Scoop Me Up

Love in Maplewood #7

by Riley Long

Falling for a straight guy is putting extra nuts in the rocky road to my life goals...

I have two opening my own ice cream shop and falling in love. My fantasy? Falling in love with a guy who’ll help me run my future ice cream shop.

But my teaching job doesn’t exactly have me rolling in dough, and my love life doesn’t exactly have sprinkles on top, so every year my dreams seem farther and farther away.

At least until this year, when I decide to compete in the Maplewood Scoopfest flavor competition. If I win, owning an ice cream shop would be within reach.

But the love life thing? Well, it’s even sadder now, because I have a huge crush on Gabe, the ridiculously hot, straight single dad to one of my students. He’s only in town for the summer, and—what the heck was I thinking?—I offered to let him stay in my guest bedroom. Now I have to see him, talk to him, hear him. All the time. Even my favorite ice cream isn’t enough distraction when all that deliciousness is right under my nose.

I’m resigned to pine in silence—to Gabe, that is. My friends are sick and tired of hearing about my pointless crush. Then, one night, he leans in for a kiss. But he’d been drinking and now I don’t know if that was just the whiskey talking, or if Gabe’s flavor preferences might just be changing.

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!

Genres: M M Romance, Romance, Contemporary, LGBT

236 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 27, 2025

About the author

Riley lives in central Virginia with her husband, son, and very silly dogs.

Reviews

[Carol [Goodreads Addict] · Rating 4 out of 5]

Scoop Me Up is book seven in the Love in Maplewood series. This one is by Riley Long. This is a ten book, multi author series that takes place in the most wonderful little town of Maplewood Vermont. Each book focuses on a different festival. This one is on the ice cream festival on July 4.



Gabe Winslow lives in Burlington and is divorced with a young daughter, Ellie, that lives with her mom, Jennifer, in Maplewood. Gabe and Jennifer have a great relationship but it’s still hard for Gabe to be away from his daughter. He gets to bring her to his apartment every other week. Jennifer is going away for a six week tour of Europe and has asked Gabe to spend the time she is away with Ellie at their home in Maplewood. He’s never really spent much time there and is so excited to both spend time with his daughter and get to know the town better.

Sam Thatcher has always dreamed of opening his own ice cream shop. But, that takes a lot of money. He’s been saving but doesn’t have nearly enough. He’s an elementary school teacher and is currently working summer school for extra money. He has also entered the ice cream flavor competition at the festival. For the first time ever, this year the winner will receive a cash prize which will put him even closer to his dream.

When Sam and Gabe first meet, sparks are flying. Gabe is straight, though, and Sam is not. Don’t even mention the fact that Sam is teaching Gabe’s daughter. He develops a crush but will just have to keep it secret which becomes even more difficult when Jennifer returns early from her trip and Sam offers his guest room to Gabe. Gabe, though, is growing some feelings of his own. While things are heating up between them, they both know that Gabe is planning to return to his home in Burlington when the summer is over. Or, could maybe Sam give him a reason to stay?

These two were so cute together. There was absolutely no angst in this at all, and no third act break up. I did get frustrated with how they didn’t talk to each other, leaving the other to wonder how they felt. Once again, this community comes together and supports their newest business owner which made my heart all warm and gooey. Little Ellie was so cute. It’s a super sweet (pun intended) romance that I truly enjoyed. The next book is called The Great Maple Mistake by Beck Grey and features a photographer and a firefighter. I can’t wait!

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...

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

Back in Maplewood for Sam and Gabe’s story, and this cute little utopia is always a delight to read about. Like all of the other stories, this one is relatively angst- and drama-free. Another cute couple with a cute story. I liked the way these two got together. That’s how my own coming out went perfectly straight until I wasn’t. No prior thoughts, no testing the waters. Just saw someone I liked, and that was that. No fighting, no 3rd act breakups, not in Maplewood!

Cooper’s ice cream names were fun; he had me laughing when he was winding up Sam about Gabe. Some of them
Flavours sound lush too; I love ice cream. 😋

My only niggle was that conversations seemed to be repeated amongst characters in a way that suggested they hadn’t already had that conversation. Gabe kept making up his mind to stay, but then in the next chapter was back in decision mode. Also, Sam told Cooper he loved Gabe, then the next time said it was news to him when Cooper mentioned it. Which made it feel like I was stuck in a loop a bit.

I still enjoyed reading this and I’m looking forward to finding out who will star in the next book of the series.

——————————————
I received an ARC of this from GRR, and this is my honest review.

[b00ks_in_nature · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've loved these Maplewood books, it's so fun and cozy! This one features a lot of will they/won't they hemming and hawing with a lot of pining, to the point it is a suuuper slow burn. There are a couple continuity things that jumped out at me, but otherwise I enjoyed this book and the characters.

[Jade Reads Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

Five stars ⭐️

Most definitely my favorite of the series so far. I loved Sam and Gabe and his little girl, Emily. I loved all the characters. This one was great.

[Caroline · Rating 4 out of 5]

I think this is my favorite one of the series so far. I absolutely loved Gabe and Sam. Gabe's daughter is the absolute cutest and I love how open and accepting kids are. I also loved how awesome Jennifer Gabes ex wife was. All I wanted was for Sam to find their happiness and this book gave me that and more. 🥰

[Danielle Cordsen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Scoop me up
By: Riley Long

Will they or won’t they?

📚💕⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💕📚

In book seven in the absolutely adorable multi author Love in Maplewood series we are introduced to Gabe (his daughter Emily) and Sam. Plus some fun additions of other characters throughout the series. This book was a sweet will they or won’t they with a bit a nudging from well meaning friends. Sam. So much fun to read the angst and well meaning friends gotta love small towns. The author writes with so much fun and emotion pulled from their books it’s felt page after page. Some are quick witted story lines are so perfect and lets you believe you have a front row seat. So being able to read this love story didn’t disappoint. The authors ability to have two separate individuals struggling in their everyday life and try to navigate someone else’s thoughts, needs and desires was intense and gives all the fills.

Authors blurb: Falling for a straight guy is putting extra nuts in the rocky road to my life goals...

I have two dreams: opening my own ice cream shop and falling in love. My fantasy? Falling in love with a guy who’ll help me run my future ice cream shop.

But my teaching job doesn’t exactly have me rolling in dough, and my love life doesn’t exactly have sprinkles on top, so every year my dreams seem farther and farther away.

At least until this year, when I decide to compete in the Maplewood Scoopfest flavor competition. If I win, owning an ice cream shop would be within reach.

But the love life thing? Well, it’s even sadder now, because I have a huge crush on Gabe, the ridiculously hot, straight single dad to one of my students. He’s only in town for the summer, and—what the heck was I thinking?—I offered to let him stay in my guest bedroom. Now I have to see him, talk to him, hear him. All the time. Even my favorite ice cream isn’t enough distraction when all that deliciousness is right under my nose.

I’m resigned to pine in silence to Gabe, that is. My friends are sick and tired of hearing about my pointless crush. Then, one night, he leans in for a kiss. But he’d been drinking and now I don’t know if that was just the whiskey talking, or if Gabe’s flavor preferences might just be changing.

This book has everything I love in a book. Then you add that it's beautifully written and believable. It is easily a five star read. Written in dual POV this story flows so incredibly well that the next thing you know you’re 80% into the book and loving every second of it. The believable way the characters interact is perfect. Run, Hop, Jump or use your (1 click) finger to do whatever you have to do and get this amazing book. It'll break your heart, you'll want to scream with frustration and it'll let you discover that love just might conquer all. The chemistry is steamy and sweet and oh so romantic.

[Donna · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the sixth book I have read in the Love in Maplewood series, and it is just as delightful as the previous ones. Pride is over and we are now into July and the great Maplewood Scoopfest flavor competition where residents compete to create the best new ice cream flavor, which is voted on by the town as well as the judges. Sam is an elementary school teacher, but their dream has always been an ice cream shop of their own. They have been the winner several times over the past 10 years, but this year there is a cash prize which could go a long way toward making their dream come true. Turns out their biggest competitor is Ellie, a student of theirs, and her dad Gabe, in town for the summer to spend time with his daughter. When Sam wins the competition, they will face some new challenges in their life — finishing summer school then resigning their teaching position, planning for their new business, Scoops on Maple, and finding out whether their attraction to Ellie’s Dad, Gabe, will go anywhere. Both Sam and Gabe are hesitant to move too fast, after all there is Ellie to consider, and Gabe is straight — or is he? He seems pretty taken with Sam, too, I you listen to town gossip.
Watching these two navigate their budding relationship is a lesson in patience, as each has questions in their minds, but of course they are slow to communicate what each is thinking. Eventually the ice cream shop is completed and ready to open at the end of August, Sam and Gabe know what they will be doing going forward, and Sam’s found family of Gabe, Ellie, Jennifer (Gabe’s ex), and Cooper, Sam’s best friend and confidant, are all there to support him, along with all the residents of Maplewood. This town takes care of its own.
I love the world building for Maplewood, each book adds more to the picture and flavor of the town and inhabitants, and the festivals really tie the town and community together. It is such an accepting place for all, I wouldn’t mind moving there myself. If you like engaging characters, celebrations for any reason they can come up with, a supportive and accepting place for all, with some quirky “ feuds” where residents choose sides (good-naturedly), then this series is definitely for you.
I received an advance copy of the book and this is my voluntary review.

[Megan McGrath · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sam & Gabe
This story was so incredibly sweet from start to finish! I loved the slow build of their relationship and the sweet way Gabe explored and identified his feelings for Sam.
I also seriously loved the rallying town around Sam and their success and happiness. Maplewood has a lot of positives, and one big one is its townspeople and how they really rally around their citizens. It's already one of the happiest and most progressive towns, but they genuinely all care for each other, and this book really showcases that.

Sam was a super cute and creative ice cream maker, and I loved their attitude and very people-friendly personality. Their students in their summer school class loved them, and it was made clear on more than one occasion that their coworkers, student's parents, and so many others in their life loved and supported them. When Sam decides to step down with teaching to pursue the ice cream shop of their dreams, they had some personal difficulties with that decision, but their growing relationship with Gabe gave them the push of strength they needed to believe in themselves.
Gabe was a single father spending the summer in Maplewood to be close to his young daughter, Ellie. When he meets and interacts with Sam, he begins to feel things within that he doesn't initially understand. And when his living arrangements with his daughter change, and he's given the chance to spend his days living in Sam's house, those new feelings grow freely and quickly. He doesn't want to question what he feels, but he also doesn't want to jeopardize Sam's new business venture in any way. Sam struggles at first to accept and trust Gabe's feelings, but begins to understand that Gabe isn't going anywhere.
Their relationship is one full of love and sweet moments. I loved that Gabe was easily supported and encouraged to pursue his feelings with Sam--from multiple unexpected people--and I loved that Sam barely hesitates to pull Gabe into their life as things changed around them.

I loved Scoop Me Up and its fantastic story within the Love in Maplewood series. I've read all of the inter-connected stories in this world so far, and they are all fantastic in their own ways.

I received an authorized copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.

[Bill Bottomley · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a free copy. This review is submitted voluntarily.

Sam is a teacher whose dream is to open an ice cream shop. Gabe, the father of one of his students has come to Maplewood for the Summer to babysit his daughter, Ellie and to housesit for his ex-wife since she was going on a six-week trip to Europe with her boyfriend. Of course, Gabe is straight. His ex, Jennifer comes home early, having broken up with her bf. Now Gabe has to find another place to stay, and he ends up staying with Sam at his house thanks to matchmaking by Sam’s best friend Cooper. Sam already found Gabe hot ad Gabe has feelings he can’t quite understand. They get set up again by Cooper. Gabe has a bit too much to drink and attempts to kiss Sam. The latter feels strongly around the concept of consent, so he turns Gabe down, leading Gabe to believe that his attempt wasn’t wanted by Sam. This goes back and forth for most of the book until they finally admit their feelings and go on to a happy ending.

I enjoyed the book, as I have most of the rest of the series. My main complaint is that both Sam and Gabe dither while trying to decide whether the other likes them and whether Gabe will stay in Maplewood beyond the end of the Summer. While I can admit that it may not be easy, it just seems to me that sigs were being missed. That having been said, I found the two MCs to be sweet and solicitous of each other. The fact that they were the last to figure out their feelings is a plot device that seems to be common in this type of book. That plot was quite straightforward, with few detours. While this book may appear to involve a fair number of townsfolk (including Gabe’s ex), in fact there aren’t that many (they can probably be counted on the fingers of both hands). And the fact remains that small towns are among of my favourite tropes.

This book fits right into the series ad makes a really good read.

[Tara Bennett · Rating 4 out of 5]

MY OPINION: This whole series is about small-town love and acceptance. Scoop Me Up follows that formula, which makes every single one a joy to read.

This book introduces us to great people. Sam and Gabe. Sam is an elementary school teacher who is beloved by the town and is very good at their job, but it isn’t what they really want out of life. Unfortunately, the stopgap job that was supposed to be a year or two turned into ten. And no matter how hard they try, they can’t find a partner to share life with. So they keep moving forward, but this year was their year; they would at least cross off the business dream if they won the contest.

Gabe works too hard, and it was one of several reasons for his divorce. All work and no play indeed made Gabe a dull man. His daughter lived an hour away, and he ended up only seeing her for a weekend every other week. This wasn’t what he wanted from life. Being part of his daughter's world was too important, so it was time to look at options. He hoped the job he was interviewed for would open up things for him.

This is, of course, set in Maplewood, VT, a small town with everything you would expect in a fantasy. Amazing people who are inclusive, tons of queer people who are open and happy, families, festivals, and community support. Gabe is there for the summer, and he gets sucked into all the wonder that Maplewood offers, but he is even more interested in Sam. He didn’t even know he was queer but that wasn’t something he worried about. Falling in love and changing his life were the scary parts.

These two figure stuff out with a little communication and a lot of nudging by the town. They fall hard, but it’s a great love story with many wonderful characters. Like the other Maplewood books, you feel good when you finish the story.

[Bluemoonchild · Rating 3 out of 5]

I love this entire series, and I've been excited to read every book. That was true for this installment, too. Who wouldn't want to read an ice-cream filled queer romance in the coziest, queerest small town in Vermont? The setup had so much potential: small-town teacher who is beloved by the entire town, chasing their dream of owning an ice cream shop, and a supposedly straight single dad who winds up being a roommate? That's the perfect scenario for tension and sweetness. And to its credit, the book definitely delivered on the sweet moments.

Unfortunately, overall, this one missed the mark for me.

There were noticeable continuity issues that pulled me right out of the story--most notably, the inconsistent use of Sam's pronouns. Sam is non-binary and the author made a point of including a conversation where Sam and Gabe share their pronouns with each other. The failure to use them correctly felt careless and jarring, especially in a book that is otherwise inclusive and celebratory of queer identity. It really felt like the author initially intended for the story to be a gay or bi-awakening with one straight character and one gay character, and then changed it at the last minute. In additiona, some of the emotional moments didn't quite land for me. The characters didn't feel fully developed, and the chemistry between the leads felt forced. I couldn't tell if it was supposed to be a slow-burn or if we were just supposed to accept the sudden shift without much groundwork.

That said, there were still a lot of moments I enjoyed. Maplewood itself continues to be charming, and I always appreciate the focus on community and friendship. I wish I'd enjoyed this book a little bit more, and I hope once all of the books are out, the author will go back and make some adjustments to it.

[I received an advanced copy of this book. All reviews and ratings are my own.]

[Anne Harris · Rating 5 out of 5]

Super sweet read
Firstly, let me say I got this book from gay romance reviews and this is me leaving my honest review.
I have got to say, I thoroughly enjoyed this. Read it is super super cute. We have got. Sam who is non-binary he is a school teacher and I just love that the kids call him mix. Sam is well loved by everybody in Maplewood. He loves where he lives the community all he would like to change about his life is to find somebody to share it with. And when he is at the festival, he comes face-to-face with one of his students a little girl called Ellie. But he is blown away by the man that is standing beside her Ellie‘s dad Gabe who is staying for the summer while Ellie‘s mum is away.
Gabe is desperate to find a job that will keep him near his daughter. He is an independent business advisor but he wants to go back working for a company but this summer he is concentrating on Ellie when they go to the festival as they have made their own ice cream to be judged he comes face-to-face with Ellie‘s teacher mix. Well, his real name is Sam now Gabe has never been attracted to a man before, but he is really attracted to Sam. He finds it confusing but the more time they spend together there is no denying this attraction.
Sam has always wanted to open his own ice cream shop and after winning the competition he decides to go all in and take a risk. Gabe offered to help with business advice. What’s gonna happen when these to spend more time together??
I’ve kept it quite vague so I don’t ruin the story for you guys, but oh my Goodness , do you know the word that first came to me is sweet because that is what this book is. The attraction the passion between Gabe and Sam the trust it is just a joy to read. A great read.

[Glenn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dreams of Ice Cream nurture a found family and love

Sam is a teacher who loves his job, but his true dream is to own an ice cream shop. Emily is a student in his summer class, and her father catches his attention. Gabe is in town to spend time with his daughter after he and his wife divorced amicably, and meets Sam at the annual Ice Cream Contest, where Sam has entered. There's an instant chemistry between them, but Gabe mentions he is only in town for a short time.

This is part of the "Love in Maplewood" series and the fifth book I've had the pleasure of reading. The books are charming and lovable, even though they are written by different authors. In this entry, Riley Long presents a great love story that develops beautifully, despite the angst surrounding the two main characters as they navigate their obvious feelings for each other.

With a wonderful supporting cast, some of whom have appeared in previous books, the story unfolds with strong community support for the two men (Sam identifies as non-binary). The interactions with Emily, Gabe's daughter, only add more charm to the narrative.

This is an easy read with mild third-act angst, concluding with a fairy-tale ending filled with love, happiness, and an ice cream shop run by a very special landlord. Ms. Long does an excellent job in bringing to resolution all the various threads in the story, leaving this reader fulfilled and eager for another edition of "Love in Maplewood."

[Ana Silva · Rating 5 out of 5]

This gotta be THE sweetest book of this series and that’s saying a lot considering how amazing the first books were.

Sam is an elementary teacher whose dream was to own his own ice cream shop. He entered the town’s festival with the hopes of winning to make his dream a little more possible.

Their only wish was to have his ice cream shop and someone to love and that loved them back.

Sam was absolutely delightful. They were such a ray of sunshine and kindness. They were there whenever someone needed help. It was only fair that someone was there for them.

Gabe is Ellie’s father who’s one of Sam’s students. He arrives at Maplewood to spend the summer with Ellie and meets Sam during the town’s festival.

There is an instant connection though Gabe is straight or so he thought. He doesn’t understand his attraction to Sam. After his divorce from Ellie’s mom, the only thing on his mind is work and his daughter.

Just like everyone that comes to Maplewood, Gabe falls in love with the town and its people. Including Sam who in Gabe’s opinion is just an amazing person.

Together they form a beautiful friendship that becomes so much more. They become what they both deserved, which was someone who loved them deeply.

Gabe gave Sam more than they ever dreamed of. A happy ever after and a family full of delicious homemade ice cream.

If you haven’t read this series, you’re really missing out on the sweetest characters ever!

[Sabrina · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sam has always wanted two things. To open an ice cream shop and fall in love.But doing that is harder than they ever could have imagined. For years, they have been saving up and with every win in Maplewood’s Scoopfest flavor competition, it puts them one step further to their shop dream. And if they win this year, then they’ll finally have enough money. As for love? Well, they are about to be very surprised when Gabe comes to town. Gabe is tired of missing out on his daughter’s life. Work always takes him away and it doesn’t help that he doesn’t live close to her and his ex. But when his ex asks him to stay in Maplewood to take care of their daughter while she goes away, he jumps at the chance. Never does he expect to fall in love with the town or even someone else. But the moment he sees Sam, something changes. And he just wants to get to know Sam and be around them. Both of them are wary on what a future could look like, but neither can resist the other for long. And the more they spend time together, the harder they fall. Loved these two! They were just so adorable and sweet. And very clearly meant to be. I really enjoyed watching them fall in love!

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Vicki · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25 stars!

This is book seven in the Love in Maplewood multi-author series—a fictional town in Vermont with the highest percentage of LGBTQIA+ residents where everyone fits in and this one features Sam, aka Mix, a non-binary teacher whose dream of opening their own ice cream shop may finally be realized and Gabe, one of their student’s dad who only intended to be in town temporarily to spend time with his daughter during the summer. One look at Sam however and those plans may be in jeopardy.

Although there was an insta-attraction on both MCs parts, it wasn’t acted on for FOREVER making it a super slow burn which will probably be appreciated by readers who aren’t crazy about instalove romances but personally, I prefer a bit faster pacing. I did enjoy the continuity of the Maplewood world throughout all of the books in the series so far though…all the same townspeople, the feud between two diners, Mabel, the maybe monster…its really been a lot of fun visiting them over and over from one book to the next—and, although not my favorite in the series so far, it’s made it really easy to stay immersed in the whole Maplewood world and has me looking forward to the next release. 4.25 stars!

I received a copy of this book for free from GRR but am voluntarily leaving a review.

[CatOnABlueBackground · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a short, sweet romance between a teacher and an investor. The investor comes to town to take care of his daughter while his ex-wife is away on a 2 month vacation. He meets the teacher during the festival and the attraction begins. This is also no angst.

This is more of a standalone than the others - there's almost no overlap with any of the characters from the other Maplewood books. In fact, the festival at the beginning of the book is over almost immediately and hardly part of the plot. This book almost felt like it wasn't part of the series.

Unfortunately for me, this book is full of things I don't really like. Basically, this is a Hallmark movie, and that's the reason for the 3 stars. Everything happens in the space of 2 months - the romance, the moving in together, the renovation of the shop, the opening of the shop. It even has the annoying child whose main purpose is to shout when she sees someone come into a room and run to hug them. Personally, I need a little more realism and plot in a book to make me happy.

If you go into this realizing you're reading the plot to your typical Hallmark movie (& you like that kind of thing), then you'll be happy.

[Merissa (Archaeolibrarian) · Rating 4 out of 5]

SCOOP ME UP returns to Maplewood for the seventh story in this series. This time, we have a non-binary school teacher, who longs to own his own ice-cream shop, and a business consultant in town to spend time with his daughter, who ends up not being as straight as he thought he was.

As with all the books I have read in this series, it is low angst, with a high dose of sweetness, charm to spare, and a whole town to rally round when your backs are against the wall. There were parts of this that confused me, as I thought decisions had already been made and conversations had. Maybe that was me reading more into parts than I should have done, but it did jolt me out of my zone whenever I hit them.

Anyway, this was a sweet story with some great ice-cream names and a wonderful supporting cast. If you like this series, then I have no doubt you will like this instalment. 3.5 rounded up.

** Same worded review will appear elsewhere. **

* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *

Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Jun 13, 2025

[Alicia · Rating 3 out of 5]

I wanted to enjoy this book, but I simply couldn't. The story was blah, with zero tension—both MCs spent a good part of the book aware they were in love with the other but thinking it couldn't work because... no reason. Low angst is fine, but low tension is dull.

I'm cis, so I may be WAY off base with this next comment, and if so I apologize. It's not my intention to be insensitive or hurtful. But I didn't see any way in which Sam wasn't a cis man, other than their pronouns. Maybe there are NB people who have zero traits or thoughts that wouldn't fit a cis person, but in this story it sort of felt as if the NB aspect was tacked on for show. (Please feel free to tell me how wrong I am! I'll edit this review and apologize if people say I'm out of line.)

I think there were also some tense issues—jumping back and forth between past and present—but what with all the other nonsense going on, I kind of blanked those out. 2.5 stars rounded up.

My thanks to Gay Romance Reviews for an advance copy of this book.

[Amy Weller · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic!

I love this series and this book! Another fantastic tale of finding love in the town of Maplewood and it’s Sam’s turn. A non-binary person, they teach elementary school but dream of opening their own ice cream shop. Gabe comes to town to house sit and take care of his daughter, Ellie, while his ex wife Jennifer, takes a trip abroad. But Jennifer’s trip doesn’t go as planned and has her returning early and Gabe looking for a new place to stay for the summer. Sam is teaching Ellie over the summer and that’s how he meets Gabe. He will offer Gabe his spare room and it will start the two down the path towards a forever love. The longer they are together the closer they get. Gabe and Ellie help get the shop ready to open and Gabe has feelings for Sam stronger than any he’s ever had. The two decide to give it a go and they never look back. The whole town is excited about Sam finally finding happiness and it’s wonderful to see Sam and Gabe find a happily ever after together.

I read an ARC copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.

[L H · Rating 4 out of 5]

I want ice cream! I spent this entire read craving ice cream because of the interesting flavor descriptions in this story. Sam is so ready to own an ice cream shop. He spends a lot of time daydreaming about the decor and ice cream flavors. He is an elementary school teacher and he cares about his job, he is well regarded but he is ready for a change. In addition to wanting his ice cream shop, he wants someone to share it with. So far, he does not have the finances to open the shop and he has yet to be lucky in love. Gabe is the father of one of Sam's students. He is divorced from her mother and focused on his relationship with his child and spending time with her in the summer. He meets Sam and the draw to him is curious for Gabe who believes himself to be straight. The attraction was unexpected, the friendship they build is a lovely preamble to a deeper and more intimate relationship and Gabe becomes what Sam was looking for - a love that is precious and wonderful. They fit well together.
I received an ARC from GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Janet · Rating 2 out of 5]

Didn't quite fit in with the rest of the series

If Sam made an appearance before this book, I don't remember him. His story just felt out of place because it was very self-contained for a multi-author series, with hardly any cameos from characters that have appeared throughout. And where were all the festivals?
The romance happened very quickly but also very slowly at the same time. Their gazes met and bingo... instant attraction. The straight man isn't quite as straight as he thought. Forced proximity. Gay sex? Gabe doesn't turn a hair, just ploughs right in (pun intended). But all the while, is this just a summer thing? Will Gabe stay? Sam doesn't know, Gabe isn't sure, except maybe he is, but no one's asking the questions or getting the answers.
The time line moves in chunks so we're just told what is happening a lot of the time so there's no real way to be invested in everything, except the ice cream which I wish was real and in my freezer.
I loved Cooper and am sad he's not getting his own story. Maybe if there's a season two.....

[Kristina · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a very cute and fuzzy romance!

Sam and Gabe were cute together, and there was a spark right away even before Gabe realized he wasn't totally straight. Emily was a great kid character, and I loved how enthusiastic she was about helping with the ice cream shop. I also love this little wacky town with all its festivals and utter acceptance of everyone, no matter what. Sam being non-binary was nice, as I feel non-binary characters can sometimes be underrepresented in romance books. They were so passionate about their dream, and I wish that ice cream shop were real so I could try some of those flavors!

This book was all lightness and sweetness, which are great qualities for something centering around ice cream! I found myself rooting for the characters as they worked to find their happiness, and was really in the mood for a non-angsty read so this worked like a dream.

I feel like I should have more to say, but honestly this book just left me feeling happy, so if you want good vibes I recommend it!

[Molly Otto · Rating 4 out of 5]

when Gabe comes to Maplewood to spend the summer with his daughter, he doesn't expect Sam. Sam is on the cusp of all their dreams coming true. What they don't expect is one of their students dad's to weave his way so easily into their life. Gabe & Sam have an immediate connection that Gabe takes a bit seeing, as he's always identified as straight. As he lets his guard down, he allows himself to be open and just see how this all plays out. What could be akward or angsty is the opposite of that its a bi awakening story where the two characters connect and allow themselves to feel what they are feeling gradually. The relationship doesn't feel forced, just a gradual connection. Was happy to see the author not only included the daughter as a main part of their relationship but the ex-wife as well. It shows you can have a healthy relationship with your ex spouse while maintaining healthy boundaries. A great addition to this Maplewood combined universe.

[Melissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sam is a grade school English teacher with dreams of opening up their own ice cream shop. And this year, Maplewood's annual ice cream flavor contest cash prize might be the way to make their dreams come true??

Gabe is an amicably divorced dad in town for the summer to spend time with his daughter. When he meets Sam, his daughter's teacher, they feel an instant connection... but neither wants to call it romance. As friendship or maybe more starts to bloom, Gabe's housing situation flips and where else to stay then with Sam in their spare room? Right? Lol.

A very sweet, gentle read. I liked Gabe and Sam -- separately and together. Both charming,caring, and each working through their own issues on the road to happiness. I appreciated that the ex-wife wasn't a "villain" in this read but is in fact very supportive! Both of Gabe/Sam together, but of Gabe has a dad. Sam's bff Cooper is also a meddling delight who brightened the page!

*GRR arc reader. Thoughts and opinions my own*

[Tanya Blue · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sam is on the cusp of having one of his dreams come true. The winner of this year's ice cream flavor profile at the Frozen Fest will receive a cash prize of $5.000.00 dollars! That would be enough, along with a small business loan, to open an ice cream store. Boy, their flavor profiles are interesting. This will give them the chance to quit their teaching job and spread their wings.
Gabe plans to spend the summer in Maplewood, house sitting for his ex-wife and enjoying time with his daughter Ellie. If you are caring for your child that is parenting NOT babysitting, a personal pet-peeve. When Jennifer returns after only two weeks into her planned eight-week vacation, Gabe isn't
ready to return to Burlington and lose out of time with his daughter.
With no room at the inn, Gabe accepts Sam's offer of his guest room. Sam and Gabe settle into a routine almost effortlessly. As they grow closer maybe will get their other dream too.

[Heather Duff · Rating 5 out of 5]

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This is a wonderful, romantic, and sweet small-town romance. Just two guys finding their happiness and following their dreams, even if they aren’t fiscally responsible ones.

For Gabe, that’s following his daughter and ex-wife to Maplewood where he’ll get to be apart of his little girl's life. What he doesn’t expect is to fall in love with the town and Sam.

Sam has always had the dream of opening his own Ice Cream Shop. And that dream is in his sights. He’s not sure if the dream distraction called Gabe will help or hinder, but it turns out they make the most delicious pairing.

They were a heartwarming pair. Caring and supportive, and embracing the locals and their nosiness with the best of them.

[Kylie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gabe & Sam

Scoop me up - Riley Long- Book 7- Love in Maplewood

Tropes: Teacher, Crush on straight Single Dad of student, Bi Awakening, Forced Proximity, Pining, Non Binary,

This sweet and charming small-town gay romance is the perfect comfort read. With a cozy setting, endearing characters, and a slow-burn connection that blossoms into something real, it delivers all the warmth and heart you could want. The story focuses more on emotional connection than drama, making it a feel-good escape filled with tender moments, soft humor, and a satisfying happily-ever-after. Ideal for readers who enjoy low-angst love stories with a strong sense of community and plenty of romantic fluff.

I love a good Multi Author series and this series hasn’t disappointed. This book is about Gabe & Sam. The Teacher that dreams of an Ice-cream Shop and a Straight divorced dad of one of his students.

I received an ARC from GRR, this is my honest review.

[Jack Harkness · Rating 5 out of 5]

Syrup & Sequins, mac & cheese ice cream, Dr Maple, ice cream crown, Antares, "they-friend", s'mores for winter, hopscotch

Another marvelous addition to the 'Love in Maplewood' series. It begins at Maplewood's 4th of July Frozen Fest where Sam is entering the ice cream contest. The 2nd grade teacher's dream is to open their own ice cream shop in town. For the first time, this year's winner will receive a $5k prize. Also entering as a last minute contestant are single dad Gabe and his 7 year-old daughter, Ellie.

Gabe is in Maplewood for 6 weeks to housesit for his ex-wife, Jennifer and to spend that time with Ellie. Sam, or "Mix" is Ellie's summer school teacher. Gabe and Sam first meet at the festival where both men's interest in each other is sparked. But, isn't Gabe straight?

This delightful MM romance is fun and entertaining. It's a quick and easy read, and I enjoyed reading it. Recommended.

[Helen Smith · Rating 3 out of 5]

I rated this book 2.5 stars rounded up to 3 stars. The book covers Sam and Gabe's love story in Maplewood. While both men were generically likeable, the real star of the book was side character Cooper. He was quite entertaining, and I wouldn't mind reading more about him. Otherwise, the love story moved too slowly for me. Sam's endless doubts became annoying to the point of neurosis. There was a crisis that threw them into a tailspin, but it had an obvious solution and needn't have taken up so much emotional space. There were two continuity breaks in the book; the first was relatively minor as it involved the wrong days of the week several times, but the second was quite major and related to investing in the business. Finally, the ending was a bit trite. I don't plan to read anything further by this author.