THE COTTAGE ON THE CORNER is the first book that I have read by Shirlee McCoy. I understand that this is the second book in the Apple Valley series. While this is true, I could read it as a stand- alone story. I was intrigued by the stories of the supplementary characters, but I didn't feel like I had missed out by not reading the previous book in the series. This is a good thing, because so many series have to be read in order or it's a big muddled mess.

Charlotte Garrison is a baker who is on a tight budget and bakes and sells goodies out of her own home. She is scrimping and saving for a bakery downtown. It is her biggest dream. She absolutely has no time for romance. This cookie has been burned once and has no desire to be again.

Deputy Max Stanford has just received a precious gift. His ex-girlfriend has dropped by and left a little confection behind. She is named Zu-Zu and may or may not be his daughter. He has no idea how to be a parent, even for a short while.

Charlotte and Max develop a friendship with the little girl Zu-Zu as the common ingredient. Both care about her and start to wonder if maybe their plans for their very separate lives are really enough.

Ms. McCoy has found the recipe for a delicious romance in THE COTTAGE ON THE CORNER. It is sweet in every way and I was delighted to escape into the town of Apple Valley, Washington. I would definitely like to visit there again. And I would like the recipe for the magical chocolate cupcakes...just sayin.