A review by mctmama
Mrs. Quinn's Rise to Fame by Olivia Ford

emotional hopeful inspiring reflective sad medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

Jenny Quinn shows us that age 77 is not too old to follow your dreams! A lifelong baker, Jenny and her husband, Bernard, are big fans of the show, Britain Bakes. When Jenny sees an ad asking for new contestants, she decides to enter in secret. To her surprise, she is selected for the show, and struggles with how to tell her husband, Bernard, who is in his early 80's and struggling with asthma. While Jenny looks over her family recipes to prepare for the show, she begins to remember another time, and a secret in her past that she still struggles with today. 
Being a fan of the "Great British Baking Show" I really enjoyed all the baking treats, and the "behind the scenes" look of how Jenny auditioned for the show, and then the daily business of the show. I loved the friendship she formed with a fellow contest, Azeez. 
What held me back from 5 stars - I guessed the "secret" plot line, and did not like how Jenny kept secrets from Bernard. Bernard seemed like a saint - never angry, full of love - maybe a tad unrealistic? 
In general, this was a feel good story, with a satisfying ending. A fun read! Thanks to Netgalley for an Advanced Reader copy.
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