July 18, 2022
Smith’s cute but flawed latest (after On Location) takes the grumpy/sunshine trope a bit too far, pairing a refreshing heroine with an over-the-top hero who is saved from being entirely boorish by his adorable rescue animals. Joelle Prima gave up culinary school to support her family, but she’s finally living her dream: baking delectable French and Filipino pastries in her own Portland, Ore., bakery. Her regulars include Max Boyson, the dreamy owner of the bookstore with which Joelle’s bakery shares a building. The pair exchange some flirtatious smiles and one incandescently hot near hookup when she delivers him some treats—but Max backs off both emotionally and physically when their businesses are unexpectedly asked to share a much smaller space as the building undergoes renovation. Each is underfoot as they work to save their stores, but Max drying his clothes in Joelle’s oven and eating her inventory without asking strains credulity and diminishes his appeal. Over time, Joelle and Max peel back each other’s layers to discover what makes the other tick, and Smith eventually develops Max into the lovable guy Joelle deserves. Despite some hiccups here, Smith’s fans will find plenty to enjoy. Agent: Sarah Younger, Nancy Yost Literary.