fond of "choice words." Not a great role model for a teen, so I'm not sure why she was put in charge of one.
A "true gentleman" wouldn't let things go beyond chaste behavior before putting a ring on her finger and giving her a wedding. Stephen did not meet those simple requirements, then or now.
Granny Pearl and the magic of Haven Ridge were was unrealistic as Irene Hannon's Charley and magical animals in the Hope Harbor series. They're great examples of why Magic Realism is a difficult genre for me.
I won't be continuing this series or trying any additional books by this author.
Content: crude sexual terms, woman called her stepdaughter a "wench," sexual innuendo, sexual immorality mentioned, sexual promiscuity talked about openly with teens (not stated as morally or biblically wrong), gambling, physical reactions excessive, detailed tongue kiss, expletives
April 15, 2023
4.5 stars
When I hear the words ‘magical realism’, I immediately gravitate to that story. And whether it’s a subtle hint like we see in The Broken Hearts Bakery or a more overt factor, I’m here for it 100 percent. In Carla Laureano’s newest series, I adore the town of Haven Ridge as a character in its own right, particularly the references to its being almost sentient toward its residents. I loved these little winks throughout the story, particularly when Granny Pearl was on the scene, and I felt both the magic & the heart of this quaint little town as we followed Gemma’s ‘second chance’ return.
Speaking of Gemma, I really liked her – not just her personality but also her kind heart and her passion to help women of all ages out of bad situations. I related to her on several levels, but I think we most bonded (if bonding with a fictional character is possible) over the journey toward daring to imagine that fulfilling your life’s calling sometimes takes you down a different path than you intended. In fact, I think a lot of us can relate to that, and Gemma’s genuinely likable traits just add to the feeling that – if she were in fact a real person – she would be a delightful friend to have. Plus she’s an amazing baker, so there’s that too.
Stephen is swoony all on his own, but when you add in his love for books and reading and, as a teacher, using literature to help us see universal truths through someone else’s perspective… well, he makes the ideal hero for us readerly types. He’s not perfect by any means – he’s made some big mistakes in his past, particularly where Gemma is concerned, and he makes some dumb mistakes in his present, too – but he’s perfect for Gemma and I loved watching their ‘high school sweetheart’ romance rekindle. The fact that their initial romance started from a friendship allows them to start there at least – with the foundation of friendship (and some fun banter) – while navigating the lingering feelings that spark to life when they’re reunited. But once those sparks fan into a flame, have a swooning couch close by because these kisses are spicy and fun and everything yummy! (The capture-the-flag game!!)
Bottom Line: If The Broken Hearts Bakery by Carla Laureano was a fairy tale, Haven Ridge (or maybe Granny Pearl) would be the fairy godmother who nudges things into place with a bit of magic and a lot of heart. I loved my first visit to this charming town, even if they do have a lot to make up for where Gemma is concerned, and I look forward to many more return visits in the future. Gemma and Stephen – as well as several of the supporting characters – are nicely-layered and engaging, and readers will be as invested as I was in their relationship. If you’re a fan of swoony romance with fan-inducing kisses and quirky small town settings, then you’ll love The Broken Hearts Bakery!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
When I hear the words ‘magical realism’, I immediately gravitate to that story. And whether it’s a subtle hint like we see in The Broken Hearts Bakery or a more overt factor, I’m here for it 100 percent. In Carla Laureano’s newest series, I adore the town of Haven Ridge as a character in its own right, particularly the references to its being almost sentient toward its residents. I loved these little winks throughout the story, particularly when Granny Pearl was on the scene, and I felt both the magic & the heart of this quaint little town as we followed Gemma’s ‘second chance’ return.
Speaking of Gemma, I really liked her – not just her personality but also her kind heart and her passion to help women of all ages out of bad situations. I related to her on several levels, but I think we most bonded (if bonding with a fictional character is possible) over the journey toward daring to imagine that fulfilling your life’s calling sometimes takes you down a different path than you intended. In fact, I think a lot of us can relate to that, and Gemma’s genuinely likable traits just add to the feeling that – if she were in fact a real person – she would be a delightful friend to have. Plus she’s an amazing baker, so there’s that too.
Stephen is swoony all on his own, but when you add in his love for books and reading and, as a teacher, using literature to help us see universal truths through someone else’s perspective… well, he makes the ideal hero for us readerly types. He’s not perfect by any means – he’s made some big mistakes in his past, particularly where Gemma is concerned, and he makes some dumb mistakes in his present, too – but he’s perfect for Gemma and I loved watching their ‘high school sweetheart’ romance rekindle. The fact that their initial romance started from a friendship allows them to start there at least – with the foundation of friendship (and some fun banter) – while navigating the lingering feelings that spark to life when they’re reunited. But once those sparks fan into a flame, have a swooning couch close by because these kisses are spicy and fun and everything yummy! (The capture-the-flag game!!)
Bottom Line: If The Broken Hearts Bakery by Carla Laureano was a fairy tale, Haven Ridge (or maybe Granny Pearl) would be the fairy godmother who nudges things into place with a bit of magic and a lot of heart. I loved my first visit to this charming town, even if they do have a lot to make up for where Gemma is concerned, and I look forward to many more return visits in the future. Gemma and Stephen – as well as several of the supporting characters – are nicely-layered and engaging, and readers will be as invested as I was in their relationship. If you’re a fan of swoony romance with fan-inducing kisses and quirky small town settings, then you’ll love The Broken Hearts Bakery!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
April 24, 2023
The Broken Hearts Bakery is a story of hope and second chances, told in Laureano’s charming voice that instantly pulls the reader into the lives of the main characters. I especially enjoy the way this second chance romance is deeply emotional and brings with it a maturity the years between have wrought in the lives of Gemma and Stephen.
Gemma’s unplanned return to her hometown brings about circumstances that make her ponder her bitterness and old wounds in a different light. Her interesting career (family law) contrasts with her roots, but it shows how Gemma treasures autonomy in a great way — an admirable aspect of her personality she holds onto even as she grows in this story. As she has some insightful interactions with Stephen, her first love, and some opportunities to indulge in her baking passion and influence her niece, she begins to find a new fit into a community that is more welcoming than she ever thought before. Stephen is a patient contrast to her strong will, and his friendly approach draws her in as he comes to a realization that he’s pined for her for YEARS! Their dynamic reminds me how much I enjoy a well-done second chance romance.
With a few hints of magic to the town of Haven Ridge, Laureano brings the southern Colorado setting (a favorite destination of mine, both in fiction and reality!)to life with a near love-letter type reverence for the mountain air and sky. She is also the queen of details as mannerisms and aspects of the characters lend an inherent relatability to this novel. More things to love: Gemma’s baking adventures (that make me want to try my hand at some eclairs), Stephen’s rustic cabin and penchant for literature, Gemma’s sister-like friendship with Liv and “niece” Taylor, and a memorable cast of secondary characters. I’m very excited to return to Haven Ridge in upcoming stories — this is definitely a series to check out, especially for fans of Becky Wade and Courtney Walsh!
“…there’s a difference between someone making a mistake and who someone actually is.”
-Chelsea (unexpectedly) in chapter 29
Thank you to the publisher for the review copy. This is my honest review.
Gemma’s unplanned return to her hometown brings about circumstances that make her ponder her bitterness and old wounds in a different light. Her interesting career (family law) contrasts with her roots, but it shows how Gemma treasures autonomy in a great way — an admirable aspect of her personality she holds onto even as she grows in this story. As she has some insightful interactions with Stephen, her first love, and some opportunities to indulge in her baking passion and influence her niece, she begins to find a new fit into a community that is more welcoming than she ever thought before. Stephen is a patient contrast to her strong will, and his friendly approach draws her in as he comes to a realization that he’s pined for her for YEARS! Their dynamic reminds me how much I enjoy a well-done second chance romance.
With a few hints of magic to the town of Haven Ridge, Laureano brings the southern Colorado setting (a favorite destination of mine, both in fiction and reality!)to life with a near love-letter type reverence for the mountain air and sky. She is also the queen of details as mannerisms and aspects of the characters lend an inherent relatability to this novel. More things to love: Gemma’s baking adventures (that make me want to try my hand at some eclairs), Stephen’s rustic cabin and penchant for literature, Gemma’s sister-like friendship with Liv and “niece” Taylor, and a memorable cast of secondary characters. I’m very excited to return to Haven Ridge in upcoming stories — this is definitely a series to check out, especially for fans of Becky Wade and Courtney Walsh!
“…there’s a difference between someone making a mistake and who someone actually is.”
-Chelsea (unexpectedly) in chapter 29
Thank you to the publisher for the review copy. This is my honest review.
February 24, 2023
From Endorsment:
In The Broken Hearts Bakery, Carla Laureano delivers a completely heartwarming and romantic tale fit for a Hallmark movie. Authentic characters struggling with real-life issues had me cheering them on through my tears. A little bit of magic, a lot of yummy baked goods, and a deliciously satisfying ending makes this novel an absolute winner!
In The Broken Hearts Bakery, Carla Laureano delivers a completely heartwarming and romantic tale fit for a Hallmark movie. Authentic characters struggling with real-life issues had me cheering them on through my tears. A little bit of magic, a lot of yummy baked goods, and a deliciously satisfying ending makes this novel an absolute winner!
April 14, 2023
Set in a small town where everyone knows everyone. This book reminds me of a classic Hallmark movie. Return to hometown from big city job, festival, snow storm, misunderstanding and a happily ever after!
April 13, 2023
Thoroughly enjoyed this story. Excited for more.
December 20, 2024
3.75 Stars!
October 5, 2023
I really enjoyed this first book in the Haven Ridge series by Carla Laureano! I think it's a good look at perspective---how we change in our perspective as we grow up, but also realizing that what we thought may have been true wasn't the way we saw it.
In this story, a small town girl Gemma returns back to the town she never wanted to be in again--as a favor for her best friend of course. As a family lawyer, she's also been granted a type of "forced vacation" in order to reevaluate what she is going to do with her career after they decide they won't honor her contract for her to pick who she represents. She refuses to represent anyone who has cheated on or is hurting their spouse--since her OWN mother was someone who was cheated on and divorced due to adultery.
But as always happens, the small town girl leaves the big city to help her friend. Upon arrival Gemma is immediately thrust into the towns life since she's responsible for watching a teenager who is active in school events. Turns out that teenager also is taking a class from Gemma's old sweetheart...the one who broke her heart and ruined her for relationships with anyone else.
The rest of the book is a series of events that thrust the two former sweethearts together as they work to help the town. And Gemma realizes that things may not be the same in this town. That people may have grown up. That the town draws her in no matter how much she fights it. And maybe just maybe she can practice the family law that she loves--and dabble in the idea of a small town bakery of her dreams.
**if you are expecting Christian fiction, this isn't it. Yes it's clean...but there isn't any messages of faith.
There is also mention of sex but in the form of Gemma overhearing teen girls talking about having sex to save relationships and she breaks in and begs them to wait. To not give of themselves for a boy who wants nothing more than immediate gratification. And we see Gemma and her sweetheart having very passionate kisses and makeout sessions.
Will I read more in this series? Yes. Did I love it? Not love it. But I did enjoy it.
4 STars
In this story, a small town girl Gemma returns back to the town she never wanted to be in again--as a favor for her best friend of course. As a family lawyer, she's also been granted a type of "forced vacation" in order to reevaluate what she is going to do with her career after they decide they won't honor her contract for her to pick who she represents. She refuses to represent anyone who has cheated on or is hurting their spouse--since her OWN mother was someone who was cheated on and divorced due to adultery.
But as always happens, the small town girl leaves the big city to help her friend. Upon arrival Gemma is immediately thrust into the towns life since she's responsible for watching a teenager who is active in school events. Turns out that teenager also is taking a class from Gemma's old sweetheart...the one who broke her heart and ruined her for relationships with anyone else.
The rest of the book is a series of events that thrust the two former sweethearts together as they work to help the town. And Gemma realizes that things may not be the same in this town. That people may have grown up. That the town draws her in no matter how much she fights it. And maybe just maybe she can practice the family law that she loves--and dabble in the idea of a small town bakery of her dreams.
**if you are expecting Christian fiction, this isn't it. Yes it's clean...but there isn't any messages of faith.
There is also mention of sex but in the form of Gemma overhearing teen girls talking about having sex to save relationships and she breaks in and begs them to wait. To not give of themselves for a boy who wants nothing more than immediate gratification. And we see Gemma and her sweetheart having very passionate kisses and makeout sessions.
Will I read more in this series? Yes. Did I love it? Not love it. But I did enjoy it.
4 STars
April 10, 2023
I enjoyed the small town feel of The Broken Hearts Bakery, the first full-length book in the new Haven Ridge series from Carla Laureano. But what I really loved was the way our heroine Gemma was willing to be honest with her honorary niece Taylor and her teen girlfriends and give them some solid advice about boys and relationships. (I also felt a bit confused and concerned when Gemma didn’t seem to be following her own advice!)
Gemma’s baking was everything "foodie" we love about Carla Laureano's books. There are also solid female friendships, another thing I enjoy in Carla's series .
With a title like The Broken Hearts Bakery, the story lends itself beautifully to themes of healing and second chances—I just wished those themes (and all the advice to Gemma’s niece and her friends!) could have been explored in light of God’s Word. But then I realized that, unlike some of the author’s previous titles, this book is not marketed as a Christian romance. Rather, there's a slightly mystical feel to the small town of Haven Ridge.
Content Warnings: While the book is categorized on Amazon as “clean and wholesome romance,” it’s not one I would hand to a younger teen. There are no actual sex scenes (though for a while, I was worried they weren't going to put on the brakes), but there are flashbacks to previous encounters (the details are not explicit).
Disclosure: I received a digital review copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Gemma’s baking was everything "foodie" we love about Carla Laureano's books. There are also solid female friendships, another thing I enjoy in Carla's series .
With a title like The Broken Hearts Bakery, the story lends itself beautifully to themes of healing and second chances—I just wished those themes (and all the advice to Gemma’s niece and her friends!) could have been explored in light of God’s Word. But then I realized that, unlike some of the author’s previous titles, this book is not marketed as a Christian romance. Rather, there's a slightly mystical feel to the small town of Haven Ridge.
Content Warnings: While the book is categorized on Amazon as “clean and wholesome romance,” it’s not one I would hand to a younger teen. There are no actual sex scenes (though for a while, I was worried they weren't going to put on the brakes), but there are flashbacks to previous encounters (the details are not explicit).
Disclosure: I received a digital review copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
October 11, 2023
This was such a good sweet clean read! I am not sure if I like the word sweet, let's go with happy. Yes there was drama, yes there were some tough situations, but this did not feel like the formulaic Hallmark movie that is thrown at us ladies all the time. The characters were well developed and were completely real. The slight miscommunication was actually believable and did not have me screaming JUST TALK.
I loved our two main characters and was so ecited to find out that there is a book #2 so I can get Liv's story. I really loved the relationships between Gemma and her "neice", their friendship was so cute.
I can't eplain how all the usual troupes were present (bad snow storm leads to an longer than planned stay), owning a bakery and small town festival all meshed well. It was like reading peas and carrots, or peanut butter and jelly (you pick your favorite combo minus chocolate and fruit--ew! Who thinks that is a good idea? Or Mountain dew and fireballs (Ted!)
Carla Laureano is a very talented writer andI have read several of her books now and I love the fact that they are wholesome and clean. While this book did not have any "Christian" messages that are usually in her books, it still held on to the values.
Great book!
I loved our two main characters and was so ecited to find out that there is a book #2 so I can get Liv's story. I really loved the relationships between Gemma and her "neice", their friendship was so cute.
I can't eplain how all the usual troupes were present (bad snow storm leads to an longer than planned stay), owning a bakery and small town festival all meshed well. It was like reading peas and carrots, or peanut butter and jelly (you pick your favorite combo minus chocolate and fruit--ew! Who thinks that is a good idea? Or Mountain dew and fireballs (Ted!)
Carla Laureano is a very talented writer andI have read several of her books now and I love the fact that they are wholesome and clean. While this book did not have any "Christian" messages that are usually in her books, it still held on to the values.
Great book!
April 14, 2023
The story of Gemma's past trauma is alluded to in the prequel, and the town matriarch implies that the negative reactions of the townspeople began the decline of Haven Ridge. This is very much a second chance story- for both the town and the romantic relationship of Gemma and Stephen, with betrayal at the center of the heartbreak. Stephen has a lot of growing up to do- even as an adult, and comes to some important realizations about himself. Gemma is a pretty strong character, but has hidden vulnerabilities that are forced to the surface as she is immersed in the town and Stephen's life. There's plenty of angst to go around, but the themes of redemption and forgiveness brought a sense of hope. Some of the recollections from their teenage years had content that made me uncomfortable- underage behavior that is not healthy/moral but was not portrayed in a negative light. I had anticipated that the location of the bakery would play an important role in the book, but Gemma's home baking for friends and the school were the focus, and even that seemed to be secondary to the main plot of her hot/cold relationship with Stephen. With the next novel's title having a bookshop, I hope that the town revitalization is more central to the story.
Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.
Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.
April 13, 2023
I really enjoyed coming back to Haven Ridge to meet Gemma and Stephen. Thomas and Mallory from the prequel novella make fun cameo appearances in this book. I loved the setting of Haven Ridge nestled in the mountains of Colorado and fell in love all over again with the charming town and its occupants.
Gemma and Stephen have a world of hurt between them from their past but when forced into close proximity with the welfare of a teenager and the town on their shoulders, they fall into an easy natural rhythm only found with those who know each other intimately. They fall in love again pretty quickly and their romance sizzles throughout the book. There isn't necessarily a faith thread here but there is some magical realism concerning the town of Haven Ridge that's kind of fun. Gemma's passion for her work as family lawyer and Stephen's passion for his work in teaching literature add depth and dimension to who they are. I can't wait to read Liv's story next!
I received the book from the author and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are my own.
Gemma and Stephen have a world of hurt between them from their past but when forced into close proximity with the welfare of a teenager and the town on their shoulders, they fall into an easy natural rhythm only found with those who know each other intimately. They fall in love again pretty quickly and their romance sizzles throughout the book. There isn't necessarily a faith thread here but there is some magical realism concerning the town of Haven Ridge that's kind of fun. Gemma's passion for her work as family lawyer and Stephen's passion for his work in teaching literature add depth and dimension to who they are. I can't wait to read Liv's story next!
I received the book from the author and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are my own.
June 20, 2023
Carla Laureano has a talent for small communities with all their closeness despite their quirks and a few warts. I want to live in those small towns she creates.
I haven't yet read The Brickhouse Cafe, but I lost myself in Haven Ridge the setting for both it and The Broken Hearts Bakery.
The Broken Hearts Bakery is a second chance story of first love, honesty, and integrity. Its characters have the depth of leaving unsatisfactory corporate worlds and big cities, finding themselves and the satisfaction for which their hearts longed in the community from which they came.
Romance is part of The Broken Hearts Bakery, but the best parts are the wisdom, given to struggling teens, grieving friends, and longtime adversaries in serious trouble and the wisdom received in return.
I had to beg our library to order The Broken Hearts Bakery. Please beg yours, for Carla Laureano needs to be on shelves and her books deserve to be discovered by many.
5 Stars for The Broken Hearts Bakery.
I haven't yet read The Brickhouse Cafe, but I lost myself in Haven Ridge the setting for both it and The Broken Hearts Bakery.
The Broken Hearts Bakery is a second chance story of first love, honesty, and integrity. Its characters have the depth of leaving unsatisfactory corporate worlds and big cities, finding themselves and the satisfaction for which their hearts longed in the community from which they came.
Romance is part of The Broken Hearts Bakery, but the best parts are the wisdom, given to struggling teens, grieving friends, and longtime adversaries in serious trouble and the wisdom received in return.
I had to beg our library to order The Broken Hearts Bakery. Please beg yours, for Carla Laureano needs to be on shelves and her books deserve to be discovered by many.
5 Stars for The Broken Hearts Bakery.
May 31, 2023
3.5 stars. This was a sweet story. I liked that both Gemma and Stephen went through a lot of change and growth. I also really appreciated that it wasn't just an instalove second chance. Very well developed! And I really liked Gemma's character overall. She was so strong and compassionate, and a great role model for Taylor. And though I liked how she forgave everyone, it was a bit quick -I would have liked her to explain/work through it a bit more. But, it was so great how she became an aunt to the other young girls. I also would have liked a little more excitement in the town, a little more going on in the story. The mild magical realism of the town was sweet, too, and I hope it continues in the series, and the little town can build itself back, into something even better!
Content: references to sex (not graphic)
I received this book free from the publisher/author. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
Content: references to sex (not graphic)
I received this book free from the publisher/author. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
October 29, 2023
I loved “The Beacon Street Bookshop”, but I highly recommend reading “The Broken Heart Bakery” first!! Carla introduces her characters slowly and she builds her stories with such angst that you have to get back to reading even before you have the time to read!! I’m 80 years young , but my eyes get so blurry reading so long into the night I have to close my iPad or my battery becomes to low I have to close it down!!
Carla’s books are good clean fun and you can’t keep from falling in love with the tiny town of Haven Ridge, CO. and quirky characters she weaves into her stories. Her main characters are wonderful normal people with sometimes difficult decisions to make that can determine if their lives will turn out happily ever after. I loved both of the books in the series and look forward to reading book #3 when it will be released in Aug. 2024.
Carla’s books are good clean fun and you can’t keep from falling in love with the tiny town of Haven Ridge, CO. and quirky characters she weaves into her stories. Her main characters are wonderful normal people with sometimes difficult decisions to make that can determine if their lives will turn out happily ever after. I loved both of the books in the series and look forward to reading book #3 when it will be released in Aug. 2024.
May 15, 2023
This story is about a woman whose life was changed as a result of the treatment of her and her mother. It set her on a course to right the wrongs of others in an attempt to help those who can't help themselves. Then one day she receives an ultimatum but has to think about those who need her most. Then a call from a best friend needs her help in the town where her and her mother were forced out. Of course, it's her long time best friend and she can't turn her down. Well, the town has changed and she begins to realize that, no matter where she is, she is needed.
This is a story that will touch the readers heart. It has all the ups and downs of a story that we love to read. Pick this book up and read it through to the end. It is a great story!
This is a story that will touch the readers heart. It has all the ups and downs of a story that we love to read. Pick this book up and read it through to the end. It is a great story!
April 13, 2023
Romance is not my go-to genre, but this is a fun series. I appreciate that it is clean - no sex scenes, but still has some spice. I also really liked that the story was about more than the romantic couple.
The story is as much about Gemma’s relationships with several characters- her friend, her friend’s step-daughter, her high school nemesis, and even the town. Yeah, Haven Ridge is as much a character in these stories as any of the humans.
I also like that the main characters from the prequel novella made several appearances here. Very fun to see them again.
Did I pre-order the next book in the series when I finished reading this? Yes, I did.
The story is as much about Gemma’s relationships with several characters- her friend, her friend’s step-daughter, her high school nemesis, and even the town. Yeah, Haven Ridge is as much a character in these stories as any of the humans.
I also like that the main characters from the prequel novella made several appearances here. Very fun to see them again.
Did I pre-order the next book in the series when I finished reading this? Yes, I did.
May 18, 2023
I enjoyed the prequel to this series and so, was looking forward to reading this book. I was disappointed, though. First, it is billed as a "clean contemporary romance". Although there were no sex scenes, there were some scenes that were bordering on offensive with the explicitness. Secondly, the main character, Gemma, was just not likeable. She was still holding grudges over a failed teenage romance from 15 years prior! I thought that was a bit childish. The outcome was pretty much predicted from the beginning but not without some more childish behavior along the way. It makes me wonder if it is worth it to continue with the series.
February 13, 2025
This is the first contemporary romance book that I've read in a few months for which I genuinely felt moved by the characters. I liked both Gemma and Steven and am happy that they ended up together.
I give the book two stars because I wasn't really interested in the secondary and tertiary storylines. I didn't care about the teenage drama, and I didn't care about the spousal abuse storyline. Had I not been listening to the book in the car, I would have skipped over those parts.
Still, the book was an easy, comfort read. I'd recommend it for anyone who is looking for a simple, contemporary romance with nice characters.
I give the book two stars because I wasn't really interested in the secondary and tertiary storylines. I didn't care about the teenage drama, and I didn't care about the spousal abuse storyline. Had I not been listening to the book in the car, I would have skipped over those parts.
Still, the book was an easy, comfort read. I'd recommend it for anyone who is looking for a simple, contemporary romance with nice characters.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 24, 2023
As a retired teacher, I loved the school setting for much of the novel and Stephen's students and school activities. I also loved Gemma's lawyer motivation as well as her baking hobby. While Gemma has many bad memories of Haven Ridge, Colorado, her hometown, and now lives in California, she makes good memories too while she stays in Haven Ridge with her good friend Liv's step-daughter Taylor while Liv is on a business trip. Her old beau Stephen wants to win her back. Many topics resonated with me--good friends helping each other, forgiveness, second chances, and community spirit.
May 3, 2023
If you have a chance to read the prequel novella first, The Brick House Cafe, it will give you a great introduction to the town of Haven Ridge. The Broken Hearts Bakery is the first full-length novel in the series, and I got swept up in the story right from the beginning. Lots of tension in the relationships, lots of plot twists that made me gasp, and of course, swoony kisses scattered here and there. The characters are great, and lots of good insights on trust, love, perceptions vs reality, what may cause people to act the way they do, and what is necessary for healing.
August 7, 2024
I have read quite a bit of Laureano and have enjoyed her books. They are hallmarky and just the right amount of foodie. In my opinion this is the worst book of Laureano's that I have read. For having the word "bakery" in the title, the foodie element of the book is very small.
Stephen is simultaneously perfect and untrustworthy. He was definitely the low point of this book.
Rockhaven did make me want to move to the mountains and Taylor and her friend group was a really great part of the story.
Overall, an easy, fun, and slightly dissapointing read.
Stephen is simultaneously perfect and untrustworthy. He was definitely the low point of this book.
Rockhaven did make me want to move to the mountains and Taylor and her friend group was a really great part of the story.
Overall, an easy, fun, and slightly dissapointing read.
December 31, 2024
The Broken Hearts Bakery was exactly the kind of uplifting and heart-warming story that I love. The characters pulled me into their lives and problems. I cared for Gemma and Liv the minute my eyes hit their pages. Who wouldn’t admire a lawyer who fights for the down-trodden and abandoned mother-wife pro-bono rather than the slick, wealthy, cheating husband who can afford to buy the best legal representation to get him out of his marriage? The only disappointment is that there weren’t hundreds more pages to enjoy wintry Colorado.
March 27, 2023
Really enjoyed this book. The characters are all well-written and relatable. Well, fairly so. Gemma is an attorney who finds the energy to come home and make eclairs while I work for an attorney and never find that type of energy after a day at work! ;) Granny Pearl is just a darling as are the rest of the side characters. I also loved the descriptions of Colorado. As one who only passed through right after high school, it was fun to see the vivid descriptions.
May 28, 2023
can people change?
This is yet another well written tale from Carla Laureano. I’m enjoying the new setting she has created, a small town called Haven in Colorado. With a beautiful back story. This book follows characters who have known each other since high school, but it seems they no longer really know each other, or did they ever? Issues like what makes people bullies, or walk overs, what makes people change are all tackled well here, in a beautifully told story.
This is yet another well written tale from Carla Laureano. I’m enjoying the new setting she has created, a small town called Haven in Colorado. With a beautiful back story. This book follows characters who have known each other since high school, but it seems they no longer really know each other, or did they ever? Issues like what makes people bullies, or walk overs, what makes people change are all tackled well here, in a beautifully told story.
February 7, 2024
Carla is on my short list of favorite Christian authors and this book did not disappoint. It was a sweet love story with just enough mix-ups and trepidation to make it interesting. Someone mentioned in another review it was like a Hallmark movie... I think it really is better than that because I fast forward through all the angst in those shows. This one you know how it will turn out but you still wanted to read (or listen to in my case) every word. Loved the audio book version.
April 17, 2024
3.5 stars. I've really enjoyed past series by Carla Laureano, especially the Supper Club & MacDonald Family series. I loved how she had strong faith themes with believable characters and contemporary storylines -- not easy to find in Christian fiction.
This new series is marketed as clean fiction, and the faith content is definitely gone. Such a bummer when clean romances abound but quality Christian fiction is hard to find.
This new series is marketed as clean fiction, and the faith content is definitely gone. Such a bummer when clean romances abound but quality Christian fiction is hard to find.
September 5, 2024
Read all three in this series, actually, but just posting one. This one may be the best. You don’t have to read them in order though it may be more enjoyable that way due to characters from each book appearing in the next. Little to no overt faith in this series, unlike her other books. Makes me wonder if, in going the self-publishing route, she wanted to experiment by writing something “clean” (though steamy) without being Christian?
December 5, 2024
This was good, but not on par with Laureano's other books, imho.
I've read many of her Christian-fiction reads and expected this to be the same; it's not, in that there's no mention of faith at all, and several steamier scenes (and also some discussions) that could have closed the door much earlier for my taste. They didn't cross a line, per se, but they were defo more detailed than I've come to expect from her other reads.
I've read many of her Christian-fiction reads and expected this to be the same; it's not, in that there's no mention of faith at all, and several steamier scenes (and also some discussions) that could have closed the door much earlier for my taste. They didn't cross a line, per se, but they were defo more detailed than I've come to expect from her other reads.
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