A feel-good escape

Liv has always dreamed of opening her own pastry shop, but her job in a hotel kitchen leaves her uninspired. When she stumbles upon an empty storefront, she takes a leap of faith, despite her boyfriend doubts. Running a business isn’t easy, but with the unexpected support of Matthew, her landlord’s charming son, Liv finds herself questioning not only her career but also her future. Will she play it safe or follow her heart?

This novel by Saskia M.N. Oudshoorn is a heartwarming and easy read, perfect for when you need a feel-good escape. Liv is a sweet and determined woman who pushes through setbacks. I especially loved Jacob, the warm, elderly man who felt like the type of person you'd love to have dinner with. The chemistry between Liv and Matthew was adorable, but Onno raised a lot of red flags. I also felt that Liv’s best friend wasn’t always as supportive as she should have been.

The writing flows smoothly, and as a Dutch reader, I really enjoyed the many Dutch references! However, I can imagine that non-Dutch readers might find some of them a bit confusing.

Recipe for Happiness is exactly what the title promises: a recipe for a good time. It even made me want to open a little shop of my own, though my cooking/baking skills might not be up to the task haha. If you're looking for a heartwarming, uplifting story, this book is a great pick.

Originally written in Dutch, this feel-good novel has now been translated into English, bringing its heartwarming story to a wider audience. It was my first time reading a Dutch story in English and I really enjoyed the experience! Thank you Saskia, for gifting me the e-book in exchange for an honest review!