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Sugar Maple Farms #2
Autumn Nights, Holiday Lights
The snow may be fake, but could the romance be real?
Christmas in August? Sunset County is decked out for the holidays—fake snow and all! Maya Monroe can’t believe her novel is being turned into a Christmas movie. Except the "acclaimed" director, Will Hastings, is Maya’s ex. The man who broke her heart via text, and clearly knows nothing about romance, is directing her dream project.
Will never imagined he’d be filming a Christmas romance—especially one based on his ex’s book. But Will’s determined to complete the job, even though Maya keeps interfering with his creative choices—and his heart. In this staged winter wonderland, their feelings are stealing the show. Can Will and Maya heal their past for a second chance to be the lead couple in their real-life romance?
Christmas in August? Sunset County is decked out for the holidays—fake snow and all! Maya Monroe can’t believe her novel is being turned into a Christmas movie. Except the "acclaimed" director, Will Hastings, is Maya’s ex. The man who broke her heart via text, and clearly knows nothing about romance, is directing her dream project.
Will never imagined he’d be filming a Christmas romance—especially one based on his ex’s book. But Will’s determined to complete the job, even though Maya keeps interfering with his creative choices—and his heart. In this staged winter wonderland, their feelings are stealing the show. Can Will and Maya heal their past for a second chance to be the lead couple in their real-life romance?
272 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 30, 2025
7 people are currently reading
47 people want to read
About the author
Elle Douglas
23 books50 followersElle Douglas writes small-town contemporary romance for lovers of warm, feel-good stories that are on the sweeter side. Elle’s novels feature strong, relatable characters living in tight-knit communities, with a backdrop of stunning Canadian wilderness.
Elle is a lover of 90’s alternative music, a wannabe chef specializing in comfort food and a sometimes reluctant but usually dedicated gym-goer who lives in Toronto with her wife and their cat Lucy (or Lucifer, depending on the day). Between writing romance novels and working as a high school guidance counsellor, Elle works exclusively in helping others find their happily-ever-afters.
She is a graduate of TMU's Radio and Television Arts program, OISE at U of T, and the U of T Creative Writing program, and is a member of Toronto Romance Writers and Romance Writers of America.
Find her on Instagram at @elledouglaswriter
Elle is a lover of 90’s alternative music, a wannabe chef specializing in comfort food and a sometimes reluctant but usually dedicated gym-goer who lives in Toronto with her wife and their cat Lucy (or Lucifer, depending on the day). Between writing romance novels and working as a high school guidance counsellor, Elle works exclusively in helping others find their happily-ever-afters.
She is a graduate of TMU's Radio and Television Arts program, OISE at U of T, and the U of T Creative Writing program, and is a member of Toronto Romance Writers and Romance Writers of America.
Find her on Instagram at @elledouglaswriter
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
October 22, 2025
This setting was a quaint town with great characters. I liked Maya and Will’s second chance love story.
September 22, 2025
Autumn Nights, Holiday Lights by Elle Douglas
Thank you to Harlequin Special Edition and NetGalley for my gifted ARC of this cozy, heartfelt small-town romance.
I absolutely devoured Autumn Nights, Holiday Lights. It’s the kind of book that hooks you with its charm, then quietly breaks your heart open before stitching it back together with warmth, humor, and just the right dose of holiday magic. The premise is irresistible: Maya Monroe, a romance author and local bakery owner in Sunset County, is about to have her book turned into a Christmas movie. The town is being transformed into a winter wonderland in the middle of fall, complete with fake snow, twinkling lights, and camera crews. What Maya doesn’t expect? The director of the movie is her ex—the one who dumped her via text years ago and never looked back.
Will Hastings is the last person Maya wants to see—let alone collaborate with on something as personal as a film adaptation of her book. He’s a successful director with zero interest in romance films, and even less interest in facing his past. But he’s back in town to care for his aging, prickly father and ends up reluctantly taking the project. What follows is a beautifully written second chance romance that never once feels forced or overly saccharine.
This story works because it respects both characters. Maya is angry, yes, but she’s not irrational. She’s proud of her work, protective of her story, and trying to hold it all together while pretending she’s totally unbothered by Will’s presence. Will, on the other hand, has clearly been carrying guilt for the way things ended and is now wrestling with his own identity and priorities. They don’t fall back into old patterns—they struggle, they argue, and they slowly begin to see each other not as they were, but as they are now. That maturity gives their rekindled connection weight and real emotional payoff.
The setting is straight-up cinematic. Sunset County is a town I’d move to in a heartbeat—quirky, supportive, and picturesque. I loved the way Douglas used the fake Christmas decorations and movie-making chaos to mirror the characters’ emotional messiness. And somehow, she made it feel natural to fall in love again under artificial snow in the middle of October. It all worked. Maya’s bakery, Flour Child, adds a delicious touch to every scene she’s in—if someone doesn’t option this for an actual movie, it’s a missed opportunity.
There are some fantastic side characters too. Will’s strained relationship with his father adds tension and depth, while Lucas—a teenager struggling to stay out of trouble—brings a redemptive arc that’s both touching and unexpected. And Bruce the rescue pup? Total scene-stealer. These supporting storylines add texture without distracting from the main romance.
Elle Douglas’s writing is sharp, funny, and emotionally grounded. She gets that romance isn’t just about chemistry (though Maya and Will have plenty of that)—it’s about timing, growth, and forgiveness. She lets her characters be messy. They say the wrong thing. They get scared. They pull away. And that makes the payoff that much sweeter when they choose each other anyway.
One quote that really stood out to me was when Maya said, “You don’t get to rewrite the past, but you can choose the ending. That’s the part that’s always yours.” That line perfectly captures the heart of this story. It’s not just about rekindling a lost love—it’s about reclaiming your voice, your boundaries, and your future.
While this is book two in the Sugar Maple Farms series, it works perfectly as a standalone. I hadn’t read Her Fairy Tale Farmer, but after finishing this one, I immediately added it to my TBR. The world Douglas has created is irresistible, and I want more of it—more cozy fall nights, more fairy-tale bakeries, more flawed but lovable characters trying to make it work.
If you’re looking for a feel-good romance with real emotional depth, a vibrant setting, and second chances that feel earned, Autumn Nights, Holiday Lights absolutely delivers. It’s the kind of book you finish with a smile on your face and a craving for cinnamon rolls—and maybe a little hope that sometimes, love really does deserve a rewrite.
⭐⭐⭐⭐½ (4.5 stars)
#AutumnNightsHolidayLights #ElleDouglas #SugarMapleFarms #SecondChanceRomance #SmallTownRomance #FakeSnowRealFeelings #FallReads #HolidayRomance #RomanceBooks #BookReview #Bookstagram #NetGalley #HarlequinSpecialEdition #ChristmasInAugust #FeelGoodFiction #BooksILove #MustReadRomance
Thank you to Harlequin Special Edition and NetGalley for my gifted ARC of this cozy, heartfelt small-town romance.
I absolutely devoured Autumn Nights, Holiday Lights. It’s the kind of book that hooks you with its charm, then quietly breaks your heart open before stitching it back together with warmth, humor, and just the right dose of holiday magic. The premise is irresistible: Maya Monroe, a romance author and local bakery owner in Sunset County, is about to have her book turned into a Christmas movie. The town is being transformed into a winter wonderland in the middle of fall, complete with fake snow, twinkling lights, and camera crews. What Maya doesn’t expect? The director of the movie is her ex—the one who dumped her via text years ago and never looked back.
Will Hastings is the last person Maya wants to see—let alone collaborate with on something as personal as a film adaptation of her book. He’s a successful director with zero interest in romance films, and even less interest in facing his past. But he’s back in town to care for his aging, prickly father and ends up reluctantly taking the project. What follows is a beautifully written second chance romance that never once feels forced or overly saccharine.
This story works because it respects both characters. Maya is angry, yes, but she’s not irrational. She’s proud of her work, protective of her story, and trying to hold it all together while pretending she’s totally unbothered by Will’s presence. Will, on the other hand, has clearly been carrying guilt for the way things ended and is now wrestling with his own identity and priorities. They don’t fall back into old patterns—they struggle, they argue, and they slowly begin to see each other not as they were, but as they are now. That maturity gives their rekindled connection weight and real emotional payoff.
The setting is straight-up cinematic. Sunset County is a town I’d move to in a heartbeat—quirky, supportive, and picturesque. I loved the way Douglas used the fake Christmas decorations and movie-making chaos to mirror the characters’ emotional messiness. And somehow, she made it feel natural to fall in love again under artificial snow in the middle of October. It all worked. Maya’s bakery, Flour Child, adds a delicious touch to every scene she’s in—if someone doesn’t option this for an actual movie, it’s a missed opportunity.
There are some fantastic side characters too. Will’s strained relationship with his father adds tension and depth, while Lucas—a teenager struggling to stay out of trouble—brings a redemptive arc that’s both touching and unexpected. And Bruce the rescue pup? Total scene-stealer. These supporting storylines add texture without distracting from the main romance.
Elle Douglas’s writing is sharp, funny, and emotionally grounded. She gets that romance isn’t just about chemistry (though Maya and Will have plenty of that)—it’s about timing, growth, and forgiveness. She lets her characters be messy. They say the wrong thing. They get scared. They pull away. And that makes the payoff that much sweeter when they choose each other anyway.
One quote that really stood out to me was when Maya said, “You don’t get to rewrite the past, but you can choose the ending. That’s the part that’s always yours.” That line perfectly captures the heart of this story. It’s not just about rekindling a lost love—it’s about reclaiming your voice, your boundaries, and your future.
While this is book two in the Sugar Maple Farms series, it works perfectly as a standalone. I hadn’t read Her Fairy Tale Farmer, but after finishing this one, I immediately added it to my TBR. The world Douglas has created is irresistible, and I want more of it—more cozy fall nights, more fairy-tale bakeries, more flawed but lovable characters trying to make it work.
If you’re looking for a feel-good romance with real emotional depth, a vibrant setting, and second chances that feel earned, Autumn Nights, Holiday Lights absolutely delivers. It’s the kind of book you finish with a smile on your face and a craving for cinnamon rolls—and maybe a little hope that sometimes, love really does deserve a rewrite.
⭐⭐⭐⭐½ (4.5 stars)
#AutumnNightsHolidayLights #ElleDouglas #SugarMapleFarms #SecondChanceRomance #SmallTownRomance #FakeSnowRealFeelings #FallReads #HolidayRomance #RomanceBooks #BookReview #Bookstagram #NetGalley #HarlequinSpecialEdition #ChristmasInAugust #FeelGoodFiction #BooksILove #MustReadRomance
August 26, 2025
I received this book as an ARC a month or two before official release in exchange for an honest review.
My official rating for this is more of a 3.75 star read.
I enjoyed this book! Reading this book officially put me in a Fall mood and transitioned me out of Summer. I loved the descriptions of the loving small town, the friendly community, the cozy bakery, even her small home that she could walk to! It was very dreamy and I loved it.
"Autumn Nights, Holiday Lights" starts off like a Hallmark Holiday rom com where Will is creating the film-adaptation of Maya's book (a Hallmark movie inside a Hallmark book.) I was enjoying this. I have been reading a lot of fantasy reads that are fast paced and action packed and this book really forced me to slow down and take a breather. There was good tension between the two main characters, but not anything too stressful or overwhelming so you could still enjoy it as a holiday book. However, the story seemed to change for me about halfway through.
I grew attached more to Will and Maya's relationship rather than the characters individually. Halfway into the book was when we go deeper into who they are individually. I started becoming way more invested in who they are and how they feel. I personally enjoyed that tactic because it didn't feel so forced or in-your-face. I also really liked the dialogue/ their banter back and forth. I struggle a lot with romance books, getting turned off to the corny writing or corny scenarios. Even though this book technically had its share of cheesy moments, it wasn't so quirky that it turned me off, I just kept reading!
Something I felt was missing (possibly spoiler alert): I didn't feel any resolution to their past breakup. Will & Maya's unexpected split was a major heartbreak to her. It really hurt her. And Will has a lot of regret for how he ended things. Their feelings are mentioned either in their chapter POV's or to other characters, but I was really missing their talk TO each other. I wanted Maya to really express the impact it had on her, or to use it to put him in his place. But it wasn't utilized enough I don't think.
My only other dislike was the ending I think. The ending was a bit unclear to me. I won't go into detail to avoid spoilers. I just feel another chapter could have been added to give a more in-depth resolution.
Back to something good: This was bonus for me... there was very little spice!! It is ridiculous how hard it is to find spice-free books nowadays. I don't mind it from time to time, but I really don't like six-page graphic sex scenes. This book was a more of a fade-to-black type and I really appreciated that.
Bottom line: If you're looking for a spice-free, ick-free rom-com alternative to "The Pumpkin Spice Cafe" (which I could NOT get into by the way), give this book a try! I genuinely had a good time reading this and know that others will too. It was a much needed breather I needed to take to put me in the Fall mood.
My official rating for this is more of a 3.75 star read.
I enjoyed this book! Reading this book officially put me in a Fall mood and transitioned me out of Summer. I loved the descriptions of the loving small town, the friendly community, the cozy bakery, even her small home that she could walk to! It was very dreamy and I loved it.
"Autumn Nights, Holiday Lights" starts off like a Hallmark Holiday rom com where Will is creating the film-adaptation of Maya's book (a Hallmark movie inside a Hallmark book.) I was enjoying this. I have been reading a lot of fantasy reads that are fast paced and action packed and this book really forced me to slow down and take a breather. There was good tension between the two main characters, but not anything too stressful or overwhelming so you could still enjoy it as a holiday book. However, the story seemed to change for me about halfway through.
I grew attached more to Will and Maya's relationship rather than the characters individually. Halfway into the book was when we go deeper into who they are individually. I started becoming way more invested in who they are and how they feel. I personally enjoyed that tactic because it didn't feel so forced or in-your-face. I also really liked the dialogue/ their banter back and forth. I struggle a lot with romance books, getting turned off to the corny writing or corny scenarios. Even though this book technically had its share of cheesy moments, it wasn't so quirky that it turned me off, I just kept reading!
Something I felt was missing (possibly spoiler alert): I didn't feel any resolution to their past breakup. Will & Maya's unexpected split was a major heartbreak to her. It really hurt her. And Will has a lot of regret for how he ended things. Their feelings are mentioned either in their chapter POV's or to other characters, but I was really missing their talk TO each other. I wanted Maya to really express the impact it had on her, or to use it to put him in his place. But it wasn't utilized enough I don't think.
My only other dislike was the ending I think. The ending was a bit unclear to me. I won't go into detail to avoid spoilers. I just feel another chapter could have been added to give a more in-depth resolution.
Back to something good: This was bonus for me... there was very little spice!! It is ridiculous how hard it is to find spice-free books nowadays. I don't mind it from time to time, but I really don't like six-page graphic sex scenes. This book was a more of a fade-to-black type and I really appreciated that.
Bottom line: If you're looking for a spice-free, ick-free rom-com alternative to "The Pumpkin Spice Cafe" (which I could NOT get into by the way), give this book a try! I genuinely had a good time reading this and know that others will too. It was a much needed breather I needed to take to put me in the Fall mood.
September 30, 2025
Reviewed at Happily Ever After Romance
Autumn Nights, Holiday Lights is the second title in the Sugar Maple Farms series. This time, it’s Maya, an author and a bakery owner (Hey, it’s the day job), who is seeing her romance novel make it to the big screen, and the movie is being filmed in her hometown. Unfortunately, the director is her high-school sweetheart, Will, who left her behind when he went off to college and then his California dream of directing the next epic film. They haven’t been in contact since he broke up with her… long-distance. Sparks are about to fly, not only the rekindled attraction ones, but the “it’s my novel”, “it’s my movie” ones that spark some disagreements as well.
I had such fun with Maya and Will in Autumn Nights, Holiday Lights. Will took on this film as a way to tend to business for his ailing father, who needs to move into an assisted living facility. Will plans to sell the family house, get his father settled, film this nonsense romance film, and then head back to California to push for the epic film he really wants to do. He knew he’d probably run into Maya again, and he wasn’t prepared for the woman she’s grown into.
Maya doesn’t hesitate to give Will her opinion of the changes he’s making in order to take her book to the big screen. She’s also fighting the attraction she still feels for the annoying man, and poking at him through banter and maybe some outrageous demands for the film is one way of getting under his skin.
I loved this couple together, and Maya individually. It took me a bit to warm up to Will, but I felt that was intentionally written that way since he broke our heroine’s heart, and isn’t too kind about how he feels about fluffy, nonsensical, happy-ever-after movies. Watching Will lower his walls, admit that he’s changing his opinion about romance movies, thanks to Maya, was a fun, and maybe a karma moment kind of enjoyment. Adorable pups always grab my attention, and Bruce (Maya’s new puppy) was all that and a cute rein-dog (it’s a holiday thing), even if he wasn’t very coordinated or well-behaved in that role.
I enjoyed myself back in this world, and if you love a well-written, funny, emotional romance that will have you cheering on a couple that really do belong together to their own happy ending, then you’d love Autumn Nights, Holiday Lights by Elle Douglas.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley, and I sincerely thank the author or publishing house for their trust. It is my choice to leave a review, giving my personal opinion about this book.*
Autumn Nights, Holiday Lights is the second title in the Sugar Maple Farms series. This time, it’s Maya, an author and a bakery owner (Hey, it’s the day job), who is seeing her romance novel make it to the big screen, and the movie is being filmed in her hometown. Unfortunately, the director is her high-school sweetheart, Will, who left her behind when he went off to college and then his California dream of directing the next epic film. They haven’t been in contact since he broke up with her… long-distance. Sparks are about to fly, not only the rekindled attraction ones, but the “it’s my novel”, “it’s my movie” ones that spark some disagreements as well.
I had such fun with Maya and Will in Autumn Nights, Holiday Lights. Will took on this film as a way to tend to business for his ailing father, who needs to move into an assisted living facility. Will plans to sell the family house, get his father settled, film this nonsense romance film, and then head back to California to push for the epic film he really wants to do. He knew he’d probably run into Maya again, and he wasn’t prepared for the woman she’s grown into.
Maya doesn’t hesitate to give Will her opinion of the changes he’s making in order to take her book to the big screen. She’s also fighting the attraction she still feels for the annoying man, and poking at him through banter and maybe some outrageous demands for the film is one way of getting under his skin.
I loved this couple together, and Maya individually. It took me a bit to warm up to Will, but I felt that was intentionally written that way since he broke our heroine’s heart, and isn’t too kind about how he feels about fluffy, nonsensical, happy-ever-after movies. Watching Will lower his walls, admit that he’s changing his opinion about romance movies, thanks to Maya, was a fun, and maybe a karma moment kind of enjoyment. Adorable pups always grab my attention, and Bruce (Maya’s new puppy) was all that and a cute rein-dog (it’s a holiday thing), even if he wasn’t very coordinated or well-behaved in that role.
I enjoyed myself back in this world, and if you love a well-written, funny, emotional romance that will have you cheering on a couple that really do belong together to their own happy ending, then you’d love Autumn Nights, Holiday Lights by Elle Douglas.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley, and I sincerely thank the author or publishing house for their trust. It is my choice to leave a review, giving my personal opinion about this book.*
May 25, 2025
This was a delight! I loved it! The sequel to Her Fairy Tale Farmer, this is #2 in the Sugar Maple Farms series.
In the previous book we met Maya Monroe when she worked along with Andie Carter, providing fairy-tale themed cakes for Andie’s business, which is planning and hosting fairy-tale themed birthday parties. Her cakes are complex and fancy and popular on Instagram, which is fun. We also learned that she owns the Flour Child bakery and moonlights as a published author of romance novels. In this installment, one of her books is being adapted into a Christmas movie, to be directed by none other than the famous director, Will Hastings. Will was Maya’s high school boyfriend and the one that broke her heart. The cool thing is that the movie is being filmed on location in Sunset County, mostly in the downtown area directly in front of Maya’s bakery. So Maya won’t be able to avoid Will even though she wants to. It’s a second chance romance featuring Will’s persnickety father, a troubled teen called Lucas, and a sweet little rescue pup called Bruce.
The story takes place in autumn, but the movie adaptation is a Christmas story, so the town is being transformed with fake snow and Christmas lights. There are lots of fun cool-weather holiday vibes in here.
I love that Will pursues Maya’s heart even as he is dealing with his aging father, with whom he has a complicated relationship. As he comes back into Maya’s life, he loves watching how she really cares for people and for the integrity of her story, which she is really hoping will not get changed during the process of movie-making.
This is a fun series, set in a fun town, and Maya and Will have a lot of chemistry. I hope Elle Douglas continues to write books in this series.
Many thanks to HQN Special Edition for providing this review copy to me via NetGalley! As soon as I saw it pop up, I had to read it. I really liked Maya in the first book.
In the previous book we met Maya Monroe when she worked along with Andie Carter, providing fairy-tale themed cakes for Andie’s business, which is planning and hosting fairy-tale themed birthday parties. Her cakes are complex and fancy and popular on Instagram, which is fun. We also learned that she owns the Flour Child bakery and moonlights as a published author of romance novels. In this installment, one of her books is being adapted into a Christmas movie, to be directed by none other than the famous director, Will Hastings. Will was Maya’s high school boyfriend and the one that broke her heart. The cool thing is that the movie is being filmed on location in Sunset County, mostly in the downtown area directly in front of Maya’s bakery. So Maya won’t be able to avoid Will even though she wants to. It’s a second chance romance featuring Will’s persnickety father, a troubled teen called Lucas, and a sweet little rescue pup called Bruce.
The story takes place in autumn, but the movie adaptation is a Christmas story, so the town is being transformed with fake snow and Christmas lights. There are lots of fun cool-weather holiday vibes in here.
I love that Will pursues Maya’s heart even as he is dealing with his aging father, with whom he has a complicated relationship. As he comes back into Maya’s life, he loves watching how she really cares for people and for the integrity of her story, which she is really hoping will not get changed during the process of movie-making.
This is a fun series, set in a fun town, and Maya and Will have a lot of chemistry. I hope Elle Douglas continues to write books in this series.
Many thanks to HQN Special Edition for providing this review copy to me via NetGalley! As soon as I saw it pop up, I had to read it. I really liked Maya in the first book.
September 29, 2025
Autumn Nights, Holiday Lights by Elle Douglas
A Swoon-Worthy Small-Town Romance
(Sugar Maple Farms, 2)
Book 2 of 2: Sugar Maple Farms
The snow may be fake, but could the romance be real?
Christmas in August? Sunset County is decked out for the holidays—fake snow and all! Maya Monroe can’t believe her novel is being turned into a Christmas movie. Except the "acclaimed" director, Will Hastings, is Maya’s ex. The man who broke her heart via text, and clearly knows nothing about romance, is directing her dream project.
Will never imagined he’d be filming a Christmas romance—especially one based on his ex’s book. But Will’s determined to complete the job, even though Maya keeps interfering with his creative choices—and his heart. In this staged winter wonderland, their feelings are stealing the show. Can Will and Maya heal their past for a second chance to be the lead couple in their real-life romance?
This is Maya Monroe's story.
This is Will Hastings's story.
My favorite quote is
Will closed his eyes and took a deep breath in. Two weeks. He could do two weeks.
Until he saw something at the bottom of the document that made him do a double take.
“You’ve gotta be kidding me,” he muttered, then sat back on the bench. He read it twice to be sure.
Adapted from the novel Paws and Claws by Maya Monroe.
Maya Monroe. Just the sight of her name awakened something deep and unsteady inside him. Was it the same Maya Monroe?
Of course it was. Maya loved romance and always dreamed of being a storyteller.
Autumn Nights, Holiday Lights by Elle Douglas is a 4 star book
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions shared here in this review are my own.
A Swoon-Worthy Small-Town Romance
(Sugar Maple Farms, 2)
Book 2 of 2: Sugar Maple Farms
The snow may be fake, but could the romance be real?
Christmas in August? Sunset County is decked out for the holidays—fake snow and all! Maya Monroe can’t believe her novel is being turned into a Christmas movie. Except the "acclaimed" director, Will Hastings, is Maya’s ex. The man who broke her heart via text, and clearly knows nothing about romance, is directing her dream project.
Will never imagined he’d be filming a Christmas romance—especially one based on his ex’s book. But Will’s determined to complete the job, even though Maya keeps interfering with his creative choices—and his heart. In this staged winter wonderland, their feelings are stealing the show. Can Will and Maya heal their past for a second chance to be the lead couple in their real-life romance?
This is Maya Monroe's story.
This is Will Hastings's story.
My favorite quote is
Will closed his eyes and took a deep breath in. Two weeks. He could do two weeks.
Until he saw something at the bottom of the document that made him do a double take.
“You’ve gotta be kidding me,” he muttered, then sat back on the bench. He read it twice to be sure.
Adapted from the novel Paws and Claws by Maya Monroe.
Maya Monroe. Just the sight of her name awakened something deep and unsteady inside him. Was it the same Maya Monroe?
Of course it was. Maya loved romance and always dreamed of being a storyteller.
Autumn Nights, Holiday Lights by Elle Douglas is a 4 star book
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions shared here in this review are my own.
September 22, 2025
“Autumn Nights, Holiday Lights” was an absolutely heartwarming read that swept me up from the first page. Second chance love has always been one of my favorite tropes, perhaps because it resonates so deeply with me—I reconnected with the boyfriend I first dated at sixteen, and thirty years later, after a chance meeting, we found our way back to each other and are now happily married. That same sense of timing, hope, and possibility shines beautifully throughout this story.
What impressed me most was the care the author took in bringing the characters back together. Their reunion didn’t feel rushed or forced; instead, the narrative gave them space to rediscover one another, to face both the joys and the vulnerabilities of rekindled love, and to thoughtfully consider what a shared future might look like. That realism made the romance all the more powerful.
Another standout element was the storyline surrounding an aging parent. These moments of tenderness and struggle grounded the story in the kind of everyday challenges many families face. It added a layer of authenticity that kept the romance from ever feeling like just a “Hollywood” fantasy where a movie star breezes into town. While the romance sparkled, the life obstacles gave it weight, creating a balance that made the ending all the sweeter.
Overall, “Autumn Nights, Holiday Lights” was a fun, engaging, and moving read—exactly the kind of holiday story that leaves you with a smile.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing a free copy in exchange for my honest review.
What impressed me most was the care the author took in bringing the characters back together. Their reunion didn’t feel rushed or forced; instead, the narrative gave them space to rediscover one another, to face both the joys and the vulnerabilities of rekindled love, and to thoughtfully consider what a shared future might look like. That realism made the romance all the more powerful.
Another standout element was the storyline surrounding an aging parent. These moments of tenderness and struggle grounded the story in the kind of everyday challenges many families face. It added a layer of authenticity that kept the romance from ever feeling like just a “Hollywood” fantasy where a movie star breezes into town. While the romance sparkled, the life obstacles gave it weight, creating a balance that made the ending all the sweeter.
Overall, “Autumn Nights, Holiday Lights” was a fun, engaging, and moving read—exactly the kind of holiday story that leaves you with a smile.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing a free copy in exchange for my honest review.
September 24, 2025
4.5 enthusiastic stars!
Maya, our heroine, has written a hit book that is being turned into a movie! In fact, it'll be filmed in her very own small town. The problem? It's being directed by her ex, Will. The quaint town, in the midst of the fall season, is being transformed into a winter wonderland for filming. Can Maya and Will get along behind the scenes, and maybe discover that "together" is the HAPPIEST EVER AFTER ending?
Sometimes the perfect book comes along at the perfect time, and this was it! It's a warm hug. It's full of heart. I cried happy tears multiple times. We're taken from small town to glamorous high life, all the while experiencing the respect, healing, and ultimately, love, that's possible between the many characters we grow to know and care about.
Based on my own experience, it's VERY difficult to find a heart-warming small town romance that's richly developed, well written, and feels like one of the best Hallmark movies you've ever seen. This author has achieved it!! It wasn't trite or boring. The spice was fade to black, but it didn't feel like we lost anything in terms of the chemistry or depth of feeling between the characters. I'm ready to read this author's entire backlist. So exciting!
Trigger warnings: father who needs to move into assisted living (physically and mentally), tenuous father and son relationship
I'd like to thank Harlequin and Netgalley for the eARC of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
Maya, our heroine, has written a hit book that is being turned into a movie! In fact, it'll be filmed in her very own small town. The problem? It's being directed by her ex, Will. The quaint town, in the midst of the fall season, is being transformed into a winter wonderland for filming. Can Maya and Will get along behind the scenes, and maybe discover that "together" is the HAPPIEST EVER AFTER ending?
Sometimes the perfect book comes along at the perfect time, and this was it! It's a warm hug. It's full of heart. I cried happy tears multiple times. We're taken from small town to glamorous high life, all the while experiencing the respect, healing, and ultimately, love, that's possible between the many characters we grow to know and care about.
Based on my own experience, it's VERY difficult to find a heart-warming small town romance that's richly developed, well written, and feels like one of the best Hallmark movies you've ever seen. This author has achieved it!! It wasn't trite or boring. The spice was fade to black, but it didn't feel like we lost anything in terms of the chemistry or depth of feeling between the characters. I'm ready to read this author's entire backlist. So exciting!
Trigger warnings: father who needs to move into assisted living (physically and mentally), tenuous father and son relationship
I'd like to thank Harlequin and Netgalley for the eARC of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
July 22, 2025
Autumn Nights, Holiday Lights was such a fun read. Charming small town, fantastic characters, delicious treats. I couldn't ask for more from a holiday story.
Maya Monroe owner of the Flour Child Bakery is also a romance writer who's about to get her book turned into a movie. She's really excited until she finds out who will be directing it.
Will Hastings was Maya's high school sweetheart and the man who broke her heart. He's a well to-do director and since he's coming back to Sunset County to help his father, he gets roped into directing a Christmas Romance. He is not thrilled and even less so when he realizes Maya is the author. Not because he doesn't want to see her, but because he has some guilt for the way things went down back then.
I truly enjoy a second chance romance and Autumn Nights, Holiday Lights was a wonderful second chance love story.
I hadn't read book one in this series and it didn't matter, but I have every intention of reading it now. I want to spend more time in this small town.
Highly recommend!
*Thank you NetGalley & Harlequin Special Edition for providing me with an advanced readers copy for a honest review*
4.5 Stars
Maya Monroe owner of the Flour Child Bakery is also a romance writer who's about to get her book turned into a movie. She's really excited until she finds out who will be directing it.
Will Hastings was Maya's high school sweetheart and the man who broke her heart. He's a well to-do director and since he's coming back to Sunset County to help his father, he gets roped into directing a Christmas Romance. He is not thrilled and even less so when he realizes Maya is the author. Not because he doesn't want to see her, but because he has some guilt for the way things went down back then.
I truly enjoy a second chance romance and Autumn Nights, Holiday Lights was a wonderful second chance love story.
I hadn't read book one in this series and it didn't matter, but I have every intention of reading it now. I want to spend more time in this small town.
Highly recommend!
*Thank you NetGalley & Harlequin Special Edition for providing me with an advanced readers copy for a honest review*
4.5 Stars
September 4, 2025
I actually really loved this book. It was all the cutesy feels that you would expect from a typical ‘hallmark movie’ type book. Going through the chapters, I found myself smiling, giggling and even at times; shedding a tear.
We meet the two main characters Maya & Will. Maya is a successful baker & author, whilst Will is a successful movie director. I immediately connected with Maya and her whimsical fairytale imagination. She loves love and is overjoyed when her book is given the green light to be turned into a movie.
The story is told from both Maya & Will’s perspective, giving us the unique POV of each characters story.
I found myself really routing for the pair as they learn to be in each others lives after a long time apart. There’s plenty of ups and downs for them as they navigate this new dynamic; with moments of frustration and joy.
We also follow Will’s relationship with his dad; which has been turbulent to say the least. Maya becomes a crucial role in their reconnection.
I really enjoyed this book. It was a great cute read to snuggle up under the blankets with and switch off. It deffo helped get me in the mood for Autumn / Fall which is just around the corner.
I’ve rated this book 4 stars because even though it was a great story, I did feel as though it was rushed at times. Especially during critical plot twists, sometimes there could have been a as bit more context, but none the less it was still a great read. I would defo recommend if you’d like a sweet little cozy read to get you in the mood for the holiday season.
We meet the two main characters Maya & Will. Maya is a successful baker & author, whilst Will is a successful movie director. I immediately connected with Maya and her whimsical fairytale imagination. She loves love and is overjoyed when her book is given the green light to be turned into a movie.
The story is told from both Maya & Will’s perspective, giving us the unique POV of each characters story.
I found myself really routing for the pair as they learn to be in each others lives after a long time apart. There’s plenty of ups and downs for them as they navigate this new dynamic; with moments of frustration and joy.
We also follow Will’s relationship with his dad; which has been turbulent to say the least. Maya becomes a crucial role in their reconnection.
I really enjoyed this book. It was a great cute read to snuggle up under the blankets with and switch off. It deffo helped get me in the mood for Autumn / Fall which is just around the corner.
I’ve rated this book 4 stars because even though it was a great story, I did feel as though it was rushed at times. Especially during critical plot twists, sometimes there could have been a as bit more context, but none the less it was still a great read. I would defo recommend if you’d like a sweet little cozy read to get you in the mood for the holiday season.
November 16, 2025
AUTUMN NIGHTS, HOLIDAY LIGHTS by Elle Douglas is the second book in the Sugar Maple Farms series and I’d like to read more. Harlequin books always give me a warm feeling as I read them and this Special Edition has all the feels.
This feel good, second chance romance brings a holiday romance book to life as they transition it to film like a Hallmark movie. There are a few stories being told as Will, the producer and Maya, the author reconnect in the small town where they grew up after parting ways many years before.
They often reminisce as they try to figure out what’s going on between them. His aging dad and her cute dog are woven throughout. The story is brought alive with vivid descriptions and lovely imagery and I could taste and smell the baked goods Maya creates in her bakery. The story mostly had a good flow but some scenes needed a few more details to make it come alive. There is closure with the epilogue and the happily ever after was sweetly portrayed.
The review is posted on BookSirens.
This feel good, second chance romance brings a holiday romance book to life as they transition it to film like a Hallmark movie. There are a few stories being told as Will, the producer and Maya, the author reconnect in the small town where they grew up after parting ways many years before.
They often reminisce as they try to figure out what’s going on between them. His aging dad and her cute dog are woven throughout. The story is brought alive with vivid descriptions and lovely imagery and I could taste and smell the baked goods Maya creates in her bakery. The story mostly had a good flow but some scenes needed a few more details to make it come alive. There is closure with the epilogue and the happily ever after was sweetly portrayed.
The review is posted on BookSirens.
November 18, 2025
It's a dream come true when Maya finds out that her novel is becoming a Christmas movie problem is the director is her ex who broke her heart. As he works on the film Maya keeps putting her two cents in when it comes to this story and they will have to learn to work together to make this work.
I really enjoyed this book it's good to read during this holiday season perfect time to pick it up. I really enjoyed getting to know these two characters and their past and seeing how they work together to get this movie running. Both their lives are so different from when they're younger so even if their heart is kind of in it it's hard to make things work as adults that they are now and it was interesting seeing how that played out. You can really see that they both really are interested in each other but they live such different lives. This was a clean romance so if you appreciate that like I do you want to pick this one up. Overall if you're a seasonal reader like I am then you're definitely going to want to read this.
I really enjoyed this book it's good to read during this holiday season perfect time to pick it up. I really enjoyed getting to know these two characters and their past and seeing how they work together to get this movie running. Both their lives are so different from when they're younger so even if their heart is kind of in it it's hard to make things work as adults that they are now and it was interesting seeing how that played out. You can really see that they both really are interested in each other but they live such different lives. This was a clean romance so if you appreciate that like I do you want to pick this one up. Overall if you're a seasonal reader like I am then you're definitely going to want to read this.
October 11, 2025
Another in the Sugar Maple Farms series, in which baker Maya Monroe isn't happy to learn that the movie based on one of her romance novels is being directed by the guy (when they were in high school) who dumped by email before heading out for California to make his way in film school.
Will Hastings isn't thrilled to be directing a rom com. Not exactly what he prefers to do with his talents, but, it means he can be near his father who is showing signs of Alzheimer's and needs to be moved out of his house and into a care center. And maybe it will mean that Will and his father will no longer be estranged. Or maybe not.
The bigger question, however, becomes what Maya and Will are going to do to deal with the feelings they still have for each other, something neither wants to admit but can't seem to escape. So, will there by a happily-ever-after ending to the movie or to their lives or both?
Will Hastings isn't thrilled to be directing a rom com. Not exactly what he prefers to do with his talents, but, it means he can be near his father who is showing signs of Alzheimer's and needs to be moved out of his house and into a care center. And maybe it will mean that Will and his father will no longer be estranged. Or maybe not.
The bigger question, however, becomes what Maya and Will are going to do to deal with the feelings they still have for each other, something neither wants to admit but can't seem to escape. So, will there by a happily-ever-after ending to the movie or to their lives or both?
October 14, 2025
This Book was a fun read I received it as an arc. The female main character lives in her hometown and runs a bakery. She also writes romance novels. When one of her books is purchased as a film. The movie crew that comes into town to film in 2 weeks is led by her ex. The male main character left home right after college he received a scholarship to film school and moved to LA. He’s made it big in Hollywood and the female main character is not his biggest fan since he left her to say the least. As the mmc is home begrudgingly to film the movie he’s also dealing with a parent who is aging. As the couple continue through the story they find their way back to each other. And discover that sometimes first love is the love that works for them.
December 19, 2025
I read this in one sitting.
🩷 Second Chance Romance
📚 Forced Proximity
🩷 Grumpy x Sunshine
📚 Hallmark movie
🩷 Author and Baker FMC
📚 Director and Caretaker MMC
🩷 Holiday romance
This holiday romance had me hooked from the beginning. The writing style is easy to read, beautifully done, and detailed enough that the reader feels completely immersed. I felt like I was in the crew, making the Hallmark movie and at times, a fly on the wall.
At first, I didn’t like the grumpy MMC, but once you get into the storyline you begin to see his soft spot, which makes you love him more.
The FMC stands true to herself and is firm in her beliefs, which is refreshing to see in a romance novel. She is my favourite human being and I want to be like her when I grow up.
🩷 Second Chance Romance
📚 Forced Proximity
🩷 Grumpy x Sunshine
📚 Hallmark movie
🩷 Author and Baker FMC
📚 Director and Caretaker MMC
🩷 Holiday romance
This holiday romance had me hooked from the beginning. The writing style is easy to read, beautifully done, and detailed enough that the reader feels completely immersed. I felt like I was in the crew, making the Hallmark movie and at times, a fly on the wall.
At first, I didn’t like the grumpy MMC, but once you get into the storyline you begin to see his soft spot, which makes you love him more.
The FMC stands true to herself and is firm in her beliefs, which is refreshing to see in a romance novel. She is my favourite human being and I want to be like her when I grow up.
June 22, 2025
What a cute story to get you in the mood for the cooler months! Elle Douglas brings us the story of Maya and Will. Maya is getting the opportunity of a lifetime and having one of her books adapted into a movie. In walks Will, director of the project as well as Maya's ex-boyfriend from high school.
What could go wrong?
The story takes place during the autumn months but everything is all decked out in Christmas decorations for the movie. Throughout the story, we see both characters grow both individually and as a couple. Elle Douglas is a wonderful story teller and has done a great job bringing this story to life. I highly recommend.
What could go wrong?
The story takes place during the autumn months but everything is all decked out in Christmas decorations for the movie. Throughout the story, we see both characters grow both individually and as a couple. Elle Douglas is a wonderful story teller and has done a great job bringing this story to life. I highly recommend.
September 17, 2025
Thank you NetGalley, Elle Douglas, & Harlequin for this ARC.
I’m rating this book 3.75-4⭐️ because although this is a small-town, second chance, Christmas romance, and I loved that the FMC was very strong and independent, I felt like there could’ve been more to the story. For instance, I feel like Maya made it very clear how heartbroken she was when Will & her broke up, and yet, though they were “forced” to work together, there was no “he did this, and he said that, and I remembered then why I loved him all those years ago, and now I realize I still love him” moment.
Still a good read nonetheless. And I’m happy I was given the opportunity to read this book.
I’m rating this book 3.75-4⭐️ because although this is a small-town, second chance, Christmas romance, and I loved that the FMC was very strong and independent, I felt like there could’ve been more to the story. For instance, I feel like Maya made it very clear how heartbroken she was when Will & her broke up, and yet, though they were “forced” to work together, there was no “he did this, and he said that, and I remembered then why I loved him all those years ago, and now I realize I still love him” moment.
Still a good read nonetheless. And I’m happy I was given the opportunity to read this book.
September 29, 2025
Autumn Nights and Holiday Lights
Release date September 30,2025
This was a very uplifting fun story. It was in my opinion, written very well with very strong characters. One of my favorite tropes second chance romance.
After high school will leaves town to go out in the world and make it on the big screen. Maya absolutely heartbroken. Now he’s back in town to actually direct a movie based on Maya‘s book.
If you’re a lover of Debbie Macomber and small town books you will love this one. Ella to me gives that feel of a Debbie Macomber book.
Release date September 30,2025
This was a very uplifting fun story. It was in my opinion, written very well with very strong characters. One of my favorite tropes second chance romance.
After high school will leaves town to go out in the world and make it on the big screen. Maya absolutely heartbroken. Now he’s back in town to actually direct a movie based on Maya‘s book.
If you’re a lover of Debbie Macomber and small town books you will love this one. Ella to me gives that feel of a Debbie Macomber book.
October 27, 2025
Thank you to Netgalley and Harlequin Romance for the advanced readers copy.
Autumn Nights, Holiday Lights by Elle Douglas is a sweet and cozy romance that feels straight out of a Hallmark movie. It’s full of charm, comfort, and small-town warmth. It's the perfect book for this time of year. I loved how easy it was to settle into the story and just enjoy the gentle pace. It’s the kind of book you can savor slowly with a warm drink in hand. A delightful read for anyone who loves feel-good holiday that also is a closed door romance.
Autumn Nights, Holiday Lights by Elle Douglas is a sweet and cozy romance that feels straight out of a Hallmark movie. It’s full of charm, comfort, and small-town warmth. It's the perfect book for this time of year. I loved how easy it was to settle into the story and just enjoy the gentle pace. It’s the kind of book you can savor slowly with a warm drink in hand. A delightful read for anyone who loves feel-good holiday that also is a closed door romance.
October 25, 2025
Received this book as an ARC. I enjoyed the story and the descriptions about the bakery and Main Street felt realistic and cozy. Overall the story was a sweet second chance love story. One thing I wish we got was resolution on their breakup. She was supposedly so devastated over it and even Maya’s father still harbored a grudge toward Will, yet she just let the romance rekindle without asking for explanation or fighting it out. While I was happy they ended up together, it seemed convenient.
November 1, 2025
This was a sweet second chance romance between Maya and Will. There was lots of behind the scenes filming going on because Maya romance novel was being made into a movie by Will because Will is a Producer. It was more women's fiction then romance to me and there was some secondary stories happening in the background with a troubled teen that I enjoyed. To me the romance took more of a backseat to the story overall.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 1, 2025
When the news that a movie is going to be made of her last book, Maya can't believe it. The only bad part is the director is her ex boyfriend, that broke up with her in a text, fifteen years ago. I enjoyed this second chance romance with the cute puppy, fake snow, Christmas trees and a happy ever after, all of this, in October.
September 18, 2025
Maya lived my dream! To be talented enough to write an amazing story and then have it turned into a classic cliche Christmas movie?! So jealous!
This was a sweet story with minimal angst which made it that much more enjoyable for me.
just the book I needed to kick off my Christmas season! Yes in August!
This was a sweet story with minimal angst which made it that much more enjoyable for me.
just the book I needed to kick off my Christmas season! Yes in August!
August 3, 2025
I received an advanced reader copy of this book and am reviewing it voluntarily
I enjoyed this story although have seen a film on tv along this same vein so wasn’t quite the surprise
A really sweet story however
I enjoyed this story although have seen a film on tv along this same vein so wasn’t quite the surprise
A really sweet story however
August 15, 2025
I really enjoyed this story. Will and Maya get their second chance only because they had to work together. It was so fun and interesting. I really enjoyed their story. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 5, 2025
A cute, cozy, low drama romance with both end of fall and holiday feels. Perfect if you like Hallmark Christmas movies, second chance romances, and delicious pastries! Some of the dialogue was a little unrealistic, but overall a very quick, easy, enjoyable read.
November 24, 2025
This was such a great read! I loved how there is that small town vibe to this book. The characters are interesting and it was such a heart warming story. It was perfect to accompany me while I was reading in the fall weather!
Thank you to Netgalley for a digital copy of this book to review!
Thank you to Netgalley for a digital copy of this book to review!
December 2, 2025
I like the characters. I like the romance. I don’t really have much else to say about it except for that it’s sweet.
“Thank you, Harlequin Special Edition, for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.”
“Thank you, Harlequin Special Edition, for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.”
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September 1, 2025Small Town & Rural Fiction, Contemporary Romance, Holiday Romance
Miniseries
Sugar Maple Farms (Book #2)
Miniseries
Sugar Maple Farms (Book #2)
October 3, 2025
Tender moments, breathtaking romance and irresistible characters. Douglas aims for the heart and scores the win. Will and Maya are a feast for the soul.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews