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Shops on Main #2
The Busiest Shop on Main
What do you do when the man you thought would be yours forever, never comes home?
Serenity was prepared to wait years for Luca to get back from his military service, but after being wounded, his family shipped him to a rehabilitation facility away from home and Luca seemed to disappear off the face of the Earth.
He hasn't called or texted in years and he even though he was released ages ago, Luca never came to see her.
Determined to move on with her life, Serenity has built her own business and stepped back into the dating market, but nothing comes without opposition and she's feeling it in spades.
When a leak in her shop calls for repair, Serenity isn't anywhere close to ready to see the one and only Luca McCoy on her shop step. He's changed from the boy she dated in high school, to a man with a past and the scars to prove it.
The question is...is he only there to repair her shop? Or does he want something more? And is Serenity willing to trust him enough to give him a second chance?
Witty banter, heartwarming romance and second chances abound in this sweet, contemporary romance by USA Today Bestselling author, Laura Ann!
Grab your copy today and settle in for a while...once you get started, you won't be able to set it down.
Serenity was prepared to wait years for Luca to get back from his military service, but after being wounded, his family shipped him to a rehabilitation facility away from home and Luca seemed to disappear off the face of the Earth.
He hasn't called or texted in years and he even though he was released ages ago, Luca never came to see her.
Determined to move on with her life, Serenity has built her own business and stepped back into the dating market, but nothing comes without opposition and she's feeling it in spades.
When a leak in her shop calls for repair, Serenity isn't anywhere close to ready to see the one and only Luca McCoy on her shop step. He's changed from the boy she dated in high school, to a man with a past and the scars to prove it.
The question is...is he only there to repair her shop? Or does he want something more? And is Serenity willing to trust him enough to give him a second chance?
Witty banter, heartwarming romance and second chances abound in this sweet, contemporary romance by USA Today Bestselling author, Laura Ann!
Grab your copy today and settle in for a while...once you get started, you won't be able to set it down.
260 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 23, 2024
291 people are currently reading
169 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
June 22, 2025
A sweet romance. An ex-military hero only loved one woman. When their paths cross again, he still loves her; he just has to convince her she can trust him.
December 16, 2025
Hey everybody and welcome back to another audiobook review today We are talking about busiest shop on Main. This is a nice little contemporary romance to counteract all of the dark romance that I listen to this story follows Luca and serenity. They are a former couple who kinda have a falling out that you can say. Luca is a former veteran who suffers an injury and whenever he comes back from service, his family immediately sends them to a rehab, and once he’s completed all of that, the emotional and psychological damage has also been done so he decides to stay at the rehab to work and doesn’t return home basically anything with serenity his girlfriend at the time. But as fat would have it heat size to return to his small town to work for his two younger brothers and his first day on the job he has to go and help serenity who now owns a local business and let’s just say that reunion has a lot of heartfelt breaking and basically memories coming back for serenity and Luca. The story is narrated in dual style by Sebastian York and Maxine Mitchell. As I’ve said in other audiobooks through the style, it’s not my favorite but when it’s done by two narrators, that do a phenomenal job switching between male and feminine voices, I love it. Sebastian and Maxine absolutely did that with this audiobook and I think that they work very wonderful together if you haven’t heard other books that they do together I highly recommend going to check them out. They are an amazing team to get to listen to together. Again I wanna give a big shout out to Blue Nose AUDIO again guys, Thank you so much for allowing me to get to do this.
December 8, 2025
This was such a sweet romance not spicy but don’t let that stop you because this love story is beautiful! An Ex - Military Man who crosses paths again with the one girl who he has always loved. She’s ready to move on and he’s back in this small town! But the question is he just back home or is he back for her? This book has some things that really pulled at my heartstrings for the MMC (Luca) and the FMC (Serenity) you honestly can’t help but fall in love with their love story and their characters! I am a sucker for a good second chance romance and this one delivered just that for me!
I listened to the audiobook and the narrators omg they did such a great job at this one that you really could hear the emotions coming through as they spoke! I truly enjoyed their narration!
If you’re looking for a sweet small town second chance romance without spice that will have you rooting for a happy ending then this one is definitely for you!
I listened to the audiobook and the narrators omg they did such a great job at this one that you really could hear the emotions coming through as they spoke! I truly enjoyed their narration!
If you’re looking for a sweet small town second chance romance without spice that will have you rooting for a happy ending then this one is definitely for you!
December 16, 2025
ALC Review
Overall Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Performance: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The Busiest Shop on Main by Laura Ann
Narrated in dual by Maxine Mitchell and Sebastian York
This cozy romance story is one of second chances, forgiveness, and finding solace after trauma. This story focuses on Serenity and Luca, who were childhood sweethearts and had planned their future together, including time away while Luca served in the Military right out of high school. When Luca is severely injured in service, he decides not to go back home, severing ties with his old life and Serenity. But does love ever die? Luca decides to go home after years apart, but could Serenity forgive him? Could they move on and be friends?
Maxine Mitchell and Sebastian York were perfect as Serenity and Luca. Sebastian balanced Luca's vulnerability with his masculinity so flawlessly.
And Maxine truly encompassed the strength and independence of Serenity, but also her vulnerability after a traumatic event. Overall, the audio on this was perfect.
Overall Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Performance: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The Busiest Shop on Main by Laura Ann
Narrated in dual by Maxine Mitchell and Sebastian York
This cozy romance story is one of second chances, forgiveness, and finding solace after trauma. This story focuses on Serenity and Luca, who were childhood sweethearts and had planned their future together, including time away while Luca served in the Military right out of high school. When Luca is severely injured in service, he decides not to go back home, severing ties with his old life and Serenity. But does love ever die? Luca decides to go home after years apart, but could Serenity forgive him? Could they move on and be friends?
Maxine Mitchell and Sebastian York were perfect as Serenity and Luca. Sebastian balanced Luca's vulnerability with his masculinity so flawlessly.
And Maxine truly encompassed the strength and independence of Serenity, but also her vulnerability after a traumatic event. Overall, the audio on this was perfect.
March 18, 2025
I got this on a stuff your Kindle day and the first 50% was promising and had a number of cute and poignant moments! And then the editing went haywire (so many typos, mistaken punctuation where it didn't belong, and completely wrong words in a sentence that seemed to be autocorrect) and I lost all interest in both main characters. Everything in the relationship was so dysfunctional, including the resolution. Honestly confused at the number of books and glowing reviews from this author based on this book.
December 8, 2025
💗🛠️ A broken shop, an old wound, and a first love who finally comes home. 🛠️💗
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)
Spice-meter: 🌶️☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Audiobook: 🎧 Duet
Serie: Shops on Main, Book 1
Laura Ann was a completely new author to me, and this book turned out to be a gentle, comforting surprise. The Busiest Shop on Main leans into the soft edges of second chances, the kind built on old memories, unspoken emotions, and the quiet ache of someone who never truly left your heart. What immediately drew me in was how naturally the story blends heartbreak with resilience. Serenity has built an entire life in the space where her first love once lived, and that emotional complexity gives the book its steady warmth. It’s a romance shaped by grief, distance, and the slow courage it takes to trust someone again after years of silence. Even with the low spice level, the emotional notes land well, and the sincerity of both characters gives the story a grounded, relatable charm. This isn’t a flashy romance; it’s a soft, small-town tale that wins you over through honesty, healing, and the feeling that some connections never quite fade, no matter how life rearranges them.
The Story
Years after Luca vanished from her life following an injury during his military service, Serenity has finally built something steady for herself: a shop, a routine, and a sense of forward motion. But when a leak forces her to call for repairs and Luca shows up at her door older, scarred, and carrying the weight of everything left unsaid the past crashes into the present. Their reunion is cautious but charged, a slow reawakening of something neither of them ever fully buried. As they navigate old hurt and lingering affection, Serenity must decide whether she can trust the man who broke her heart, and Luca must prove that the boy who left is not the man he is now.
🎧 Narration
Performed in dual narration by Maxine Mitchell & Sebastian York With these two narrators, it’s almost impossible to go wrong. Maxine Mitchell gives Serenity warmth, strength, and vulnerability in a way that feels effortless. Sebastian York brings Luca’s rough edges, regret, and quiet longing to life with his signature depth. Together, they elevate the story, adding emotional weight to even the simplest scenes. Their chemistry carries the audiobook and makes the listening experience by far the strongest aspect.
What I Loved
✔️ Quiet, heartfelt second-chance vibes
✔️ A heroine who rebuilt her life on her own terms
✔️ A wounded veteran hero seeking redemption
✔️ Soft banter and small-town coziness
✔️ Easy, comforting pacing
✔️ Excellent narration from two seasoned pros
Tropes & Vibes
✔️ Second Chance Romance
✔️ Small Town Setting
✔️ Wounded Veteran
✔️ First Love Returns
✔️ Sweet, Low-Spice Tone
✔️ Shop Owner Heroine
✔️ Emotional but gentle
✔️ Feel-good holiday-adjacent atmosphere
Final Thoughts
The Busiest Shop on Main is a warm, easy second-chance romance with likable characters and a soft emotional core. It doesn’t push for big twists or heavy drama, its strength lies in simplicity and sincerity. Serenity and Luca’s reconnection feels genuine, the small-town charm adds comfort, and the dual narration elevates the entire experience. A cozy, low-stress listen that’s perfect when you want something sweet, steady, and hopeful.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)
Spice-meter: 🌶️☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
Audiobook: 🎧 Duet
Serie: Shops on Main, Book 1
Laura Ann was a completely new author to me, and this book turned out to be a gentle, comforting surprise. The Busiest Shop on Main leans into the soft edges of second chances, the kind built on old memories, unspoken emotions, and the quiet ache of someone who never truly left your heart. What immediately drew me in was how naturally the story blends heartbreak with resilience. Serenity has built an entire life in the space where her first love once lived, and that emotional complexity gives the book its steady warmth. It’s a romance shaped by grief, distance, and the slow courage it takes to trust someone again after years of silence. Even with the low spice level, the emotional notes land well, and the sincerity of both characters gives the story a grounded, relatable charm. This isn’t a flashy romance; it’s a soft, small-town tale that wins you over through honesty, healing, and the feeling that some connections never quite fade, no matter how life rearranges them.
The Story
Years after Luca vanished from her life following an injury during his military service, Serenity has finally built something steady for herself: a shop, a routine, and a sense of forward motion. But when a leak forces her to call for repairs and Luca shows up at her door older, scarred, and carrying the weight of everything left unsaid the past crashes into the present. Their reunion is cautious but charged, a slow reawakening of something neither of them ever fully buried. As they navigate old hurt and lingering affection, Serenity must decide whether she can trust the man who broke her heart, and Luca must prove that the boy who left is not the man he is now.
🎧 Narration
Performed in dual narration by Maxine Mitchell & Sebastian York With these two narrators, it’s almost impossible to go wrong. Maxine Mitchell gives Serenity warmth, strength, and vulnerability in a way that feels effortless. Sebastian York brings Luca’s rough edges, regret, and quiet longing to life with his signature depth. Together, they elevate the story, adding emotional weight to even the simplest scenes. Their chemistry carries the audiobook and makes the listening experience by far the strongest aspect.
What I Loved
✔️ Quiet, heartfelt second-chance vibes
✔️ A heroine who rebuilt her life on her own terms
✔️ A wounded veteran hero seeking redemption
✔️ Soft banter and small-town coziness
✔️ Easy, comforting pacing
✔️ Excellent narration from two seasoned pros
Tropes & Vibes
✔️ Second Chance Romance
✔️ Small Town Setting
✔️ Wounded Veteran
✔️ First Love Returns
✔️ Sweet, Low-Spice Tone
✔️ Shop Owner Heroine
✔️ Emotional but gentle
✔️ Feel-good holiday-adjacent atmosphere
Final Thoughts
The Busiest Shop on Main is a warm, easy second-chance romance with likable characters and a soft emotional core. It doesn’t push for big twists or heavy drama, its strength lies in simplicity and sincerity. Serenity and Luca’s reconnection feels genuine, the small-town charm adds comfort, and the dual narration elevates the entire experience. A cozy, low-stress listen that’s perfect when you want something sweet, steady, and hopeful.
December 10, 2025
Delightfully Heartwarming Story & Listen🎧
The Busiest Shop on Main
Shops on Main Book 1
By Laura Ann
Narrated by Maxine Mitchell, Sebastian York
It is always great to check out new-to-me authors, even greater when the book turns out to be a heartwarming gem of a story. “The Busiest Shop on Main” is a wonderful small-town romance that pulls you into the story right from the start and captivates your attention the entire time. Luca McCoy, a wounded warrior, did not return home or to his girl, Serenity, after his injuries and rehabilitation, choosing to work with other injured servicemen and women, instead. His injuries left him feeling like a broken person and took a toll on him and his confidence. He finally returned home and started working for his brother’s company, a contracting business. A heartbroken Serenity tried to move on, but never really did, focusing on opening her own business instead, a shop on Main Street. When a plumbing mishap floods the storage part of her store, she calls the McCoy brothers to come and help, but they sent Luca instead, and she was not expecting to see him or ready to. Luca was understanding and handled the situation well, giving her space and options, and she let him stay to get the work she needed done. Clearly, these two had unresolved feelings for one another, and the chemistry between them never faded away, but can Serenity get past her hurt and ever trust him with her heart again? There is never a dull moment in this book, a sweet story that has the perfect balance of drama, a touch of angst and conflict in town, heartfelt emotions, and a wonderful romance. It is a fantastic start to a new series and introduction to some fabulous characters and small-town charm. Laura Ann, thank you for this delightfully entertaining story and emotional rollercoaster ride. I adored the exclusive to the BNA App’s bonus epilogue, it was a pleasure to spend more time with Luca and Serenity and in the amazing world you created.
🎧📚🎧 And for the wonderful audiobook listen performed by the fabulous Maxine Mitchell and Sebastian York, a perfect pairing and cast to bring the characters to life. Their characters’ voices were spot-on portrayals of each and they were believable in every role. Both were naturals in their roles, with York nailing it as Luca, the big scary guy with a heart of gold, and with Mitchell just as amazing as Serenity. They were fantastic at performing the roles of the side/secondary characters, as well as conveying all the characters’ emotions in their performance, making you feel them all. It is always a pleasure to listen to their performance, an entertaining performance that keeps you hooked to the story while taking the story to another level.
The Busiest Shop on Main
Shops on Main Book 1
By Laura Ann
Narrated by Maxine Mitchell, Sebastian York
It is always great to check out new-to-me authors, even greater when the book turns out to be a heartwarming gem of a story. “The Busiest Shop on Main” is a wonderful small-town romance that pulls you into the story right from the start and captivates your attention the entire time. Luca McCoy, a wounded warrior, did not return home or to his girl, Serenity, after his injuries and rehabilitation, choosing to work with other injured servicemen and women, instead. His injuries left him feeling like a broken person and took a toll on him and his confidence. He finally returned home and started working for his brother’s company, a contracting business. A heartbroken Serenity tried to move on, but never really did, focusing on opening her own business instead, a shop on Main Street. When a plumbing mishap floods the storage part of her store, she calls the McCoy brothers to come and help, but they sent Luca instead, and she was not expecting to see him or ready to. Luca was understanding and handled the situation well, giving her space and options, and she let him stay to get the work she needed done. Clearly, these two had unresolved feelings for one another, and the chemistry between them never faded away, but can Serenity get past her hurt and ever trust him with her heart again? There is never a dull moment in this book, a sweet story that has the perfect balance of drama, a touch of angst and conflict in town, heartfelt emotions, and a wonderful romance. It is a fantastic start to a new series and introduction to some fabulous characters and small-town charm. Laura Ann, thank you for this delightfully entertaining story and emotional rollercoaster ride. I adored the exclusive to the BNA App’s bonus epilogue, it was a pleasure to spend more time with Luca and Serenity and in the amazing world you created.
🎧📚🎧 And for the wonderful audiobook listen performed by the fabulous Maxine Mitchell and Sebastian York, a perfect pairing and cast to bring the characters to life. Their characters’ voices were spot-on portrayals of each and they were believable in every role. Both were naturals in their roles, with York nailing it as Luca, the big scary guy with a heart of gold, and with Mitchell just as amazing as Serenity. They were fantastic at performing the roles of the side/secondary characters, as well as conveying all the characters’ emotions in their performance, making you feel them all. It is always a pleasure to listen to their performance, an entertaining performance that keeps you hooked to the story while taking the story to another level.
December 15, 2025
The Busiest Shop On Main is a sweet, small town, second chance romance. High school sweethearts find that their paths in life take different directions. After an injury in the military, Luca then ghosts Serenity. Luca is standoffish, rough, trying to find his next path in life and finds himself back home with his brothers. He still keeps his heart for his one true love. Serenity has moved on, established a successful business in her hometown, but there's a small piece of her that always thinks back to him.
When her shop floods, Serenity calls Luca's brothers for help. They, of course, send an unknowing Luca. It becomes a story of pain, unspoken feelings and words, rebuilding trust, and recognizing a love that never really went away.
I loved the small town feel. They all come together to help out a few times. It's homey, and cozy, with a small amount of drama thrown in.
It was easy to get wrapped up in Serenity and Luca's past and then wait for the happy ending you know they deserve.
I listened to the audiobook. Maxine Mitchell and Sebastian York did not disappoint. They both excel at bringing out the raw emotions of the characters. Maxine brought out Serenity's strong yet vulnerable personality effortlessly. She also does an amazing male voice that was easy to listen too. Sebastian knows how to voice the tough, protective, yet broken male characters. He made it easy to feel how Luca never did let Serenity go and he'll make sure he protects her from here on out. The two of them paired together is an immediate listen for me.
If your looking for a small town, second chance, low spice and stakes, romance then this story is for you.
When her shop floods, Serenity calls Luca's brothers for help. They, of course, send an unknowing Luca. It becomes a story of pain, unspoken feelings and words, rebuilding trust, and recognizing a love that never really went away.
I loved the small town feel. They all come together to help out a few times. It's homey, and cozy, with a small amount of drama thrown in.
It was easy to get wrapped up in Serenity and Luca's past and then wait for the happy ending you know they deserve.
I listened to the audiobook. Maxine Mitchell and Sebastian York did not disappoint. They both excel at bringing out the raw emotions of the characters. Maxine brought out Serenity's strong yet vulnerable personality effortlessly. She also does an amazing male voice that was easy to listen too. Sebastian knows how to voice the tough, protective, yet broken male characters. He made it easy to feel how Luca never did let Serenity go and he'll make sure he protects her from here on out. The two of them paired together is an immediate listen for me.
If your looking for a small town, second chance, low spice and stakes, romance then this story is for you.
December 13, 2025
The Busiest Shop on Main by Laura Ann
This small-town romance was so good—I flew through it and immediately wanted more! In this second-chance love story, we follow Serenity and Luca, high school sweethearts whose lives took very different turns. Luca left for the military, was injured, and never came back, breaking Serenity’s heart in the process. She stayed in their hometown, finished college, and built a successful business… all while quietly holding space for him.
Years later, Luca finally returns, hoping for closure. Their reunion is sweet and heartfelt, and you can feel how deeply he still cares for her. Even after all that time, he only wanted what was best for Serenity—even if that meant stepping aside to make sure she found the love she deserved. What he never did, though, was give her the chance to decide for herself.
This story is everything I want in a small-town romance—heart, history, a supportive community, and high school sweethearts finding their way back to each other. I absolutely loved it.
The narration was phenomenal. Maxine Mitchell and Sebastian York are two of my favorites, and their dual narration was spectacular. Maxine has one of the best male voices of any female narrator, and she brings each character to life with so much clarity and emotion. Sebastian York, as always, adds a grounded realism to every character he voices, elevating the entire experience. If they narrate it, I will listen—especially when they’re paired together. Truly outstanding work from both of them.
This story is a 5/5 all around!
December 10, 2025
These two had me rooting for their reconciliation from the start.
Typically a reader of spicy books, I am a sucker for a second chance romance and a man in uniform. I enjoyed Luca and Serenity's story, and their chance to redeem what was once a broken relationship.
Luca is ex-military and has a tough exterior, which can make him feel unapproachable. Serenity owns a gifts and collectibles store in the quaint downtown and often finds herself dreaming of the one who got away...until he shows up in her shop, to help her rebuild after the shop floods. Is he there strictly on business, or is he hoping to rekindle a love lost? Their story of rekindled romance does not always come easily, and forces them both to confront some difficult truths about their pasts.
The whole town is shaken when a scary situation befalls Serenity, and I love the show of community and how small towns stick together. The small town vibes, combined with tropes that I adore, made for a quick and easy listen.
Maxine Mitchell and Sebastian York are one duo that I can listen to repeatedly. Maxine's voice is so incredibly versatile, and her acting/vocal choices are always top notch. Sebastian pairs well with a tortured, tough guy MMC and he delivers a great performance with Luca.
Typically a reader of spicy books, I am a sucker for a second chance romance and a man in uniform. I enjoyed Luca and Serenity's story, and their chance to redeem what was once a broken relationship.
Luca is ex-military and has a tough exterior, which can make him feel unapproachable. Serenity owns a gifts and collectibles store in the quaint downtown and often finds herself dreaming of the one who got away...until he shows up in her shop, to help her rebuild after the shop floods. Is he there strictly on business, or is he hoping to rekindle a love lost? Their story of rekindled romance does not always come easily, and forces them both to confront some difficult truths about their pasts.
The whole town is shaken when a scary situation befalls Serenity, and I love the show of community and how small towns stick together. The small town vibes, combined with tropes that I adore, made for a quick and easy listen.
Maxine Mitchell and Sebastian York are one duo that I can listen to repeatedly. Maxine's voice is so incredibly versatile, and her acting/vocal choices are always top notch. Sebastian pairs well with a tortured, tough guy MMC and he delivers a great performance with Luca.
December 16, 2025
Small-town & Second chances
This book feels like stepping into a Hallmark movie and never wanting to leave.
Serenity owns a shop in the heart of a town where everyone knows everyone, Main Street is charming in the best way, and community actually means something.
Luca is her one-that-got-away. The ex who left to serve in the military and took a piece of Serenity’s heart with him. Time passed, life happened, but neither of them ever really moved on. So when Luca comes back to town and realizes how much he misses home… and her… you just know that fate is about to step in.
Add in a flooded shop, a call for help, and the fact that the construction company belongs to Luca’s brother (because small towns never let you escape your past), and you’ve got the perfect setup for a tender, emotional, second-chance love story.
Maxine Mitchell and Sebastian York deliver a dual narration that brings the perfect blend of depth and emotion, you feel every unspoken word, every lingering glance, every “what if.”
This one is lighter on the spice, heavier on the heart, and honestly? I loved that. It’s all about longing, history, forgiveness, and finding your way back to the person who always felt like home.
This book feels like stepping into a Hallmark movie and never wanting to leave.
Serenity owns a shop in the heart of a town where everyone knows everyone, Main Street is charming in the best way, and community actually means something.
Luca is her one-that-got-away. The ex who left to serve in the military and took a piece of Serenity’s heart with him. Time passed, life happened, but neither of them ever really moved on. So when Luca comes back to town and realizes how much he misses home… and her… you just know that fate is about to step in.
Add in a flooded shop, a call for help, and the fact that the construction company belongs to Luca’s brother (because small towns never let you escape your past), and you’ve got the perfect setup for a tender, emotional, second-chance love story.
Maxine Mitchell and Sebastian York deliver a dual narration that brings the perfect blend of depth and emotion, you feel every unspoken word, every lingering glance, every “what if.”
This one is lighter on the spice, heavier on the heart, and honestly? I loved that. It’s all about longing, history, forgiveness, and finding your way back to the person who always felt like home.
December 15, 2025
Heartfelt, comforting, and emotionally satisfying.
I have a soft spot for a good military romance, and this one really worked for me.
Second-chance romance is always a little iffy for me, but this one absolutely delivered. Luca and Serenity were childhood sweethearts, but after Luca was wounded in combat and sent to a rehabilitation center, he never returned home. Serenity was fully supportive of his military career and willing to wait for him, but Luca ghosts her, convinced he’s no longer good enough.
The chemistry builds naturally, with a steady emotional slow burn that had me rooting for them the entire time. Watching two people who clearly love each other, but are hesitant to open their hearts again, find their way back to one another was satisfying, made even better by the cozy small-town backdrop that softened some of the heavier themes.
If you love military romance with small-town charm and characters finding their way back to themselves (and each other), this one is absolutely worth your time 💙
I have a soft spot for a good military romance, and this one really worked for me.
Second-chance romance is always a little iffy for me, but this one absolutely delivered. Luca and Serenity were childhood sweethearts, but after Luca was wounded in combat and sent to a rehabilitation center, he never returned home. Serenity was fully supportive of his military career and willing to wait for him, but Luca ghosts her, convinced he’s no longer good enough.
The chemistry builds naturally, with a steady emotional slow burn that had me rooting for them the entire time. Watching two people who clearly love each other, but are hesitant to open their hearts again, find their way back to one another was satisfying, made even better by the cozy small-town backdrop that softened some of the heavier themes.
If you love military romance with small-town charm and characters finding their way back to themselves (and each other), this one is absolutely worth your time 💙
December 18, 2025
The Busiest Shop on Main is a closed-door contemporary romance with a touch of suspense. The story of Luca and Serenity captured my second chance romance-loving heart immediately. Luca is ex-military and carrying some trauma with him. Serenity owns the souvenir shop on main street. Luca and Serenity were high school sweethearts, and the love really never went away for either of them. As Serenity needs work on her shop and protection, Luca swoops in to ensure he's taking care of her. The sweet relationship between the two of them was a delicate dance of not wanting to inflict pain upon the other. The relief when Luca and Serenity finally shared their feelings for each other was palpable. I loved the foreshadowing as well, you can almost pick out where the series will go next, which I really enjoy. The audio was just as wonderful as the story. Maxine Mitchell and Sebastian are two of the best in the business, so the dual narration for this story was phenomenal. Thank you so much to Blue Nose Audio for the chance to listen and review.
July 19, 2024
A fantastic start to a new series
Such an inviting start to a new series. I love the different series of Laura Ann’s books and this beginning of another series that I eagerly await. This is a wonderful second chance story that feels so real. Luca and Serentiy dated through high school then Luca enlisted and Serenity went to college for a business degree. The plan was that they would reunite after. Unfortunately, life frequently does not follow our plans and Luca returns scarred, blind in one eye, and angry determined to isolate himself. Now two years later he is returning home hoping that maybe the girl he left behind might forgive him or at least give them both closure. The challenge is real for both Luca and Serenity as they look not only at their current reality but what they want in the future. I received an early copy and this is my honest review.
Such an inviting start to a new series. I love the different series of Laura Ann’s books and this beginning of another series that I eagerly await. This is a wonderful second chance story that feels so real. Luca and Serentiy dated through high school then Luca enlisted and Serenity went to college for a business degree. The plan was that they would reunite after. Unfortunately, life frequently does not follow our plans and Luca returns scarred, blind in one eye, and angry determined to isolate himself. Now two years later he is returning home hoping that maybe the girl he left behind might forgive him or at least give them both closure. The challenge is real for both Luca and Serenity as they look not only at their current reality but what they want in the future. I received an early copy and this is my honest review.
December 17, 2025
This is my first Laura Ann book and it did not disappoint. I just really love and appreciate a sweet tortured mmc topped off with a second chance trope. Ahhh one of my favorites.
Luca has been through hell and back. He returns back to his small town after being away in the military with physical and emotional baggage. He comes back with the intention to get closure from his ex-girlfriend Serenity. But finds himself in close proximity with her after she has an accident at her store.
We have a small town full of charming shop owners banding together, meddlesome brothers and friends and all to feel good vibes of a cozy quaint read/listen.
Sebastian York and Maxine Mitchell depiction of Serenity and Luca made my listening experience perfect in my earbuds.
If you love
💕Witty banter
💕Wounded soldier
💕Forced proximity
💕Heartwarming
💕Second chance
💕Sweet MMC
Luca has been through hell and back. He returns back to his small town after being away in the military with physical and emotional baggage. He comes back with the intention to get closure from his ex-girlfriend Serenity. But finds himself in close proximity with her after she has an accident at her store.
We have a small town full of charming shop owners banding together, meddlesome brothers and friends and all to feel good vibes of a cozy quaint read/listen.
Sebastian York and Maxine Mitchell depiction of Serenity and Luca made my listening experience perfect in my earbuds.
If you love
💕Witty banter
💕Wounded soldier
💕Forced proximity
💕Heartwarming
💕Second chance
💕Sweet MMC
December 15, 2025
Cute
The Busiest Shop on Main by Laura Ann!
Book 1 in the Shops on Main series
Performed in dual narration by Maxine Mitchell & Sebastian York
Small town
Second chance
Traumatic past
I really enjoyed this story but I did have to overcome one little/ big thing. The FMC name is my daughter's name, and even though they are drastically different in looks and attitude but the name
... besides that it was a great story. Bad decisions about letting go of a relationship due to your own mindset. Time is your own enemy at times... Fmc long lost love comes back to town and having trouble to hate him because her feelings are just STILL THERE!
Alc Review: 4 🌟
Narration: 5 🌟
(Dual)
The Busiest Shop on Main by Laura Ann!
Book 1 in the Shops on Main series
Performed in dual narration by Maxine Mitchell & Sebastian York
Small town
Second chance
Traumatic past
I really enjoyed this story but I did have to overcome one little/ big thing. The FMC name is my daughter's name, and even though they are drastically different in looks and attitude but the name
... besides that it was a great story. Bad decisions about letting go of a relationship due to your own mindset. Time is your own enemy at times... Fmc long lost love comes back to town and having trouble to hate him because her feelings are just STILL THERE!
Alc Review: 4 🌟
Narration: 5 🌟
(Dual)
August 1, 2024
Luca and Serenity dated in high school and had an understanding they would be together forever, and then he decided to enlist in the army. She’s willing to wait for him to come home but isn’t prepared to be ghosted and him to completely disappear.
Luca regrets what he did and when he turns to work with his brothers he doesn’t think he’s good enough anymore. But they have different ideas, arranging for him to work directly with her repairing her store.
I love the raw emotions written into the story, the despair written with hope, and the love that develops all over again. A truly inspiring love story.
Luca regrets what he did and when he turns to work with his brothers he doesn’t think he’s good enough anymore. But they have different ideas, arranging for him to work directly with her repairing her store.
I love the raw emotions written into the story, the despair written with hope, and the love that develops all over again. A truly inspiring love story.
December 8, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🎙️🎙️🎙️🎙️🎙️
Book 1 in the Shops on Main series
Performed in dual narration by Maxine Mitchell & Sebastian York
Second chance
smalltown romance
Wholesome Romance
Serenity and Luca
I enjoyed this sweet,second chance and small town romance.
Childhood sweethearts. Luca returns to town after his time recovering from his injuries serving in the military.
Serenity and Luca get the chance at starting something new after healing old wounds
It’s lovely listening to a wholesome reads. I felt Maxine and Sebastian were perfect for this book. I look forward to more.
Thank you Blue Nose Audio for this ALC.
🎙️🎙️🎙️🎙️🎙️
Book 1 in the Shops on Main series
Performed in dual narration by Maxine Mitchell & Sebastian York
Second chance
smalltown romance
Wholesome Romance
Serenity and Luca
I enjoyed this sweet,second chance and small town romance.
Childhood sweethearts. Luca returns to town after his time recovering from his injuries serving in the military.
Serenity and Luca get the chance at starting something new after healing old wounds
It’s lovely listening to a wholesome reads. I felt Maxine and Sebastian were perfect for this book. I look forward to more.
Thank you Blue Nose Audio for this ALC.
December 15, 2025
Thank you, Blue Nose Audio, for the opportunity for this ALC!
I loved this! Luca and Serenity's second chance at love is so relatable. The military can change a person, especially when they face something traumatic. Luca's trauma not only affected him, but Serenity. I loved that Luca and Serenity work through their past and current trauma in a healthy way. I also loved the twins and Shiloh!
Maxine Mitchell and Sebastion York did an amazing job narrating. I love a duet, but this dual narration was perfection!
I loved this! Luca and Serenity's second chance at love is so relatable. The military can change a person, especially when they face something traumatic. Luca's trauma not only affected him, but Serenity. I loved that Luca and Serenity work through their past and current trauma in a healthy way. I also loved the twins and Shiloh!
Maxine Mitchell and Sebastion York did an amazing job narrating. I love a duet, but this dual narration was perfection!
July 27, 2024
A new series spin off that starts with Luca from The Sweetest Slice. He heads home to make amends with his twin brother’s and the love of his life he was afraid to go to after being wounded in war. He and Serenity come together with some work from themselves and loving interference from their loved one’s. A wonderful HEA book I can highly recommend. Also, it doesn’t end on a cliffhanger. I received a copy of the book for free and this is my own opinion about it.
June 30, 2025
A Wonderful Love Story!
I love Serenity and Luca’s story, they went through so much, each one dealing with what life threw at them. Luca dealing with injuries incurred while in service and Serenity dealing with the heartbreak of Luca walking away. Life brought them back together and they had to navigate through everything. This story was amazing, heartwarming and funny and so worth reading.
I love Serenity and Luca’s story, they went through so much, each one dealing with what life threw at them. Luca dealing with injuries incurred while in service and Serenity dealing with the heartbreak of Luca walking away. Life brought them back together and they had to navigate through everything. This story was amazing, heartwarming and funny and so worth reading.
December 14, 2025
Such a lovely little small-town, second-chance romance! I would not have discovered this book had it not been for Blue Nose Audio producing the audiobook. I thought the pacing was good, the story kept me hooked and Maxine Mitchell and Sebastian York always knock it out of the park. This is a closed door romance, meaning there's no spice, but that didn't stop me from fully enjoying Serenity and Luca's story. If wholesome romance is your thing, look no further than The Busiest Shop on Main!
December 15, 2025
If you're looking for a contemporary romance that's on the sweeter side, this book is perfect for you. This is a charming small town romance with a second chance that will have you rooting for the main couple all the way through.
This audiobook was produced by Blue Nose and read by Maxine Mitchell and Sebastian York. It's in dual narration, and the style was perfect for this book. Maxine's male voice was spot on as always. And I love how Sebastian narrates the MMC's when they're grumpy.
This audiobook was produced by Blue Nose and read by Maxine Mitchell and Sebastian York. It's in dual narration, and the style was perfect for this book. Maxine's male voice was spot on as always. And I love how Sebastian narrates the MMC's when they're grumpy.
December 15, 2025
This was a beautiful story of second chance romance in a small town. Luca and Serenity were so likable and I was rooting for them. This sweet story was a perfect read to make you feel warm and cozy. The narrators were amazing in their portrayal. They really made me feel the characters emotions.
Thank you Laura Ann and Bluenose Audio for the chance to listen to this amazing audio for my honest review.
Thank you Laura Ann and Bluenose Audio for the chance to listen to this amazing audio for my honest review.
August 10, 2024
the Busiest Shop on Main
Oh what a sweet story! True love wins even through all the trials and tribulations of serving your country…maybe serving his country made Luca the man Serenity truly needed him to be! This amazing read will reveal all…you just have to start with page 1! Enjoy!! I received an ARC, with this being my honest opinion.
Oh what a sweet story! True love wins even through all the trials and tribulations of serving your country…maybe serving his country made Luca the man Serenity truly needed him to be! This amazing read will reveal all…you just have to start with page 1! Enjoy!! I received an ARC, with this being my honest opinion.
December 16, 2025
I really enjoyed this sweet love story! I listened to the audiobook! Sebastian York and Maxine Mitchell did phenomenal as always! If you love a second chance at romance, ex military, small town vibes you’ll absolutely love this story! Though there’s not much spice at all it’s still a cute romance!
July 23, 2024
sweet read
I enjoyed getting to know Luca better. It first shows up in Anthony’s story. Luca and Serenity are a great pair and enjoyed reading their story and getting to know other characters in the Lighthouse Bay series.
I enjoyed getting to know Luca better. It first shows up in Anthony’s story. Luca and Serenity are a great pair and enjoyed reading their story and getting to know other characters in the Lighthouse Bay series.
July 24, 2024
A sweet second chance..
Luca left home and never went back after he lost his eye and then was too scared to go back to see Serenity.
Serenity has attempted to live on but hasn’t. Now, after years away, Luca is back and it’s time to deal.
Recommend.
Borrowed on KU.
Luca left home and never went back after he lost his eye and then was too scared to go back to see Serenity.
Serenity has attempted to live on but hasn’t. Now, after years away, Luca is back and it’s time to deal.
Recommend.
Borrowed on KU.
July 24, 2024
Loved it
True love never dies. It might take years for everything to come for Luke and Serenity .
They were always deeply in tune with each other they never felt whole or complete until they found each other again.
True love never dies. It might take years for everything to come for Luke and Serenity .
They were always deeply in tune with each other they never felt whole or complete until they found each other again.
August 4, 2024
Loved it
Serenity and Luca have been together forever when he joined the service. He was injured while there and distance himself from everyone he loved. He comes back home and is thrown in to helping Ser and they continued where they left off.
Serenity and Luca have been together forever when he joined the service. He was injured while there and distance himself from everyone he loved. He comes back home and is thrown in to helping Ser and they continued where they left off.
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