What do you think?
Rate this book
Common Grounds
Can a lifestyle reporter and a coffee shop owner find love brewing between them? Or will their blend be too bitter to succeed?
Emery Darlis hates her job. She’s a journalist stuck writing feel-good local stories for a web magazine, and she’s grumpy about it. In fact, she’s going to burn out quickly if she doesn’t get to write something more interesting soon.
Trevor Kovacic’s coffee shop is failing. It’s the place that houses all the memories of his family, and it’s got two months, tops. He’s trying to stay positive, but he needs a miracle.
Emery and Trevor have nothing in common. That is, until they share an unforgettable one-night stand.
They never expect to see each other after that, until Emery makes a bold bet with her boss to write a viral feature, and they end up face to face. Again.
Desperate to win and intrigued by Trevor’s situation, Emery pitches a series of articles about his shop. They’ll have to work together, but that should be easy… if they can each stop thinking about that one, passionate night.
If you love dual point of view, grumpy/sunshine books where he falls first and they both fall hard, don’t miss this standalone romantic comedy. It will have you laughing out loud and crying tears of joy on an emotional journey to a happily ever after.
Emery Darlis hates her job. She’s a journalist stuck writing feel-good local stories for a web magazine, and she’s grumpy about it. In fact, she’s going to burn out quickly if she doesn’t get to write something more interesting soon.
Trevor Kovacic’s coffee shop is failing. It’s the place that houses all the memories of his family, and it’s got two months, tops. He’s trying to stay positive, but he needs a miracle.
Emery and Trevor have nothing in common. That is, until they share an unforgettable one-night stand.
They never expect to see each other after that, until Emery makes a bold bet with her boss to write a viral feature, and they end up face to face. Again.
Desperate to win and intrigued by Trevor’s situation, Emery pitches a series of articles about his shop. They’ll have to work together, but that should be easy… if they can each stop thinking about that one, passionate night.
If you love dual point of view, grumpy/sunshine books where he falls first and they both fall hard, don’t miss this standalone romantic comedy. It will have you laughing out loud and crying tears of joy on an emotional journey to a happily ever after.
344 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 4, 2024
59 people are currently reading
847 people want to read
About the author
Allie Samberts
13 books310 followersAllie Samberts is a romance writer, book lover, and high school English teacher. She was voted funniest teacher of the year for 2023 by her students, which is probably her highest honor to date. She is also a runner, and enjoys knitting and sewing. She lives in the Chicago suburbs with her husband, two kids, and a very loud beagle. You can follow her on Instagram @alliesambertswrites, read her blog at alliesamberts.substack.com, and get other updates at www.alliesamberts.com.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 284 reviews
August 2, 2024
I can't remember how I found this, but it ended up on my TBR because it had a cozy sounding vibe and after my last read put me in a bit of a slump, I was trying for more coziness. Common Grounds does have the cozy factor with a beautifully described setting of a multi-generational coffee shop and its gorgeous owner, Trevor (H), whose unfailing optimism won't keep his shop in business much longer, thanks Big Business competitors pushing out the lil guy. The book also has some frustrating moments with Emery (h), who gets her world rocked in a ONS with Trevor and then ends up using his coffee shop story in an article series she's writing to win a challenge with her boss at the lifestyle magazine job she hates. Trevor is enamored with Emery and she starts off trying to keep her distance, but can't help but melt for him (same, he was such a great MMC). These two have some rockiness in terms of will they/won't they for their relationship and for pulling off a save for Trevor's shop.
Written in first person, dual POV. No ow drama, small om drama when h does go out looking to maybe connect with someone else (nothing happens, but she also has a run-in with her ex on top of that), and both are experienced (not much history given other than H hadn't put himself out there much and h only had hook ups occasionally).
Where Trevor is all warmth and sparkle and carefully curated lattes, Emery is prickly and puts distance between herself and any potential for new relationships. Both of these characters are older (Emery is 37 and Trevor is 40) so yay for that representation, I just didn't feel like Emery read as mature as her age would suggest that she was. Her emotional hang-ups, while valid, encompassed her entire personality at times. She had a rough few years with a divorce, a layoff, and the implosion of her relationship with her parents, but she also had a lot of positives like a wonderful relationship with her sister, her childhood BFF being married to that sister, and supportive co-workers at the job she landed at. I understand that no angst/drama can sometimes drag a book down, Emery's angst just didn't work for me well unfortunately. But Trevor, sigh, he blushes AND gives her a nickname in Croatian that's precious. This book does have steamy times too and it's an area where they communicate and click well from the start at least.
The premise of helping Trevor save his shop from going under was intriguing, I didn't fully love the execution with the articles though. It felt like more was needed and even Emery thinks that at some point. It was lovely how side characters were so willing to jump in and help from Trevor's best friend hopping behind the counter to Emery's pregnant sister making him a business plan to the progression of Trevor's employee going from abysmal to actually helpful. The sense of community that Emery's articles capture also played out well on the pages. It was a little weird how often the sister and BFF referenced their bedroom activities in front of Emery, but they were such a cute couple I could forgive them.
There was one scene that truly did not work for me at all and I'll spoiler tag it:
The third act conflict is the culmination of Emery's insecurities and even when it's resolved in a sweet moment, I wondered if it would keep coming up. She really needed to talk to a therapist, not just her support system. We also get the work challenge and the coffee shop's future tied up with neat little bows. The ending is HFN with an adorable moment of them visiting Emery's new niece. I think there are a lot of positives in this story, there just wasn't a good match between my personal tastes and the FMC. It happens and I think others may be less frustrated with her and just be able to sink into the cozy parts.
Written in first person, dual POV. No ow drama, small om drama when h does go out looking to maybe connect with someone else (nothing happens, but she also has a run-in with her ex on top of that), and both are experienced (not much history given other than H hadn't put himself out there much and h only had hook ups occasionally).
Where Trevor is all warmth and sparkle and carefully curated lattes, Emery is prickly and puts distance between herself and any potential for new relationships. Both of these characters are older (Emery is 37 and Trevor is 40) so yay for that representation, I just didn't feel like Emery read as mature as her age would suggest that she was. Her emotional hang-ups, while valid, encompassed her entire personality at times. She had a rough few years with a divorce, a layoff, and the implosion of her relationship with her parents, but she also had a lot of positives like a wonderful relationship with her sister, her childhood BFF being married to that sister, and supportive co-workers at the job she landed at. I understand that no angst/drama can sometimes drag a book down, Emery's angst just didn't work for me well unfortunately. But Trevor, sigh, he blushes AND gives her a nickname in Croatian that's precious. This book does have steamy times too and it's an area where they communicate and click well from the start at least.
The premise of helping Trevor save his shop from going under was intriguing, I didn't fully love the execution with the articles though. It felt like more was needed and even Emery thinks that at some point. It was lovely how side characters were so willing to jump in and help from Trevor's best friend hopping behind the counter to Emery's pregnant sister making him a business plan to the progression of Trevor's employee going from abysmal to actually helpful. The sense of community that Emery's articles capture also played out well on the pages. It was a little weird how often the sister and BFF referenced their bedroom activities in front of Emery, but they were such a cute couple I could forgive them.
There was one scene that truly did not work for me at all and I'll spoiler tag it:
The third act conflict is the culmination of Emery's insecurities and even when it's resolved in a sweet moment, I wondered if it would keep coming up. She really needed to talk to a therapist, not just her support system. We also get the work challenge and the coffee shop's future tied up with neat little bows. The ending is HFN with an adorable moment of them visiting Emery's new niece. I think there are a lot of positives in this story, there just wasn't a good match between my personal tastes and the FMC. It happens and I think others may be less frustrated with her and just be able to sink into the cozy parts.
June 4, 2024
I had the privilege of alpha reading this book and it is an absolute delight.
Finding love when life has burned you. Finding inspiration when you’re stuck in a rut. Working hard to save something that matters to you, whether that’s your career or the family business you’ve been entrusted with. All these themes PLUS some hot whipped cream sex? Say less.
Trevor and Emery stole my heart and I’ll be forever grateful that I got to know them so early on. I can’t wait for the world to meet them!
Finding love when life has burned you. Finding inspiration when you’re stuck in a rut. Working hard to save something that matters to you, whether that’s your career or the family business you’ve been entrusted with. All these themes PLUS some hot whipped cream sex? Say less.
Trevor and Emery stole my heart and I’ll be forever grateful that I got to know them so early on. I can’t wait for the world to meet them!
June 6, 2024
***To the tune of Garden Grove by Sublime.*** We took a trip to Baker’s Blend. Smells like vanilla cream & sugar inside the van.
This gem was my first ARC and I am so excited that Allie was my first because she has easily become one of my favorite indie authors. Her characters are so relatable and the storylines just instantly draw you in and make you never want to leave. I am pretty sure if Baker’s Blend was a real place, I would be there multiple times a week!!
Common Grounds takes us into the world of Emery Darlis, a web-based lifestyle reporter and Trevor Kovacic, a coffee shop owner. Emery feels bored with the writing options available to her and wants to write more about issues that are important to her. Trevor’s family business that he is trying to keep alive is in jeopardy of closing when a big box coffee shop opens around the corner. Emery and Trevor meet unexpectedly and share one amazing night together, never expecting to see each other again, until Emery pitches an idea to her boss to write a feature about Trevor’s shop and they end up working together. Can Emery save her career and help Trevor save his business while trying to figure out what is brewing between them?
Things I really enjoyed:
* Trevor - His sweetness from the beginning, how much he loved that coffee shop, & sharing the family history behind it.
* Texts on the page - Give me that in any book and I will be happy.
* Emery’s articles - I loved that we got to read her point of view as she wrote about Trevor’s shop.
* Trevor’s swoon worthy nickname for Emery and the reason why he gave her that name.
* Coffee shop recipes
Emery was a tough nut to crack and understandably so because of her past relationships with her ex-husband and her parents. The trope was black cat and Allie definitely gave us that. Emery is very reserved and cautious about who she lets into her world & something that I wished I had a little bit more of was her backstory. Thankfully Trevor wears the patience pants in this match up and something about waffles and whipped cream really warms her up to him if you know what I mean.
Overall I really enjoyed Emery and Trevor’s story and I think anyone that loves a good coffee shop romance will enjoy this book. There is a little something for everyone - It’s sweet, spicy, and sassy! Plan a visit to Baker’s Blend where you will go for the sweet treats but you will stay for the ambience and nostalgia.
Rating: 5 stars
Spice: 3.5 chili peppers
Thank you Allie, for sharing your gift and introducing Emery and Trevor to us! Thank you to Allie and BookFunnel for the ARC!
This gem was my first ARC and I am so excited that Allie was my first because she has easily become one of my favorite indie authors. Her characters are so relatable and the storylines just instantly draw you in and make you never want to leave. I am pretty sure if Baker’s Blend was a real place, I would be there multiple times a week!!
Common Grounds takes us into the world of Emery Darlis, a web-based lifestyle reporter and Trevor Kovacic, a coffee shop owner. Emery feels bored with the writing options available to her and wants to write more about issues that are important to her. Trevor’s family business that he is trying to keep alive is in jeopardy of closing when a big box coffee shop opens around the corner. Emery and Trevor meet unexpectedly and share one amazing night together, never expecting to see each other again, until Emery pitches an idea to her boss to write a feature about Trevor’s shop and they end up working together. Can Emery save her career and help Trevor save his business while trying to figure out what is brewing between them?
Things I really enjoyed:
* Trevor - His sweetness from the beginning, how much he loved that coffee shop, & sharing the family history behind it.
* Texts on the page - Give me that in any book and I will be happy.
* Emery’s articles - I loved that we got to read her point of view as she wrote about Trevor’s shop.
* Trevor’s swoon worthy nickname for Emery and the reason why he gave her that name.
* Coffee shop recipes
Emery was a tough nut to crack and understandably so because of her past relationships with her ex-husband and her parents. The trope was black cat and Allie definitely gave us that. Emery is very reserved and cautious about who she lets into her world & something that I wished I had a little bit more of was her backstory. Thankfully Trevor wears the patience pants in this match up and something about waffles and whipped cream really warms her up to him if you know what I mean.
Overall I really enjoyed Emery and Trevor’s story and I think anyone that loves a good coffee shop romance will enjoy this book. There is a little something for everyone - It’s sweet, spicy, and sassy! Plan a visit to Baker’s Blend where you will go for the sweet treats but you will stay for the ambience and nostalgia.
Rating: 5 stars
Spice: 3.5 chili peppers
Thank you Allie, for sharing your gift and introducing Emery and Trevor to us! Thank you to Allie and BookFunnel for the ARC!
June 4, 2024
Summary: Common Grounds by Allie Samberts is a perfect fit for readers who adore romances, grumpy-sunshine pairings, forced proximity, and are looking for a heartwarming story that explores the ups and downs of love, business, and finding common ground between people from different worlds.
___________________________
Thoughts: This was a beautiful story that blends romance with a splash of humor and a pinch of forced proximity. I loved all the side characters, and the overall vibes of this book. It was cozy, fun and a little spicy - This book is the perfect summer Rom Com, I highly recommend!☕️☀️
___________________________
Genre: Romance
Pacing: Medium
___________________________
Star Ratings:
Overall: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Plot: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Characters: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Writing Style: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
___________________________
Thoughts: This was a beautiful story that blends romance with a splash of humor and a pinch of forced proximity. I loved all the side characters, and the overall vibes of this book. It was cozy, fun and a little spicy - This book is the perfect summer Rom Com, I highly recommend!☕️☀️
___________________________
Genre: Romance
Pacing: Medium
___________________________
Star Ratings:
Overall: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Plot: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Characters: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Writing Style: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
June 5, 2024
4.25 stars rounded — I did not expect to love this one as much as I did — so pleasantly surprised! 👏 I took a chance and signed up for the ARC after seeing this indie author recommended by someone I trust — and boy am I glad I did! 🥹
It’s a romance between 37-year-old recently divorced and stoic, Emery Darlis, and 40-year-old optimistic, coffee connoisseur, Trevor Kovacic. His coffee shop is at risk of closing its doors, and she’s got a plan to restore its business — while also hoping it’ll kickstart her own career. The catch is that they recently shared a steamy one-night.. so, can they get past that and mutually benefit?
Gah, I loved this story!! Their flirty chemistry and pining had me gushing — I felt like it was giving early 2000’s rom-com feels!! I loved the more mature age (I felt it was done relatively well), the discussions on divorce and grief, as well as the LGBTQ+ rep! As most of you know, I’m not keen on open-door 😮💨 but I felt it worked well in this story, and wasn’t distracting!
I also loved the side characters: her sister Cass, best friend Vi, coworker Ethan, diner-mom Donna, and his best friend Mike 🥹 and you know I love a small town — Baker’s Grove was ever the cute fictional setting!
There was a touch of miscommunication towards the end that I wasn’t too keen on, but it resolved quick and we got an HEA! 👏 Would highly recommend!!
Thank you to the author for the e-ARC of this book!
It’s a romance between 37-year-old recently divorced and stoic, Emery Darlis, and 40-year-old optimistic, coffee connoisseur, Trevor Kovacic. His coffee shop is at risk of closing its doors, and she’s got a plan to restore its business — while also hoping it’ll kickstart her own career. The catch is that they recently shared a steamy one-night.. so, can they get past that and mutually benefit?
Gah, I loved this story!! Their flirty chemistry and pining had me gushing — I felt like it was giving early 2000’s rom-com feels!! I loved the more mature age (I felt it was done relatively well), the discussions on divorce and grief, as well as the LGBTQ+ rep! As most of you know, I’m not keen on open-door 😮💨 but I felt it worked well in this story, and wasn’t distracting!
I also loved the side characters: her sister Cass, best friend Vi, coworker Ethan, diner-mom Donna, and his best friend Mike 🥹 and you know I love a small town — Baker’s Grove was ever the cute fictional setting!
There was a touch of miscommunication towards the end that I wasn’t too keen on, but it resolved quick and we got an HEA! 👏 Would highly recommend!!
Thank you to the author for the e-ARC of this book!
June 12, 2024
So sweet & cozy!
May 6, 2024
This was such a precious rom com centered around a struggling coffee shop owned by our lovable, perfect MMC (40 year old) Trevor. Our FMC, Emery (37 years old), experiences tons of personal growth and healing after her nasty divorce, and Emery is a journalist who decides to author numerous articles about Trevor’s struggling coffee shop.
This was a feel good rom com. We had a mild third act break up that was more of a fight resulting in Emery getting over some of her issues and embracing Trevor. I do wish we had more backstory involving Emery’s divorce and issues with her parents to add more depth to her character. A flashback or two would’ve expanded the short timeline of this book. We also never really talked about Trevor’s dating history or lack thereof.
Overall, it was light, enjoyable, and cozy. Plus, I’m a HUGE sucker for a small town coffee shop which details its recipes. I’m not a lavender latte fan but this book made me want to go to a small coffee shop and order one while I snuggled up with this book.
Thanks to the author for the ARC!! ☕️📚
This was a feel good rom com. We had a mild third act break up that was more of a fight resulting in Emery getting over some of her issues and embracing Trevor. I do wish we had more backstory involving Emery’s divorce and issues with her parents to add more depth to her character. A flashback or two would’ve expanded the short timeline of this book. We also never really talked about Trevor’s dating history or lack thereof.
Overall, it was light, enjoyable, and cozy. Plus, I’m a HUGE sucker for a small town coffee shop which details its recipes. I’m not a lavender latte fan but this book made me want to go to a small coffee shop and order one while I snuggled up with this book.
Thanks to the author for the ARC!! ☕️📚
Read
January 10, 2025Beta Read! 🖤 I can’t wait for everyone to read this one😍
May 22, 2024
Most people associate coffee with bitter. But when you add the right ingredients you can get something sweet or savory.
Samberts has combined coffee and romance to make something that is both sweet and spicy!
This is a fantastic romance book for coffee lovers and those who want to believe in love!
Samberts has combined coffee and romance to make something that is both sweet and spicy!
This is a fantastic romance book for coffee lovers and those who want to believe in love!
May 27, 2024
“If I hadn’t been there myself, I would think he was looking at something he adored. But it’s me he’s looking at in that picture. I was sitting right there.”
4.5⭐️
✨Romcom
✨Reverse Grumpy/Sunshine
✨Workplace Romance
✨Dual POV
✨One Night Stand
Emery is a journalist who’s trying to prove her worth. She really enjoys her job and what she does; however, her boss sticks her to creating silly stories that no one reads. One night while out with her best friend, she meets Trevor.
Trevor is the proud owner of Baker’s Blend Coffee Shop, which he inherited from his grandfather. He’s a laidback, optimistic guy who loves coffee and wears his heart on his sleeve. Unfortunately, his shop is on the verge of closing, but Trevor refuses to give up. An idea comes about that Emery should do a piece on Baker’s Blend to help bring in traffic, which in turn, would help Emery show off her talent in writing. After tons of convincing, Emery and Trevor decide to work together.
“And I’m suddenly struck by the realization that I will do anything this woman asks of me, even if it means tamping down my desire.”
Emery and Trevor have opposite personalities: shes a black cat who doesn’t believe in love, he’s the most optimistic golden retriever you’ll ever meet. But they blend perfectly together (IYKYK). No but seriously, they bring out the best in each other. There were many times where Emery didn’t believe in herself or her feelings, and Trevor was there to reassure her and show just how much she deserves to be loved. Both Emery and Trevor are hard workers who refuse to give up on their dreams, and watching them work together to, basically, help one another was incredible and beautiful.
“I’m beyond infatuated with this woman. And I’m in deep trouble.”
This book is the perfect definition of a good palette cleanser. It’s a sweet romcom with tons of “aww” and laugh out loud moments. I always enjoy reading Allie Samberts work because it’s like a breath of fresh air. Her characters are very relatable and lovable, making her stories even more enjoyable. What makes her stories even better are the side characters—they’re the perfect additions to help make the story even more wonderful. I absolutely loved this one, and will recommend this to anyone looking for a fun romcom!
Thank you Allie for the ARC of this book. Such a beautiful story!!
4.5⭐️
✨Romcom
✨Reverse Grumpy/Sunshine
✨Workplace Romance
✨Dual POV
✨One Night Stand
Emery is a journalist who’s trying to prove her worth. She really enjoys her job and what she does; however, her boss sticks her to creating silly stories that no one reads. One night while out with her best friend, she meets Trevor.
Trevor is the proud owner of Baker’s Blend Coffee Shop, which he inherited from his grandfather. He’s a laidback, optimistic guy who loves coffee and wears his heart on his sleeve. Unfortunately, his shop is on the verge of closing, but Trevor refuses to give up. An idea comes about that Emery should do a piece on Baker’s Blend to help bring in traffic, which in turn, would help Emery show off her talent in writing. After tons of convincing, Emery and Trevor decide to work together.
“And I’m suddenly struck by the realization that I will do anything this woman asks of me, even if it means tamping down my desire.”
Emery and Trevor have opposite personalities: shes a black cat who doesn’t believe in love, he’s the most optimistic golden retriever you’ll ever meet. But they blend perfectly together (IYKYK). No but seriously, they bring out the best in each other. There were many times where Emery didn’t believe in herself or her feelings, and Trevor was there to reassure her and show just how much she deserves to be loved. Both Emery and Trevor are hard workers who refuse to give up on their dreams, and watching them work together to, basically, help one another was incredible and beautiful.
“I’m beyond infatuated with this woman. And I’m in deep trouble.”
This book is the perfect definition of a good palette cleanser. It’s a sweet romcom with tons of “aww” and laugh out loud moments. I always enjoy reading Allie Samberts work because it’s like a breath of fresh air. Her characters are very relatable and lovable, making her stories even more enjoyable. What makes her stories even better are the side characters—they’re the perfect additions to help make the story even more wonderful. I absolutely loved this one, and will recommend this to anyone looking for a fun romcom!
Thank you Allie for the ARC of this book. Such a beautiful story!!
May 21, 2024
Thank you Allie for sharing this with me prior to your pub date!
First of all - I'd love to move to Baker's Grove and I need a muffin from Trevor's coffee shop immediately.
What I love about this book is it was made for us millennials. Getting some MC's that are in their mid/late 30's and early 40's is SO refreshing. I think the topics in this book were very real with a lot of things we deal with as adults: starting over, starting families, strained relationships, loss, etc. getting that representation from characters my age made me super invested in this read.
I loved that we got a he fell first and harder moment YAAAS! I've also discovered a new microtrope I am a huge fan of: he gives her a nickname in his family's native language. Yes, pls.
While this book may have been set in summer, the vibes were cozy thanks to the coffee shop setting. Great read!
First of all - I'd love to move to Baker's Grove and I need a muffin from Trevor's coffee shop immediately.
What I love about this book is it was made for us millennials. Getting some MC's that are in their mid/late 30's and early 40's is SO refreshing. I think the topics in this book were very real with a lot of things we deal with as adults: starting over, starting families, strained relationships, loss, etc. getting that representation from characters my age made me super invested in this read.
I loved that we got a he fell first and harder moment YAAAS! I've also discovered a new microtrope I am a huge fan of: he gives her a nickname in his family's native language. Yes, pls.
While this book may have been set in summer, the vibes were cozy thanks to the coffee shop setting. Great read!
May 8, 2024
An off chance one night stand turns into sparks flying! But... MC Emery doesn't want to feel anything for the local coffees shop hottie Treavor. Told between both Emery and Treavor's perspective, this is a faced paced steamy love story. The two are forced to work together to help save Treavor's coffee shop and Emery's writing career. As Treavor pours love into Emery's lattes, she can't help but be worried about falling in love, yet again, and dealing with a broken heart. Can the two find common grounds in their relationship? But even more, can they save their careers too?
I loved the banter in this story. Emery and Treavor's friends help push this couple together and keep the storyline moving. I didn't really connect to Emery's character so I had a hard time getting into this but it was a sweet, classic romcom story. If you've ever dreamed of finding love in a coffee shop, then this is the book for you!
Thank you author, Allie Samberts, for the ARC for this novel!
I loved the banter in this story. Emery and Treavor's friends help push this couple together and keep the storyline moving. I didn't really connect to Emery's character so I had a hard time getting into this but it was a sweet, classic romcom story. If you've ever dreamed of finding love in a coffee shop, then this is the book for you!
Thank you author, Allie Samberts, for the ARC for this novel!
June 5, 2024
4⭐️
3🌶️
Can a lifestyle reporter and a coffee shop owner find love brewing between them? Or will their blend be too bitter to succeed?
Okaay Allie, I see you! This was super cute! Had me laughing and tearing up, always a great combination. I did wish Emery got out of her own way a bit faster but hey, we can't all be as great as Trevor is lol. If you like pun filled books, you'll love this! It was a super cute read and Trevor is just so beautifully optimistic, it was so lovely to read!
Common Grounds is out now, and on KU, so go check it out!!
3🌶️
Can a lifestyle reporter and a coffee shop owner find love brewing between them? Or will their blend be too bitter to succeed?
Okaay Allie, I see you! This was super cute! Had me laughing and tearing up, always a great combination. I did wish Emery got out of her own way a bit faster but hey, we can't all be as great as Trevor is lol. If you like pun filled books, you'll love this! It was a super cute read and Trevor is just so beautifully optimistic, it was so lovely to read!
Common Grounds is out now, and on KU, so go check it out!!
May 29, 2024
i love allie!! she just a good writer. there’s no other way to describe her
as someone who’s not the biggest slow burn girlie, i really liked how allie wrote emery & trevor’s relationship. i wasn’t so much focused on the when will they finally get together, but more on the coffee shop and emery’s articles. i enjoyed being invested in everything that was surrounding the couple, and not just solely the couple. they were very cute though and i LOVED them together!!!
and the little mac & daniel cameo??? iconic
thank you allie for the arc!!
as someone who’s not the biggest slow burn girlie, i really liked how allie wrote emery & trevor’s relationship. i wasn’t so much focused on the when will they finally get together, but more on the coffee shop and emery’s articles. i enjoyed being invested in everything that was surrounding the couple, and not just solely the couple. they were very cute though and i LOVED them together!!!
and the little mac & daniel cameo??? iconic
thank you allie for the arc!!
May 20, 2024
Emery is stuck in her job. Trevor is trying to save his coffee shop. A chance encounter can change it all.
This was such a fun book! Trevor is the sweetest MMC and I absolutely loved the growth that Emery made on her journey to find love again. The side characters are so fun-Cass, Violet, Ethan, Mike… I loved them all. I absolutely loved the tension between Emery and Trevor and the spice was 👌🏼. I love that the characters were a little older too. This is definitely one of those books I was completely immersed in the story, that I forgot I was reading. I really enjoyed Allie’s writing style and can’t wait to check out her other books!
Thank you Allie for the opportunity to ARC read this one! Highly recommend checking this one out when it comes out on June 4th! Preorders open now :)
This was such a fun book! Trevor is the sweetest MMC and I absolutely loved the growth that Emery made on her journey to find love again. The side characters are so fun-Cass, Violet, Ethan, Mike… I loved them all. I absolutely loved the tension between Emery and Trevor and the spice was 👌🏼. I love that the characters were a little older too. This is definitely one of those books I was completely immersed in the story, that I forgot I was reading. I really enjoyed Allie’s writing style and can’t wait to check out her other books!
Thank you Allie for the opportunity to ARC read this one! Highly recommend checking this one out when it comes out on June 4th! Preorders open now :)
June 17, 2024
Such a cute small town romance.
Emery is a reporter for a lifestyle magazine. Which she absolutely hates. If she has to write one more story about a puppy she might lose it. When she tries to propose a more groundbreaking story he makes an offer she can’t refuse. If she can write a story that gets 1 million views, she can write what she wants.
Trevor is doing his best to keep his family coffee shop afloat, and keep his fathers and grandfathers legacy alive. Unfortunately he can’t keep up with chain coffee shops coming into town. After too many bad days his best friend convinces him to go out for a night and let loose. What’s the worst that can happen.
The worst that can happen is for him to meet the woman of his dreams, but wakes up to an empty bed and no contact information…
That is of course until she ends up in his coffee shop, and grudgingly agrees to highlight his coffee shop in her special interest piece.
Can Emery get a million views and also help save his coffee shop? And can she resist him?
Tropes:
Grumpy/sunshine
One night stand
Small town romance
And coffee, lots of coffee
Emery is a reporter for a lifestyle magazine. Which she absolutely hates. If she has to write one more story about a puppy she might lose it. When she tries to propose a more groundbreaking story he makes an offer she can’t refuse. If she can write a story that gets 1 million views, she can write what she wants.
Trevor is doing his best to keep his family coffee shop afloat, and keep his fathers and grandfathers legacy alive. Unfortunately he can’t keep up with chain coffee shops coming into town. After too many bad days his best friend convinces him to go out for a night and let loose. What’s the worst that can happen.
The worst that can happen is for him to meet the woman of his dreams, but wakes up to an empty bed and no contact information…
That is of course until she ends up in his coffee shop, and grudgingly agrees to highlight his coffee shop in her special interest piece.
Can Emery get a million views and also help save his coffee shop? And can she resist him?
Tropes:
Grumpy/sunshine
One night stand
Small town romance
And coffee, lots of coffee
June 4, 2024
Allie Samberts quickly became one of my favorite Indie authors, and her Leade Park series is one of my absolute favorites that I adore recommending to everyone who will listen.
So I jumped on the chance to read her new standalone book, Common Grounds, which takes us into a cozy world of coffee and pastries and the makings of a sweet love story. Allie knows so well how to balance the emotional plotline with the fun/sweet one, and this was no exception. Both main characters are facing their own battles, and get to help one another get past them- while falling in looove of course.
We got lots of heart from Trevor, although I was missing a little of his back story to really round out his character in my head. We learn little about his time immediately before taking over the coffee shop, and nothing about his relationship history. Luckily we do know he’s an eternal optimist with a huge heart, and he’ll make you feel like a chocolatey mocha from page 1. I would be at his shop every day just to get a smile and a positive word from him. And a muffin. I need that muffin. Have I said this already?
I unfortunately felt that Emery’s character needed a little bit more for me to be completely invested in her struggles- and her growth. We meet her awful ex husband and see how completely awful he is, but other than that we don’t get much in the way of their story of her background and experience in that bad marriage. Just as she doesn’t like to talk about it to others, we are mostly shut out from it as well, and that made it a little harder for me to sympathize with her decision to never get married again, never fall in love again, etc. I wish we had gotten a little more depth in character to push this into 5 star land for me.
Allie Samberts’s first venture into the standalone world- and the coffee world- is another solid edition in her list of books, and I definitely recommend picking up this cozy read- and hopping over to your local coffee stop for a muffin before digging in to both.
So I jumped on the chance to read her new standalone book, Common Grounds, which takes us into a cozy world of coffee and pastries and the makings of a sweet love story. Allie knows so well how to balance the emotional plotline with the fun/sweet one, and this was no exception. Both main characters are facing their own battles, and get to help one another get past them- while falling in looove of course.
We got lots of heart from Trevor, although I was missing a little of his back story to really round out his character in my head. We learn little about his time immediately before taking over the coffee shop, and nothing about his relationship history. Luckily we do know he’s an eternal optimist with a huge heart, and he’ll make you feel like a chocolatey mocha from page 1. I would be at his shop every day just to get a smile and a positive word from him. And a muffin. I need that muffin. Have I said this already?
I unfortunately felt that Emery’s character needed a little bit more for me to be completely invested in her struggles- and her growth. We meet her awful ex husband and see how completely awful he is, but other than that we don’t get much in the way of their story of her background and experience in that bad marriage. Just as she doesn’t like to talk about it to others, we are mostly shut out from it as well, and that made it a little harder for me to sympathize with her decision to never get married again, never fall in love again, etc. I wish we had gotten a little more depth in character to push this into 5 star land for me.
Allie Samberts’s first venture into the standalone world- and the coffee world- is another solid edition in her list of books, and I definitely recommend picking up this cozy read- and hopping over to your local coffee stop for a muffin before digging in to both.
June 4, 2024
This was literally the cutest rom-com!
Trevor owns the local coffee shop that is going under… he only has so much time left with his shop that has been in his family for years before he just can’t afford to keep it anymore… until her. The journalist who swept him off his feet at the bar one night, Emery.
These two have a one night stand and then suddenly she is in his coffee shop and is taking on the story of the Baker’s Blend. Emery is a recently, but not too recent, single woman but her divorce really put her through it. She doesn’t trust easy and it scares her so much that she is attracted to Trevor and is feeling the feelings she does with him.
Can she save Trevor’s coffee shop and possibly find true love along the way?
I loved all of the fun puns, coffee talk, spice, and the growth of these two main characters during this read.
this one comes out on June 4th and you don’t want to miss it!
Tropes:
-strangers to lovers
-workplace romance
-journalist X coffee shop owner
-one night stand
-broken pasts
-he punches her ex (and it’s great)
4.5/5 stars
1/5 spice
Trevor owns the local coffee shop that is going under… he only has so much time left with his shop that has been in his family for years before he just can’t afford to keep it anymore… until her. The journalist who swept him off his feet at the bar one night, Emery.
These two have a one night stand and then suddenly she is in his coffee shop and is taking on the story of the Baker’s Blend. Emery is a recently, but not too recent, single woman but her divorce really put her through it. She doesn’t trust easy and it scares her so much that she is attracted to Trevor and is feeling the feelings she does with him.
Can she save Trevor’s coffee shop and possibly find true love along the way?
I loved all of the fun puns, coffee talk, spice, and the growth of these two main characters during this read.
this one comes out on June 4th and you don’t want to miss it!
Tropes:
-strangers to lovers
-workplace romance
-journalist X coffee shop owner
-one night stand
-broken pasts
-he punches her ex (and it’s great)
4.5/5 stars
1/5 spice
June 26, 2024
4/5
Common Grounds was a very cute story with the right amount of humor that'll keep you intrigued the whole time! I enjoyed Trevor and Emery's story and felt it was a great representation on divorce and grief as well as the characters being older than most of the stories I read. The side characters were wonderful and just the overall vibes for the book. I feel this is a perfect book to add to your summer TBR!
I'd also would love to move to Baker's Grove and visit Trevor's coffee shop!
Common Grounds was a very cute story with the right amount of humor that'll keep you intrigued the whole time! I enjoyed Trevor and Emery's story and felt it was a great representation on divorce and grief as well as the characters being older than most of the stories I read. The side characters were wonderful and just the overall vibes for the book. I feel this is a perfect book to add to your summer TBR!
I'd also would love to move to Baker's Grove and visit Trevor's coffee shop!
June 5, 2024
Emery Darlis loves being a journalist but hates her job writing feel-good local stories for a web magazine. Trevor Kovacic’s family coffee shop is failing. It’s the place that houses all his childhood memories, and it’s got two months, MAYBE.
Emery and Trevor have nothing in common expect the unforgettable one-night stand. They never expect to see each other after that, until Emery makes a bold bet with her boss to write a viral feature, and it puts them back into each others lives.
Desperate for a winning idea, Emery pitches a series of articles about Trevor's shop. They’ll have to work together, but that should be easy… if they can each stop thinking about that one steamy night they shared.
This book was cozy perfection to me! I am obsessed with many things but romance books and coffee are at the top of the list for sure. This book really captured the magic of a coffee shop and the community that it can build. I loved having that as the setting of this love story between Emery and Trevor. What I enjoyed the most about this book was how mature and emotionally intelligent it felt, while also capturing those giddy, crush feelings we all love. Trevor falls first and HARD and watching him be obsessed with her had me kicking my feet.
If you love dual point of view, grumpy/sunshine, he falls first and then they both fall HARD, please read Common Grounds!
Thank you for the ARC Allie!
Emery and Trevor have nothing in common expect the unforgettable one-night stand. They never expect to see each other after that, until Emery makes a bold bet with her boss to write a viral feature, and it puts them back into each others lives.
Desperate for a winning idea, Emery pitches a series of articles about Trevor's shop. They’ll have to work together, but that should be easy… if they can each stop thinking about that one steamy night they shared.
This book was cozy perfection to me! I am obsessed with many things but romance books and coffee are at the top of the list for sure. This book really captured the magic of a coffee shop and the community that it can build. I loved having that as the setting of this love story between Emery and Trevor. What I enjoyed the most about this book was how mature and emotionally intelligent it felt, while also capturing those giddy, crush feelings we all love. Trevor falls first and HARD and watching him be obsessed with her had me kicking my feet.
If you love dual point of view, grumpy/sunshine, he falls first and then they both fall HARD, please read Common Grounds!
Thank you for the ARC Allie!
June 4, 2024
This felt like a classic romcom and I couldn’t get enough. The main characters were older which was so refreshing, their insecurities and fears came from living their lives and not from a high school boyfriend. I hadn’t even realized it was something I was looking for until I was enjoying it so much. In line with a personal fav (How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days) Emery makes a deal with her editor, if she brings in 1 million views on a story she can write about whatever she wants. When they go to brainstorm story ideas they walk into the coffee shop of the one night stand Emery hasn’t stopped thinking about. Trevor’s been trying to keep his family business afloat, in walks his newest obsession and a possible business solution. These two and every side character had me kicking my feet laughing the whole time, I loved them all so much.
June 4, 2024
I beta read this, and guys? It’s Allie’s BEST book. There’s the sweetest, swooniest hero, who also happens to have amazing forearms and falls hard and falls first. The heroine is skeptical and the hero truly has to woo her. There’s a bar fight, lots of coffee, steamy scenes, and oh, did I mention this is a fast-burn? I can’t wait to do a reread once the book is in its final stages.
July 5, 2024
Journalist Emery is languishing in multiple areas of her life - her job is just okay, her social life is just okay, she’s still reeling from her divorce five years prior. She takes on an assignment at work in an attempt to push her out of this stalemate. The assignment has her writing a series about a local coffee shop that is owned by the sexy-forearm-wielding one night stand she had recently. As they continue working together on this series, they realize their one night probably shouldn’t be just one night but she also spend almost 95% of the book being obstinate about how she’s “not a relationship person” even though Trevor is the dreamiest of dream men.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Spice: ⭐️💫
Liked
* I liked that Emery was a ball buster.
* Vi and Cass as side characters were a delight. Truly all the side characters in this book were great: Mike, James, Donna, Ethan, Josie
* I LOVED that despite the falling out with her family, the book did not seek to remedy that. Cause f*ck her parents f’real.
* As ever, love that these characters were in their late 30s/early 40s. We need more rep in romance books!
* I loved the deep history of the coffee shop and how much Trevor revered it
Disliked
* I found the whole “I am not a relationship person” thing lasting for 95% of the book (srsly, I clocked it) to be a lot.
* It almost felt like this book was over edited. I was missing a little bit of connective tissue, for example when she got super upset that Trevor and Cass had talked about her divorce, I didn't feel like there was enough insight into her character to have made that reaction understandable
* I found it a little unrealistic that as a 37 year old divorcee who had been split for 5 years who was engaging with people who were presumably her peers, she carried this fear that people would take judgement on her for being divorced. I can’t tell you how many 40ish year old folks I know that have been divorced.
🫡 Tropes deployed: one night stand to lovers, jilted divorcee, “never gonna date again”
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Spice: ⭐️💫
Liked
* I liked that Emery was a ball buster.
* Vi and Cass as side characters were a delight. Truly all the side characters in this book were great: Mike, James, Donna, Ethan, Josie
* I LOVED that despite the falling out with her family, the book did not seek to remedy that. Cause f*ck her parents f’real.
* As ever, love that these characters were in their late 30s/early 40s. We need more rep in romance books!
* I loved the deep history of the coffee shop and how much Trevor revered it
Disliked
* I found the whole “I am not a relationship person” thing lasting for 95% of the book (srsly, I clocked it) to be a lot.
* It almost felt like this book was over edited. I was missing a little bit of connective tissue, for example when she got super upset that Trevor and Cass had talked about her divorce, I didn't feel like there was enough insight into her character to have made that reaction understandable
* I found it a little unrealistic that as a 37 year old divorcee who had been split for 5 years who was engaging with people who were presumably her peers, she carried this fear that people would take judgement on her for being divorced. I can’t tell you how many 40ish year old folks I know that have been divorced.
🫡 Tropes deployed: one night stand to lovers, jilted divorcee, “never gonna date again”
June 4, 2024
This book was such a cute romance. The story takes place in an adorable coffee shop which just adds to the whole cozy read vibe. Trevor is trying to save the coffee shop he owns passed down from his grandfather and father. Emery is trying to find passion in journalism again. A bet with her boss puts her face to face with the guy she just shared a one night stand with. Now she's about to spend a lot more time with him as she writes enticing articles to try and save his coffee shop.
This book had me laughing, crying, and screaming. Trevor is an adorable golden retriever MMC and I was rooting for him throughout. Not gonna lie I wanted to shake Emery at times for being so guarded! While this is a cozy read, there are also many ups and downs where you're not quite sure what's going to happen. While Emery and Trevor were the main characters, Emerys sister and best friend made the book that much better. I also had a soft spot for James who works in the coffee shop and enjoyed Trevor's best friend Mike's antics.
Overall I really enjoyed this book. I wish Baker's Blend was a real shop I could go enjoy. However, it did remind me I have local coffee shops to go visit and support local. By the end of this book I was squealing with delight and even teared up a bit! Check this book out, you won't be disappointed!
Read if you like..
Slow burn
He falls first
Forced proximity
Steamy scenes
Coffee shop setting
Black cat/golden retriever
Found family
This book had me laughing, crying, and screaming. Trevor is an adorable golden retriever MMC and I was rooting for him throughout. Not gonna lie I wanted to shake Emery at times for being so guarded! While this is a cozy read, there are also many ups and downs where you're not quite sure what's going to happen. While Emery and Trevor were the main characters, Emerys sister and best friend made the book that much better. I also had a soft spot for James who works in the coffee shop and enjoyed Trevor's best friend Mike's antics.
Overall I really enjoyed this book. I wish Baker's Blend was a real shop I could go enjoy. However, it did remind me I have local coffee shops to go visit and support local. By the end of this book I was squealing with delight and even teared up a bit! Check this book out, you won't be disappointed!
Read if you like..
Slow burn
He falls first
Forced proximity
Steamy scenes
Coffee shop setting
Black cat/golden retriever
Found family
June 4, 2024
☕️Common Grounds☕️
4.5⭐️
OOOOKAY Allie! Yet another amazing story that Allie has created & WOAH this one gets hot fast! I absolutely loved Trevor, his optimism was so refreshing- and seeing him fall so hard for Emery 🫠 Also I LOVED the side characters, I genuinely laughed out loud so many times throughout this book.
Emery and Trevor meet one night while each getting a drink with a friend. Their connection is immediate and after doing everything they can to continue spending time together they share a hot night together- but Emery sneaks out as soon as Trevor falls asleep. Fate has plans to bring them back together, when Emery is brainstorming ideas for an article that will convince her boss to let her write what she wants - and she ends up in Trevor’s coffee shop - a shop that is at risk of closing if it doesn’t get more customers. Emery decides to do a 4-week feature on Trevor’s shop, but is determined to keep their relationship professional. Trevor has other plans through, and his consistent support for Emery might just be enough to change her mind on relationships.
☕️One night stand
☕️Black cat/ golden retriever
☕️Workplace romance
☕️He falls first
4.5⭐️
OOOOKAY Allie! Yet another amazing story that Allie has created & WOAH this one gets hot fast! I absolutely loved Trevor, his optimism was so refreshing- and seeing him fall so hard for Emery 🫠 Also I LOVED the side characters, I genuinely laughed out loud so many times throughout this book.
Emery and Trevor meet one night while each getting a drink with a friend. Their connection is immediate and after doing everything they can to continue spending time together they share a hot night together- but Emery sneaks out as soon as Trevor falls asleep. Fate has plans to bring them back together, when Emery is brainstorming ideas for an article that will convince her boss to let her write what she wants - and she ends up in Trevor’s coffee shop - a shop that is at risk of closing if it doesn’t get more customers. Emery decides to do a 4-week feature on Trevor’s shop, but is determined to keep their relationship professional. Trevor has other plans through, and his consistent support for Emery might just be enough to change her mind on relationships.
☕️One night stand
☕️Black cat/ golden retriever
☕️Workplace romance
☕️He falls first
May 17, 2024
✨ARC Review✨
I had the wonderful opportunity to receive an ARC of Common Grounds by @alliesambertswrites. I was captured from the beginning with the comedic timing, family dynamics, and workplace shenanigans. This book has the perfect blend of romance, laughs, nostalgia, and heartfelt moments!
Common Grounds is written in a dual POV which I really enjoyed because I connected with each MC in a deeper level.
I absolutely LOVED Trevor (40m) and the warmth he brought to the pages. Reading about his love for the shop and the story of his family brought me back in time and was truly captivating. He is patient, optimistic, caring, and all around one of the sweetest MMC’s I’ve read about in awhile. His character was REAL and RELATABLE which made him even more likeable.
Emery (37f) went through a traumatic experience (briefly mentioned) which played a lot into her decisions/actions. She is motivated and an incredible sister/friend but I got “ice queen” vibes from her for parts of the book. Not sure how I felt about that only because it was towards Trevor. But upon understanding the WHY behind her actions, it made sense.
Without giving anymore away-overall, their love story brought me butterflies, laughs, and some tears which are all the perfect combination for a lighthearted romance read!
Highly recommend checking out Common Grounds when it debuts on June 4th!
What’s your favorite romance trope?
I had the wonderful opportunity to receive an ARC of Common Grounds by @alliesambertswrites. I was captured from the beginning with the comedic timing, family dynamics, and workplace shenanigans. This book has the perfect blend of romance, laughs, nostalgia, and heartfelt moments!
Common Grounds is written in a dual POV which I really enjoyed because I connected with each MC in a deeper level.
I absolutely LOVED Trevor (40m) and the warmth he brought to the pages. Reading about his love for the shop and the story of his family brought me back in time and was truly captivating. He is patient, optimistic, caring, and all around one of the sweetest MMC’s I’ve read about in awhile. His character was REAL and RELATABLE which made him even more likeable.
Emery (37f) went through a traumatic experience (briefly mentioned) which played a lot into her decisions/actions. She is motivated and an incredible sister/friend but I got “ice queen” vibes from her for parts of the book. Not sure how I felt about that only because it was towards Trevor. But upon understanding the WHY behind her actions, it made sense.
Without giving anymore away-overall, their love story brought me butterflies, laughs, and some tears which are all the perfect combination for a lighthearted romance read!
Highly recommend checking out Common Grounds when it debuts on June 4th!
What’s your favorite romance trope?
June 9, 2024
"To know you is to love you." This was a super sweet, cozy romance and I am so fortunate to have received an early copy of Common Grounds! Emery is trying to find her footing as a lifestyle reporter and needs inspiration to write something great. Trevor is trying to keep his families coffee shop afloat and needs a miracle. This is where their two worlds clash and Emery is challenged with writing a four piece series to help the coffee shop and it's value. They'll have to learn to work together - especially as a one night stand and feelings start to distract them in the process.
This was an amazingly cozy feel good coffee shop story. If you enjoy sunshine/grumpy - this is definitely up your alley! The coffee shop feel of the whole story was just a great aesthetic and I thoroughly enjoyed being thrown into their world. The writing was really well done and I also loved that the characters were in their late 30s, early 40s.
Do yourself a favour and pick this book up! I will absolutely be reading more from Samberts in the future.
This was an amazingly cozy feel good coffee shop story. If you enjoy sunshine/grumpy - this is definitely up your alley! The coffee shop feel of the whole story was just a great aesthetic and I thoroughly enjoyed being thrown into their world. The writing was really well done and I also loved that the characters were in their late 30s, early 40s.
Do yourself a favour and pick this book up! I will absolutely be reading more from Samberts in the future.
May 13, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
I think this book is going to be one of my favorites for a while…
Emery frustrated the heck out of me but mostly because she is me or maybe I am her….Emery feels unlovable….that any man that thinks they love her will finally see her & realize they’ve made a mistake….rather than get her heart broken, stomped on or thrown in the garbage again she self sabotages….uh yeah me too….divorced, fired from her writing job at the Gazette & shunned by her parents, she only has her sister & her best friend to lean on….or does she???
Trevor is the sweetest….he knows he attractive but hates that that’s all some women see….he loves his family & his heritage with his whole heart….sentimental to a fault….he tries to hold on to the coffee shop his grandfather started & has been passed down to him….but how???
By a chance encounter can Emery help save Trevor’s coffee shop & can Trevor help melt Emery’s heart & tear down the strong walls she built around it???
I think this book is going to be one of my favorites for a while…
Emery frustrated the heck out of me but mostly because she is me or maybe I am her….Emery feels unlovable….that any man that thinks they love her will finally see her & realize they’ve made a mistake….rather than get her heart broken, stomped on or thrown in the garbage again she self sabotages….uh yeah me too….divorced, fired from her writing job at the Gazette & shunned by her parents, she only has her sister & her best friend to lean on….or does she???
Trevor is the sweetest….he knows he attractive but hates that that’s all some women see….he loves his family & his heritage with his whole heart….sentimental to a fault….he tries to hold on to the coffee shop his grandfather started & has been passed down to him….but how???
By a chance encounter can Emery help save Trevor’s coffee shop & can Trevor help melt Emery’s heart & tear down the strong walls she built around it???
June 2, 2024
Oh I’m so glad I was picked as part of the ARC team for this! I loved the Leade Park series but this was better! Having a romance focussed on a MFC who was 37 and MMC who was 40 made this so relatable, and I instantly loved both Trevor and Emery. Trevor own his family’s coffee shop that has been passed down from his grandfather, to his father and note to him. It’s a quaint shop with amazing coffee (I’ve drank a lot while reading this) but it can’t compete with the big chain shops. Emery is a journalist who wants the opportunity to write what she is most passionate about, but her boss wants her to get 1 million clicks. Can the two combine?
Trevor was such a sweet MMC but I was so happy when he did stand in for himself at one point, that tipped me from 4 to 5 stars as it was getting a bit too sweet at one point. The spice levels were perfect too, definitely hot but also not everywhere, making this also readable if you don’t like those chapters.
Trevor was such a sweet MMC but I was so happy when he did stand in for himself at one point, that tipped me from 4 to 5 stars as it was getting a bit too sweet at one point. The spice levels were perfect too, definitely hot but also not everywhere, making this also readable if you don’t like those chapters.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 284 reviews