The Secret Ingredient
[d-w13423]

5 of 5 Stars I was delighted to learn that my Christmas plans this year would include a return visit to Holy Grounds, the coffee shop I fell in love with last Christmas in author Kirsten Clark’s A Christmas Cup of Joe. This year’s visit proved to be just as enjoyable! Since his unexplained collapse a few days before Christmas, shop owner Bridgette is desperately missing her pastry chef, Sebastian’s, famous cranberry muffins in her display case. She’s missing his easy laughter and friendship even more. When test results reveal a serious diagnosis, Bridgette realizes her feelings for “Seb” run much deeper than friendship. Sebastian feels the same way. But would it be fair to tell her his feelings given his medical condition? In The Secret Ingredient, Ms. Clark takes on a somber subject but sprinkling in doses of lighthearted banter and themes of faith and trust in God, creates an enjoyable and heartwarming story that proves God still answers prayer. And sometimes it is in the darkest moments that love shines the most brightly. I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts are my own.