Shelf To Table
Food Spotlight: Chocolate Caramel Brownies
The perfect food pairing for this novel is Chocolate Caramel Brownies. Chocolate Caramel Brownies are the irresistible treat the main character bakes for the local coffee shop—so delicious that the entire town can’t get enough of them. Their rich, gooey sweetness is described so well throughout the novel that I found myself wishing I could taste them with every page I turned.
The Twelve Dates of Christmas by Jenny Bayliss
Kate Turner isn’t exactly feeling festive about her love life, but when her best friend signs her up for a holiday dating agency, she suddenly finds herself navigating twelve wildly chaotic dates in just twenty-three days. As the small town watches her romantic misadventures unfold, Kate begins to suspect that real love might be closer—and more familiar—than she ever imagined.
Page To Plate
Food Featured In The Book
Mince pies are classic British holiday treats made with a buttery, flaky pastry filled with a sweet, spiced mixture of dried fruits, citrus peel, and warm holiday spices. In the story, the main character bakes them fresh for the local coffee shop, where their golden, fragrant warmth quickly becomes a festive favorite.
Character Cravings
Kate Turner is a bold, creative designer with vibrant energy—and a soft heart she tries very hard to ignore, especially when it comes to Matt. Living in the quaint, snow-dusted town of Blexford, she naturally gravitates toward foods that feel cozy, homemade, and full of warmth. She bakes for Matt’s café, loves seasonal flavors, and always adds her own artistic flair. I think she would especially love cinnamon rolls—warm, gooey, and comforting, the kind of sweet treat that matches her festive spirit and the small-town charm surrounding her.
Book Club Bite
A perfect book club food idea for this novel is a festive coffee bar, representing the cozy coffee shop at the heart of the story. You can offer a variety of brew options and flavored syrups, along with fun toppings like whipped cream, caramel drizzle, cinnamon, chocolate shavings, and holiday sprinkles. It’s a warm, interactive setup that not only fits the small-town café vibe but also lets everyone customize their own drink—just like a visit to Blexford’s favorite spot.
“A man is like an optional extra; you should only take one on when it is beneficial to do so. It’s like refraining from the fourth plate at the all-you-can-eat curry buffet. Just because it’s there, doesn’t mean you have to have it.”
Jenny Bayliss