Helpful Score: 30
If you are getting this book based on the back cover, expect more...much more. I would not say this book is about romance, though it's in there. I'd say it's about love. Real love. Messy love. The kind that breaks your heart and lifts you up at the same time.
Parts of the book were a bit wordy for me, but overall, it is a wonderful story that is, for the most part, beautifully written.
Parts of the book were a bit wordy for me, but overall, it is a wonderful story that is, for the most part, beautifully written.
Helpful Score: 22
One of the best books I've read in a long time. It took me a chapter or two to get engaged in the book, but soon I was hooked. One thing that set this book apart is that the characters are all interesting AND likeable. There isn't a villian, but there is still interest and tension.
Helpful Score: 20
This is a wonderful story that redefines "heartwarming." It revolves around a tiny 31 yo lady named Cornelia, a precocious 11 yo named Clare, several movie-star-handsome 30-40 yo males, a cafe, a home in a neighborhood everyone would love to be raised in and various and sundry more or less lovable characters. There are lots of plot surprises but most of all everyone comes of age and survives whatever plot nuances in which they might fing themselves. The ending is mostly happy~~depending upon who you are rooting for. More of a "she" than "he" book. Chances are you will love it!
Helpful Score: 17
Surprisingly moving. Starts off slightly irritating and chick-lit lite but ends up with a moving discussion about family relationships, ties that truly bind and if blood is thicker than water. Engaging characters, easy writing and a satisfying ending.
Helpful Score: 14
what an excellent book...I really cared for Cornelia, the main character. Cornelia's references to movie characters and movie scenes to explain how she is feeling is an interesting way to convey her emotions. I think this book reflects what we all hope...that love will walk into our lives and we'll be ready and able to accept it when it does. A great book...highly recommend it.
Helpful Score: 8
Well written..well developed characters...a moving story line with witty dialogue. Well worth the wait on the wish list. You won't be disappointed.
Helpful Score: 7
Loved the story- just one of those books you look forward to reading but don't want to end.
Helpful Score: 5
Great read! Charming and heartwarming. Didn't want to put it down, didn't want the book to end.
Christine O. (crissyreader) reviewed Love Walked In (Love Walked In, Bk 1) on + 275 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 5
I LOVED this great story about love and life. I hope Marisa de los Santos becomes a prolific writer!
Helpful Score: 4
maybe it was me but I couldn't get into this book. each chapter flips between 2 characters and it just didn't seem to flow and it didn't hold my interest. It is rare that I don't like a book but this was one of them.
Violetta G. (peachlovesbooks) reviewed Love Walked In (Love Walked In, Bk 1) on + 4 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 4
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The author was able to describe the characters thoughts and emotions so eloquently through classicial movies that it makes me want to see these movies to fully understand their emotions. The book is about love - all differnt forms of love within all differnt forms of relationships. It really makes you think about your own relationships past and present.
Helpful Score: 4
This was a wonderful book about relationships that aren't only biological. The first couple of chapters are dry, but well worth sticking through it to read the entire book. This story made me hungry for more news about the characters of the book. A sequel would be greatly appreciated.
Helpful Score: 3
Oh my goodness, I cannot believe how much I loved this book. I couldn't put it down, laughed, cried and read it over two days time, to the exclusion of just about everything else.
Cornelia Brown is a tiny sprite of a woman who loves old classic movies; in particular The Philadelphia Story. When Martin Grace walks into her coffee shop one day, looking so much like Cary Grant it's unbelievable, Cornelia goes out with him and begins to fall in love. What she doesn't know is that Martin has a few secrets he has yet to share, and when one is revealed to be is eleven year old daughter, Clare, Cornelia begins a journey that changes her entire life.
This book was pitch perfect, with two amazing characters in Cornelia and Clare, people you just wish you really had in your life. The secondary characters were all wonderful, and fleshed out people. The movie and poetry references were so clever and I was completely bewitched by this book. I was also very pleased to know there is a sequel, entitled Belong to Me, and I have it and have already devoured half of it. I'll be back with that review shortly. My first 5***** book of the year (I'm cheap with that rating)
Cornelia Brown is a tiny sprite of a woman who loves old classic movies; in particular The Philadelphia Story. When Martin Grace walks into her coffee shop one day, looking so much like Cary Grant it's unbelievable, Cornelia goes out with him and begins to fall in love. What she doesn't know is that Martin has a few secrets he has yet to share, and when one is revealed to be is eleven year old daughter, Clare, Cornelia begins a journey that changes her entire life.
This book was pitch perfect, with two amazing characters in Cornelia and Clare, people you just wish you really had in your life. The secondary characters were all wonderful, and fleshed out people. The movie and poetry references were so clever and I was completely bewitched by this book. I was also very pleased to know there is a sequel, entitled Belong to Me, and I have it and have already devoured half of it. I'll be back with that review shortly. My first 5***** book of the year (I'm cheap with that rating)
Helpful Score: 3
"My life - my real life - started when a man walked into it, a handsome stranger in a perfectly cut suit, and, yes, I know how that sounds."
At first glance, "Love Walked In" has all the right ingredients for a sappy, conventional love story - at 31 years old, Cornelia Brown is a hopeless romantic, unmarried, yet dreaming wistfully of the kind of love that's fit for the movies and fostering an intense infatuation with Cary Grant. So when a tall, dark and handsome man - one who very much resembles Mr. Grant himself, if you ask her - walks into her Philadelphia cafe one Saturday afternoon, Cornelia psyches herself up for a happily-ever-after relationship with her very own Mr. Right.
In order to make up for a self-described "ordinary" existence, Cornelia uses classic movie references to paint the picture of her life and budding love with the charming Martin Grace, lighting her modern-day fairy tale in a haze of nostalgia. "It was one of those dropped-from-the-sky silvery moments when you stand there believing that every last thing in the world is delicate, lovely and precise, including and especially you," she gushes, describing a scene from one of their first dates.
But Cornelia's life is not a movie and these silver screen moments with Martin never materialize into the kind of love that transcends Hollywood grandeur. No matter how much she longs for the happy ending, Cornelia's Prince Charming comes with some serious baggage and a major character flaw that makes her realize love is not blind after all, but rather the world's most clear-eyed state of being. No, it is not Martin himself who marks the beginning of Cornelia's life - her real life. While his presence is integral to the changes that are to come, his role in the novel ultimately takes a back seat to the real love that walks into Cornelia's cafe in the form of 11-year-old Clare Hobbs.
Though Cornelia and Clare do not cross paths for the first 100 pages or so, the characters are immediately linked as the narration alternates between the two; at times, the similarities are so strong that Clare seems like a younger version of Cornelia herself. Both are compulsive organizers, making lists in attempts to construct a sense of control, and both are dreamers trying to compensate for what they do not have. As Cornelia clings to her movies, particularly "The Philadelphia Story," Clare turns to storybook characters like Anne of Green Gables to fill the voids of her isolated life. When extreme circumstances land the all but orphaned Clare in Cornelia's care, it is not simply a matter of adult rescuing child; rather, they become each other's salvation.
"Holding Clare, whispering soothing words, this seemed to make her feel better. Maybe that's just how children are. But, what was more amazing is that it felt pretty good to me, too. Twelve hours ago, I'd never seen this girl. I could count the number of words we had said to each other. She did not belong to me. But she fit inside my arms; she fit. I didn't love her. But, I suddenly understood, to my bewilderment, it wouldn't take much."
As Cornelia becomes the one steady figure in Clare's upturned world, her maternal instincts for the girl are automatic. And though Clare has been given every reason to mistrust the adults in her life, she clings to Cornelia instinctively as well, until neither adult nor child can imagine life without the other.
With her conversational tone and clever quips, author Marisa de los Santos creates an instant friend in Cornelia, a loveable character who becomes all the more endearing as the story progresses. It is, after all, Cornelia and not Clare who finally grows up along the way.
"My life - my real life - started when a man walked into it, a handsome stranger in a perfectly cut suit, and yes, I know how that sounds. Or I know how it might sound to the kind of person I used to be, one who spent her day skirting around the edges of adulthood, commitment, responsibility, accomplishment - whatever words you use to describe diving into the deepest part of a human being.
Breaking from the traditional mold of boy-meets-girl, "Love Walked In" offers readers a different kind of love story, one that is heartwarming, refreshing and anything but conventional.
At first glance, "Love Walked In" has all the right ingredients for a sappy, conventional love story - at 31 years old, Cornelia Brown is a hopeless romantic, unmarried, yet dreaming wistfully of the kind of love that's fit for the movies and fostering an intense infatuation with Cary Grant. So when a tall, dark and handsome man - one who very much resembles Mr. Grant himself, if you ask her - walks into her Philadelphia cafe one Saturday afternoon, Cornelia psyches herself up for a happily-ever-after relationship with her very own Mr. Right.
In order to make up for a self-described "ordinary" existence, Cornelia uses classic movie references to paint the picture of her life and budding love with the charming Martin Grace, lighting her modern-day fairy tale in a haze of nostalgia. "It was one of those dropped-from-the-sky silvery moments when you stand there believing that every last thing in the world is delicate, lovely and precise, including and especially you," she gushes, describing a scene from one of their first dates.
But Cornelia's life is not a movie and these silver screen moments with Martin never materialize into the kind of love that transcends Hollywood grandeur. No matter how much she longs for the happy ending, Cornelia's Prince Charming comes with some serious baggage and a major character flaw that makes her realize love is not blind after all, but rather the world's most clear-eyed state of being. No, it is not Martin himself who marks the beginning of Cornelia's life - her real life. While his presence is integral to the changes that are to come, his role in the novel ultimately takes a back seat to the real love that walks into Cornelia's cafe in the form of 11-year-old Clare Hobbs.
Though Cornelia and Clare do not cross paths for the first 100 pages or so, the characters are immediately linked as the narration alternates between the two; at times, the similarities are so strong that Clare seems like a younger version of Cornelia herself. Both are compulsive organizers, making lists in attempts to construct a sense of control, and both are dreamers trying to compensate for what they do not have. As Cornelia clings to her movies, particularly "The Philadelphia Story," Clare turns to storybook characters like Anne of Green Gables to fill the voids of her isolated life. When extreme circumstances land the all but orphaned Clare in Cornelia's care, it is not simply a matter of adult rescuing child; rather, they become each other's salvation.
"Holding Clare, whispering soothing words, this seemed to make her feel better. Maybe that's just how children are. But, what was more amazing is that it felt pretty good to me, too. Twelve hours ago, I'd never seen this girl. I could count the number of words we had said to each other. She did not belong to me. But she fit inside my arms; she fit. I didn't love her. But, I suddenly understood, to my bewilderment, it wouldn't take much."
As Cornelia becomes the one steady figure in Clare's upturned world, her maternal instincts for the girl are automatic. And though Clare has been given every reason to mistrust the adults in her life, she clings to Cornelia instinctively as well, until neither adult nor child can imagine life without the other.
With her conversational tone and clever quips, author Marisa de los Santos creates an instant friend in Cornelia, a loveable character who becomes all the more endearing as the story progresses. It is, after all, Cornelia and not Clare who finally grows up along the way.
"My life - my real life - started when a man walked into it, a handsome stranger in a perfectly cut suit, and yes, I know how that sounds. Or I know how it might sound to the kind of person I used to be, one who spent her day skirting around the edges of adulthood, commitment, responsibility, accomplishment - whatever words you use to describe diving into the deepest part of a human being.
Breaking from the traditional mold of boy-meets-girl, "Love Walked In" offers readers a different kind of love story, one that is heartwarming, refreshing and anything but conventional.
Helpful Score: 2
The language in this book is so rich. I equate it to visually stunning films or shows such as "Pushing Daisies", "American Beauty", "The Fall", etc. where the imagery and characters are saturated with color and personality that you can't help but get lost the world the author has created. I would recommend this book to anyone who likes a good chick flik.
Helpful Score: 2
When I first started it, I was fearful that I had stumbled onto another tiresome volume of chick lit. I'm glad I gave it a chance, because this turned out to be a good read. Both predictable and surprising events.
Helpful Score: 2
This is a witty, beautifully written fun novel. Scenes from old classic movies inspire our heroine and add a visual component to her narrative. I look forward to reading more from Marisa de Los Santos.
This was a great read, lyrical in style, nice story.
Helpful Score: 2
Heartwarming and witty. About finding and defining love and family in the most touching of ways.
Helpful Score: 2
A breath of fressh air-heartwarming story of a coffee shop owner who befriends a troubled girl, and their adventure together.
Helpful Score: 2
I enjoyed this story. It is very moving and realistic at the same time. Not typical "chick-lit", where everything is predictable and tied in a pretty bow. My only two complaints are that the font is too small and that sometimes the sentences are two wordy (where the author tries to include too much detail, imagery and references in one long sentence). However, with that said, I really liked the story. Took a little while to become totally engrossed, but after the first chapter or two, I was completely hooked. Would highly recommend this book.
Helpful Score: 2
For me this book was a little slow getting started, however it turned out to be a good read. I just had to get a little deeper into the book :)
Helpful Score: 2
I loved this book! It was written with a fresh outlook and gives a realistic view of relationships and the many kinds of love. It shows the many ways a child can touch your heart and just how far you will go to protect that child. A great story.
Helpful Score: 2
What a fabulous book. A simply delightful read. Love and romance and idendities all wrapped up in delicious writing.
Helpful Score: 2
ok- i must be one of the few.
i did like the plot but i hated the authors style... it took a few chapters to become interesting. i did skim most of it to cut out the fluff.
imagine this- you know how you have that one friend who just will not shut up. you know they have something important to say and you are trying to listen but they just go on and on and on. that is this book. the author uses lots of words when just a few would do.
but- like i said- the premise is good, i just wish the author (and her editor) would learn that most times less is more. i will not seek this author out in the future- but if i happen to come across another book by her- i would read it if i had nothing else to do- ok- i would skim it if i had nothing else to read and nothing i wanted to watch was on tv...
i did like the plot but i hated the authors style... it took a few chapters to become interesting. i did skim most of it to cut out the fluff.
imagine this- you know how you have that one friend who just will not shut up. you know they have something important to say and you are trying to listen but they just go on and on and on. that is this book. the author uses lots of words when just a few would do.
but- like i said- the premise is good, i just wish the author (and her editor) would learn that most times less is more. i will not seek this author out in the future- but if i happen to come across another book by her- i would read it if i had nothing else to do- ok- i would skim it if i had nothing else to read and nothing i wanted to watch was on tv...
Helpful Score: 2
Cornelia is a dreamy underachiever who is drifting through life managing a small coffee shop. Martin is the Cary Grant look-alike who walks through the door one day and begins to look and sound as though he could be Mr. Right. But after three months Martin still hasn't mentioned the real star of this book, Clare, his eleven-year-old daughter. And when Clare shows up at his door after the disappearance of her disturbed mother, the story really begins. The true love story turns out to be the relationship that develops between Clare and Cornelia, and the lengths they will go to, to cherish and protect one another.
Helpful Score: 2
The author allows you to develop a relationship with every character. I couldn't help but to fall in love with each and every one of them. The chapters alternate between the two main characters, which I liked (almost like two stories in one). I would absolutely suggest this book.
Helpful Score: 1
I really enjoyed this book! A sweet story/quick read with interesting and likable characters. I loved how the chapters alternated between characters and their points of view.I also liked the informal tone of the book, and really felt connected to the storyline. I would definitely recommend this book to my friends
Helpful Score: 1
This was a WONDERFUL book. I got it based on a friend saying it was good, but didn't know much about it other than it was on the NY Times Bestseller list. The summary on the back of the book doesn't do it justice either... Yes, it sort of gets to the general gist of the story, but there's so much more here.
I was pulled in immediately at the first page. I couldn't put it down! The author's writing style is a little off beat, but I truly enjoyed it. I loved her word choice at times... Rich, descriptive, off-beat at times, and poetic! There are also quite a few references to classic movies and movie stars, but even if you're not a movie buff, you'll enjoy it... None are obscure, so you'll be able to follow the train of thought.
This is the story of a few people, who become entwined in each other's lives through a couple of unusual events. It's about growing up, finding a purpose for one's life, falling in love, and coming to learn what love really is... and what it isn't.
I will definitely read more books by this author!
I was pulled in immediately at the first page. I couldn't put it down! The author's writing style is a little off beat, but I truly enjoyed it. I loved her word choice at times... Rich, descriptive, off-beat at times, and poetic! There are also quite a few references to classic movies and movie stars, but even if you're not a movie buff, you'll enjoy it... None are obscure, so you'll be able to follow the train of thought.
This is the story of a few people, who become entwined in each other's lives through a couple of unusual events. It's about growing up, finding a purpose for one's life, falling in love, and coming to learn what love really is... and what it isn't.
I will definitely read more books by this author!
Kellie M. (siberianhuskylover) reviewed Love Walked In (Love Walked In, Bk 1) on + 26 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
This is an excellent author, a truly good book. There's another book that is in this series. Humor, love, real life............what could be better?!
Heather O. (peacefulreader) reviewed Love Walked In (Love Walked In, Bk 1) on + 20 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
This book had so many unexpected twist it keeps your nose pinned into it. Such a fun read.
Helpful Score: 1
I really enjoyed this book. The author's style is very engaging and the characters were well drawn. The plot had some twists that I didn't anticipate. One word of caution, don't read the description for the sequel to this book, Belong to Me, until you've finished this one, it has a major spoiler that I would rather not have known.
Helpful Score: 1
Wonderful and Heartwarming Story about Love.
Helpful Score: 1
Touching novel about what love really can be. Heartfelt story about a young girl looking for family and a single woman looking for love and how their lives fit together. I truly enjoyed this book.
I loved this book, more than loved it. The writing is lyrical, you can tell the author is a poet. Charming story and great characters. The sequal is "Belong to Me". Enjoy!
Helpful Score: 1
I wanted to love this book. I never got into it. It was very sappy. I will not be recommending to my friends.
Helpful Score: 1
This author writes a complex and compelling story - I loved it.
Helpful Score: 1
I liked this book, but I wanted more from it. The characters felt... plastic? At times my heart just screamed for them and the situations they were in, but the characters themselves... it was an odd read for me in that respect. The writing and the situations were wonderful, but the characters felt hollow and, well, made up. Yes, it's a fiction book, but I like to forget that while I'm reading.
It's definitely worth a read and might make a good Summer read for a book club. There was a lot of different issues you could talk about, just ignore the characters - they needed something more...
It's definitely worth a read and might make a good Summer read for a book club. There was a lot of different issues you could talk about, just ignore the characters - they needed something more...
Helpful Score: 1
This was not one of my favorite books. Maybe I was just expecting more because of all the good reviews, but I found this book kind of boring and hard to get through.
Helpful Score: 1
This was a very sappy book in my opinion. If you are in the mood for a very light read this summer go for it.
Helpful Score: 1
Fantastic Read...adorable story. Gives hope about love and life.
Helpful Score: 1
I really liked this book....Loved the authors writing style ...and the story was amazing. It didn't have a storybook ending but the ending was so touching... The first chapters were a little slow but it was so worth it to stick it out.
Helpful Score: 1
Great book. Well written. Funny, touching.
Helpful Score: 1
A little sappy but a nice story nonetheless
Helpful Score: 1
It took me a while to get into "Love Walked In". But once I did, I was hooked. Why then am I rating Love Walked In as a 3.5? Well, because the book is a spoiler. That's right. It spoils movies for you. Movies I had not yet seen, but definitely wanted to. I now know the end of. And, I even tried my best to skip the paragraphs where these spoilers occurred, but the way the sentences were written leading up to the whole act of spoiling, it was impossible not to know how the movie ended. (FYI there's little I detest more than having movies and books spoiled for me.)
All in all though, the book is a really good book. It offers us a glimpse into ourselves, which is what book should do. (At least it did for me.) Also, all of the characters demonstrate tremendous growth, pain, and love.
I wish that I could have rated the book higher. But, because of the spoilers I can't. I also wish I could say more about the book, but nobody likes a spoiler...especially me. So, the last thing I'll say, is to give Love Walked In a read. You'll enjoy it.
All in all though, the book is a really good book. It offers us a glimpse into ourselves, which is what book should do. (At least it did for me.) Also, all of the characters demonstrate tremendous growth, pain, and love.
I wish that I could have rated the book higher. But, because of the spoilers I can't. I also wish I could say more about the book, but nobody likes a spoiler...especially me. So, the last thing I'll say, is to give Love Walked In a read. You'll enjoy it.
Helpful Score: 1
A sweet funny love story...Love for a man, love for a child.
Helpful Score: 1
I love this author's style of writing. It's like chatting with a witty friend. The story is two parts. One is told in the first person narrative. That narrator, a young woman, is so full of life, so descriptive and witty in her observations. Her banter with her best friend provide some of the most humorous moments in the novel. I would definitely read more from this author.
Helpful Score: 1
I almost put it down after the first 50 pages. De Los Santos uses a voice that can be on the verge of annoying. But I powered through and am so glad that I did! The plot (and voice) panned out to be exciting, charming, and intriguing.
Helpful Score: 1
A feel good book. Fast read.....really liked this book.
Helpful Score: 1
Started off strangely, lots of references to old movies. I found it hard to get into but then about half way through the writing got easier to follow and the story got very interesting.
Helpful Score: 1
This book is SO good that I'm taking my copy out of PBS circulation and bestowing it on all of the people in my life whom I love with the kind of effusive, unabashed love felt and expressed by the captivating main character of this book.
Normally, my reviews are a little more detailed, but I don't dare reveal even one illuminating, heartfelt moment of this twisting and turning saga through the sorrows and joys of every kind of love - romantic, familial, and parent/child. Get into your jammies, grab a box of tissues and a glass of wine or cup of cocoa, sit under a blanket next to a fire, if possible, and settle in for a few hours to let the emotions of "Love Walked In" wash over you.
I also cannot WAIT to read the next novel by Marisa de los Santos, "Belong to Me."
Normally, my reviews are a little more detailed, but I don't dare reveal even one illuminating, heartfelt moment of this twisting and turning saga through the sorrows and joys of every kind of love - romantic, familial, and parent/child. Get into your jammies, grab a box of tissues and a glass of wine or cup of cocoa, sit under a blanket next to a fire, if possible, and settle in for a few hours to let the emotions of "Love Walked In" wash over you.
I also cannot WAIT to read the next novel by Marisa de los Santos, "Belong to Me."
I do not remember why I bought this book as I am usually influenced by cover art, title or buzz. I never read liner notes as they can destoy, alter or give away too much of the story. None of these apply to my purchase. But let me tell you! I am so glad that this book found its way into my hands and then my heart. I am the better for it. I love a book that you can sink into; one that begs to be read out loud. And the after you close the cover you find yourself remembering the hard truths and simple pleasures it bought you. The conversations the made you laugh aloud, the anguish so real your heart races and the quiet voice that leads not where you expect it to. And did I mention the way it can still choke me up at the end? It is all there. That is why I later purchased the hardcover as I know that this is a book I will read again and again.
Helpful Score: 1
A book that gives you 4 stories, each with it's main character and finely woven into one book. You have the "looking for Mr. Right" character, the 11 year old that loves her mother but watches her mental breakdown and worries about being left alone. She decides her father must take care of her, he's her father, right? The father, you can't decide sometimes whether to dislike him, feel bad for him or if he deserve a second chance. Enters of course the man who could be Mr. Right. Each have their own story to tell and Marisa de los Santos find a way to weave them together into a story you are never sure how it will end. But I like that about a book, not being able to totally case the ending.
Helpful Score: 1
A quick easy read, nice character development, a little "wordy" at times for me but that is part of the character's charm.
Helpful Score: 1
There are a lot of good reviews of this book so maybe it's just me but I could not get into this! I read the first few chapters and was so bored, I skipped to the middle and still boring, I could not finish it...sorry
Helpful Score: 1
I just read Love Walked In by Marisa De Los Santos and I really liked it , BUT, it took 3 times getting started to read it to get the jest of where the story was going. The two main characters are very likeable and it doesnt take too long for them to meet. The authors style of writing is somewhat complicated but interesting . Its not the everday modern romance by any means, so give it a chance . I knew I wanted to read it all the way thru . It's just the beginning that gave me a little trouble. I would like to call this book "deep" and "wide" .
Helpful Score: 1
Loved this book!
Helpful Score: 1
this was an amazing book. it reads like a conversation between old friends. it moves along quickly and the relationships in it are genuine, something you could imagine actually happening.
Helpful Score: 1
I enjoyed this book so much that I looked for others by the same author. When I read the other book, which was not as well written as this one, I realized that it was the first and Love Walked In was the sequel.
I am actually glad I read this one first (although it was a bit confusing), since the other book wouldn't have prodded me into reading more by this author.
Basically: families and marriages are confusing and have their ups and downs. Having a sense of community... and others to depend on is the way to make it through life.
It's a GOOD read.
I am actually glad I read this one first (although it was a bit confusing), since the other book wouldn't have prodded me into reading more by this author.
Basically: families and marriages are confusing and have their ups and downs. Having a sense of community... and others to depend on is the way to make it through life.
It's a GOOD read.
Helpful Score: 1
I enjoyed this story of a girl with no future working in a coffee shop, and having it all change when someone walks in the door.
Helpful Score: 1
Delicious. You can't help falling in love with the unsettled Cordelia and young, wounded Clare. To quote one of the jacket blurbs: "A touching, triumphant story"...and then some.
Helpful Score: 1
Love this author! I read the sequel first but still thoroughly enjoyed this one! Her writing is delightful.
Helpful Score: 1
This is a story of love. Cornelia manages a coffee shop. She has a college degree but never knew what to do with her life and just settled in. A handsome stranger walks in one day and her life is changed. She WANTS to be in love with him - but cannot. But one day he brings his daughter, who's mother has disappeared, with him. And Cornelia falls in love - with the child - who returns the love. This is their story, Cornelia's and Clare's. And of love in many forms - the love of friends, romantic love, and of the love of family. Beautiful story.
Helpful Score: 1
A really enjoyable read with good character development, warmth and emotional depth. My favorite kind of book.
Helpful Score: 1
A beautiful story, lyrical writing and characters that grab you by the heart and pull you into the pages until the very last word, where you're left grateful for having had these people and this book in your life. Absolutely entrancing.
Helpful Score: 1
Fabulous read - I can't believe I didn't read it sooner. Marisa is awesome. I inquired about the movie list on her website, and she emailed me back in just a few hours! I have that list if anyone is interested.
Helpful Score: 1
Characters were a little hard to believe in, but a good book anyways
Helpful Score: 1
Very cute story. Fast read, fiction story.
Christina M. (LILarchitect) reviewed Love Walked In (Love Walked In, Bk 1) on + 10 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
Lovely heartwarming story that took me by suprise. It wasn't what I expected (from reading the jacket) but it does have the feel goodness of Jennifer Wiener. Definetly worth reading.
Helpful Score: 1
A good book about love, what it is and where it can and can't be found. I enjoyed the read a lot.
Helpful Score: 1
Great book - very heartwarming and heartwrenching! Easy & quick read.
Helpful Score: 1
Marisa de los Santos really has a way with words. Her writing style is so unique and refreshing. That alone had me compelled by this book. But I was also drawn in by the story--you fall in love with the characters and can't seem to put this book down.
Helpful Score: 1
Lyrically written book, with entertaining literary references flying off the tongue of the main character mixed with entertaining introspection and emotion. The plot is just a little too improbable but it still makes you feel good. The protagonist, a thirty-something who is wryly witty and very likeable, shines.
Helpful Score: 1
Absolutely fantastic! I fell in love with each and every character in the book. Definitely a worth-while read and should be made into a movie. Fabulous writer!
Christine F. (basketballwannabe) reviewed Love Walked In (Love Walked In, Bk 1) on + 3 more book reviews
Very enjoyable. thanks for sending.
I loved this story. It digs deep into human emotion and is a wonderful story of love; love for another, love for children, love for family and friends.
It was tough getting into the book as the author tends to be wordy. After getting the hang of her writing style and getting through the first couple chapters, I LOVED this book. Beautiful story. I definitely recommend this book.
A good book about family and what makes us family. The writing style took a little getting used to as it's told first person the way a friend would tell you a story...in lots of tangents. The ending seemed a little too neat, but otherwise a good book. Not a keeper, but a good read.
I loved this book! It was very good reading!
I looked forward with much anticipation to reading this book but found that it just wasn't my cup of tea. I found it confusing to read. The main characters names were very similar and it was difficult to keep them straight in my mind. I also did not like the popping in and out of the different tenses. One page you were in the first person and turn the page and some how it became the third person. It was all confusing and a chore to finish reading. I don't think I could tell you exactly what the plot of the story was. Not one of my favorite books.
I thought this book to be too "wordy" for me. I got through the first chapter asking myself, what just happened? I've read difficult books in the past such as, Jane Eyre and Gone With the Wind, but I just couldn't get into this book...
It was an interested book about relationships and how unexpected love can be. I liked it.
Okay, not fabulous.
Cornelia Brown is a 31-year-old who manages a coffee shop when Martin Grace, Cary Grant look-alike, enters and changes Cornelia's life forever. You see, Cornelia was waiting for that moment - that perfectly-handsome-man-just-swooping-in-to-whisk-her-off-of-her-feet moment. Meanwhile, across town, 11-year-old Clare Hobbs is being neglected by her mom and is trying to reach out to her absent father. Clare meets Cornelia while Clare is eating with her father at the coffee shop and their lives change forever.
It's an easy read and it's written well. I liked how the chapters alternated perspectives (Cornelia, Clare) but was kind of thrown off by the tense at times. Love Walked In is sweet story and I liked it, though there were moments where it was borderline "corny" for me.
Overall I'm just relieved that there books out there that are easy to read and aren't rip offs of other stories with insipid characters and horrible writing. (Sorry, still fuming at the whole 'Fifty Shades' pandemonium.)
It's an easy read and it's written well. I liked how the chapters alternated perspectives (Cornelia, Clare) but was kind of thrown off by the tense at times. Love Walked In is sweet story and I liked it, though there were moments where it was borderline "corny" for me.
Overall I'm just relieved that there books out there that are easy to read and aren't rip offs of other stories with insipid characters and horrible writing. (Sorry, still fuming at the whole 'Fifty Shades' pandemonium.)
I read this book a couple of times. It was that good. The love story is not the main focus, but it does shine brightly in the end. The story was unique and well thought out.
The first few chapters of this book were a little slow for me but I was quickly drawn into the characters. The author has a stunning way with wordplay. It is almost breathtaking and I was captivated with her writing. This is an excellent read and Im looking forward to her second novel Belong To Me which takes off where this one ended. This author has the key to writing characters that you can empathize with even through their inadequacies.
I loved this book. Unexpected, different kind of love story.
kept my interest for the two days I read it. Very likeable characters
Interesting to film lovers. I think there is more on the characters in
another book.
Interesting to film lovers. I think there is more on the characters in
another book.
Ehhh, wasnt impressed.
This was a good book. I would suggest it for any book club!
Beautifully written, great characters. I LOVE this book!
Christy B. (butterfly262007) reviewed Love Walked In (Love Walked In, Bk 1) on + 6 more book reviews
I am so in love with this book! It is such a wonderful story of real love. I would recommend it to anyone!
This novel manages to be both predictable and unbelievable at the same time. Especially early on, the dialogue is like a weak episode of Gilmore Girls. It's okay for the beach, but it's pretty bleh, even for chick lit.
This is a 5 Star book,best thing I've read all summer. I could not put it down, needed to find out how it would all end. It is a book that I've already shared with my daughter and said "you gotta read this!"
Theresa K. (Tesstarosa) -
Cornelia Brown manages a coffee shop in Philadelphia and her life changes dramatically when Martin Grace walks in. He is handsome and well-off.
On the other side of Philadelphia, eleven-year-old Clare Hobbes lives with her single mother. But Clare's life is about to turn upside-down as her mother starts exhibiting strange behavior and Clare tries to continue her current life without anyone knowing what is wrong with her mother.
Clare's life changes dramatically one day when she walks into the coffee shop that Cornelia manages.
This story follows the life of Cornelia and Clare and the bond they develop under trying and difficult circumstances.
This is a wonderful and poignant story of love and sacrifice.
On the other side of Philadelphia, eleven-year-old Clare Hobbes lives with her single mother. But Clare's life is about to turn upside-down as her mother starts exhibiting strange behavior and Clare tries to continue her current life without anyone knowing what is wrong with her mother.
Clare's life changes dramatically one day when she walks into the coffee shop that Cornelia manages.
This story follows the life of Cornelia and Clare and the bond they develop under trying and difficult circumstances.
This is a wonderful and poignant story of love and sacrifice.
Absolutely a beautiful book... I couldn't put it down!
Beautifully written.
I really liked this book and resented anything that took me away from it. It's a sweet story of love on several levels, but particularly that between a little girl and a young woman. Definitely a good read!
For a first time author - this book was fantastic! Very detailed writing and interesting characters.
Enjoyed this book very much and loved de los Santos' writing style. Witty banter, likeable characters, and interesting story with enough twists and turns to keep it interesting.
What a good book. It was good to see that Clare found someone to love her in the midst of her mother's tragedy.
Wonderful story, wonderful writing! I fell in love with this book.
I read this on a beach vacation and it was a great read. Took about 1/2 of a chapter to get into, just because the "voice" of the main character took a little while to get used to.
Not one of my favorites
This book was OK. It started out interesting and had an interesting premise but just didn't seem to deliver. It was boring, a boring story, a boring love story, and a boring main idea. I was not drawn to read it and grudgingly picked it up after a while just to see what happens. I would not recommend it.
De los Santos has a way to make words sound like music. This story about a young woman's forging on with love in unexpected ways is one of my favorites to recommend. And the sequel, BELONG TO ME, is brilliant.
Excellent story. I couldn't put it down.
great book!
This was one of the most boring books that I've read in a long time. I liked the style of the way the chapters alternated between the two main characters, but that was about all I liked. The story was ridiculous in my opinion.
Cornelia Brown, an intelligent and witty college grad who's in her 30's, works as a coffee shop manager in Philadelphia because she hasn't quite figured out what to do with her life yet. In walks a handsome man named Martin - a man with a cool charm that Cornelia finds attractive. Martin is also a dad - an absent dad - who ends up with his 11-year-old daughter, Clare, because her bipolar mom has had a manic break. Begins the story of Cornelia, Martin and Clare. Teo, Cornelia's longtime friend from childhood ends up in the picture and he is a great help to both Clare and Cornelia. There are some surprising twists and turns in the story that hold you. I read this book after I read "Belong to Me" and it was helpful for me to understand the backgrounds of the characters. Sure wish I had read it in sequence because it flowed so smoothly. I really liked this book - maybe more than her 2nd novel - and I love de los Santos' writing style.
Pamela C. (pj-s-bookcorner) reviewed Love Walked In (Love Walked In, Bk 1) on + 859 more book reviews
From the moment i started this book, I liked the main characters. Author does a good job of making you care about them - especially Claire. First time author for me and would enjoy seeing what else she has written. Enjoy!
definitely a fantasy--but fun
Delicious book! Loved the story, loved the lyricalness of the writing, loved the characters!
I very much enjoyed this book. I t was odd to get into at first for some reason but the effort paid off. Just a really good read better than average in my opinion.
This is a delightful book. It reminded me of so many people I know I had a hard time deciding who to pass it on to.
I absolutely struggled to finish this book. The overall theme was good, but I found it to be slow. I thought it would never end.
loved this book. easy read, very identifible characters that you really get to know and love
Kitty W. (heartofnature) -
I love love LOVED this book. It was a well told story, well written (I stopped quite a few times to just absorb the analogies, metaphors, descriptions... just how well it was written), and I won't give away the ending, but I adored it. Not exactly as you would expect, but a great ending either way. This is the kind of book I'd like to always read :)
I could not put this book down. The first couple of pages, I thought it was going to be a typical "boy meets girl" story. It's not. It is a story about love among humans that transcends boundaries. It is not the love story you would expect, it is much more profound than that.
If you are looking for a big to remind you of the good in people, this one won't disappoint.
If you are looking for a big to remind you of the good in people, this one won't disappoint.
When I first started reading Love Walked In, I didn't like it too much. I couldn't get in to the characters, parts of it were too wordy with nothing really happening, and she was constantly referring to movies I had never heard of or seen to create analogies to her life. But by the fourth or fifth chapter I was in to it.
I don't want to give away any of the plot line, but this book is about love. Maybe not in the way you first might think it will be, but in a much better and more realistic way. I really like the main characters and liked that I didn't always see what was coming next. I still hated her references to movies that I didn't know, but that was easy to overlook. In the end they all get an unexpected happy ending that they weren't even looking for.
I don't want to give away any of the plot line, but this book is about love. Maybe not in the way you first might think it will be, but in a much better and more realistic way. I really like the main characters and liked that I didn't always see what was coming next. I still hated her references to movies that I didn't know, but that was easy to overlook. In the end they all get an unexpected happy ending that they weren't even looking for.
Love, Love, Love this book! One of my all time favorites! A must read!
I must have been reading a different book, because I was so bored by chapter 3 I gave up and returned it to the library.
I really liked this novel. I read it in 3 days. It is not your standard love romance there is a lot more to the plot. There are 2 main characters the first is Cornelia Brown she owns a coffee shop and falls in love with a handsome customer Martin Grace ( who resembles Gary Grant) and she compares real life situations to classic movies often in a very heart warming and comical way. The other character is Clare Hobbs 11 years old (Martin Grace's distant daughter) and her Mother is going crazy, literally. The story is told from Cornelia's perspective and Clare's perspective before and after they meet. There is some interesting twists along the way. It took me about 4 chapters to really get into the book and the ending felt slow to me but overall an entertaining and enjoyable read. I will be looking at other books by this author.
Great story!
very good story!
This book was a good quick read. It was somewhat predictable but great for night time reading when you only have time for one chapter. I was pleasantly surprised by the slight twist at the end.
I read her second book, Belong to Me, previously. This book got off to a slow start but picked-up after chapter 10 once I recognized the characters.
Great book with interesting characters and a good look at the relationships between the various characters. Enjoyable read.
Fantastically written wonderful book.
Carol F. (cactusflowerwomen) reviewed Love Walked In (Love Walked In, Bk 1) on + 628 more book reviews
Really liked it, different, off beat love story.
Although I wasn't sure at first, I ended up really liking this book. It was not what I expected but was a really different kind of "love" story.
I thought the book was very good and I really enjoyed it. The only set back for me, and it's a small one, was the level of maturity alloted this ten year old girl. I felt it was a bit over the top...or perhaps i was simply one of the most immature ten year olds I know, and I'm jealous! I will be keeping my eye out for other books by this author.
the writing style was a bit strange to me, and often too wordy.. especially at the beginning it was difficult to get into. after the first few chapters it became more engaging and easier to read. i love the characters and the whole story in general. the author at times jumped from one subject to another and at some points i would consider it rambling.. (more or less so it was the characters personality)
all in all i enjoyed the book. i would recommend reading the first few chapters before deciding to put it down
all in all i enjoyed the book. i would recommend reading the first few chapters before deciding to put it down
It took me a little bit to get into it. But, then it got me. I really enjoyed this lovely story!
This is a book revolving around two characters, Clare, and Cornelia. The chapters about Clare are fascinating, written from a unique perspective of an issue not talked about often in fiction. The chapters about Cornelia seem to have been added as filler to bring the short story of Clare up to the length of a novel.
What a nice relaxing read. I did enjoy the author's writing style and her keen way of describing people. This is a great thing to do on a quiet day at home with a cup of good coffee and a cookie!
nice story. uplifting.
Lovely story. Happy ending.
All the old movies references got me confused.
I tried, but I couldn't get into it.
I tried, but I couldn't get into it.
This book had a bit of a slow start, but what a wonderful story, I loved it!
Leslie
Leslie
A great book about love and family and in the importance of both!
A very well written book with an interesting and moving plot. The only part that I found a bit tiresome was the fact the every single character in this book has a much-touted and descriptively overdone deep physical beauty. There is no ugliness or plainness in this book at all. I kind of felt that took away from the message in the book. Only movie-star beautiful people can love and be loved?
Otherwise, the story is very nice, well-presented, and speaks to the heart. The characters are likeable and have a lot of insight and introspection. A very quick read. Hope the author writes more books soon.
Otherwise, the story is very nice, well-presented, and speaks to the heart. The characters are likeable and have a lot of insight and introspection. A very quick read. Hope the author writes more books soon.
This was a lovely book, I really enjoyed it. I read it in just a few days and could barely put it down to go to sleep at night! I'm looking forward to reading the sequel.
Love her books!
A really feel good book, throughly enjoyed reading it. :)
