Laurie Gilmore: The Cinnamon Bun Bookstore

To be honest, this was the first time I've ever read a novel in English. I've always been interested in reading in foreign languages, and I already tried the German translation of Red, White & Royal Blue. But before telling you how it was, let me introduce the story.

Hazel's life has always been easy and calm. She isn't living an exciting life — she works in a bookstore called The Cinnamon Bun Bookstore. However, as her 30th birthday approaches, she starts to wonder what her life would be like if she lived a little more recklessly. One day, she finds a secret message hidden in a book in the romance section and believes it might help her change her life. Noah, who has had the hots for Hazel for a while, accidentally witnesses her emotional breakdown at Logan's farm and decides to help her feel more alive. As they follow the clues together, they slowly start to become more aware of their feelings, even though they try to deny them.

Is it possible that a summer fling could turn into something more, or was it simply the adventure that brought them together? (source:moly.hu)

As I already mentioned, it was my first time reading an English novel, and I found it surprisingly easy. I expected to struggle more with the words and the sentences, but I could see the story like a movie while reading. 

Hazel and Noah's chemistry was incredibly strong and the sexual tension was tangible between them from the beginning. I could easily feel Hazel's character, because I also think of myself as a bookworm, whose life isn't that interesting. And also, I really would like to work in a bookstore; it's basically every book lover's dream. 

Noah is the typical mysterious guy, who is always interesting in a small town romance. And Dream Harbor's townspeople, the dreamers are very curious about him. He works as a sailor, during the summer he takes tourists on sea cruises. Intelligent, funny, understanding, and last but not least, handsome. 

The vibes of the novel are definitely small town romance, just as in The Pumpkin Spice Café. I loved both stories because of the cozy small-town atmosphere. I love Gilmore Girls, and Laurie Gilmore's books all have this kind of feeling. The small town and the noisy townspeople are all necessary parts of it. 

If I have to choose a favourite scene, I would like to choose the blueberry patch scene at the beginning. This is the scene when basically everything begins: Hazel in the middle of Logan's blueberry patch, drunk and having a mental crisis about her upcoming 30th birthday. Noah finds her and comforts her, because he just wants Hazel to feel good, and of course to spend time with her. Maybe this is my all-time favourite scene from the novel. 

To sum up, I would say The Cinnamon Bun Bookstore is a heartwarming, cute, spicy and typical small-town story that is worth a try. If you like small town romances (or maybe Gilmore Girls) you should give it a try. I guarantee you'll love it.