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Crimson Crisp
Duped, cut-off, and dragged upstate, Avery Sterling arrives at her uncle’s apple orchard wearing nothing but a cocktail dress and a chip on her shoulder. Forced to surrender her posh plans, she’s determined to prove her father wrong and make the best of the summer, but that might be harder than she expected when she’s paired with a grumpy farmhand who wants nothing to do with her.
Returning for his fifth season, Jonah is desperate to lose himself in arduous labor, hoping it will keep the memories at bay. Responsible for training the new hire, he has no interest in getting to know her, especially after their first encounter stirs emotions he thought were good and buried.
Will they stick to their rigid convictions and run from the building tension between them? Or will they let go of their difficult pasts and find themselves swept up in the magic of the orchard? After all, no one said falling in love, like the harvest, would be easy.
Returning for his fifth season, Jonah is desperate to lose himself in arduous labor, hoping it will keep the memories at bay. Responsible for training the new hire, he has no interest in getting to know her, especially after their first encounter stirs emotions he thought were good and buried.
Will they stick to their rigid convictions and run from the building tension between them? Or will they let go of their difficult pasts and find themselves swept up in the magic of the orchard? After all, no one said falling in love, like the harvest, would be easy.
- GenresRomance
249 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 31, 2023
52 people are currently reading
321 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
August 23, 2023
Full Disclosure: I was the editor for this book. 😊
I absolutely loved this book! That’s saying a lot because I’m not really a tremendous contemporary romance reader. The banter between the characters was excellent. The spicy scenes were delicious. The characters were distinct and believable. I can totally tell this one was a work of heart, and I loved the ending. If you like contemporary romance with heat, definitely check this one out. ❤️
I absolutely loved this book! That’s saying a lot because I’m not really a tremendous contemporary romance reader. The banter between the characters was excellent. The spicy scenes were delicious. The characters were distinct and believable. I can totally tell this one was a work of heart, and I loved the ending. If you like contemporary romance with heat, definitely check this one out. ❤️
October 24, 2024
2.5 ⭐️
The story felt rushed and ended quite abruptly. I wish we spent more time with the characters and saw more of their HEA.
The story felt rushed and ended quite abruptly. I wish we spent more time with the characters and saw more of their HEA.
November 19, 2023
Sexy, spicy romance. I was hooked as soon as I read about f-ing Todd on page one. I loved the personalities of the characters and there were parts of the book that seriously surprised me. I could not put this book down. This is a must for your book shelf.
March 13, 2024
Captivating
Came across the Author at a local craft show. From the first page I couldn't put it down. Well worth the read. Excited to read her other books.
Came across the Author at a local craft show. From the first page I couldn't put it down. Well worth the read. Excited to read her other books.
September 3, 2023
I have always loved Caytlyns books but most of the time they are in the horror/psychological thriller realm. So this was new to her and honestly, me too. :)
You have your high society woman who lives off daddies money who comes to work on a farm to prove herself to her father. Then we have good ol’ grumpy gills Jonah with all kinds of past trauma.
While this is a romance story at heart with all kinds of tension and spice, it’s also got a somber father/daughter/family relationship story going on as well. You have Avery trying to figure out who she is, not what she is expected to be and I think that only added to the entire plot.
If you want a beautiful romance as well as family story but also lots of spice- then I highly recommend this amazing book 🥰
You have your high society woman who lives off daddies money who comes to work on a farm to prove herself to her father. Then we have good ol’ grumpy gills Jonah with all kinds of past trauma.
While this is a romance story at heart with all kinds of tension and spice, it’s also got a somber father/daughter/family relationship story going on as well. You have Avery trying to figure out who she is, not what she is expected to be and I think that only added to the entire plot.
If you want a beautiful romance as well as family story but also lots of spice- then I highly recommend this amazing book 🥰
January 26, 2024
This read was so much spicier than I expected, and I ate up the pages! Loved reading Avery and Jonah's story. Now craving apple pie 🥧
July 28, 2025
this book will be sentimental to me because it’s a local author that I got on my one year wedding anniversary trip to the finger lakes!! It was a cute read about local upstate new york culture. However the dialogue was choppy and the plot line was very random at times.
January 10, 2024
A beautiful journey of self discovery and self love
First and foremost, I debated between four or five stars. I ultimately went with 5 stars because the good stuff was just so good and the stuff I didn’t like as much, I can forgive.
Is there a better trope than city girl and country boy? If there is, I’ve yet to find it. The contrasting worlds works excellent here, with learning being done on both sides as they strive to understand one another, with often frustrating and hilarious results!
Avery took me a while to warm up to because, well, she starts out as a spoiled, rich brat. But the story OWNS that. No excuses, no trying to explain it away. It’s a fact and one that drives the character’s development—which, by the way—-I adored. It was slow and gradual, exactly the way development should be.
And don’t be fooled, there is spice in here. More than I expected, honestly, but I think it’s done well most of the time and suits the story the author is trying to tell.
The relationship between Jonah and Avery is real—messy, full of mistakes, but ultimately genuine and authentic, which makes their sweet moments and triumphs so delicious to behold.
If you want a romance with sugar, spice but still like sampling of the naughty, Crimson Crisp will delight.
First and foremost, I debated between four or five stars. I ultimately went with 5 stars because the good stuff was just so good and the stuff I didn’t like as much, I can forgive.
Is there a better trope than city girl and country boy? If there is, I’ve yet to find it. The contrasting worlds works excellent here, with learning being done on both sides as they strive to understand one another, with often frustrating and hilarious results!
Avery took me a while to warm up to because, well, she starts out as a spoiled, rich brat. But the story OWNS that. No excuses, no trying to explain it away. It’s a fact and one that drives the character’s development—which, by the way—-I adored. It was slow and gradual, exactly the way development should be.
And don’t be fooled, there is spice in here. More than I expected, honestly, but I think it’s done well most of the time and suits the story the author is trying to tell.
The relationship between Jonah and Avery is real—messy, full of mistakes, but ultimately genuine and authentic, which makes their sweet moments and triumphs so delicious to behold.
If you want a romance with sugar, spice but still like sampling of the naughty, Crimson Crisp will delight.
December 2, 2023
Steamy Opposites Attract
This was my first book to read by author Caytlyn Brooke. I appreciate the unique spin she seems to put on all of her books. I've never read a book set in an orchard before, let alone a naughty book set in an orchard!
Avery is definitely a stubborn, rich girl. But she's also a hard worker who just wants to be appreciated for her talents by her dad.. When he sends her to her uncle's farm for the summer to 'prove her work ethic', she surprises everyone by rolling up her sleeves, too and getting down dirty alongside the other farmhands.
Speaking of getting dirty, let's talk about Jonah. The grumpy farmhand who wants nothing to do with Miss Priss at first, or the task bestowed upon him by her uncle of 'showing her the ropes' at the orchard. At first, it's nothing more than a chore to him. That is, until the sight of her in daisy dukes starts to drive him a little mad. It's been a while since our man Jonah has gotten any action and the feisty city girl may be more his type than what he initially thought. She also may be just what he needs to break out of his rut.
Avery and Jonah run circles around each other, both physically and emotionally, playing games of hot and cold, until they can take it no longer. They unintentionally become a spectacle to everyone else at the farm.
I liked how Avery was kind of a female player. It goes against the typical stereotype you see in most books. I also found it refreshing, that Jonah became emotionally open quicker than Avery did. Marissa was sort of Jonah's right hand man in a sense, and she tried to give him advice, although it wasn't always good advice. Mac seemed like a good 'ol boy, a young stud whose story I'd like to know more about. Avery's uncle Stan and aunt Carrie were the closest thing Avery had to loving, parental figures, and they were essential to the story and Avery. I enjoyed the way they helped her and offered her comfort when she needed it. Avery's dad completely sucked and so did freaking Todd! LOL
The orchard sex scene, during a thunderstorm, and in the rain was pretty hot! I liked how towards the end, Avery realizes that she found happiness where she least expected it, not in the city, stuck behind a desk, but in the country, free as an unbridled horse. I liked the HEA, too, the whole Adam and Eve thing theme was a nice touch.
All in all, this was a sweet and spicy slow burn, with a juicy theme.
This was my first book to read by author Caytlyn Brooke. I appreciate the unique spin she seems to put on all of her books. I've never read a book set in an orchard before, let alone a naughty book set in an orchard!
Avery is definitely a stubborn, rich girl. But she's also a hard worker who just wants to be appreciated for her talents by her dad.. When he sends her to her uncle's farm for the summer to 'prove her work ethic', she surprises everyone by rolling up her sleeves, too and getting down dirty alongside the other farmhands.
Speaking of getting dirty, let's talk about Jonah. The grumpy farmhand who wants nothing to do with Miss Priss at first, or the task bestowed upon him by her uncle of 'showing her the ropes' at the orchard. At first, it's nothing more than a chore to him. That is, until the sight of her in daisy dukes starts to drive him a little mad. It's been a while since our man Jonah has gotten any action and the feisty city girl may be more his type than what he initially thought. She also may be just what he needs to break out of his rut.
Avery and Jonah run circles around each other, both physically and emotionally, playing games of hot and cold, until they can take it no longer. They unintentionally become a spectacle to everyone else at the farm.
I liked how Avery was kind of a female player. It goes against the typical stereotype you see in most books. I also found it refreshing, that Jonah became emotionally open quicker than Avery did. Marissa was sort of Jonah's right hand man in a sense, and she tried to give him advice, although it wasn't always good advice. Mac seemed like a good 'ol boy, a young stud whose story I'd like to know more about. Avery's uncle Stan and aunt Carrie were the closest thing Avery had to loving, parental figures, and they were essential to the story and Avery. I enjoyed the way they helped her and offered her comfort when she needed it. Avery's dad completely sucked and so did freaking Todd! LOL
The orchard sex scene, during a thunderstorm, and in the rain was pretty hot! I liked how towards the end, Avery realizes that she found happiness where she least expected it, not in the city, stuck behind a desk, but in the country, free as an unbridled horse. I liked the HEA, too, the whole Adam and Eve thing theme was a nice touch.
All in all, this was a sweet and spicy slow burn, with a juicy theme.
September 10, 2023
I had a delightful experience reading "Crimson Crisp" by Caytlyn Brooke, and so excited for this author's dive into a new genre. While I don't typically read a lot of contemporary romance, this book won me over with its charming autumn vibes and a super cute romance.
One of the standout features of this novel was the palpable autumn atmosphere that enveloped the story. The vivid descriptions of the apple orchard, with its crimson leaves and crisp, cool air, made me feel like I was right there in the midst of the season. The author's ability to transport me to this autumnal setting added an extra layer of coziness and charm to the romance.
The chemistry between Avery and Jonah was undeniable, and their banter was a real highlight. It was the perfect blend of witty and endearing, keeping me thoroughly engaged in their budding relationship. The "spicy" scenes were tastefully done and added an exciting layer of passion to the story.
What I appreciated most was the author's dedication to crafting believable and relatable characters. Avery's journey of self-discovery, as she sought to break free from societal expectations, resonated with me. Her determination to prove herself added depth to the plot and made her growth throughout the story all the more satisfying.
This story felt like a labor of love, and I couldn't help but appreciate the heart and soul the author poured into it. The ending was absolutely lovely and left me with a warm, fuzzy feeling.
"Crimson Crisp" is a wonderful read that I'd highly recommend, especially if you're looking for a cute romance with a backdrop of enchanting autumn vibes. This book has all the right ingredients for a cozy and heartwarming escape into a world of love and apple orchards.
One of the standout features of this novel was the palpable autumn atmosphere that enveloped the story. The vivid descriptions of the apple orchard, with its crimson leaves and crisp, cool air, made me feel like I was right there in the midst of the season. The author's ability to transport me to this autumnal setting added an extra layer of coziness and charm to the romance.
The chemistry between Avery and Jonah was undeniable, and their banter was a real highlight. It was the perfect blend of witty and endearing, keeping me thoroughly engaged in their budding relationship. The "spicy" scenes were tastefully done and added an exciting layer of passion to the story.
What I appreciated most was the author's dedication to crafting believable and relatable characters. Avery's journey of self-discovery, as she sought to break free from societal expectations, resonated with me. Her determination to prove herself added depth to the plot and made her growth throughout the story all the more satisfying.
This story felt like a labor of love, and I couldn't help but appreciate the heart and soul the author poured into it. The ending was absolutely lovely and left me with a warm, fuzzy feeling.
"Crimson Crisp" is a wonderful read that I'd highly recommend, especially if you're looking for a cute romance with a backdrop of enchanting autumn vibes. This book has all the right ingredients for a cozy and heartwarming escape into a world of love and apple orchards.
November 28, 2024
Excellent! I went into it with no expectations. I was intrigued because it is set in my area of NY and I thought it would be a nice cozy read.....and it WAS!! The book is a refreshing, easy read. I read it in 2 days and probably would have in one sitting if life was not asking me to eat, sleep and go get groceries! I am very pleased with the author's voice. She writes very well and pulls you right into the story. I had heard that there was some spice, and there was and omg, it was great, but I am happy to say that it did not pull away from the plot at all. It was a small-town romance trope that I very much enjoyed. I recognized the apple orchard that it took place in. I have been there every year, for over 12 years with my kiddos and every year we got pics in that Adirondack chair that is mentioned in the book!
There is humor, great banter and some good laugh out loud moments. A great HEA. I have checked out other books by this author and have just purchased one about a gingerbread man that I think will be just as good!! If the author continues to write romances like this - she is going to be an auto-buy author for me!
There is humor, great banter and some good laugh out loud moments. A great HEA. I have checked out other books by this author and have just purchased one about a gingerbread man that I think will be just as good!! If the author continues to write romances like this - she is going to be an auto-buy author for me!
February 20, 2024
A crisp romance indeed
The author, normally recognized for her horror/thriller stories, has woven a fanciful rom-com set in upstate New York at an apple orchard. The orchard is run by the uncle of Avery and where she is sent by her father as a punishment. It may not be as much of a punishment as her father thinks because Avery has many fond memories from the last time she had stayed there. She also meets Jonah, one of her uncle’s workers, who is dealing with past heartache. The author has done an amazing job with her characters and the reader can feel the attraction between Avery and Jonah crackle like the lightning from a thunderstorm and when they finally give in to that attraction the actions have the sweet spicy burn of cinnamon in an apple pie. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and think you will too.
The author, normally recognized for her horror/thriller stories, has woven a fanciful rom-com set in upstate New York at an apple orchard. The orchard is run by the uncle of Avery and where she is sent by her father as a punishment. It may not be as much of a punishment as her father thinks because Avery has many fond memories from the last time she had stayed there. She also meets Jonah, one of her uncle’s workers, who is dealing with past heartache. The author has done an amazing job with her characters and the reader can feel the attraction between Avery and Jonah crackle like the lightning from a thunderstorm and when they finally give in to that attraction the actions have the sweet spicy burn of cinnamon in an apple pie. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and think you will too.
dnf
December 3, 2024Parts of this story were good and parts were ridiculous. Both main characters had some graphic fantasies and moments with each other, but it was a slow burn to the main event. Then things really got strange, and not in a good way. “… a stoic knight eager to service his queen. Yet, Avery…didn’t want the mild-mannered kisses of a serf forced into her bed. She’d rather them be equals, two servants rolling around hard and fast in the barn before the stable master sought them out.” There is a barn. They’re not in the barn. They’re outside in a thunderstorm. A few pages later fear leaps to her eyes but her pussy is salivating. “He would show her what happens to wild mares that needed to be broken…” What the overly dramatic hell is this rubbish? I’m out. DNF at 68%
June 14, 2024
It’s cute in a seasonal Netflix romantic movie kind of way.
*Spoiler*
Todd’s revenge was a bit over the top for the story but not utterly unbelievable either.
I am an avid dark romance reader, so take my review as you will. If you’re looking for smut, I wouldn’t recommend this one. However if you are looking for a cozy romance with a spicy scene or two, I would recommend this.
The story is cute and an easy read. Something I needed after finishing the Throne of Glass series.
Storyline: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
*Spoiler*
Todd’s revenge was a bit over the top for the story but not utterly unbelievable either.
I am an avid dark romance reader, so take my review as you will. If you’re looking for smut, I wouldn’t recommend this one. However if you are looking for a cozy romance with a spicy scene or two, I would recommend this.
The story is cute and an easy read. Something I needed after finishing the Throne of Glass series.
Storyline: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 13, 2024
4.5 stars! This book is everything Hallmark movies wish they could show on camera.
My heart broke for Jonah when we finally realize why his last relationship ended. It was, however, refreshing for the MMC to be going through that type of trauma.
Avery fits the bill of a Hallmark superstar, but not in an overly cheese way. She's got her own daddy issues to push through and does it with the grace of a bull in a China Shop.
I loved this book. It will be going in on my rotations of "pick me up" re-reads.
My heart broke for Jonah when we finally realize why his last relationship ended. It was, however, refreshing for the MMC to be going through that type of trauma.
Avery fits the bill of a Hallmark superstar, but not in an overly cheese way. She's got her own daddy issues to push through and does it with the grace of a bull in a China Shop.
I loved this book. It will be going in on my rotations of "pick me up" re-reads.
July 21, 2024
Shewwe don’t let this cute cover fool you! I absolutely adored this book! From the very start you know the FMC is going to be a total fire cracker and she knows what she wants and she’s got no problem working for it. The MMC is an absolute golden retriever who has had his heart broken and deserves to have his own slice of happiness. These two are the most unlikely couple but make are the perfect fit! They will have you laughing from all the banter and clutching your invisible pearls from the spice! Such a sweet and spicy little romcom! You don’t want to pass this one up!
December 20, 2024
I am a sucker for romance books. This one felt almost young adult to me which is totally fine. I guess I was expecting a little more. Overall, I think it was a good story. My only complaint is how the book ended. It felt so sudden and I didn’t even realize it was the ending until I turned the page and it was over. It just felt like there was some more things that needed to be resolved. Maybe a second book in the making?
October 2, 2023
I purchased this book directly from the author. From the opening pages, I was hooked. This is a well-written, delightful, story with dialogue that will make you wince, laugh out loud, and possibly shed a tear or two. I have read one of Brooke's other books, but this one is different and so much fun! I hope she keeps writing romantic comedy!
February 14, 2024
Love it!
I loved the book. I don't have alot of time to read but this book kept me wanting more. I found myself in any down time I had, reading it. Even during those middle of the night feedings for my son, I sat there reading. It was so nice it was on kindle because it gave me more time to read. I would read this again and again
I loved the book. I don't have alot of time to read but this book kept me wanting more. I found myself in any down time I had, reading it. Even during those middle of the night feedings for my son, I sat there reading. It was so nice it was on kindle because it gave me more time to read. I would read this again and again
November 9, 2024
Awesome love story
I had the pleasure to meet Caytlyn at a local event. She recommended this book to me as I am from her local area. This book takes place 30 mins from me and I really enjoyed reading it and seeing all the local places talked about.
The story itself is incredible. Join Avery and Jonah as they both battle their own demons and find the love they both crave.
I had the pleasure to meet Caytlyn at a local event. She recommended this book to me as I am from her local area. This book takes place 30 mins from me and I really enjoyed reading it and seeing all the local places talked about.
The story itself is incredible. Join Avery and Jonah as they both battle their own demons and find the love they both crave.
September 20, 2023
Absolutely adorable fall read. Avery and Jonah are immediately likable, their banter is tense and steamy. You can’t help but root for their happiness. I highly recommend you add to your fall list. Caytlyn nailed it.
January 11, 2024
A delicious read. The first chapter had me hooked. Especially since the story is located in my backyard! I even learned a thing or two that happens in my area.
The sex scenes were hot. A little hard to picture some of the action but overall a good read!
The sex scenes were hot. A little hard to picture some of the action but overall a good read!
January 21, 2024
Crackling with sexual tension as crisp as a freshly ripened Red Delicious on an autumn afternoon, Crimson Crisp is sizzling escape fare. Think steamy Hallmark movie for adults replete with vivid scenery, tormented characters, and an ending as satisfying as that first bite into a fresh apple.
October 3, 2024
Very hallmarky but very good if you're into that. A LOT of spice and detail so be prepared haha. Plot twists at the end I didn't see coming. A good, quick read that immerses you into the fingerlakes countryside
September 19, 2023
Fantastic book! The growth in the characters, the plot, the spiciness! And a twist toward the end. I definitely want a spinoff of one of the characters
February 1, 2024
Such a good, spicy little book! I loved all of the characters, especially how Avery developed. Little surprise at the end that I wasn’t expecting to happen. Overall, easy, delicious romance.
October 5, 2024
This was good enough. I just struggle not getting bored with most contemporary romance
February 15, 2025
A great romance! The fun part for me was that the story is placed in the area where I grew up and live.
Read
April 21, 2025Rating: 3 1/2
August 24, 2025
I loved the story line and it was an easy read.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews