A review by maisiewrites247
Darby's Cafe by Cori Cooper

funny hopeful inspiring lighthearted 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

Cori Cooper’s Darby’s Cafe follows Darby Reynolds, ex-restaurant owner and waitress at the Corner Cafe. With the help of her friend Kenya, she places an ad in the paper in hopes of getting in touch with a customer from the cafe who she has a crush on, but it doesn’t quite go as planned. There’s the occasional plot-hole or slight mistake that alters how the story is read, and I guessed the twist which meant it wasn’t as impactful. I had an issue with the ending as I didn’t find the relationship convincing enough to overcome obstacles, particularly the aspect of betrayal, but the ending was sweet. It’s hard to choose a favourite character. I did like Darby as she was relatable in a lot of ways but a bit too dramatic. I liked Kenya too, although she had flaws, too (as characters should). Gretta was perhaps the most layered character, and Samson was probably the most likeable. 90% of the book I would’ve said Jackson was my least favourite character, but by 95% I wasn’t so sure. I recommend this book, more so for the relatable and inspiring side of it than the romantic side. It’s also a cute love story, not just romantically but between friends and family, too. Self-love, as well. “It clicked for me then, this is what life is about, you know? These little moments, all together, with people connecting. It is so worth it.”
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