Truffles by the Sea

Title: TRUFFLES BY THE SEA
Author: Julie Carobini
Publisher: Bethany House Publishers
February 2008
ISBN: 978-0-7642-0427-2
Genre: Inspirational/chick lit

Gaby Flores has lost her apartment to a fire, and while recovering from that, her delivery man ran off with most of her business. Left homeless and jobless, Gaby moves into a loft apartment with a stellar view and an extremely nosy neighbor. A friend gives her a few pieces of furniture she had stored in the garage, and some hand-me-down clothes, and Gaby is set.

With Gaby’s friends helping out, things beginning to look up, so Gaby begins to try to rebuild her business. But a lawsuit, an eviction notice, and two surprise romances threaten. What’s a girl to do?

TRUFFLES BY THE SEA is the sequel to Chocolate Beach but it easily stands alone. I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know Gaby and reconnecting with some of her friends. With two wonderful guys chasing Gaby, it was hard to pick a favorite for the hero.

The faith message was expertly woven in, and the Southern California setting very much a part of the story. Gaby was going through a very rough time; and is easy to feel sympathetic for. I was glad she had friends to help her out. Don’t miss TRUFFLES BY THE SEA for the perfect summer read. Discussion questions are included at the end of the book. $13.99. 320 pages.