From the publisher:
A tantalizing novel about a struggling chocolatier who is granted a magical vision of the future of her dreams, only to realize that her heart may desire something else entirely, from the bestselling author of The Magic of Lemon Drop Pie.
Paris trained chocolatier and single mother Emmie Wynne gave up her own dreams six years ago when she returned to her Pacific Northwest coastal tourist town to run her family’s struggling candy store. Now on her thirty-fourth birthday, Emmie has only one wish, to be granted the vision that every Wynne woman is given once in her lifetime—a shimmering glimpse of her true destiny. This year, when she blows out her candles, it finally comes true.
Her vision is more delectable than she could’ve imagined—her very own artisanal chocolate shop filled with decadent truffles and caramels, and her celebrity crush, Henry Summers, down on one knee. And when Henry suddenly arrives in town for the summer, offering Emmie the opportunity of a lifetime, the future in her vision suddenly seems possible.
But a rekindled connection with Jakob, her former high school best friend turned hunky, brooding tattooed baker, forces Emmie to grapple with the bittersweet realization that her destiny may not be what her heart truly longs for. As the culmination of her vision draws nearer, can Emmie find the courage to create a happiness of her own making?“Perfect for fans of Hallmark movies. With a couple that fans will root for, along with supporting characters that add depth and charm to the novel, it’s a great read for a cozy afternoon.”—Library Journal
https://bookshop.org/a/123058/9780593816660
I usually love Linden’s books – they all have a touch (or more) of magical realism, and this is a good one.
Set against the charming backdrop of a Pacific Northwest coastal town, A Sprinkle of Sweet Serendipity blends magical realism, family relationships, romance, and foodie delights into a warm, comforting story about finding your way back to yourself. Emmie Wynne is a Paris-trained chocolatier who gave up her dream career to return home when her father became ill. Now she’s a single mom raising her young son, Gus, helping her mother keep the family fudge shop afloat, and carrying the weight of everyone else’s needs while quietly setting aside her own. On her thirty-fourth birthday, Emmie finally receives the family gift passed down through generations: a vision revealing her life’s purpose. In it, she sees herself owning a thriving chocolate shop—and her celebrity crush, Henry Summers, down on one knee.
Determined to make the vision come true, Emmie begins chasing the future she believes she’s destined for. But when her former best friend and first love, Jakob, reenters her life, she starts to question whether fate is really as straightforward as it seems. But when Henry turns up in the fudge shop, Emmie starts to believe he is her destiny. The magical vision serves as a catalyst, but the story ultimately focuses on the choices Emmie makes and the courage it takes to pursue what truly matters.
The small-town setting is wonderfully inviting, filled with quirky characters, a close-knit community, and a candy shop atmosphere that feels irresistibly cozy. Linden’s vivid descriptions of chocolate, fudge, pastries, and coffee practically leap off the page, making this a dangerous book to read while hungry!
I especially loved the relationships at the heart of the story. Emmie’s bond with Gus brings warmth and sweetness to every scene, while her relationship with her mother adds emotional depth. Even the town itself feels like a character, supporting Emmie as she rediscovers her dreams. The romance is tender and heartfelt, and I loved following Emmie’s story of self-discovery.
While the overall direction may be somewhat predictable, that’s part of the book’s appeal. It’s the kind of story that leaves you feeling hopeful and satisfied rather than emotionally exhausted. Filled with second chances, family, friendship, magical realism, and plenty of delicious treats, A Sprinkle of Sweet Serendipity is a heartfelt reminder that the life we’re meant for isn’t always the one we first imagine—and that happiness often comes from choosing our own path.
6/2026 Stacy Alesi, AKA the BookBitch
A SPRINKLE OF SWEET SERENITY by Rachel Linden. Berkley (May 19, 2026). ISBN: 978-0593816660. 384p.
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