The Brick House Cafe

Haven Ridge #0.5

by Carla Laureano

**Welcome to Haven Ridge, Colorado—a fading town that might just have a little magic left...**

Travel writer Mallory Adams accepted her latest assignment on the mountain towns of southern Colorado in the hopes it would offer an escape from all the recent failures in her life—quitting her history graduate studies, losing her apartment, being dumped by her boyfriend for another woman. So when a series of mishaps lands her in the dying town of Haven Ridge, it feels more like a punishment than an opportunity.

Thomas Rivas returned home after a personal tragedy to find Haven Ridge much diminished. But when a plucky and beautiful writer blows into his family’s cafe—something that his mystic-minded Granny Pearl claims is no accident—it seems like the chance to put the town back on the map. Soon Thomas makes it his mission to make Mallory fall in love with Haven Ridge and its fascinating, forgotten past—he just doesn’t expect to lose his own heart in the bargain.

With its quirky cast of characters, sweet love-after-loss romance, and small-town mystery, *The Brick House Cafe* reminds us that it’s never too late to believe in the magic of second chances.

Genres: Contemporary Romance, Contemporary, Christian Fiction, Romance

166 pages, ebook

First published February 1, 2023

About the author

Carla Laureano is the RITA® Award-winning author of contemporary inspirational romance and Celtic fantasy (as C.E. Laureano). A graduate of Pepperdine University, she worked as a sales and marketing executive for nearly a decade before leaving corporate life behind to write fiction full-time. She currently lives in Denver with her husband and two sons, where she writes during the day and cooks things at night.

Reviews

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

THE BRICK HOUSE CAFE by Carla Laureano is the perfect way to spend the afternoon which is what I just did. THE BRICK HOUSE CAFE is where Mallory finds herself in front of when her GPS goes crazy and has her driving in circles. This story captured my imagination and heart from the very first page and I’m so excited to continue this series.

THE BRICK HOUSE CAFE is a short novella that is the beginning of a new series called Haven Ridge, which is a town in Colorado. Mallory is on her way to Salida Colorado to write up a story of the city for a magazine article she has been commissioned to write. After giving up on her GPS she decides to go into THE BRICK HOUSE CAFE for something to eat. There she meets Thomas who runs the cafe. Through some conversation she learns a bit if the history of Haven Ridge and meets his grandmother, Pearl, who is the town historian. As she goes to resume her trip to Salida, her car won’t start! Of course there are no hotels, but there is a furnished apartment above the cafe! Mallory is about to do a complete turn around of her life plans only she doesn’t know it yet!

I normally don’t like magical realism, but it’s a small part of THE BRICK HOUSE CAFE. Both Mallory and Thomas are healing after heartbreak. I’m so excited to continue with this series and learn about the other people in Haven Ridge, A small town where everyone knows everyone else and its hard to keep a secret. THE BRICK HOUSE CAFE is a perfect small town romance that captures the reader’s heart and never lets it go. My heart really ached for Mallory and Thomas and I found myself hoping they could be happy once again. I sure hope they show up again in another upcoming story. I would love an update on them!

[Rosalyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Short, Sweet story that is an introductory novella for a brand new series.

A hint of magical realism (i think that is what it is called?!) is woven into the story.
I really liked the characters and am excited to read the sequel.



Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review, and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

[Heidi Robbins (Heidi Reads...) · Rating 5 out of 5]

This prequel novella in the Haven Ridge series was a perfect introduction to the small Colorado town, through the eyes of the stranded Mallory. She's at a crossroads in her life, and her optimism combined with a curious mind for history appreciated the story of the women who founded the town. Thomas is standoffish at first, but when we get his perspective we discover why. I enjoyed their time together and the way Mallory helps Thomas open up to a relationship in his future. Mallory is more confused because of the options before her career-wise, but Haven Ridge's magic works it's charm and all Mallory has to do is be open to new possibilities.

Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.

[Leah · Rating 3 out of 5]

June

This story is a clean romance with magical realism. I normally don't like magical realism, but it's a small part of this story, so it didn't bother me this time. Both main characters are healing after heartbreak. The story is about them moving on. It's a quick read, so everything happens fast. The bulk of the story is set over a weekend. I think this will be a nice setup for the series.

[Courtney Clark · Rating 4 out of 5]

This novella introduces us to a new setting for Carla Laureano's upcoming series: "Haven Ridge", Colorado, a fictional small town Carla has constructed with charm and history. In this story, I love how it's portrayed with a good understanding of the appeal and community of small town life... and maybe just a hint of magic or myth as to the town's own agenda for its inhabitants :)

The relationship between Mallory and Thomas (a beta hero!) is one I was invested in from the start, especially considering how their insta-attraction and providential circumstances lead to some deep conversations early on. I like the way they recognize each other's past hurts and relate on many emotional levels, making their connection naturally lead to romance even as the circumstances of their meeting seem happenstance.

I appreciate the way the story and characters find a hopeful ending, which I'm glad to know is just the beginning of a series and more from this Colorado community -- and hopefully more of Granny Pearl's wisdom and fun!

[Beth | Faithfully Bookish · Rating 5 out of 5]

Yummy quick read with an interesting dash of magical realism granting this sweet mountain town (in a slow decline) the spotlight in a way that hints at a vague sense of personality or fate. Laureano nails the emotional journey of each character and the kisses! I am definitely looking forward to reading this series. It is off to a great start!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author as a newsletter subscriber. The opinions expressed are my own.

[MJSH · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this prequel novella to Haven Ridge series. Mallory and Thomas are such delightful characters and their romance is so lovely. There is an aura of the supernatural in the town and also in Grandma Pearl (Thomas’ grandmother) which adds to the charm of the book.
Haven Ridge has already taken residence in my heart and I can’t wait to meet the others in town.
I received the book from the author and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinion is my own.

[Erin Lundvall · Rating 4 out of 5]

A simply sweet romance that left me anticipating the new series and what might happen in the small town of Haven Ridge where it takes place. I sorta wished that this novella had been book one because I felt invested in the characters I just met. I hope Mallory and Thomas reappear in later books.

[CarolynB · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this story, and I can't wait to read the rest of the series!

[Lucinda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really adorable story of second chances. Perfect intro to a new series.

[Melanie · Rating 2 out of 5]

This was just an okay read for me. Didn't really like the romance or magical aspects of the town. Just not what I was expecting in a contemporary romance. It was a quick read, though.

[nidah05 (SleepDreamWrite) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I hadn't heard of this book before. As I was browsing the bookshelves at the library, I saw this. The cover and story drew me in. I like the characters, the setting and story was really good. A good start to a new series I might read more from. A quick cozy read.

[Rena S · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.75

Cute feel-good short story.

[Clwseattle · Rating 4 out of 5]

I discovered The Brick House Cafe existed immediately after reading The Broken Hearts Bakery. Thank you to Carla Laureano for free access to it through her website.

The Brick House Cafe covers a bit of Haven Ridge's history and mixes in family ties and a lost, both literally and in life, historian. They both have memories that sadden their past and yet are drawn to each other. They both hope it's the beginning of something more.

The only problem I have with their story in The Brick House Cafe is that it is just their beginning but in The Broken Hearts Bakery they have advanced much further in their relationship. I was left wondering how they got so much farther. Were there missteps or roadblocks along the way? We don't get to read or react to their progression.

As with her other books I've read, Ms. Laureano shows her love and talent for magical small towns.

4 Stars for The Brick House Cafe. i look forward to more stories from Haven Ridge.

[Michele · Rating 3 out of 5]

An enjoyable book with a tiny bit of a mystical element. Mallory is a young woman who is trying to move forward after a failed relationship and an interruption in her graduate studies. She has driven to Colorado with the aim of writing stories about some of the towns there. She is trying to make it to one touristy town when her car/GPS lands her instead in a small, dying town - Haven Ridge. There she meets Thomas, an artist and a widower, who is now running the family business - The Brick House Cafe. Thomas's grandmother, Pearl, is where the bit of mysticism comes in as she is convinced that Mallory is just what the town and Thomas needs. Some nice characters and a message of second chances. No sex or profanity. Looking forward to the next book in the series.

[Sherry Deatrick · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mallory is strangely led her by her usually accurate GPS to Haven Ridge, a small declining town in Colorado. Here she meets Thomas and his Granny.
Mallory is search of many things a job, security, a home, a purpose. All of which she begins to wonder if she might may discover in this little town. Lots of mysterious things (or are they coincidences) keep happening to her.

And I love that this story is set in Colorado. Carla always makes her Colorado stories feel like going home yet adventurous at the same time.
I loved the characters, the mystery and the magic in this tale.
I love the bit of supernatural that fuels this story.
I'm really looking forward to the rest of this series.

[Susie Sellner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Having first read The Broken Hearts Bakery before its prequel--The Brick House Cafe, I was so eager to learn the backstory, I dove into The Brick House Cafe and enjoyed it immensely. The characters are delightful! Mallory Adams, a travel writer, ends up in Haven Ridge, Colorado, a dying town, even though she was supposed to write about another town somewhat nearby. Thomas serves her in the cafe, sees that her broken-down car is repaired, and provides lodging for her until her vehicle is usable again. He gives her a tour of the town, and thus begins their relationship. You'll enjoy reading about Haven Ridge and getting to know Mallory and Thomas, who both show up in The Broken Hearts Bakery.

[Sue M. Van · Rating 5 out of 5]

First of all, the cover of this book is enough to peak my interest. Then I got to reading and couldn't put the story down. For those interested in history to go back to the 1800's. this is the story for you. I love history and I love those who delve into it. Even if all it is is fictional, it's still something worth reading. Plus, when you throw in a bit of a love story between two people who really need it, and you've got the makings of a best seller. So, upon my recommendation, please take a moment to read this story. It is worth your time.

[Andrea Cox · Rating 3 out of 5]

Genres: General Market, Contemporary, Magical Realism, Romance

Loved the theme of choosing selflessness in a selfish world—so timely!

There seemed to be an obsession with the physical: skinny-dipping mentioned multiple times, kissing soon after meeting, physical reactions to one another, etc.

The quaint town was charming, but I didn’t like the magic of it.

The historian angle was fantastic.

Content: living together unwed, teen drinking (treated as “normal” teen behavior), skinny-dipping (treated as “normal” teen behavior)

[Shonda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book! I was pulled in from page one, the characters and small Colorado town made me want to go visit. The building romance along with the struggles to find themselves again after past loss kept me rooting for Thomas and Mallory. A rich history in the town may be all they need to rescue this small town from ruin, I can't wait to read the next book and see what happens in this sleepy little town and hopefully more romances that bloom. Couldn’t put this book down!

[Gretchen Louise · Rating 3 out of 5]

This novella is a charming introduction to the intriguing history of the town of Haven Ridge! When travel writer Mallory Adams breaks down in small town Colorado, she finds a different story than the one she set out to write.

A fun small town romance! And because the author is Carla Laureano, we want to eat everything on The Brick House Cafe’s menu right along with Mallory.

(Grab the novella for free at Carla’s website.)

[Chelsea · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a great novella. Normally, I don't like instalove, but with the magical realism aspect, it fit really well! I liked that both MCs were developed pretty well, for a novella. And the grandma was a great character. The tale of the town's beginning was cute, and I liked that Mallory wanted to help save it. It had a sweet ending, and led into the next book well (I've already read it). I'm looking forward to more in this series!

Content: clean.

[Tamara · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Brick House Cafe was a lovely full-fledged if only a novella, it felt like a fleshed-out novel that ended all too soon. Thomas and Mallory meet at just the right time but they're both kind of in limbo and are both ready to take the next step; they need some help and that came in the form of Granny Pearl who prods her grandson to take a risk. This is a clean read.

[Patty · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very enjoyable and cozy read. Just a touch a “magic” to bring the protagonists together. It’s a sweet, clean novella. Nothing more than kissing. A lovely intro to Haven Ridge, and I’m looking forward to the first full novel in this new series. I hope we get to see more of Mallory and Thomas as we meet other couples in the town.

[Mahala · Rating 4 out of 5]

An intriguing prequel to the upcoming series, this novella tells the story of Mallory Adams, an historian-turned-freelance writer, and Thomas, artist-turned-cafe owner, as well as the quirky town that seems determined to bring them together. History, a dash of mystery, and an extra helping of romance has me hooked and waiting for the first full-length installment.

[Christine Cyphers · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoy all of Carla Laureano’s writing. She has a true gift of helping a reader desire to visit the places she writes about, and even step into the characters shoes with whatever trade they pick up. This novella was short and sweet, with an air of mystery, and I can’t wait to get started on the next one!

[Kim Seaman · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wasn’t at all surprised to love another book by Carla! I definitely need to visit Haven Ridge and especially the Brick House Cafe- so it’s a bit disappointing they are fictional. Maybe I’ll just make a batch of liege waffles….and read this cozy story again. :)

[Kim · Rating 4 out of 5]

In this debut prequel to the Haven Ridge series, scenic descriptions leap from the page as they pass clever and realistic characters of the forlorn town. It's a grand introduction to the history and foundation of an idyllic location combined with residents' struggles and flaws.

[Vickie Escalante · Rating 4 out of 5]

A quick read to get us acquainted with Haven Ridge and Mallory and Thomas whom I assume will make more appearances in the following books. Sweet, fun, and quirky! And Grandma Pearl is a hoot! Definitely was the glue (or the instigator) in the town! Excited to dive into the next book in the series!

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well-drawn characters and a quirky town. I'm looking forward to the rest of the series!