Review - A Taste of Magic by Tracy Madison

A Taste of Magic
Tracy Madison
Love Spell – Dorchester Pub.
February 24, 2009
ISBN# 978-0-505-52810-0

Book blurb:
Today is Elizabeth Stevens’s birthday, and not only is it the one-year anniversary of her husband leaving her, it’s also the day her bakery is required to make a cake—for her ex’s next wedding. If there’s a bitter taste in her mouth, no one can blame her.

But today, Liz is about to receive a gift. Her Grandma Verda isn’t just wacky; she’s a little witchy. An ancient gypsy magic has been passed through her family bloodline for generations, and it’s Liz’s turn to be empowered. Henceforth, everything she bakes will have a dash of delight and a pinch of wishes-can-come-true. From her hunky policeman neighbor, to her gorgeous personal trainer, to her bum of an ex-husband, everyone Liz knows is going to taste her power. Revenge is sweet…and it’s only the first dish to be served.

My thoughts:
Elizabeth Steven’s has had a difficult year since her husband walked out, but things are about to change. Her Grandma Verda has given her a birthday card that holds a special gift meant just for her. It’s a gift of magic that has been passed down through most of the women in the family.

With her ex-husband getting married, and her business partner accepting the wedding cake order, Elizabeth has little choice but to follow through on baking it. Making wishes is about to go a long way in getting a bit of pay-back. Now she just needs to learn how to reverse a few wishes to simplify her love-life and Elizabeth could have the best birthday ever.

A Taste of Magic is a magical tale of romance and revenge. Ms. Madison takes readers on an adventure in baking that’s highlighted with tasty treats, sexy men, and a touch of humor. Elizabeth sets out to test her new talent and see just how far it will go. From heartache and pain a stronger woman emerges to find love and happiness. A Taste of Magic should be enjoyed by readers who like a sprinkle of laughter and magic with their romance. A Stroke of Magic follows as a July 2009 release.

To learn more about A Taste of Magic, please visit Ms. Madison’s website: HERE

Kimberly Swan, Darque Reviews

Hungry for More by Diana Holquist

Hungry for More
Diana Holquist
Grand Central
August 26, 2008
ISBN# 978-0-446-19704-5

From the publisher:
Chef James LaChance has no time for the gorgeous Gypsy who appears at his restaurant with a mysterious agenda. But women inspire his delectable menus, and after one kiss from this temptress he creates his boldest dish ever. With her on his side--and in his bed--his restaurant could earn its third star. But is success worth losing his heart to a woman who has sworn off love forever?

Amy Burns is a Gypsy with a gift: she can name a person's One True Love. To keep her mystical power, she can never fall in love herself--a price she's more than willing to pay. Until she meets the sexy chef whose talents in the kitchen are only surpassed by his talents in the bedroom. But is any man worth giving up the only gift she's ever had? As desire leads to passion, Amy must choose between her destiny and the man who leaves her...

My thoughts:
Amy Burns has had a wonderful gift since she was a little girl, the ability to touch someone and tell them the name of their One True Love. When this gift leaves her for someone new, Amy spends her days tracking down the new recipient. What she finds at the end of her search are James, an attractive man who could pose a threat to her future, and Troy, the abandoned son of the woman she seeks.

James LaChance is a chef and two star restaurant owner who knows he has found his match in Amy. She’s a wild Gypsy who can fuel his imagination with a kiss, but Amy has her own agenda and James can’t do much more than show her how things could be between them. In the end Amy will have to make a big decision, and that’s a difficult choice for a woman who had decided long ago never to fall in love.

Ms. Holquist keeps readers engaged with an ever evolving romance that’s anything but simple. The protagonist is surrounded by secrets that are slowly revealed throughout the story, adding to the building suspense. The author did a fabulous job in defining her characters, and each scene is easy to visualize. There were a few secondary characters that I would have liked a clearer understanding on the roles they played, but in the end they’re no longer relevant because the romance is where much of the plot focuses. If you’re looking for a romance with enchanting characters, mouthwatering food and a delightful splash of the paranormal, then Hungry for More is just the right book for you.

To learn more about Ms. Holquist and her writing, please visit her website: Here

Kimberly Swan, Darque Reviews