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Love in Maplewood #1
Winter Wishes and Coffee Kisses
In the heart of Maplewood, love is just a wish—and a kiss—away.
An anonymous one-night stand was just what I needed before moving to Vermont, to open my very own coffee shop, Special Blend.
Happy new year to me!
I've lost the only family I had. So when the locals welcome me with open arms and empty cups, I know Maplewood is truly home.
But it’s my neighbor, Nate—the tall, rugged lumberjack-type next door—who really gets my heart racing.
Have we met somewhere before?
He’s a little grumpy, but that’s just froth on the cappuccino, right? My muffins, ice cream, and coffee can melt any heart, so I'm sure they'll work on him too.
As things heat up, strangers arrive with a revelation about my past– one that Nate seems to know, leaving me torn between my growing feelings for him and the fear of being hurt again.
With the Winter Wishes Festival in full flow, I must can I trust Nate to be the love I’ve wished for, or will this brew the end of us before we even begin?
With the highest percentage of LGBTQIA+ residents in Vermont, Maplewood is a town where everyone belongs. And with festivals year round, there’s always something fun happening! This multi-author, low-angst queer series features ten standalone romances—each set against the backdrop of a different festival. Come for the celebrations, stay for the happily-ever-afters!
An anonymous one-night stand was just what I needed before moving to Vermont, to open my very own coffee shop, Special Blend.
Happy new year to me!
I've lost the only family I had. So when the locals welcome me with open arms and empty cups, I know Maplewood is truly home.
But it’s my neighbor, Nate—the tall, rugged lumberjack-type next door—who really gets my heart racing.
Have we met somewhere before?
He’s a little grumpy, but that’s just froth on the cappuccino, right? My muffins, ice cream, and coffee can melt any heart, so I'm sure they'll work on him too.
As things heat up, strangers arrive with a revelation about my past– one that Nate seems to know, leaving me torn between my growing feelings for him and the fear of being hurt again.
With the Winter Wishes Festival in full flow, I must can I trust Nate to be the love I’ve wished for, or will this brew the end of us before we even begin?
With the highest percentage of LGBTQIA+ residents in Vermont, Maplewood is a town where everyone belongs. And with festivals year round, there’s always something fun happening! This multi-author, low-angst queer series features ten standalone romances—each set against the backdrop of a different festival. Come for the celebrations, stay for the happily-ever-afters!
284 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 16, 2025
145 people are currently reading
211 people want to read
About the author
Ana Ashley
70 books770 followersMeet Ana Ashley, your friendly neighborhood romance author!
Ana has been lost in the pages of books for as long as she can remember, taking a few amusing missteps with her childhood writing attempts. But everything changed when she discovered the magical world of LGBTQ+ romance—cue the confetti!
Ana's books offer sweet and sexy romance with a charming mix of humor and heart. Getting her guys together wouldn't be the same without the meddling but well-intentioned cast of secondary characters, who always insist on having their own story.
When she’s not crafting heartfelt tales, you can find her indulging in her favorite pastime of baking delicious treats, enjoying quality time with friends, or staying up late immersed in the pages of a good book.
You can find out more about Ana and her works-in-progress by joining her Newsletter. To sign up visit Ana's website anawritesmm.com
Ana has been lost in the pages of books for as long as she can remember, taking a few amusing missteps with her childhood writing attempts. But everything changed when she discovered the magical world of LGBTQ+ romance—cue the confetti!
Ana's books offer sweet and sexy romance with a charming mix of humor and heart. Getting her guys together wouldn't be the same without the meddling but well-intentioned cast of secondary characters, who always insist on having their own story.
When she’s not crafting heartfelt tales, you can find her indulging in her favorite pastime of baking delicious treats, enjoying quality time with friends, or staying up late immersed in the pages of a good book.
You can find out more about Ana and her works-in-progress by joining her Newsletter. To sign up visit Ana's website anawritesmm.com
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June 22, 2025
Winter Wishes and Coffee Kisses is book one in the multi author book series, Love in Maplewood. This first book is by Ana Ashley. This is my first book by this author. That’s the best part of reading these types of series! You get to be introduced to new to you authors. I fell instantly in love with the way Ana wrote this wonderful story. She introduced the new town of Maplewood, the Queerest town in Vermont, and it’s quirky residents. She made me want to go there, but perhaps not in the winter time! You can rest assured that this is not my last book by this author.
In this series, the town of Maplewood LOVES festivals and holds one for just about everything. This first book focuses around the Winter Wishes Festival which is held in January. It has the most lovely wishing tree. Each book in this series will revolve around a different festival.
Caspian Lane is twenty nine years old. He has recently lost his mother so to honor her, he is starting a new life, moving from Phoenix to Maplewood, Vermont. He has purchased his very own coffee shop, Special Blend. He also purchased a condo. Little did he realize that his new neighbor he shares a wall with is a tall, ruggedly good looking, lumber jack type.
Nathan “Nate” Stone is thirty five years old and works for the forestry department. Nate has been hurt in the past which gave his self confidence a serious blow. He’s decided that an occasional hook up out of town is all he wants. No more risking his heart. But then the new coffee shop owner moves in right next to him with all his smiles, baked goods and big heart. He just can’t keep his own pesky heart from falling for him.
Caspian fits in to Maplewood like he’s always been here. And Nate has finally given in. But then a group of strangers walk in to the coffee shop one morning giving Caspian a very strange feeling. And both Nate and Caspian’s worlds are turned upside down.
As I said, I adored this story, and the way it was written. It was sweet, swoony, steamy and just so wonderful. There is also a short story you can download that focuses on Nate’s brother at the end. It was also wonderful. I have such a bad habit of not sticking with these series but I’m so in love with this little town and am determined that I am going to read all of these books. Check back soon to hear about the next couple who falls in love in Love Me Like It’s Real by Rhys Everly.
“Sometimes a little wish can go a long way.”
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
In this series, the town of Maplewood LOVES festivals and holds one for just about everything. This first book focuses around the Winter Wishes Festival which is held in January. It has the most lovely wishing tree. Each book in this series will revolve around a different festival.
Caspian Lane is twenty nine years old. He has recently lost his mother so to honor her, he is starting a new life, moving from Phoenix to Maplewood, Vermont. He has purchased his very own coffee shop, Special Blend. He also purchased a condo. Little did he realize that his new neighbor he shares a wall with is a tall, ruggedly good looking, lumber jack type.
Nathan “Nate” Stone is thirty five years old and works for the forestry department. Nate has been hurt in the past which gave his self confidence a serious blow. He’s decided that an occasional hook up out of town is all he wants. No more risking his heart. But then the new coffee shop owner moves in right next to him with all his smiles, baked goods and big heart. He just can’t keep his own pesky heart from falling for him.
Caspian fits in to Maplewood like he’s always been here. And Nate has finally given in. But then a group of strangers walk in to the coffee shop one morning giving Caspian a very strange feeling. And both Nate and Caspian’s worlds are turned upside down.
As I said, I adored this story, and the way it was written. It was sweet, swoony, steamy and just so wonderful. There is also a short story you can download that focuses on Nate’s brother at the end. It was also wonderful. I have such a bad habit of not sticking with these series but I’m so in love with this little town and am determined that I am going to read all of these books. Check back soon to hear about the next couple who falls in love in Love Me Like It’s Real by Rhys Everly.
“Sometimes a little wish can go a long way.”
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
dnf
May 16, 2025I would like to thank GRR for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
DNF@24%
So yeah i was not the intended reader for this.
If a book could be the epitome of squealing over everything, this would be it lol.
my two cents:
i found it annoying that two townies in under 19% gave Nate flack for not wanting to people, and to not monetize his hobby that IS HIS happy place! Girl, he's not even some kinda recluse! Can capitalists find some chill?
I obvs have strong feelings about peace-state real estate so i'll just see myself out.
DNF@24%
So yeah i was not the intended reader for this.
If a book could be the epitome of squealing over everything, this would be it lol.
my two cents:
i found it annoying that two townies in under 19% gave Nate flack for not wanting to people, and to not monetize his hobby that IS HIS happy place! Girl, he's not even some kinda recluse! Can capitalists find some chill?
I obvs have strong feelings about peace-state real estate so i'll just see myself out.
May 18, 2025
This was set to be a cute gooey Hallmark story of two guarded idiots slowly letting said guards down, it was sweet and I had no complaints AND THEN A SIDE PLOT COMES OUT OF NOWHERE AND IS DUMB ALL OVER THE PLACE and now it's this, still a very strong opening to the series, I get the vibes the year of festivals is gonna go for, but ugh please don't let any more of these books have a , it's lazy and you're boring me.
May 18, 2025
Hallmark movie vibe
It’s New Years Eve and Caspien is on the hunt for a hookup. Start the new year with a bang.
‘Oh, hello! Tall, dark, and holy biceps, Batman.’
Batman is actually Nate. They have a kinky little hookup, keeping their New Years Masks on.
“Who are you?” I wonder aloud, a mix of longing and curiosity settling in my chest as sleep begins to claim me.’
So they both have regrets not getting each others names or numbers.
Caspien moves to Maplewood, which boasts its Vermont’s Queerest Town. Think hallmark movie scenery and a Winter Wishes festival.
So his new neighbour is Nate but they have no idea they’ve hooked up.
Caspien is opening a coffee shop. This book really is like reading a Hallmark movie.
Nate and Caspien go ice skating.
They decide on being just friends and ignoring their chemistry.
They share a kiss.
More hallmark movie stuff.
Nate makes Caspien a bookcase for the coffee shop.
They have sexy times and Caspien see’s that Nate has a maple leaf beauty spit / birth mark like his New Years hookup. But he doesn’t mention it , in case he wrong .
‘And suddenly, I’m absolutely certain about that maple-leaf beauty mark. The same one I’d traced with my tongue on New Year’s Eve belongs to the man currently unraveling me from the inside out.’
Caspien is overthinking it. And not mentioning it to Nate.
He finally tells Nate and it’s like serendipity.
Caspien and Nate are dating now.
75% into the book and we find out before Caspien that he has half siblings. Whaaaat? And I’m guessing they have books before this book which might make more sense? I don’t know. This is book one in the series so I’m a little confused.
Caspien doesn’t take the shocking news well . He also feels hurt and betrayed by Nate for blindsiding him.
It all gets resolved and it’s a happily ever after
“Hey,” I say softly, making Caspian look up at me again. “I love you.” His smile could outshine all the festival lights combined. “I love you too.”
Ps
Caspien’s brothers books are found in the Chester Falls Series
How to Catch a Bookworm (Prequel short)
How to Catch a Bachelor
It’s New Years Eve and Caspien is on the hunt for a hookup. Start the new year with a bang.
‘Oh, hello! Tall, dark, and holy biceps, Batman.’
Batman is actually Nate. They have a kinky little hookup, keeping their New Years Masks on.
“Who are you?” I wonder aloud, a mix of longing and curiosity settling in my chest as sleep begins to claim me.’
So they both have regrets not getting each others names or numbers.
Caspien moves to Maplewood, which boasts its Vermont’s Queerest Town. Think hallmark movie scenery and a Winter Wishes festival.
So his new neighbour is Nate but they have no idea they’ve hooked up.
Caspien is opening a coffee shop. This book really is like reading a Hallmark movie.
Nate and Caspien go ice skating.
They decide on being just friends and ignoring their chemistry.
They share a kiss.
More hallmark movie stuff.
Nate makes Caspien a bookcase for the coffee shop.
They have sexy times and Caspien see’s that Nate has a maple leaf beauty spit / birth mark like his New Years hookup. But he doesn’t mention it , in case he wrong .
‘And suddenly, I’m absolutely certain about that maple-leaf beauty mark. The same one I’d traced with my tongue on New Year’s Eve belongs to the man currently unraveling me from the inside out.’
Caspien is overthinking it. And not mentioning it to Nate.
He finally tells Nate and it’s like serendipity.
Caspien and Nate are dating now.
75% into the book and we find out before Caspien that he has half siblings. Whaaaat? And I’m guessing they have books before this book which might make more sense? I don’t know. This is book one in the series so I’m a little confused.
Caspien doesn’t take the shocking news well . He also feels hurt and betrayed by Nate for blindsiding him.
It all gets resolved and it’s a happily ever after
“Hey,” I say softly, making Caspian look up at me again. “I love you.” His smile could outshine all the festival lights combined. “I love you too.”
Ps
Caspien’s brothers books are found in the Chester Falls Series
How to Catch a Bookworm (Prequel short)
How to Catch a Bachelor
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 30, 2025
This was pretty good, but yet another example of 3rd act drama that was just unnecessary. But, I did like the cast overall, and looking forward to reading more of Maplewood's hunks.
May 14, 2025
I love starting a new series. You get to know a new town and all its fun and quirky residents. Maplewood is awesome and I’d love to live there. I adore Caspian. My heart went out to him and what he had been through. Nate is an absolute sweetheart. I wanted to give him hugs too. Marcus is a trip. I hope we see more of him. I can’t wait to read all the books in this series.
May 19, 2025
I was just lost. There was so much happening and somehow at the same time nothing happened at all. The timeline was so confusing. The MCs had absolutely no chemistry at all and the dialogue was simply dry and weird.
May 20, 2025
Winter Wishes and Coffee Kisses by Ana Ashley
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 stars
📚 Book One of Love in Maplewood Series
👉 Can Be Read as a Standalone
⬆️ Ebook ARC
❄️✨️ Where Winter Sparks Fly & Magic Fills The Air!! ✨️❄️
😏 Adult MM Contemporary Romance
📖 Sweet Small-Town Winter Wonderland Story ❄️
💔 Hurt/Comfort w/ Healing Vibes
🔀 Dual First-Person POV
😏 Meet Cute... If You Keep Your Mask On 😉🥂
Sassy City Boy x Small-Town Timid Guy
🐈⬛ Black Cat Energy x 🐶 Golden Retriever Energy VIBE
🤨 Apparently Grumpy x Fully Sunshine 😁
😏 Hookups to Love
🎄 Twinkling Lights ✨ & ✨️ Snowstorm Cozy Nights
🧲 'Polar' Opposites Attract ❄️
💘 Attraction At First Sight
😏 Longing Looks & Tons Of Mutual Pining 😅
🧁 Sweetness, Sass & a Taste of Lace (for Nate’s eyes only) 🎀
🥵 Insta-Lust THEN Slow-burn (...hot damn!)
🔥 Spicy Level: 🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶
MC's:
🧁☕️🍪🍰😊👉 Caspian 'Cas' Lane (29):
☕ Kind-hearted, with dark brown eyes, black wavy hair, sun-kissed skin, and a lithe yet athletic build.
☕ A barista dreaming of a new beginning, he recently moved to snowy Vermont after losing his mother.
☕ Swapping Phoenix’s dry heat for frosty mornings, he’s come to the town where his mother grew up to honor her by opening a cozy coffee shop.
☕ Full of warmth and hope, he brings sunshine wherever he goes.
☕ I got so emotional with this one... I just wanted to hug him.
🪵🌲🍁⛸️🤨👉Nathan 'Nate' Stone (35):
🍂 Light brown hair, eyes like the Mediterranean Sea (as Caspian says), tall, broad-shouldered, flannel-wearing... pure lumberjack type.
🍂 He keeps to himself, but beneath the gruff exterior beats the kindest heart.
🍂 He's a forest product technician. He works with wood products and sustainable forestry practices, like testing wood quality and ensuring forests are properly cared for. He loves his work, and being out in nature.
🍂 He has a hobby, woodworking from the heart, letting nature decide what each piece becomes.
🍂 Struggles with trust, but can’t ignore the strong pull toward his charming new neighbor, Caspian.
⚠️ Content Warnings:
⚠️ Low Angst
💔 Broken Trust (Past)
👉 Descriptions Of Meals
⚠️ Casual Alcohol Consumption
⚠️ Loss & Grief
👏 Solid Character Development
💯 Best Side Characters
💫 Found Family Vibe
🥰 Love The Ending
😍 HEA
Cover: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 stars
💬 My Thoughts:
❄️⛸️This book gave me all the cozy winter romance vibes I was hoping for.
It’s a heartfelt story about starting over, finding love in unexpected places, and opening your heart after loss.
🥰 Caspian and Nate complement each other beautifully.
Their instant and powerful connection is magnetic yet tender.
It's a slow build, but charged with electricity, filled with meaningful dates and heartfelt confessions. The way they support one another through their individual struggles is deeply moving... you feel every moment of tension, every ache of longing.
They’re simply beautiful and perfect together.
👌 As always, it’s such a treat (and a lovely surprise) to spot cameos from Ana’s other books. As a big fan of the Chester Falls series, I was thrilled to see some familiar faces appear here.
🤧 The way they’re integrated into Caspian’s journey is unexpected and deeply touching, adding both heart and a strong sense of connection across Ana’s book universe.
It made the story feel even more special.
🌲🌾 Maplewood is such a charming setting and the SC add so much warmth and life.
I loved the sense of community and how the story made me smile from beginning to end.
▪︎FAV QUOTES▪︎
👍 I'm definitely going to read this again
💯 I'm looking forward to reading the following books in this Series
😉 Thanks for reading hope this helps you out!
I received this book as a gift from the author and am voluntarily leaving this review.
StoryGraph Review
BookBub Review
Reviews On Goodreads
My Socials
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 stars
📚 Book One of Love in Maplewood Series
👉 Can Be Read as a Standalone
⬆️ Ebook ARC
❄️✨️ Where Winter Sparks Fly & Magic Fills The Air!! ✨️❄️
😏 Adult MM Contemporary Romance
📖 Sweet Small-Town Winter Wonderland Story ❄️
💔 Hurt/Comfort w/ Healing Vibes
🔀 Dual First-Person POV
😏 Meet Cute... If You Keep Your Mask On 😉🥂
Sassy City Boy x Small-Town Timid Guy
🐈⬛ Black Cat Energy x 🐶 Golden Retriever Energy VIBE
🤨 Apparently Grumpy x Fully Sunshine 😁
😏 Hookups to Love
🎄 Twinkling Lights ✨ & ✨️ Snowstorm Cozy Nights
🧲 'Polar' Opposites Attract ❄️
💘 Attraction At First Sight
😏 Longing Looks & Tons Of Mutual Pining 😅
🧁 Sweetness, Sass & a Taste of Lace (for Nate’s eyes only) 🎀
🥵 Insta-Lust THEN Slow-burn (...hot damn!)
🔥 Spicy Level: 🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶
MC's:
🧁☕️🍪🍰😊👉 Caspian 'Cas' Lane (29):
☕ Kind-hearted, with dark brown eyes, black wavy hair, sun-kissed skin, and a lithe yet athletic build.
☕ A barista dreaming of a new beginning, he recently moved to snowy Vermont after losing his mother.
☕ Swapping Phoenix’s dry heat for frosty mornings, he’s come to the town where his mother grew up to honor her by opening a cozy coffee shop.
☕ Full of warmth and hope, he brings sunshine wherever he goes.
☕ I got so emotional with this one... I just wanted to hug him.
🪵🌲🍁⛸️🤨👉Nathan 'Nate' Stone (35):
🍂 Light brown hair, eyes like the Mediterranean Sea (as Caspian says), tall, broad-shouldered, flannel-wearing... pure lumberjack type.
🍂 He keeps to himself, but beneath the gruff exterior beats the kindest heart.
🍂 He's a forest product technician. He works with wood products and sustainable forestry practices, like testing wood quality and ensuring forests are properly cared for. He loves his work, and being out in nature.
🍂 He has a hobby, woodworking from the heart, letting nature decide what each piece becomes.
🍂 Struggles with trust, but can’t ignore the strong pull toward his charming new neighbor, Caspian.
⚠️ Content Warnings:
⚠️ Low Angst
💔 Broken Trust (Past)
👉 Descriptions Of Meals
⚠️ Casual Alcohol Consumption
⚠️ Loss & Grief
👏 Solid Character Development
💯 Best Side Characters
💫 Found Family Vibe
🥰 Love The Ending
😍 HEA
Cover: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 stars
💬 My Thoughts:
❄️⛸️This book gave me all the cozy winter romance vibes I was hoping for.
It’s a heartfelt story about starting over, finding love in unexpected places, and opening your heart after loss.
🥰 Caspian and Nate complement each other beautifully.
Their instant and powerful connection is magnetic yet tender.
It's a slow build, but charged with electricity, filled with meaningful dates and heartfelt confessions. The way they support one another through their individual struggles is deeply moving... you feel every moment of tension, every ache of longing.
They’re simply beautiful and perfect together.
👌 As always, it’s such a treat (and a lovely surprise) to spot cameos from Ana’s other books. As a big fan of the Chester Falls series, I was thrilled to see some familiar faces appear here.
🤧 The way they’re integrated into Caspian’s journey is unexpected and deeply touching, adding both heart and a strong sense of connection across Ana’s book universe.
It made the story feel even more special.
🌲🌾 Maplewood is such a charming setting and the SC add so much warmth and life.
I loved the sense of community and how the story made me smile from beginning to end.
▪︎FAV QUOTES▪︎
■ 'The mysterious stranger’s touch still burns on my skin, phantom kisses trailing down my neck. I close my eyes, reliving the intensity, the raw connection that sparked between us. Who was he? Why did I agree to keep it anonymous?
Way to go, Caspian. Have the hottest night of your life and fail to get a number. Or a name. Smooth.' 😅
■ '“Fine, fine. Friends it is. Very platonic, completely normal neighbors who occasionally share ice cream and snow-shoveling techniques.”' 😏
■ '“You know,” I manage to quip, my voice only slightly shaky, “when I pictured my first winter in Vermont, I didn’t imagine it would involve quite so much stripping.”
Nate chuckles, the sound sending vibrations through me. “Just trying to keep you warm, baby.”
I laugh, the sound turning into a gasp as Nate’s hands slide teasingly along my hips. “Well, mission very much accomplished.”'
■ '“You know, Caspian said you were hot, but he didn’t mention you were lumberjack, outdoorsy, let-me-fuck-you-against-a-tree hot. Which is really inconsiderate of him because now I have to resist the urge to forgive you just based on those eyes alone.” He lets out a dramatic sigh. “The universe is truly testing me today.”' 🤭
👍 I'm definitely going to read this again
💯 I'm looking forward to reading the following books in this Series
😉 Thanks for reading hope this helps you out!
I received this book as a gift from the author and am voluntarily leaving this review.
StoryGraph Review
BookBub Review
Reviews On Goodreads
My Socials
April 21, 2025
I love when authors team up to create a new town and fill it with different couples and love stories! Ana Ashley kicks off the series in a great way with Caspian and Nate’s story! Caspian has moved to Vermont to start a new adventure after losing his mom. Opening a coffee shop in her hometown feels like a great tribute to her. But before he settles in, he’ll start the new year with some fun. What he never expects though is that one night with a mysterious stranger would change him. Or that he would find him again. Nate can’t stop thinking about the man he met New Year’s Eve, but when Caspian moves in next door, bit by bit that man is forgotten and replaced with someone real. The connection between Caspian and Nate is electric. It’s clear they have chemistry and learning more about one another just feels right. But Nate has been burned before. And what if they start a relationship and break up? They’re neighbors, it’s a small town, it could make things complicated fast. But not getting to know and be with Caspian? Well, missing out on him feels worse. Caspian wasn’t planning on having a new relationship as he is starting over. But there is something about Nate that he can’t let go of. And maybe something familiar too… I loved Nate and Caspian’s story! Such a sweet and romantic story. It’s the perfect way to open this brand new series. I loved the town and characters and it just feels like a wonderful beginning to what I think will be a great series. It also connects to another series from Ana and now I will definitely have to go back and check those books out as well!
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
April 23, 2025
Gooey cheese on toast-level cuteness.
The author even says it a bunch of times, ‘straight from a Hallmark movie’. There’s the meet-cute, the slow dance towards a relationship, a bit of sexy times, the sadness of loss, and the happiness of new friends and family.
It’s like watching one of those Christmas movies on Channel 5 in November. Overly emotional and dramatic. If you like those, you’ll like this.
I could nitpick, but nah. All the bits you would usually roll your eyes at are all explained away, however conveniently that might be, and it just adds to the cuteness.
I wanted something light and fluffy after my last read, and this ticked all the boxes for me.
————-
I received an ARC of this from GRR, and this is my honest review.
The author even says it a bunch of times, ‘straight from a Hallmark movie’. There’s the meet-cute, the slow dance towards a relationship, a bit of sexy times, the sadness of loss, and the happiness of new friends and family.
It’s like watching one of those Christmas movies on Channel 5 in November. Overly emotional and dramatic. If you like those, you’ll like this.
I could nitpick, but nah. All the bits you would usually roll your eyes at are all explained away, however conveniently that might be, and it just adds to the cuteness.
I wanted something light and fluffy after my last read, and this ticked all the boxes for me.
————-
I received an ARC of this from GRR, and this is my honest review.
May 17, 2025
this was like a warm hug, hot chocolate on a cold day. this was just so sweet.
this was a cute quick read. I enjoyed all the characters and it was so low angst .
this was a cute quick read. I enjoyed all the characters and it was so low angst .
May 18, 2025
Sweet and heartfelt love story and a perfect start for this series. Already looking forward to read other books in this series.
Read
July 31, 2025adorable
June 20, 2025
Awesome book!
I just love a great story with great sex and low angst! I would love a sequel! Nate and Caspar are two of my favorite characters now!
I just love a great story with great sex and low angst! I would love a sequel! Nate and Caspar are two of my favorite characters now!
November 19, 2025
DNF @ 21%
Yeah, my fault for reading what was promised to be a low-angst story, but the author really should just go ahead and say no angst since this was fluff to the extreme. Surprisingly not super insta-lovey though despite Caspian and Nate's very clear physical attraction to each other (at least I haven't seen any "I can't live without you" lines this early into their courtship)
I could handle the overly friendly townspeople, the idyllic neighborhood, and the cliche winter festival stuff, but I draw the line at Nate randomly inviting Caspian to ice skating out of the blue. He'd literally been telling people that he didn't need another person, then magically asks Caspian out on a date the very next chapter without any reasoning as to the sudden change of heart? Yeah, Caspian had just given him muffins and coffee but was that really enough to make him want to take a chance?
Yeah, my fault for reading what was promised to be a low-angst story, but the author really should just go ahead and say no angst since this was fluff to the extreme. Surprisingly not super insta-lovey though despite Caspian and Nate's very clear physical attraction to each other (at least I haven't seen any "I can't live without you" lines this early into their courtship)
I could handle the overly friendly townspeople, the idyllic neighborhood, and the cliche winter festival stuff, but I draw the line at Nate randomly inviting Caspian to ice skating out of the blue. He'd literally been telling people that he didn't need another person, then magically asks Caspian out on a date the very next chapter without any reasoning as to the sudden change of heart? Yeah, Caspian had just given him muffins and coffee but was that really enough to make him want to take a chance?
May 14, 2025
Winter Wishes and Coffee Kisses by Ana Ashley is the first book in the Love in Maplewood series by various authors. It is the story of a man who came to Maplewood, Vermont, to start a new life and the man who fell in love with him after a previous heartache. Caspian Lane had moved to Maplewood from Phoenix to fulfill his and his mother’s dream of owning a coffee shop. On his way there he stopped at a club in Burlington for a last hurrah and found they were having a masked dress up night. It didn’t take long for him to be picked up by Zorro, taken to a hotel, and having the best love scene of his life. But this was a one timer and he left in the middle of the night, still dreaming about the man and what they did while they kept their masks on. He made his way to Maplewood and the part of the duplex he was going to live in and was quite charmed with everything he saw, especially his next door neighbor, Nate Stone who is a forest product technician who takes care of the forests in the region. Nate also feels a spark of attraction but was hurt when his fiancé broke off their engagement for another women so he basically stays to himself and goes to Burlington when the itch gets to him. Caspian has taken over Special Blend, the coffee house in town which his mother remembered from when she grew up there. Unfortunately, Caspian just recently lost her to cancer so he was chasing their dream, being brave, and grabbing life by the horns, just as she would want him to do. He was thrilled by what he saw of the shop and immediately started cleaning and getting it ready to open. Many of the townspeople stopped by to welcome him and were happy he was there. He was also told about the Winter Wishes Festival that was coming up and that he might be able to have a booth there. This festival was special because you could buy an ornament, write a wish inside it, stick it on the big pine tree in the middle of the park, and the wishes had a habit of coming true. Nate and Caspian start getting to know one another when Nate stops by the shop and helps him with the beans as well as getting a latte. Caspian invites him to the festival but Nate doesn’t really like crowds. However, he is starting to like Caspian so he says maybe. Then he invites him to go ice skating and he starts making a bookcase for the coffee shop because he makes beautiful things out of trees. They almost kiss several times but Nate’s past makes him wary of breaking his heart again so they decide to become friends, which really doesn’t last long as they keep finding themselves in different situations together that eventually does lead to a kiss and then some hot love scenes, especially after a snow storm lands them in Nate’s house for 3 days. It’s during this time Caspian figures out that Nate was his New Year’s Eve date and doesn’t tell him for a while (but Nate is delighted when he finds out). Meanwhile he has been having a soft opening at the shop and when he goes in it, it feels warm and inviting and he knows that in Maplewood he has found a home and a purpose. Once the festival starts he is busy and he meets Ben, Indy, Tristan, and Tate who are there visiting from Chester Falls for the festival but they really have another reason for being there that involves Caspian. When he finds out what it is, Caspian almost breaks up with Nate because he knew and didn’t tell him so his trust was broken. But Nate did everything he could to apologize because he knew he loved Caspian and didn’t want to lose him. Luckily Caspian wrote a wish to put on the tree and it helped them get back together and have a great future together. I really enjoyed this story. Maplewood is a great town and the people are friendly. Caspian didn’t know what he was getting into when he moved there but he found it delightful, especially as he got to know Nate. Nate had had some heartache and was slow to come around but once he did, he knew he wanted to be with Caspian and did all he could to see that that happened. Nate’s best friend Addy and Caspian’s best friend Marcus played a big part in the story as did the townspeople and Tristan and Tate. I highly recommend this book, especially if you like stories about a man moving to a new town, starting a new job, and finding someone to love even when there is a slight hiccup that could tear them apart but their love brings them back together to find their happily ever after.
June 12, 2025
An anonymous encounter leaves a lasting impact.
Ana Ashley has contributed a wonderful story to the spirit of the series "Love in Maplewood." Her detail-rich writing adds depth to the tale of two guys who hooked up on New Year's Eve, wearing masks that did not diminish their lust or affection for each other.
The encounter participants don't recognize each other when they meet in Maplewood—a truly enchanted gay town—but there is a genuine spark between Nate and Caspian when they connect as neighbors. Caspian has come to Maplewood to open a coffee shop in honor of his mother, who was from the town and is still remembered by several residents who recount her story to him.
Nate, the neighbor who becomes instrumental in helping Caspian set up the shop, is also very interested in Caspian. This well-paced story unfolds from both perspectives, detailing Caspian's life and his struggle to learn about his father, as well as the disappointment of missing events and activities in his life.
The relationship between Nate and Caspian develops beautifully, filled with some angst but avoiding the doom-laden author's clutch of long separations and frustrations. A surprising revelation about Caspian's family shifts perspectives, and since Nate facilitated a meeting where this news was disclosed, it creates a disconnect between him and Caspian due to Caspian not being informed about what Nate knew.
A third act separation ensues, but this is a lovely love story that unfolds with realism and grace. The supportive community of Maplewood acts as a character as well, alongside Caspian's found family in this new town.
Character development is superb in this novel. Consider the foretelling of connection when Caspian muses about the kindness exhibited by Nate in the unknown souls encounter. A beautiful mind conversation of Nate's when he anticipates an evening with Caspian describing a potential end of their time together that evening: "As I head into the cold evening air, I can’t help thinking that I’m going to be in so much trouble with my beautiful neighbor. The kind of trouble that starts with winter spice lattes and ends with my carefully constructed walls crumbling around me."
There's actually a character who writes romance novels in the book, Felix, who describes "magical coincidences that seem too perfect to be real life." Real life has real friends, hopefully for all, and Ms. Ashley gives both men others with whom they can confide, be made sober with reality and be encouraged to move in the right direction for a clear connection between these two.
The story is the star, with the writing making this book even greater, consider this passage: "Caspian isn’t just the man I fell in love with, he’s the sunshine that breaks through my solitary winter days, the laughter that fills my quiet spaces, the missing piece that makes my life whole. “Hey,” I say softly, making Caspian look up at me again. “I love you.” His smile could outshine all the festival lights combined. “I love you, too."
Ms. Ashley's writing reveals secrets, passions, and the romance between the two men in an engaging and page-turning manner. There isn't a lot of fluff that doesn’t contribute to the narrative of place, people, family, and, of course, a few surprises. It was a joy to read, and I eagerly look forward to more Maplewood stories from Ana Ashley.
Ana Ashley has contributed a wonderful story to the spirit of the series "Love in Maplewood." Her detail-rich writing adds depth to the tale of two guys who hooked up on New Year's Eve, wearing masks that did not diminish their lust or affection for each other.
The encounter participants don't recognize each other when they meet in Maplewood—a truly enchanted gay town—but there is a genuine spark between Nate and Caspian when they connect as neighbors. Caspian has come to Maplewood to open a coffee shop in honor of his mother, who was from the town and is still remembered by several residents who recount her story to him.
Nate, the neighbor who becomes instrumental in helping Caspian set up the shop, is also very interested in Caspian. This well-paced story unfolds from both perspectives, detailing Caspian's life and his struggle to learn about his father, as well as the disappointment of missing events and activities in his life.
The relationship between Nate and Caspian develops beautifully, filled with some angst but avoiding the doom-laden author's clutch of long separations and frustrations. A surprising revelation about Caspian's family shifts perspectives, and since Nate facilitated a meeting where this news was disclosed, it creates a disconnect between him and Caspian due to Caspian not being informed about what Nate knew.
A third act separation ensues, but this is a lovely love story that unfolds with realism and grace. The supportive community of Maplewood acts as a character as well, alongside Caspian's found family in this new town.
Character development is superb in this novel. Consider the foretelling of connection when Caspian muses about the kindness exhibited by Nate in the unknown souls encounter. A beautiful mind conversation of Nate's when he anticipates an evening with Caspian describing a potential end of their time together that evening: "As I head into the cold evening air, I can’t help thinking that I’m going to be in so much trouble with my beautiful neighbor. The kind of trouble that starts with winter spice lattes and ends with my carefully constructed walls crumbling around me."
There's actually a character who writes romance novels in the book, Felix, who describes "magical coincidences that seem too perfect to be real life." Real life has real friends, hopefully for all, and Ms. Ashley gives both men others with whom they can confide, be made sober with reality and be encouraged to move in the right direction for a clear connection between these two.
The story is the star, with the writing making this book even greater, consider this passage: "Caspian isn’t just the man I fell in love with, he’s the sunshine that breaks through my solitary winter days, the laughter that fills my quiet spaces, the missing piece that makes my life whole. “Hey,” I say softly, making Caspian look up at me again. “I love you.” His smile could outshine all the festival lights combined. “I love you, too."
Ms. Ashley's writing reveals secrets, passions, and the romance between the two men in an engaging and page-turning manner. There isn't a lot of fluff that doesn’t contribute to the narrative of place, people, family, and, of course, a few surprises. It was a joy to read, and I eagerly look forward to more Maplewood stories from Ana Ashley.
May 18, 2025
From the opening scene in Burlington to the snowy streets of Maplewood, this book was the exact kind of cozy, romantic winter escape every reader dreams of curling up with. Though it opens with a mysterious, mask-covered one-night-stand, within the pages, you'll find exactly what I about small-town romances - a close-knit community, well-meaning friends and neighbors, and all the festivals.
Caspian is a relatable character - resilient after a huge loss, and full of natural charm that wins over everyone he meets when he moves to Maplewood. He is starting fresh, taking over and refreshing the town coffee shop - Special Blend - and he creates a place filled with comfort, sweetness, and community. Though he finds solace in the welcome he receives from his new community, it is his neighbor that really warms him. Nate is the perfect grumpy-to-sweetheart lumberjack-type neighbor, and their chemistry is undeniable. Nate has sworn off relationships for Reasons but those seem to fall to the wayside once he realizes that he can't deny his attraction to Caspian.
I loved how naturally the romance unfolded between Nate and Caspian, with all the warm, fuzzy, new love build-up and emotional depth that makes a story stay with you. The conflict at the 80% mark was almost predictable but still raised the stakes in just the right way, layering angst over sweet without overwhelming either of them.
This is a story about starting over, second chances, healing and finding home in unexpected places. It's cozy, heartfelt, and hopeful. If you love small-town charm, sweet emotional connections, and HEAs that leave you smiling, I highly recommend picking this up.
[I received an advanced copy of this book. All reviews and ratings are my own.]
Caspian is a relatable character - resilient after a huge loss, and full of natural charm that wins over everyone he meets when he moves to Maplewood. He is starting fresh, taking over and refreshing the town coffee shop - Special Blend - and he creates a place filled with comfort, sweetness, and community. Though he finds solace in the welcome he receives from his new community, it is his neighbor that really warms him. Nate is the perfect grumpy-to-sweetheart lumberjack-type neighbor, and their chemistry is undeniable. Nate has sworn off relationships for Reasons but those seem to fall to the wayside once he realizes that he can't deny his attraction to Caspian.
I loved how naturally the romance unfolded between Nate and Caspian, with all the warm, fuzzy, new love build-up and emotional depth that makes a story stay with you. The conflict at the 80% mark was almost predictable but still raised the stakes in just the right way, layering angst over sweet without overwhelming either of them.
This is a story about starting over, second chances, healing and finding home in unexpected places. It's cozy, heartfelt, and hopeful. If you love small-town charm, sweet emotional connections, and HEAs that leave you smiling, I highly recommend picking this up.
[I received an advanced copy of this book. All reviews and ratings are my own.]
April 21, 2025
I received a free copy. This review is submitted voluntarily.
Caspian is moving from Phoenix, Arizona to Maplewood, Vermont to open a coffee shop called Special Blend. On his way, he stops in Burlington to celebrate New Year’s Eve at a gay club. There, he meets a man who insists on them keeping their masks on to preserve anonymity during their tryst. Turns out that the man is Nate, Caspian’s new neighbour in Maplewood (the maple leaf shaped birthmark gives it away). As fate would have it, Caspian and Nate start developing feelings for each other, encouraged by many of the townsfolk. Their relationship gets something of a shock when they receive news that rattle Caspian’s memories of his mother and causes a rift between the two. Eventually they overcome this and attain a happy ending.
I really enjoy the author’s work. The way she brings the reader back to other places they’ve seen before is great. Her main characters are truly sympathetic and easily fall deeply in love. As well, she is at ease in small town romance and the interactions of locals in every stage of life. Caspian and Nate are truly lovely protagonists who fall in love without really noticing until they have to confirm it late in the novel. As is the case with all small-town settings, the locals are busybodies who don’t hesitate to stick their noses into everyone’s business and acting as matchmakers in Caspian and Nate’s romance. The plot is straightforward with only a minor twist at the end. I love these series written by different authors, seeing how they maintain consistency in their books.
As is always the case with this author, I do not hesitate to recommend the book.
Caspian is moving from Phoenix, Arizona to Maplewood, Vermont to open a coffee shop called Special Blend. On his way, he stops in Burlington to celebrate New Year’s Eve at a gay club. There, he meets a man who insists on them keeping their masks on to preserve anonymity during their tryst. Turns out that the man is Nate, Caspian’s new neighbour in Maplewood (the maple leaf shaped birthmark gives it away). As fate would have it, Caspian and Nate start developing feelings for each other, encouraged by many of the townsfolk. Their relationship gets something of a shock when they receive news that rattle Caspian’s memories of his mother and causes a rift between the two. Eventually they overcome this and attain a happy ending.
I really enjoy the author’s work. The way she brings the reader back to other places they’ve seen before is great. Her main characters are truly sympathetic and easily fall deeply in love. As well, she is at ease in small town romance and the interactions of locals in every stage of life. Caspian and Nate are truly lovely protagonists who fall in love without really noticing until they have to confirm it late in the novel. As is the case with all small-town settings, the locals are busybodies who don’t hesitate to stick their noses into everyone’s business and acting as matchmakers in Caspian and Nate’s romance. The plot is straightforward with only a minor twist at the end. I love these series written by different authors, seeing how they maintain consistency in their books.
As is always the case with this author, I do not hesitate to recommend the book.
May 17, 2025
Caspian & Nate
Introducing readers to a new multi-author series is always a big task and Ana Ashley knocked it out of the park. This story was sweet, heartwarming, and found family-affirming.
After a masked New Year's Eve party and one-night stand, Caspian completes his move to Maplewood to start fresh in the town where his mother grew up and start a new business. He forms an instantly friendly connection with his new neighbor, Nate, and it's much later that Caspian figures out that Nate was his NYE date! I loved the coincidental-ness of their Nate & Caspian's situation & relationship. Since they didn't share any information with one another during their night together, they had nothing to remember each other but small (though significant) details. The circumstances of their second chance is surprisingly sweet and fun. These two easily steamed up the sheets, but they were also really cute & couple-y together and super supportive of one another.
The recurring memories and connections we get from Caspian about his mother are so beautiful. It's so easy to see how close they were, and how much she meant to him. Caspian finding his place in Maplewood and learning all these new things his mom never told him helps him renew his memories and feelings of her. He gets the chance to discover more about his past that he would never have guessed.
Winter Wishes and Coffee Kisses is a fantastic opener in the new multi-author series Love in Maplewood and I had such a fun time reading it! Caspian & Nate are great characters, and with Caspian owning the town's newest coffee shop, you know he's likely to be a repeat character throughout the series. I'm really excited to see how the series unfolds among all the talented authors and this shared universe.
I received an authorized copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.
Introducing readers to a new multi-author series is always a big task and Ana Ashley knocked it out of the park. This story was sweet, heartwarming, and found family-affirming.
After a masked New Year's Eve party and one-night stand, Caspian completes his move to Maplewood to start fresh in the town where his mother grew up and start a new business. He forms an instantly friendly connection with his new neighbor, Nate, and it's much later that Caspian figures out that Nate was his NYE date! I loved the coincidental-ness of their Nate & Caspian's situation & relationship. Since they didn't share any information with one another during their night together, they had nothing to remember each other but small (though significant) details. The circumstances of their second chance is surprisingly sweet and fun. These two easily steamed up the sheets, but they were also really cute & couple-y together and super supportive of one another.
The recurring memories and connections we get from Caspian about his mother are so beautiful. It's so easy to see how close they were, and how much she meant to him. Caspian finding his place in Maplewood and learning all these new things his mom never told him helps him renew his memories and feelings of her. He gets the chance to discover more about his past that he would never have guessed.
Winter Wishes and Coffee Kisses is a fantastic opener in the new multi-author series Love in Maplewood and I had such a fun time reading it! Caspian & Nate are great characters, and with Caspian owning the town's newest coffee shop, you know he's likely to be a repeat character throughout the series. I'm really excited to see how the series unfolds among all the talented authors and this shared universe.
I received an authorized copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.
May 19, 2025
MY OPINION: Cute! If you are looking for a hallmark movie in a book, this is it. These two fall into each other naturally in a lovely small town setting, which you can’t help but fall in love with.
Each of these guys has a charm about them that is easy to embrace. Caspian is fulfilling a dream that he felt would honor his mother—opening a sweet little coffee shop on the main street of an idyllic little town in Vermont. Everything is exactly as you expect: quaint little aspects to the shop, warm, welcoming townspeople, and there is no bigotry to be found. It’s perfect. As soon as he arrives in town, everything falls into place, and he finds a family he didn't expect among the residents of Maplewood. Caspian is sunshine and light, a wonderful man with a lot of heart and energy.
Nate is grumpier, but is a much more charming person than he wants to let on. Reeling from a relationship that changed and left him alone, he was protective of his heart. His feelings for his neighbor, the new coffee shop owner, and his one-night stand all hit him by surprise. Albeit scared, embracing those feelings is his best decision.
There is all the small-town warmth you would expect in a story like this. One of ten books in the series, they will all be written by different authors. Maplewood is sure to become a favorite community for readers. I like the book a lot. It moved along quickly with a lot of action and some wonderful spice. As the first in the series, I will have to pick up the others as they come out, because the town is a wonderful place, and I want to know more about it.
Each of these guys has a charm about them that is easy to embrace. Caspian is fulfilling a dream that he felt would honor his mother—opening a sweet little coffee shop on the main street of an idyllic little town in Vermont. Everything is exactly as you expect: quaint little aspects to the shop, warm, welcoming townspeople, and there is no bigotry to be found. It’s perfect. As soon as he arrives in town, everything falls into place, and he finds a family he didn't expect among the residents of Maplewood. Caspian is sunshine and light, a wonderful man with a lot of heart and energy.
Nate is grumpier, but is a much more charming person than he wants to let on. Reeling from a relationship that changed and left him alone, he was protective of his heart. His feelings for his neighbor, the new coffee shop owner, and his one-night stand all hit him by surprise. Albeit scared, embracing those feelings is his best decision.
There is all the small-town warmth you would expect in a story like this. One of ten books in the series, they will all be written by different authors. Maplewood is sure to become a favorite community for readers. I like the book a lot. It moved along quickly with a lot of action and some wonderful spice. As the first in the series, I will have to pick up the others as they come out, because the town is a wonderful place, and I want to know more about it.
April 22, 2025
There are so many cheery, welcoming people in this book that gives off serious Hallmark vibes and will have you smiling throughout. Other than a surprising twist that causes some drama, this book is low angst.
Caspian is a real sweetheart, he's moving to a new state that is vastly different from where he grew up, so he can have a new beginning, and realize a dream that both he and his mother shared.
Nate is more closed off and slightly grumpy, but still a really nice guy.
Caspian and Nate spend an unforgettable New Year's Eve Masquerade party together, and their own - personal - after party is off the charts. Unfortunately, they kept the masks on and have no way to reconnect with the man who won't leave their thoughts.
Now Caspian has finished his move to Maplewood, there seems to be some magic in the air, for these two eventually realize that the new neighbor they can't seem to stay away from is the same as their mystery man from NYE. They get along so well that the connection between them develops quickly - even though it is quick time-wise, the way it is written makes it feel as if more time has passed than there actually was. Their chemistry is undeniable and leads to many steamy encounters. Despite a little blip from the twist, these two sweet men find the love they deserve, and get a wonderfully satisfying HEA.
I received an ARC from GRR, this is my unbiased opinion.
Caspian is a real sweetheart, he's moving to a new state that is vastly different from where he grew up, so he can have a new beginning, and realize a dream that both he and his mother shared.
Nate is more closed off and slightly grumpy, but still a really nice guy.
Caspian and Nate spend an unforgettable New Year's Eve Masquerade party together, and their own - personal - after party is off the charts. Unfortunately, they kept the masks on and have no way to reconnect with the man who won't leave their thoughts.
Now Caspian has finished his move to Maplewood, there seems to be some magic in the air, for these two eventually realize that the new neighbor they can't seem to stay away from is the same as their mystery man from NYE. They get along so well that the connection between them develops quickly - even though it is quick time-wise, the way it is written makes it feel as if more time has passed than there actually was. Their chemistry is undeniable and leads to many steamy encounters. Despite a little blip from the twist, these two sweet men find the love they deserve, and get a wonderfully satisfying HEA.
I received an ARC from GRR, this is my unbiased opinion.
April 22, 2025
This was a super sweet, lower angst read. The dramas that were contained were relatable and honest issues, and I appreciated them not being drawn out just to keep tension but truly served the plot/character growth.
Caspian and Nate are just two strangers who meet at a NYE masquerade, have a one night stand, yet neither can let their connection go .... but with no numbers or names exchanged? What you gonna do?
Then Caspian moves to the 'queerest town in Vermont' to open a coffee shop, he's looking for a fresh start, a sense of home and belonging after personal loss. When his neighbor is a tall, lumberjack glass of maple syrup with whom he shares an instant chemistry?? Ooooh, we should all be so blessed eh?
Nate is an absolute sweetheart, but is purely a ONS kind of guy. He tries to avoid the chemistry and comfort that spending time with his new neighbor brings, but some people are worth breaking your own rules for!
It was an enjoyable read. As the first book in a multi author world, there's some light world-building and set up for future books but I didn't find it distracted from the overall plot/pacing.
Love in Maplewood is a multi author cozy small town romance series. Some characters will cameo across the series, but all can be read stand alone.
*Received an ARC from GRR. Thoughts and opinions freely given*
Caspian and Nate are just two strangers who meet at a NYE masquerade, have a one night stand, yet neither can let their connection go .... but with no numbers or names exchanged? What you gonna do?
Then Caspian moves to the 'queerest town in Vermont' to open a coffee shop, he's looking for a fresh start, a sense of home and belonging after personal loss. When his neighbor is a tall, lumberjack glass of maple syrup with whom he shares an instant chemistry?? Ooooh, we should all be so blessed eh?
Nate is an absolute sweetheart, but is purely a ONS kind of guy. He tries to avoid the chemistry and comfort that spending time with his new neighbor brings, but some people are worth breaking your own rules for!
It was an enjoyable read. As the first book in a multi author world, there's some light world-building and set up for future books but I didn't find it distracted from the overall plot/pacing.
Love in Maplewood is a multi author cozy small town romance series. Some characters will cameo across the series, but all can be read stand alone.
*Received an ARC from GRR. Thoughts and opinions freely given*
May 27, 2025
I loved Caspian and Nate’s feel-good story, and already want to visit Maplewood again. I love small-town stories, especially in shared worlds, and this has everything I enjoy about them: townsfolk who care about each other, and gossip, family and found family, and friendships as well as romance.
I liked how Caspian and Nate first met, yet didn’t realise the other’s identity until much later, and how that scene comes full circle. I loved the role of family, with Caspian’s mother not far from his thoughts and his inspiration for coming to Maplewood. I loved Nate’s family too, and the twist regarding Caspian’s. I loved how Caspian and Nate slowly grow their friendship as well as a relationship in a lovely opposites-attract story.
I loved the set-up of Maplewood, and the characters that inhabit it. I hope we get the hinted-at get together for two other characters who both need their own HEA. I enjoyed the strong friendships between Nate and Addy, and Caspian and Marcus. I liked that although Nate and Addy were once together, they were still good friends, rather than her painted as the ‘bad guy’ for splitting up with him.
Caspian’s coffee shop sounds amazing, and I don’t drink coffee! I also loved the idea of The Wishing Tree.
Their HEA makes for a satisfying heading, although I hope to get glimpses of them in other Maplewood stories.
I liked how Caspian and Nate first met, yet didn’t realise the other’s identity until much later, and how that scene comes full circle. I loved the role of family, with Caspian’s mother not far from his thoughts and his inspiration for coming to Maplewood. I loved Nate’s family too, and the twist regarding Caspian’s. I loved how Caspian and Nate slowly grow their friendship as well as a relationship in a lovely opposites-attract story.
I loved the set-up of Maplewood, and the characters that inhabit it. I hope we get the hinted-at get together for two other characters who both need their own HEA. I enjoyed the strong friendships between Nate and Addy, and Caspian and Marcus. I liked that although Nate and Addy were once together, they were still good friends, rather than her painted as the ‘bad guy’ for splitting up with him.
Caspian’s coffee shop sounds amazing, and I don’t drink coffee! I also loved the idea of The Wishing Tree.
Their HEA makes for a satisfying heading, although I hope to get glimpses of them in other Maplewood stories.
May 14, 2025
**4.5**
What a fantastic way to start this new multi-author series! I've been a big fan of Ana's small town romances for years and this is a perfect example of why.
Caspian is getting a fresh start in Maplewood, moving forward after the loss of his mother. He gets more than he wished for with the small town, welcoming community and caring new friends. The best surprise is his neighbour, Nate.
Nate is someone who has been hurt in the past, understandably making him wary and protective of his heart. There's no accounting for Caspian, though, and the two are drawn to each other from the start. They have amazing chemistry that is quick to develop into more but there is always a little bit of drama to ensure both know that they have found their HEA. I love how Ana was able to weave in some characters from her other books! love a good crossover!
This book is a perfect introduction to the small town of Maplewood and its current festival, Winter Wishes. Those wishes are an important part of the community and have people hoping and dreaming of so much, like a chance with their sexy neighbour.
I can't wait to get to know everyone else from the town throughout the series.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
What a fantastic way to start this new multi-author series! I've been a big fan of Ana's small town romances for years and this is a perfect example of why.
Caspian is getting a fresh start in Maplewood, moving forward after the loss of his mother. He gets more than he wished for with the small town, welcoming community and caring new friends. The best surprise is his neighbour, Nate.
Nate is someone who has been hurt in the past, understandably making him wary and protective of his heart. There's no accounting for Caspian, though, and the two are drawn to each other from the start. They have amazing chemistry that is quick to develop into more but there is always a little bit of drama to ensure both know that they have found their HEA. I love how Ana was able to weave in some characters from her other books! love a good crossover!
This book is a perfect introduction to the small town of Maplewood and its current festival, Winter Wishes. Those wishes are an important part of the community and have people hoping and dreaming of so much, like a chance with their sexy neighbour.
I can't wait to get to know everyone else from the town throughout the series.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
May 17, 2025
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I absolutely adore a small town shared universe. Especially a northern cold climate one. Snow, festivals, maple syrup, they are all my romance happy place - but then I’m Canadian! I love the interconnectedness, but also the different authors bringing their voice to it.
Ana Ashley is a superb choice for starting this series off, she really knows how to capture a small town and writes such lovely romances.
The new neighbour has moved to town in search of connection and a place to belong - and he fits in perfectly. The fact that his neighbour is a slightly closed off gorgeous man doesn’t hurt.
Caspian is a sweetheart with such an optimistic and lovely nature. He’s a great mix for the brooding but caring and thoughtful Nate.
They have some drama, but not from any malice, and in the end they get a happy ending and a place to belong.
We also get to meet a bunch of the town folks, and some of those who’s stories are to come - so consider me invested!
I absolutely adore a small town shared universe. Especially a northern cold climate one. Snow, festivals, maple syrup, they are all my romance happy place - but then I’m Canadian! I love the interconnectedness, but also the different authors bringing their voice to it.
Ana Ashley is a superb choice for starting this series off, she really knows how to capture a small town and writes such lovely romances.
The new neighbour has moved to town in search of connection and a place to belong - and he fits in perfectly. The fact that his neighbour is a slightly closed off gorgeous man doesn’t hurt.
Caspian is a sweetheart with such an optimistic and lovely nature. He’s a great mix for the brooding but caring and thoughtful Nate.
They have some drama, but not from any malice, and in the end they get a happy ending and a place to belong.
We also get to meet a bunch of the town folks, and some of those who’s stories are to come - so consider me invested!
April 19, 2025
Ana Ashley excels at writing small town romance and this book is no exception. Caspian and Nate’s story was such a pleasure to read. They are very likeable characters who are just perfect for for each other. They become neighbours when Caspian, from Arizona, arrives in Maplewood and Nate helps him navigate the intricacies of a Vermont winter. With plenty of chemistry sizzling between them it’s not long before steamy times balanced with plenty of sweet are occurring. Visitors from Chester Falls visit Maplewood with an unexpected announcement which does cause a bit of angst for Caspian and Nate but nothing that will derail their relationship and HEA.
I loved this very enjoyable low angst small town romance with not only the wonderful Caspian and Nate but also its delightful town characters who add so much colour and vibrancy to the narrative. And not to forget the “magic” of the Wishing Tree which turned the very sceptical and jaded Nate into a believer of wish making.
I smiled so much reading this and was left with a very happy heart at the end. I’m looking forward to more in this multi author series.
I loved this very enjoyable low angst small town romance with not only the wonderful Caspian and Nate but also its delightful town characters who add so much colour and vibrancy to the narrative. And not to forget the “magic” of the Wishing Tree which turned the very sceptical and jaded Nate into a believer of wish making.
I smiled so much reading this and was left with a very happy heart at the end. I’m looking forward to more in this multi author series.
April 20, 2025
Amazing!
I loved this book! The story of Caspian and Nate is filled with love, laughter, great friends, a bit of loss and a wonderful small town and is an absolute joy to read! Caspian moves to Maplewood from Phoenix after the death of his mother to start a new life as the owner of the local coffee shop. But he will meet a masked man in another town on New Year’s Eve that will take his breath away. Nate has lived in Maplewood all his life and he is the masked man Caspian meets. He is also his neighbor. The two try to keep things platonic but the chemistry between them is impossible to deny. The town rallies around Caspian as he begins his new adventure and he will learn that Nate’s mom was actually his mother’s childhood best friend. Fate will keep bringing the two together and soon, they can no longer fight the chemistry between them. Feelings begin to grow and their love will be tested when Caspian learns his past isn’t all he thought it was. But true love will win the day and Nate and Caspian get the chance to find their happily ever after together in a small town.
I read an ARC copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.
I loved this book! The story of Caspian and Nate is filled with love, laughter, great friends, a bit of loss and a wonderful small town and is an absolute joy to read! Caspian moves to Maplewood from Phoenix after the death of his mother to start a new life as the owner of the local coffee shop. But he will meet a masked man in another town on New Year’s Eve that will take his breath away. Nate has lived in Maplewood all his life and he is the masked man Caspian meets. He is also his neighbor. The two try to keep things platonic but the chemistry between them is impossible to deny. The town rallies around Caspian as he begins his new adventure and he will learn that Nate’s mom was actually his mother’s childhood best friend. Fate will keep bringing the two together and soon, they can no longer fight the chemistry between them. Feelings begin to grow and their love will be tested when Caspian learns his past isn’t all he thought it was. But true love will win the day and Nate and Caspian get the chance to find their happily ever after together in a small town.
I read an ARC copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.
May 20, 2025
This is book 1 of a new series – Love in Maplewood. Maplewood is the queerest town in Vermont and has a festival to celebrate, well, everything. To start off the series, we have the festival of Winter Wishes. It’s a sweet idea – you put your wish in an ornament on the wishing tree and, throughout the year, it may come true.
The book opens with the anonymous one-night stand that Caspian embarks on before he heads to Maplewood to open his coffee shop, Special Blend. “New year, new chapter. And hopefully, a hot hookup to start things off right.” It’s a masquerade, so they wear masks that they keep on during the hookup, the hottest of Caspian’s life, which he then leaves behind to go start his dream in Maplewood. He lost his mom just a few months back, and opening the coffee shop is his way of honoring her. “Of her encouragement to chase my dreams, even when they scared me.”
Maplewood is a small town where everyone knows everyone, and the people are very nice. Caspian’s mom grew up there, so that is why he chose this place to follow that dream. There’s been no coffee shop since the previous owner of Special Blend retired, so the townspeople are pleased that Caspian is here. He meets his new neighbor, Nate, and is immediately intrigued. Okay, and this is my first questioning look at the book. The hookup was only a few days previous, and both Nate and Caspian mentioned they can’t get the other out of their minds, with Caspian mentioning Nate’s unusual eyes. Yet, when they meet as neighbors, there is no recognition of the voice, the face, the eyes. “That mysterious stranger has taken up permanent residence in my thoughts, and my body hasn’t forgotten him either.”
Caspian carries grief from losing his mother, who was his only family, and it was bittersweet when he meets her childhood best friend, who can share memories of her. Of course, in true small town fashion his mom’s old best friend is Nate’s mom.
Nate has baggage from his previous relationship with Addy, another Maplewood resident. I admit, I kept waiting for the reveal of what happened, because he is guarded because of it. “I should know better by now.” Or “It doesn’t matter what I want. I learned my lesson with Addy-sometimes love isn’t enough, and what seems perfect can shatter in an instance.” When you finally do get to see what happened between them, I was honestly a little surprised they stayed friends. Can’t say much more without spoilers, but I wondered if things had been different, would they have remained friends? “Addy is my best friend, but she hurt me a lot.” There is no blame placed on Addy by either Addy or Nate, but I still questioned it.
There is a lot of time spent on everyday life in Maplewood. Felix, another newcomer to Maplewood, is a great friend for Caspian, and he’s lovely. Hopefully, he gets a book. I would also love a book for Caspian’s best friend, Marcus, because he is also so lovely. Nate shows Caspian what Maplewood really is, and Caspian begins to deal with living his dream without his mom with him. The grief he feels for her is so real.
I struggled with rating this book because I really liked parts of it, questioned parts of it, and rolled my eyes at a couple of things. Caspian is opening a new coffee shop, and his baking is mentioned in the blurb as melting hearts, but…he can’t bake. There is a big something that happens towards the end that I can’t decide if it fits the story or was an add-in to provoke some drama, both between Nate and Caspian and just for Caspian.
This is a sweet story with very little angst and introduces the town and people of Maplewood for the rest of the series.
Reviewed for Love Bytes Reviews
The book opens with the anonymous one-night stand that Caspian embarks on before he heads to Maplewood to open his coffee shop, Special Blend. “New year, new chapter. And hopefully, a hot hookup to start things off right.” It’s a masquerade, so they wear masks that they keep on during the hookup, the hottest of Caspian’s life, which he then leaves behind to go start his dream in Maplewood. He lost his mom just a few months back, and opening the coffee shop is his way of honoring her. “Of her encouragement to chase my dreams, even when they scared me.”
Maplewood is a small town where everyone knows everyone, and the people are very nice. Caspian’s mom grew up there, so that is why he chose this place to follow that dream. There’s been no coffee shop since the previous owner of Special Blend retired, so the townspeople are pleased that Caspian is here. He meets his new neighbor, Nate, and is immediately intrigued. Okay, and this is my first questioning look at the book. The hookup was only a few days previous, and both Nate and Caspian mentioned they can’t get the other out of their minds, with Caspian mentioning Nate’s unusual eyes. Yet, when they meet as neighbors, there is no recognition of the voice, the face, the eyes. “That mysterious stranger has taken up permanent residence in my thoughts, and my body hasn’t forgotten him either.”
Caspian carries grief from losing his mother, who was his only family, and it was bittersweet when he meets her childhood best friend, who can share memories of her. Of course, in true small town fashion his mom’s old best friend is Nate’s mom.
Nate has baggage from his previous relationship with Addy, another Maplewood resident. I admit, I kept waiting for the reveal of what happened, because he is guarded because of it. “I should know better by now.” Or “It doesn’t matter what I want. I learned my lesson with Addy-sometimes love isn’t enough, and what seems perfect can shatter in an instance.” When you finally do get to see what happened between them, I was honestly a little surprised they stayed friends. Can’t say much more without spoilers, but I wondered if things had been different, would they have remained friends? “Addy is my best friend, but she hurt me a lot.” There is no blame placed on Addy by either Addy or Nate, but I still questioned it.
There is a lot of time spent on everyday life in Maplewood. Felix, another newcomer to Maplewood, is a great friend for Caspian, and he’s lovely. Hopefully, he gets a book. I would also love a book for Caspian’s best friend, Marcus, because he is also so lovely. Nate shows Caspian what Maplewood really is, and Caspian begins to deal with living his dream without his mom with him. The grief he feels for her is so real.
I struggled with rating this book because I really liked parts of it, questioned parts of it, and rolled my eyes at a couple of things. Caspian is opening a new coffee shop, and his baking is mentioned in the blurb as melting hearts, but…he can’t bake. There is a big something that happens towards the end that I can’t decide if it fits the story or was an add-in to provoke some drama, both between Nate and Caspian and just for Caspian.
This is a sweet story with very little angst and introduces the town and people of Maplewood for the rest of the series.
Reviewed for Love Bytes Reviews
May 11, 2025
Caspian is feeling a little lost, his mother died a few months ago after a battle with cancer. It had always been the two of them and they struggled. That's why the unexpected inheritance startled him. Caspian takes it as an omen. His mother often talked about her hometown of Maplewood, VT and had dreamed of opening a coffee shop there. It just so happens old Mac wants to sell his coffee shop and retire someplace warmer. It's kismet.
Moving from Phoenix to Vermont is the winter is an adventure. As a kickoff to his new life Caspian spends New Years Eve in Burlington at a gay bar featuring a masked party. A burly lumberjack type quickly makes the move on Caspian, let the party begin. No names, masks left on, and the hottest sex of his life follow. Three days later, Caspian rolls into Maplewood to start his new life, and the tenant on the other half of the duplex is FINE.
What follows is a tango between Caspian and Nate Although Nate appears grumpy on the exterior, he is such a marshmallow in the inside and the poor desert mouse needs all the help he can get. When a secret from Caspian's mother's past, will it blow them apart or bring them closer.
Moving from Phoenix to Vermont is the winter is an adventure. As a kickoff to his new life Caspian spends New Years Eve in Burlington at a gay bar featuring a masked party. A burly lumberjack type quickly makes the move on Caspian, let the party begin. No names, masks left on, and the hottest sex of his life follow. Three days later, Caspian rolls into Maplewood to start his new life, and the tenant on the other half of the duplex is FINE.
What follows is a tango between Caspian and Nate Although Nate appears grumpy on the exterior, he is such a marshmallow in the inside and the poor desert mouse needs all the help he can get. When a secret from Caspian's mother's past, will it blow them apart or bring them closer.
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