Daphne was living the big life in New York. She had the job at the New York Times, the downtown apartment and she had everything she ever wanted. At least, that’s what all her friends and family back in her hometown of Appleton thought. But in reality, Daphne’s life was empty and going nowhere. When her Aunt Dee died and left her the house, the Corvette and a set of instructions in her will, Daphne’s life was destined to change. Lock Stock and Over A Barrel is a light romance that was fun to read.

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Lock Stock and Over a Barrel Book Review

The reading of the will turns Daphne’s life upside down. Here she is in her mid 30’s with one year to completely change her life. Can she find true love in one year? There are so many single bachelors back in her home town. How will Daphne find her new husband and fill the shoes that Aunt Dee left.

My opinion:

I actually enjoyed this book very much. It was refreshing to read a book that had no layers of suspense, murder or intrigue to figure out. This was just a fun, light read with twists and turns and leads to a satisfying conclusion.

About the Book

With high hopes, Daphne Ballinger lands her dream job at The New York Times. But it’s not long until writing about weddings becomes a painful reminder of her own failed romance, and her love of the city slowly sours as well. Is it time to give up the Big Apple for her small hometown of Appleton?

When her eccentric Aunt Dee passes away and leaves a sizeable estate to Daphne, going back home is an easy choice. What isn’t easy is coming to terms with the downright odd clauses written into the will.

Daphne only stands to inherit the estate if she agrees to her aunt’s very specific posthumous terms — personal and professional. And if she fails to comply, the sprawling old Victorian house shall be bequeathed to . . . Aunt Dee’s cats.

And if Daphne thinks that’s odd, wait until she finds out an array of secrets about Aunt Dee’s life, and how imperfect circumstances can sometimes lead to God’s perfect timing.

About the Author

Melody Carlson calls herself a storyteller for women and children, and has sold more than five million books. A professional writer for twenty years, she recently received the Romantic Times Career Achievement Award. Melody has two grown sons and lives with her husband in the Pacific Northwest. Find out more about Melody Carlson on her website.

You can purchase Lock Stock and Over a Barrel from Amazon or request it at your local library.