Book Review: The Key to Love by Betsy St. Amant

The Key to Love
by Betsy St. Amant
Rating: 4/5
Release date: October 13, 2020

I’ve haven’t read many books by Betsy St. Amant, but I did enjoy her contribution to A Year of Weddings so I was excited to have the opportunity to read this gem. I was not disappointed and the author doesn’t skimp on the story which pleasantly surprised me. Although I will say, by reading the title, I was hoping for music inspired theme but alas, the “key” has nothing to do with music but with locks and keys.

Bri Duval is a classic romantic at heart thanks to the beautiful love story her parents demonstrated for her before they tragically passed away. She is a talented baker of Parisian treats at the struggling, local bakery, The Pastry Puff, in Story, Kansas. Her beloved mother taught her everything she knew except for her secret ingredient for the macarons, so Bri is constantly trying to perfect the recipe. Even though Paris’ famous lovelock bridge was taken down, Bri has created her own lovelock wall at her bakery and decides to film the shop’s successful love stories. The video goes viral, and Trek Magazine wants to do a feature on the bakery shop. Gerard Fortier is the man sent to write the article, and he and Bri do not hit it off right away. With a little bit of Elizabeth and Darcy first impressions vibes, the two just don’t seem to get along and only seem to push each other’s buttons. Gerard is a man who doesn’t ever want to put down roots but instead travels the world in search of his next article. He does, however, desire to be promoted so he can write on topics that really matter, so he’s determined to complete this sappy article despite his opinions on love. As Gerard begins to get to know Bri, obstacles to the bakery’s success keep getting in the way. Can Gerard and Bri find a way to come together and find real love?

I really enjoyed the story and loved how it didn’t seem rushed. So many times watching Hallmark movies, I’m always yelling at the screen that the couple have only known each other for a few days. lol. I appreciate the slow burn and snark that occurs between the couple. I appreciate that the concept of what romance and love is is explored. The small town vibes were charming and made me want to go visit (especially since I’m so close to Kansas). My mouth was constantly watering at the desserts, and I was googling where I could find some petit fours and macarons. The struggling bakery also gave me “You’ve Got Mail” vibes, which made me smile.

Highly recommend if you enjoy romantic comedies set in a small town.

My thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of the book. All opinions expressed here are entirely my own. No positive review was expected and no compensation received.

Purchase your copy here.

Tags: #betsystamant#netgalley#revellbooks#revellreads#thekeytolove