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The Blueberry Swirl Waltz
After a family crisis, Katie Hathaway must return home to help out in the family's ice cream shop. She leaves behind her dream job of teaching ballroom dance to spend her summer scooping ice cream and mixing milkshakes.
Chaz Hollander, Katie's high school crush, has also returned to town to work in his family's business. After Katie treats him to a blueberry swirl sundae, he invites her to the town's upcoming dance. The only problem is he has two left feet.
When Katie starts giving Chaz dance lessons, their chemistry ignites, and the postponement of her dream doesn't seem as ominous. But financial woes and a suspicious business deal cast a shadow on their budding relationship.
Chaz Hollander, Katie's high school crush, has also returned to town to work in his family's business. After Katie treats him to a blueberry swirl sundae, he invites her to the town's upcoming dance. The only problem is he has two left feet.
When Katie starts giving Chaz dance lessons, their chemistry ignites, and the postponement of her dream doesn't seem as ominous. But financial woes and a suspicious business deal cast a shadow on their budding relationship.
89 pages, ebook
First published June 1, 2020
About the author
Maria Imbalzano
12 books316 followersMaria Imbalzano is an award-winning contemporary author who writes about strong, independent women and the men who fall in love with them.
A member of New Jersey Romance Writers, Maria has received many honors for her work including the ACRA Readers’ Choice Heart of Excellence Award, the NEST (National Excellence in Story Telling) Award, Still Moments Magazine Readers’ Choice Award, Long and Short Reviews Book of the Month Award, and the Wisconsin Romance Writers Write Touch Readers Award. She was also a finalist for the New England Readers’ Choice Award, the NJ Romance Writers Golden Leaf Award, the RONE Award, the Beverley Award, the Carolyn Award, and the Book Buyers Best Award.
Maria graduated from Fordham University School of Law and practiced as a matrimonial attorney for over thirty-five years at Stark & Stark before retiring to focus full-time on her writing career.
She has served on many non-profit Boards including Thomas Edison State University Foundation, Dress for Success Central New Jersey, The American Cancer Society (Mercer County), The Princeton Ballet (now the American Repertory Theater) and the McCorristin Catholic High School Scholarship Committee.
She has received the distinguished Family of Edison Award for her work with The Thomas Edison State University Foundation, the Iron Mike Professional Achievement Award from Trenton Catholic Academy and was recently inducted into the Italian American National Hall of Fame.
Maria is thrilled that her two adult daughters have become strong, independent women like the heroines in her books.
A member of New Jersey Romance Writers, Maria has received many honors for her work including the ACRA Readers’ Choice Heart of Excellence Award, the NEST (National Excellence in Story Telling) Award, Still Moments Magazine Readers’ Choice Award, Long and Short Reviews Book of the Month Award, and the Wisconsin Romance Writers Write Touch Readers Award. She was also a finalist for the New England Readers’ Choice Award, the NJ Romance Writers Golden Leaf Award, the RONE Award, the Beverley Award, the Carolyn Award, and the Book Buyers Best Award.
Maria graduated from Fordham University School of Law and practiced as a matrimonial attorney for over thirty-five years at Stark & Stark before retiring to focus full-time on her writing career.
She has served on many non-profit Boards including Thomas Edison State University Foundation, Dress for Success Central New Jersey, The American Cancer Society (Mercer County), The Princeton Ballet (now the American Repertory Theater) and the McCorristin Catholic High School Scholarship Committee.
She has received the distinguished Family of Edison Award for her work with The Thomas Edison State University Foundation, the Iron Mike Professional Achievement Award from Trenton Catholic Academy and was recently inducted into the Italian American National Hall of Fame.
Maria is thrilled that her two adult daughters have become strong, independent women like the heroines in her books.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
July 12, 2020
Rating: 3.5/5.0
This story has a wonderful innocence about it and is a reminder that simplicity has inherent value and power!
Read full review in the 2020 Summer issue of InD'tale Magazine.
This story has a wonderful innocence about it and is a reminder that simplicity has inherent value and power!
Read full review in the 2020 Summer issue of InD'tale Magazine.
October 1, 2020
Loved this story. The heroine's life was completely derailed (just when everything was going exactly as she wanted) and I wasn't sure how the author would be able to convince me with the happy ever after. But by the time the story ended, I totally believed the heroine was going to be happy, despite life not going the way she'd planned. Plus, I enjoyed reading a story set in an era I don't read often. The author did a great job of transporting me back in time.
June 15, 2020
All Katie wants to do is teach ballroom dancing. Just as she’s about to take the next step towards her dream, she must put it on hold and return to her hometown to run the family’s ice cream shop. She swallows her feelings and does what needs to be done. While going through her mother’s bills, she realizes just how financially strapped her mother and sisters are. She soon learns she must come up with way to generate more income or else they will lose not only the family business but their home as well. Katie reunites with her high school crush, Chaz, who has also returned to their hometown. Their romance blooms and leaves Katie wondering if her future is in her hometown or back in the big city. Can Katie make her dream come true alongside Chaz in their hometown or will she return to the big city heartbroken and alone?
The Blueberry Swirl Waltz is a nostalgic sweet romance I read in one sitting. From the first page, I fell in love with Katie. She’s such a wholesome character and how she manages to overcome every obstacle added authenticity to the plot. The setting of a small town in the 1950’s makes this a favorite of mine and will appeal to all those who love Hallmark movies. The conflicts are honestly drawn and presented well. The romance between Chaz and Katie is sweet and such fun to read. It harkened me back to a simpler time. The ending made me cheer and when I finished, I was definitely craving a blueberry swirl cone.
If you’re looking for a sweet romantic beach read to read this summer, The Blueberry Swirl Waltz is a must-read. Highly recommend! Take my advice: make sure you have ice cream available as a treat while reading.
Disclaimer: I received a copy from the author in the hopes I'd review it.
My Rating: 5 stars
Reviewed by: Mrs. N
This review first appeared: https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/po...
The Blueberry Swirl Waltz is a nostalgic sweet romance I read in one sitting. From the first page, I fell in love with Katie. She’s such a wholesome character and how she manages to overcome every obstacle added authenticity to the plot. The setting of a small town in the 1950’s makes this a favorite of mine and will appeal to all those who love Hallmark movies. The conflicts are honestly drawn and presented well. The romance between Chaz and Katie is sweet and such fun to read. It harkened me back to a simpler time. The ending made me cheer and when I finished, I was definitely craving a blueberry swirl cone.
If you’re looking for a sweet romantic beach read to read this summer, The Blueberry Swirl Waltz is a must-read. Highly recommend! Take my advice: make sure you have ice cream available as a treat while reading.
Disclaimer: I received a copy from the author in the hopes I'd review it.
My Rating: 5 stars
Reviewed by: Mrs. N
This review first appeared: https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/po...
June 6, 2020
The Blueberry Swirl Waltz is a wholesome, satisfying small-town romance about a woman who delays her dreams of teaching ballroom dancing at Arthur "Mueller's" Dance Studio, and leaves a big city to help her mother run the family ice cream shop in her hometown. The shop is virtually insolvent and Katie comes up with creative ways to make a profit and keep the business afloat. She is strong and resourceful and isn't afraid to fight City Hall, literally, to make her dreams come true and find true love in the most unexpected place. A really enjoyable story.
November 4, 2021
Truly enjoyed this book.
August 10, 2020
The Blueberry Swirl Waltz is a sweet romance written by Maria Imbalzano.
Katie puts her dreams on hold, yet again, to help her family when a crisis happens. Moving back home, leaving her job, and turning down her dream job to serve ice cream is not how Katie thought she would be spending her summer. Does this hold Katie back? No.
Imbalzano creates a head-strong character who despite having been knocked down by her own moral code manages to not only survive but to thrive in these new yet familiar circumstances. Katie may not have had the educational background to save the family, but she has ideas. Imbalzano infuses the character with plenty of spirit and hope.
The romance is charming and of course hits a bump in the road. Do not worry though, Imbalzano writes a spirited ending benefitting Katie's impetuous and headstrong attitude.
Take a swirl with Maria Imbalzano’s introduction to the “One Scoop or Two” series with The Blueberry Swirl Waltz.
I received an ARC of this book and I am writing a review without prejudice and voluntarily.
Katie puts her dreams on hold, yet again, to help her family when a crisis happens. Moving back home, leaving her job, and turning down her dream job to serve ice cream is not how Katie thought she would be spending her summer. Does this hold Katie back? No.
Imbalzano creates a head-strong character who despite having been knocked down by her own moral code manages to not only survive but to thrive in these new yet familiar circumstances. Katie may not have had the educational background to save the family, but she has ideas. Imbalzano infuses the character with plenty of spirit and hope.
The romance is charming and of course hits a bump in the road. Do not worry though, Imbalzano writes a spirited ending benefitting Katie's impetuous and headstrong attitude.
Take a swirl with Maria Imbalzano’s introduction to the “One Scoop or Two” series with The Blueberry Swirl Waltz.
I received an ARC of this book and I am writing a review without prejudice and voluntarily.
April 25, 2022
Toe tapping story. Delightful and wonderful characters. I could hear the music, as I read. Katie goes home to tell her family the wonderful news of her new job, as a dance instructor. Her high spirits don't last long though. Katie must now help out at their ice cream shop, after her Mother's injury. One of her old friends, Chaz shows up one night. Her life is changing again, with new feelings for Chaz. Trouble strikes again, with financial worries. Both of their jobs are getting in the way of their relationship. Sit back and enjoy a ice cream, as we wait for the dance floor.
I won this book from the author. This is my honest review.
I won this book from the author. This is my honest review.
July 6, 2020
Entertaining and interesting characters. Good story with some secrets and drama. Good read following the journey to love and romance with a few bumps thrown in for good measure. Love the ballroom dancing aspect. Good read!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 25, 2020
Right away, I felt as if I went back in time to small town America with this sweet romance. There's ice cream and dancing and realistic problems both Katie and Chaz must overcome to be together. I truly enjoyed this story!
December 14, 2020
This was just a really lovely story. I really liked both main characters and the story flowed as well as a waltz. I hadn’t read this author before and the title kind of threw me off, but I’m glad I gave it a chance. I highly recommend.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed this book
**I voluntarily read and reviewed this book
August 11, 2020
This was a cute little romance. It's well written. It's not a full length novel. I enjoyed reading it.
July 21, 2020
This book was a delicious treat with extra jimmies and a cherry on top!!
This book quickly swept me off my feet – I could not put this book down and read it in just one sitting!!!
This book follows the story of the Hathaway family, mainly Katie, a smart and energetic young lady who has just landed her dream job to teach ballroom dancing. Beyond ecstatic she heads back home elated to tell her family about her big opportunity. However, when she arrives, she learns that her mom has just broke her arm. This couldn’t have come at a worse time as Katie must now give her up life and dream job to move back home and work in the family’s ice cream shop while her mom recovers. With the help of Katie’s siblings, Henry, Holly, and Tina cover the store during their busiest time of year, the summer, and the town’s biggest event, the River Front Festival. While back home Katie reconnects with her high school crush, Chaz, who has also recently returned back home. Chaz invites Katie to the big dance at the end of the month at the Festival. However, he admits he can’t dance, and Katie takes it upon herself to teach him in time for the event. There are sparks, fireworks, and explosive chemistry between these two! Will coming back home end up being the best thing for Katie after all?
I absolutely loved this book!! There were such well-developed and relatable characters, strong story lines with intriguing plots, and kept me fully engaged and entertained from chapter to chapter!!
I totally loved the main characters, especially Katie! She was so easy to connect with and relate to! She was smart, strong, beautiful, caring, compassionate, respectful, and quite talented. Like Katie, when my mom needed me, I quit my job, moved back home, and gave up my life to help take care of her. My mom had cancer and as an only child I needed to be there to take her to doctor’s appointments, chemo treatments, etc. Not everyone understands that kind of sacrifice. So, I totally felt akin with Katie. And enjoyed watching her story unfold.
I also really liked Chaz. He was kind, confident, bright, charismatic, polite, and quite handsome! I really liked Katie and Chaz together! They just fit so well, and the passion just leapt off the pages! I could feel the heat she described as he made her blush.
This book takes place in the 1950s – specifically June of 1951. The author brilliantly captured that time period and way of life into the story. It is clear that the author is well versed on the culture and understandings of small mill town life in 50’s.
The writing style is fluid, well developed, and at a steady pace.
I also loved the author’s writing style as she was superior on detail and the way she immerses you into her storytelling. Her writing draws you in and keeps you fully engaged as the story unravels!!
This book was such a fun, quick, enjoyable read that kept this reader glued to the pages!!
There are some predictable scenes. However, there are still a few very unexpected twists and turns that you won’t see coming!
This book is not currently listed as part of a book series. It can be read as a standalone. This book does have a tidy ending, but leaves an opening for a follow up book - perhaps an adventure with one of the other Hathaway girls or other folks in this small town community.
All in all, I really enjoyed reading this book and would absolutely recommend it! I think all historical romance fans and sweet romance readers will like this book too! So, add it to your TBR List and get to reading - you won't be disappointed!
**Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book and have voluntarily provided an honest, and unbiased review in accordance with FTC regulations.**
This book quickly swept me off my feet – I could not put this book down and read it in just one sitting!!!
This book follows the story of the Hathaway family, mainly Katie, a smart and energetic young lady who has just landed her dream job to teach ballroom dancing. Beyond ecstatic she heads back home elated to tell her family about her big opportunity. However, when she arrives, she learns that her mom has just broke her arm. This couldn’t have come at a worse time as Katie must now give her up life and dream job to move back home and work in the family’s ice cream shop while her mom recovers. With the help of Katie’s siblings, Henry, Holly, and Tina cover the store during their busiest time of year, the summer, and the town’s biggest event, the River Front Festival. While back home Katie reconnects with her high school crush, Chaz, who has also recently returned back home. Chaz invites Katie to the big dance at the end of the month at the Festival. However, he admits he can’t dance, and Katie takes it upon herself to teach him in time for the event. There are sparks, fireworks, and explosive chemistry between these two! Will coming back home end up being the best thing for Katie after all?
I absolutely loved this book!! There were such well-developed and relatable characters, strong story lines with intriguing plots, and kept me fully engaged and entertained from chapter to chapter!!
I totally loved the main characters, especially Katie! She was so easy to connect with and relate to! She was smart, strong, beautiful, caring, compassionate, respectful, and quite talented. Like Katie, when my mom needed me, I quit my job, moved back home, and gave up my life to help take care of her. My mom had cancer and as an only child I needed to be there to take her to doctor’s appointments, chemo treatments, etc. Not everyone understands that kind of sacrifice. So, I totally felt akin with Katie. And enjoyed watching her story unfold.
I also really liked Chaz. He was kind, confident, bright, charismatic, polite, and quite handsome! I really liked Katie and Chaz together! They just fit so well, and the passion just leapt off the pages! I could feel the heat she described as he made her blush.
This book takes place in the 1950s – specifically June of 1951. The author brilliantly captured that time period and way of life into the story. It is clear that the author is well versed on the culture and understandings of small mill town life in 50’s.
The writing style is fluid, well developed, and at a steady pace.
I also loved the author’s writing style as she was superior on detail and the way she immerses you into her storytelling. Her writing draws you in and keeps you fully engaged as the story unravels!!
This book was such a fun, quick, enjoyable read that kept this reader glued to the pages!!
There are some predictable scenes. However, there are still a few very unexpected twists and turns that you won’t see coming!
This book is not currently listed as part of a book series. It can be read as a standalone. This book does have a tidy ending, but leaves an opening for a follow up book - perhaps an adventure with one of the other Hathaway girls or other folks in this small town community.
All in all, I really enjoyed reading this book and would absolutely recommend it! I think all historical romance fans and sweet romance readers will like this book too! So, add it to your TBR List and get to reading - you won't be disappointed!
**Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book and have voluntarily provided an honest, and unbiased review in accordance with FTC regulations.**
June 3, 2020
Katie Hathaway is so excited to finally see her dreams start coming true. She has always wanted to dance full time as an instructor. To get an offer to teach part time at a prestigious, well known study is a dream come true. And then she finds out her life will change just a few short hours later.
Chaz Hollander loves knowing he can use his Princeton degree anywhere he'd like to live, as long as he puts morals, values, and hard work into each and every day.
He has an offer at the distant family member's still mill. it is very little income in comparison to what he is looking to attain. He wants some ice cream at his favorite place and is so excited to run into one of his favorite supporters, Katie.
Katie didn't know how bad the ice cream shop was doing until seeing bills. Chaz didn't know he was not seeing some schemes going on that could ruin many relationships in his life and have him ruin his own value system. What do these two do in order to maintain their own sense of sanity?
This book gets 5 stars! It was such a good read I read it in one sitting. To have such a euphony around while having a pure story grow into one of molten-golden lava of mature need is what occurs in this novel. To do what's right and what's meant to be is the aim of these main characters. To help more than oneself, to keep heritage, legacy, and giving as the most important intent on life is the main focus I saw as I relished this delicious book and sank into the comfort the author portrayed in each chapter.
Merged review:
Katie Hathaway is so excited to finally see her dreams start coming true. She has always wanted to dance full time as an instructor. To get an offer to teach part time at a prestigious, well known study is a dream come true. And then she finds out her life will change just a few short hours later.
Chaz Hollander loves knowing he can use his Princeton degree anywhere he'd like to live, as long as he puts morals, values, and hard work into each and every day.
He has an offer at the distant family member's still mill. it is very little income in comparison to what he is looking to attain. He wants some ice cream at his favorite place and is so excited to run into one of his favorite supporters, Katie.
Katie didn't know how bad the ice cream shop was doing until seeing bills. Chaz didn't know he was not seeing some schemes going on that could ruin many relationships in his life and have him ruin his own value system. What do these two do in order to maintain their own sense of sanity?
This book gets 5 stars! It was such a good read I read it in one sitting. To have such a euphony around while having a pure story grow into one of molten-golden lava of mature need is what occurs in this novel. To do what's right and what's meant to be is the aim of these main characters. To help more than oneself, to keep heritage, legacy, and giving as the most important intent on life is the main focus I saw as I relished this delicious book and sank into the comfort the author portrayed in each chapter.
Chaz Hollander loves knowing he can use his Princeton degree anywhere he'd like to live, as long as he puts morals, values, and hard work into each and every day.
He has an offer at the distant family member's still mill. it is very little income in comparison to what he is looking to attain. He wants some ice cream at his favorite place and is so excited to run into one of his favorite supporters, Katie.
Katie didn't know how bad the ice cream shop was doing until seeing bills. Chaz didn't know he was not seeing some schemes going on that could ruin many relationships in his life and have him ruin his own value system. What do these two do in order to maintain their own sense of sanity?
This book gets 5 stars! It was such a good read I read it in one sitting. To have such a euphony around while having a pure story grow into one of molten-golden lava of mature need is what occurs in this novel. To do what's right and what's meant to be is the aim of these main characters. To help more than oneself, to keep heritage, legacy, and giving as the most important intent on life is the main focus I saw as I relished this delicious book and sank into the comfort the author portrayed in each chapter.
Merged review:
Katie Hathaway is so excited to finally see her dreams start coming true. She has always wanted to dance full time as an instructor. To get an offer to teach part time at a prestigious, well known study is a dream come true. And then she finds out her life will change just a few short hours later.
Chaz Hollander loves knowing he can use his Princeton degree anywhere he'd like to live, as long as he puts morals, values, and hard work into each and every day.
He has an offer at the distant family member's still mill. it is very little income in comparison to what he is looking to attain. He wants some ice cream at his favorite place and is so excited to run into one of his favorite supporters, Katie.
Katie didn't know how bad the ice cream shop was doing until seeing bills. Chaz didn't know he was not seeing some schemes going on that could ruin many relationships in his life and have him ruin his own value system. What do these two do in order to maintain their own sense of sanity?
This book gets 5 stars! It was such a good read I read it in one sitting. To have such a euphony around while having a pure story grow into one of molten-golden lava of mature need is what occurs in this novel. To do what's right and what's meant to be is the aim of these main characters. To help more than oneself, to keep heritage, legacy, and giving as the most important intent on life is the main focus I saw as I relished this delicious book and sank into the comfort the author portrayed in each chapter.
July 14, 2020
Katie was ecstatic when all her hard work paid off and she was given a job at the dance studio. Excited to share the news with her family, she rushes home only to find out that her mother has broken her arm and Katie is needed to help run their ice cream shop during their busiest month – and so she needs to put her own dreams and ambitions on hold for a while longer. When she finds her old high school crush, Chaz has moved back home also, Katie is pleased but cautious when they reconnect.
I enjoyed the older style of this story. While the plotline was fairly simple and straight forward Katie’s character was interesting and I found myself quite drawn to her and the hard decision she made to help her family. There is a very strong cast of secondary characters that I felt really helped boost the story – with Katie’s mother and two sisters, as well as the hunky Chaz. The romance was slow and quite sweet with just a few steamy kisses – as I feel anyone should expect from a romance story set back in the 1950s. I enjoyed the small-town feel of the whole story, how the community knew each other and gossip spread around like wild-fire.
The scenes of Katie teaching Chaz to dance was sweet and really helped sell me on how well the two characters meshed together. It also helped show me – without any sexual intimacy – how they had chemistry and how the attraction wasn’t just one-sided on Katie’s behalf. I felt the author did an amazing job of showing (not telling) the romance and this really helped me love the story more. I also liked how there were multiple aspects to the plot – Katie helping out her mother and sisters and the drama with the ice cream shop was an excellent counterpart I felt to the romance blossoming between Katie and Chaz.
A strong and character-centric story this was a great read and one I can easily recommend. With vibrant characters, a few good, strong plotlines and a lovely slow moving romance this story is one I feel sure will appeal to many readers.
I enjoyed the older style of this story. While the plotline was fairly simple and straight forward Katie’s character was interesting and I found myself quite drawn to her and the hard decision she made to help her family. There is a very strong cast of secondary characters that I felt really helped boost the story – with Katie’s mother and two sisters, as well as the hunky Chaz. The romance was slow and quite sweet with just a few steamy kisses – as I feel anyone should expect from a romance story set back in the 1950s. I enjoyed the small-town feel of the whole story, how the community knew each other and gossip spread around like wild-fire.
The scenes of Katie teaching Chaz to dance was sweet and really helped sell me on how well the two characters meshed together. It also helped show me – without any sexual intimacy – how they had chemistry and how the attraction wasn’t just one-sided on Katie’s behalf. I felt the author did an amazing job of showing (not telling) the romance and this really helped me love the story more. I also liked how there were multiple aspects to the plot – Katie helping out her mother and sisters and the drama with the ice cream shop was an excellent counterpart I felt to the romance blossoming between Katie and Chaz.
A strong and character-centric story this was a great read and one I can easily recommend. With vibrant characters, a few good, strong plotlines and a lovely slow moving romance this story is one I feel sure will appeal to many readers.
June 16, 2020
The Blueberry Swirl Waltz
I love this series, and blueberry is one of my favorite flavors.
From the moment Katie Hathaway, the lead female spun on her toes at getting her dream job, I was hooked. It’s been a long time since I read a book from this time period and am happy to have been transported there by the author. Maria Imbalzano’s world-building is engaging.
Katie is strong, loyal, and feisty. Her sense of responsibility to her family is to be applauded. Katie has gone home to tell the good news of getting the job of her dreams when her mother falls, injures her arm, and she is unable to run the ice cream parlor. As a dutiful daughter, she sets aside her life to support the family.
She’s also an amazing businesswoman. When she sees from the books that the business is struggling, Katie’s take-charge attitude comes to the front, and she’ll do whatever she needs to make the ice cream shop prosper.
Chaz Hollander, Katie’s high school crush, is back home to work in the family business. Good with working with his hands, he steps in to help when the equipment and old building are breaking down. He finds enjoyment in manual labor again; sitting behind a desk is not his first love like engineering.
The two rekindle their old attraction, but both have different dreams, and the budding relationship is in peril. Added pressure from the shop heading to foreclosure, wreaks havoc, and the two may not survive the deceptions, real and perceived.
I highly recommend The Blueberry Swirl Waltz. An added bonus for me is that it’s set in my own state of New Jersey. I recognize many of the references from Trenton to the Roebling family.
I love this series, and blueberry is one of my favorite flavors.
From the moment Katie Hathaway, the lead female spun on her toes at getting her dream job, I was hooked. It’s been a long time since I read a book from this time period and am happy to have been transported there by the author. Maria Imbalzano’s world-building is engaging.
Katie is strong, loyal, and feisty. Her sense of responsibility to her family is to be applauded. Katie has gone home to tell the good news of getting the job of her dreams when her mother falls, injures her arm, and she is unable to run the ice cream parlor. As a dutiful daughter, she sets aside her life to support the family.
She’s also an amazing businesswoman. When she sees from the books that the business is struggling, Katie’s take-charge attitude comes to the front, and she’ll do whatever she needs to make the ice cream shop prosper.
Chaz Hollander, Katie’s high school crush, is back home to work in the family business. Good with working with his hands, he steps in to help when the equipment and old building are breaking down. He finds enjoyment in manual labor again; sitting behind a desk is not his first love like engineering.
The two rekindle their old attraction, but both have different dreams, and the budding relationship is in peril. Added pressure from the shop heading to foreclosure, wreaks havoc, and the two may not survive the deceptions, real and perceived.
I highly recommend The Blueberry Swirl Waltz. An added bonus for me is that it’s set in my own state of New Jersey. I recognize many of the references from Trenton to the Roebling family.
July 2, 2020
After a family crisis, Katie Hathaway must return home to help out in the family's ice cream shop. She leaves behind her dream job of teaching ballroom dance to spend her summer scooping ice cream and mixing milkshakes.
Chaz Hollander, Katie's high school crush, has also returned to town to work in his family's business. After Katie treats him to a blueberry swirl sundae, he invites her to the town's upcoming dance. The only problem is he has two left feet.
When Katie starts giving Chaz dance lessons, their chemistry ignites, and the postponement of her dream doesn't seem as ominous. But financial woes and a suspicious business deal cast a shadow on their budding relationship.
The Blueberry Swirl Waltz, a novella length historical romance, by Maria Imbalzano, is part of the One Scoop or Two series published by the Wild Rose Press and was released on June 1, 2020.
This fast paced and easily readable story is a delight for those of us who “came into their own” during the era of jitterbugs, swing and cha-cha dance numbers—not to mention poodle skirts and sweater sets. Clearly by her talent in creating dialogue and voice, author Imbalzana's talents extend to creating a setting which takes one back to a small riverside town where everyone knows everyone's business and the winters are spent deciding what to wear and who to be seen with at annual summer festival. Ahh, the memories.
This charmer of a story is a lovely addition to the One Scoop or Two series and Ms. Imbalzana has done herself proud.
On a scale of 1—5, The Blueberry Swirl Waltz earns a 5.
Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews
Chaz Hollander, Katie's high school crush, has also returned to town to work in his family's business. After Katie treats him to a blueberry swirl sundae, he invites her to the town's upcoming dance. The only problem is he has two left feet.
When Katie starts giving Chaz dance lessons, their chemistry ignites, and the postponement of her dream doesn't seem as ominous. But financial woes and a suspicious business deal cast a shadow on their budding relationship.
The Blueberry Swirl Waltz, a novella length historical romance, by Maria Imbalzano, is part of the One Scoop or Two series published by the Wild Rose Press and was released on June 1, 2020.
This fast paced and easily readable story is a delight for those of us who “came into their own” during the era of jitterbugs, swing and cha-cha dance numbers—not to mention poodle skirts and sweater sets. Clearly by her talent in creating dialogue and voice, author Imbalzana's talents extend to creating a setting which takes one back to a small riverside town where everyone knows everyone's business and the winters are spent deciding what to wear and who to be seen with at annual summer festival. Ahh, the memories.
This charmer of a story is a lovely addition to the One Scoop or Two series and Ms. Imbalzana has done herself proud.
On a scale of 1—5, The Blueberry Swirl Waltz earns a 5.
Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews
June 17, 2022
THE BLUEBERRY SWIRL WALTZ is the seventh book in the multi-author One Scoop or Two series. Each story is a stand-alone romance with the connecting theme of an ice cream shop. This story is a historical romance set in the 1950s with a long-standing crush awakened years after high school.
So many historical romances are set in Regency England or the Antebellum South or maybe during World War II. This was refreshingly different. There was no war acting as a second rogue. There were two hearts working towards each other, overcoming obstacles, and facing the challenges of life in a small mill town. That’s what made this story so much different from other historical novels and what made it one of my favorites of this year.
I loved Katie from the moment she twirled on her toes in the opening scene. She’s sweet, feisty, determined, loyal, and strong. She’s also a hopeless, hopeful romantic. She and her family deserve everything good in life.
I’d love to see follow up stories placed at this Ice Cream Shop as Katie’s sisters realize their dreams… and maybe mom too!
Note: While I received this book as a gifted ARC via BookSprout, my opinions are my own and are given freely.
Title: THE BLUEBERRY SWIRL WALTZ
Series: One Scoop or Two #7
Category /Genre: Historical Romance (50s)
Recommended for: 16+
Grammar/editing: A – near perfect
Received from: Maria Imbalzano (as an ARC gifted copy)
So many historical romances are set in Regency England or the Antebellum South or maybe during World War II. This was refreshingly different. There was no war acting as a second rogue. There were two hearts working towards each other, overcoming obstacles, and facing the challenges of life in a small mill town. That’s what made this story so much different from other historical novels and what made it one of my favorites of this year.
I loved Katie from the moment she twirled on her toes in the opening scene. She’s sweet, feisty, determined, loyal, and strong. She’s also a hopeless, hopeful romantic. She and her family deserve everything good in life.
I’d love to see follow up stories placed at this Ice Cream Shop as Katie’s sisters realize their dreams… and maybe mom too!
Note: While I received this book as a gifted ARC via BookSprout, my opinions are my own and are given freely.
Title: THE BLUEBERRY SWIRL WALTZ
Series: One Scoop or Two #7
Category /Genre: Historical Romance (50s)
Recommended for: 16+
Grammar/editing: A – near perfect
Received from: Maria Imbalzano (as an ARC gifted copy)
July 15, 2020
Maria Imbalzano dishes up a super sweet historical romance in Blueberry Swirl Waltz. Katie had her own dreams and is forced to put her life on hold because she has to come home to help out at the family ice cream shop after her mom breaks her arm. I feel for her, because it's so hard when you have to make such sacrifices for your parents. Plus her mom just doesn't seem to have much faith in Katie's dreams.
Her life gets complicated when Chaz reappears in her life. He was crush-worthy back in high school and not much has changed. He's very suave but I do keep a side eye at home because he can be almost too charming, until he is able to prove himself as worthy. Don't worry, it's nothing too sinister. But he definitely shakes up her world in many ways.
Katie is the one who grows the most over this story. She is able to reach deep within herself to rediscover that independence and creativity and persevere through the crazy curveballs being thrown her direction. Her success is definitely the cherry on top of her new life.
You definitely fall back in time as you read this book. I could almost picture it being my parents having these interactions. It really is super sweet. I read it quickly in one evening.
Thank you to the Goddess Fish for fulfilling my review request for this title. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Her life gets complicated when Chaz reappears in her life. He was crush-worthy back in high school and not much has changed. He's very suave but I do keep a side eye at home because he can be almost too charming, until he is able to prove himself as worthy. Don't worry, it's nothing too sinister. But he definitely shakes up her world in many ways.
Katie is the one who grows the most over this story. She is able to reach deep within herself to rediscover that independence and creativity and persevere through the crazy curveballs being thrown her direction. Her success is definitely the cherry on top of her new life.
You definitely fall back in time as you read this book. I could almost picture it being my parents having these interactions. It really is super sweet. I read it quickly in one evening.
Thank you to the Goddess Fish for fulfilling my review request for this title. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 13, 2020
Thoughts: This is a short (novella length), sweet romance that takes place in the 1950s. Katie has finally landed her dream job in the big city—teaching dance at an “Arthur Murry” type studio. When she goes home to her small town to tell her family, she finds nothing but turmoil. Her mother has injured herself, the family might lose their business and their home unless Katie takes over. So she says goodbye to the city and stays home to help. Chaz, Katie’s high school crush is back home as well and the attraction goes both ways now. The author’s world building is very well done. You are back in the 50s with record players and jitterbugs. The story is a quick read and has a satisfying ending that will make you smile.
What I liked: Katie’s can-do attitude. The author did an amazing job of building the character. Even though it’s the 1950s, Katie is a strong female who doesn’t let obstacles stand in her way.
What I didn’t like: Nothing. This is a cute, sweet story with a HEA that satisfies.
Recommendation: Grab a bowl of your favorite ice cream and enjoy this quick read.
Disclaimer: I received this book in exchange for an honest review. My opinions are my own and are not influenced by anyone or anything.
What I liked: Katie’s can-do attitude. The author did an amazing job of building the character. Even though it’s the 1950s, Katie is a strong female who doesn’t let obstacles stand in her way.
What I didn’t like: Nothing. This is a cute, sweet story with a HEA that satisfies.
Recommendation: Grab a bowl of your favorite ice cream and enjoy this quick read.
Disclaimer: I received this book in exchange for an honest review. My opinions are my own and are not influenced by anyone or anything.
June 25, 2020
I went through this book as quickly as I would a blueberry swirl sundae! It swept me up as quickly as the jitterbug and kept me turning the pages until I hit the end.
I love this era. Reading about the pies, clothing and mannerisms made the people and places so vivid and memorable. Katie managed to leave her small home town for Trenton NJ and was about to start her dream career when her mother requires her assistance to keep the ice cream business afloat. So Katie moves back. During her time scooping ice cream, she reacquaints herself with Chaz, the handsome untouchable boy who was the popular high school quarterback, and now is just as handsome and Princeton educated. Next thing you know she’s teaching him dance moves and falling in love. Katie is headstrong and creative which causes some issues along the way, but nothing to hold her back.
Beautiful story, fantastic setting and a happy ending. Loved it.
Thank you Voracious Readers Only for the complimentary copy of this book.
I love this era. Reading about the pies, clothing and mannerisms made the people and places so vivid and memorable. Katie managed to leave her small home town for Trenton NJ and was about to start her dream career when her mother requires her assistance to keep the ice cream business afloat. So Katie moves back. During her time scooping ice cream, she reacquaints herself with Chaz, the handsome untouchable boy who was the popular high school quarterback, and now is just as handsome and Princeton educated. Next thing you know she’s teaching him dance moves and falling in love. Katie is headstrong and creative which causes some issues along the way, but nothing to hold her back.
Beautiful story, fantastic setting and a happy ending. Loved it.
Thank you Voracious Readers Only for the complimentary copy of this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 6, 2020
loved this story right from the first word. I liked that it’s set in the early 1950s, which is an era we don’t get a chance to read about all that often. The heroine, Katie Hathaway, is such a likeable character, on the verge of making a major dream come true when the book begins. As so often in life, though, events intervene. Does Katie moan and complain? No, she gets on with helping her family and making the best of things.
I liked the hero, Chaz Hollander, too. Unlike Katie, he’s enjoyed a lot of privilege in his life, but that hasn’t affected the man he is, inside. A number of misunderstandings had me hoping against hope these two would find a way to get together. I won’t spoil things by saying if or how their differences work out. One of the best parts of the book is how believable it was. A great and enjoyable read for summer or any time.
I liked the hero, Chaz Hollander, too. Unlike Katie, he’s enjoyed a lot of privilege in his life, but that hasn’t affected the man he is, inside. A number of misunderstandings had me hoping against hope these two would find a way to get together. I won’t spoil things by saying if or how their differences work out. One of the best parts of the book is how believable it was. A great and enjoyable read for summer or any time.
July 10, 2020
When at first life goes in a different direction than you planned, take a detour.
Katie has always dreamed of getting out of the small town and becoming a ballroom instructor, to later participate in ballroom competitions. When she lands the job of her dreams, fate takes a different turn when her mom breaks her arm. With no one else to take over the ice cream shop, she drops everything to help out her mom’s business. However, fate takes a right turn the moment Chaz Hollander steps foot in the shop.
This book had everything. From heart-warming family scenes to sizzling, romantic chemistry to a strong, feisty heroine willing to go the distance to save her family’s business from foreclosure. I enjoyed every moment of this book. Definitely recommend!
Katie has always dreamed of getting out of the small town and becoming a ballroom instructor, to later participate in ballroom competitions. When she lands the job of her dreams, fate takes a different turn when her mom breaks her arm. With no one else to take over the ice cream shop, she drops everything to help out her mom’s business. However, fate takes a right turn the moment Chaz Hollander steps foot in the shop.
This book had everything. From heart-warming family scenes to sizzling, romantic chemistry to a strong, feisty heroine willing to go the distance to save her family’s business from foreclosure. I enjoyed every moment of this book. Definitely recommend!
June 20, 2020
Part of the One Scoop or Two series, a well written story with a very good storyline. This is the first book by this Author that I have read, I want to read more by her. Katie Hathaway is a caring, loving daughter who comes back to her hometown to help her Mother. Katie meets Chaz Hollander who she went to school with. There is a dance coming up and Chaz wants to take Kate, but he does not know how to dance. Thus begins Katie giving people dance lessons, but there is one person that will try to cause trouble. I enjoyed reading this book. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 27, 2020
This was a feel-good book. It’s about a young woman leaving her career and coming home to help her mother run the family business, an ice cream shoppe obviously. Well, actually an ice cream shop and more. This is not a heavy, deep book. It’s a quick read. It has characters you can’t help but love or hate.
But deep down there’s a little more to this book than you would think. There’s a little romance but fortunately only the clean kind. Yet there are issues, small and big. Things you might expect to find in a book like this but still things to make you feel, even think about.
Enjoyable read all around. Maria Imbalzano has several other publications. All have good reviews.
But deep down there’s a little more to this book than you would think. There’s a little romance but fortunately only the clean kind. Yet there are issues, small and big. Things you might expect to find in a book like this but still things to make you feel, even think about.
Enjoyable read all around. Maria Imbalzano has several other publications. All have good reviews.
June 4, 2020
What a wonderful read reflecting all the charms but also some of the struggles of the 50's. As a young girl my mother and I rode a bus into Trenton every week so I could take ballet,tap, and social dance lessons. After my lesson we would stop for ice cream before going home. Maria Imbalzano's novel stirred in me many memories of my youth but also the struggles of young women to be recognized in a world dominated by men. The setting was the 50's but the emotionally component still relevant today.
July 28, 2020
A quick sweet read. Katie was loyal to her family, willing to give up her dreams as she saw them, and I loved her for that. She had the strength to find ways to make her plans to help unfold, and I enjoyed her ingenuity. Chaz was gentlemanly at times, but he was wrapped up in his job. When things became more evident, their love and sense of honor, loyalty, and family made their love stronger. I enjoyed this story and recommend it.
I received an ARC through Goddess Fish Promotions, and this is my unsolicited review.
I received an ARC through Goddess Fish Promotions, and this is my unsolicited review.
July 4, 2020
The Blueberry Swirl Waltz is an engaging, sweet romance that had me hooked from the beginning. Katie is a great character, selfless and kind, smart and resourceful. And Chaz is the perfect romance hero. I loved their relationship and how they came together for their happy ending. The emotion and descriptions were very well written. I felt everything the characters felt and could almost taste the ice cream. If you want a short, compelling read, check out this story.
July 21, 2020
The Blueberry Swirl Waltz is part of the One Scoop or Two series. It is, also, the first book I have read by Maria Imbalzano. I thought this quick read to be fun and entertaining. I adored Katie right from the start. It was a delight to read the interactions between her and Chaz. I loved it.
I am giving The Blueberry Swirl Waltz four and a half stars. I would love to read more by this author in the future.
I received this book from the publisher. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.
I am giving The Blueberry Swirl Waltz four and a half stars. I would love to read more by this author in the future.
I received this book from the publisher. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.
June 2, 2020
A sweet and savory novella set in the 1950s. The heroine is a young woman who dreams of dancing professionally, but is unexpectedly called back to her small hometown to help her family at their ice cream store. This story is full of romance, family love, and small town living that will have readers reaching for more. A great summer beach/pool read, I finished it in 2 days!
June 22, 2020
This is a delightful but heart-felt, tender romance tale. It's definitely perfect for a summer evening!
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