Panzera has created a fun series with her CUPCAKE DIARIES that is light, entertaining and suitable for any reader. Kimberly, like Andi and Rachel from books one and two, has been unlucky in love. The cupcake shop the three opened in again threatened and in danger of failing. Kimberly is offered the chance to open an art gallery with other artists but that would mean walking away from the burgeoning new bakery and her sister and friend. Torn between doing what the others want and fulfilling her artistic dreams, Kim is at a crossroads in her life. Romance is the last thing on her mind when she meets Nathaniel but the instant attraction cannot be ignored. Kim finds herself willing to face her fears with Nathaniel at her side and is able to sort through all the challenges in her life to find what she really wants and needs. This book and series are almost too light but are entertaining enough to make reading them an interesting way to spend an afternoon.

This book was received by MY BOOK ADDICTION AND MORE from the publisher for an honest review.

RATING: 4

HEAT RATING: Sweet: No sex or scenes of physical intimacy except some kissing. No graphic violence or profanity.

REVIEWED BY: ReadWarrior ( )

Kim, Andi, and Rachel are back and business is going well for Creative Cupcakes. Andi decides to hire extra help and just as everything begins to fall into place, Creative Cupcakes suddenly has a thief on their hands and they begin to hunt for the Cupcake Bandit. On top of that, they have to find a way to raise funds to buy the building they are renting when their rental extension is denied. Kim is the dreamer of the group and she longs to travel, but since the death of her mother, she can't board a plane. She's also the practical partner and is wary of taking a chance.

I really enjoyed Taste of Romance and I felt terrible for Kim. She's clearly stuck in a business that she has no real direct interest in and wants to pursue her career as an artist. When the opportunity arises to open an art gallery with some friends, Kim has to make a painful decision. She also sees love bloom all around her and wants her share at romance. One day she meets Nathaniel, a Swede who is a rosarian. It's clear he's attracted to her and I really liked how their romance developed. It was in many ways an old fashioned courtship. There's a memorable scene involving Kim winding up in Nathaniel's backyard.

Of course the cupcake business is the main character in Taste of Romance. Kim is the primary cupcake decorator and when the new employees come to work, they wreak havoc on the place. I understand Andi wanted to give them a chance, but it just felt way too drawn out. In terms of the Cupcake Bandit, I had an idea who it was and I'm glad I was right. The ending of Taste of Romance makes up for it and I cheered because it combines everything I wanted regarding Kim and Nathaniel's romance and the additional hired help.

Taste of Romance is a satisfying ending to a charming trilogy. I don't think you need to read the prior two novellas, but I do believe you should because the characters develop separately and you'll fully appreciate each one and the journey to make Creative Cupcakes. ( )