Christmas at Rosie Hopkins' Sweetshop

Yes! This is the second book in a 3 book series. Since I already met all of the characters while reading book 1, this book wasn’t so slow going as number one. I like the British humor also, such as a remark made while Stephen was talking to Rosie about how he felt they were supposed to be together and that their relationship was fate. Part of the convo: “I can’t believe our entire life together is predicated on your trying to hit me with that stick,” she said as she went through to put the tea on. “It’s like Fifty Shades of Earl Grey.” Silly really, but I laughed out after that was said. There are also a lot of other funnies. Although there were a lot of witty talks that had me chuckling, there were also some heartfelt words and love and even some drama all mixed in. Not everything was lovely and sickly sweet and perfect in the small town of Lipton, some bad things happened, as well. Just like real life - you’ve got to take the good with the bad. I found myself anxious and unable to set this read down after Edward entered Lipton. I knew there was a specific reason for him entering this little town and the moment his father had a meltdown at the Sweetshop, it was cemented in my mind exactly what was bound to happen eventually. And I was right! I won’t tell you my first suspicions in case you don’t want a spoiler, but I suppose there’s a possibility you will guess it yourself anyway. Thinking back to the first book when we meet Lilian and discovered she’s a strong woman who doesn’t need anyone and has a hard outer shell who was even rumored by little children as being a witch, she does sometimes show her inner softer side. Lilian was talking to her niece, Rosie about Rosie’s mom and five other family members flying in to Lipton from Australia when this conversation happens: “And I need to thank her,” said Lilian. “I know, it’s such a long way to come.” [Said Rosie] “Oh no, no no, not about that,” said Lilian. “That’s going to be a nightmare, clearly.” Rosie rolled her eyes again. “Why then?” “For bringing you to me, of course.” Sweet! Lilian clearly loves and adores her niece. And it is quite obvious many of the people in the town…Other than Lilian… have been positively affected by Rosie’s presence, because there seem to be more smiles and happiness by the people. One person in particular is Stephen who absolutely adores her, but there’s also Tina and Moray and Edison, and pretty much everyone that steps foot into her sugar store. Rosie is a special woman who swirls with sunshine. So, yes, I liked this read very much, thank you. Next is The Christmas Surprise. Can’t wait to see how Edison is fairing and I really want to know what the dog’s permanent name is! (I was thinking “Finn” like the name of the dog Lilian had when she was little. Or was it Henry’s dog? Anyway…please tell me the dog will be named in the next - well the third and final - book!)