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Sugar and Spice Kisses: Yesterday Once More / Sugar and Spice
Not yet published
Expected 3 Feb 26Yesterday Once More
After abruptly calling off her engagement and leaving town three years earlier, Julie Houser is back in Wichita, hoping to start anew and earn the forgiveness of her ex-fiancé, Daniel Van Deen.
She may not have been ready to marry him back then, but she never stopped loving him. Yet every time she runs into Daniel, she can tell his hurt and anger haven’t faded; forgiveness won’t be so easy. Then his mother falls gravely ill and her only request is for Julie and Daniel to resume their happily-ever-after. Can they make her wish come true?
Sugar and Spice
Jayne Gilbert longs to attend her high school reunion with a handsome man on her arm. Still single ten years after graduation, Jayne wants nothing more than to prove her former bullies wrong. The only romances in her life are those she reads about, so at the encouragement of her coworker, a determined Jayne decides to do her research.
As Jayne prepares to teach herself how to land a man, an encounter with her neighbor Riley Chambers quickly changes everything. Just when she believed she’d be alone forever, Jayne finds herself falling for Riley in ways she never expected. Riley is just as bold and mysterious as Jayne is prim and proper. Opposites may attract, but are Riley and Jayne built to last?
After abruptly calling off her engagement and leaving town three years earlier, Julie Houser is back in Wichita, hoping to start anew and earn the forgiveness of her ex-fiancé, Daniel Van Deen.
She may not have been ready to marry him back then, but she never stopped loving him. Yet every time she runs into Daniel, she can tell his hurt and anger haven’t faded; forgiveness won’t be so easy. Then his mother falls gravely ill and her only request is for Julie and Daniel to resume their happily-ever-after. Can they make her wish come true?
Sugar and Spice
Jayne Gilbert longs to attend her high school reunion with a handsome man on her arm. Still single ten years after graduation, Jayne wants nothing more than to prove her former bullies wrong. The only romances in her life are those she reads about, so at the encouragement of her coworker, a determined Jayne decides to do her research.
As Jayne prepares to teach herself how to land a man, an encounter with her neighbor Riley Chambers quickly changes everything. Just when she believed she’d be alone forever, Jayne finds herself falling for Riley in ways she never expected. Riley is just as bold and mysterious as Jayne is prim and proper. Opposites may attract, but are Riley and Jayne built to last?
304 pages, Paperback
Expected publication February 3, 2026
4 people are currently reading
73 people want to read
About the author
Debbie Macomber
907 books20.7k followersDebbie Macomber is a #1 New York Times bestselling author and one of today’s most popular writers with more than 200 million copies of her books in print worldwide. In her novels, Macomber brings to life compelling relationships that embrace family and enduring friendships, uplifting her readers with stories of connection and hope. Macomber’s novels have spent over 1,000 weeks on the New York Times bestseller list. Fifteen of these novels hit the number one spot.
In 2023, Macomber’s all-new hardcover publication includes Must Love Flowers (July). In addition to fiction, Macomber has also published three bestselling cookbooks, three adult coloring books, numerous inspirational and nonfiction works, and two acclaimed children’s books.
Celebrated as “the official storyteller of Christmas”, Macomber’s annual Christmas books are beloved and six have been crafted into original Hallmark Channel movies. Macomber is also the author of the bestselling Cedar Cove Series which the Hallmark Channel chose as the basis for its first dramatic scripted television series. Debuting in 2013, Debbie Macomber’s Cedar Cove was a ratings favorite for three seasons.
She serves on the Guideposts National Advisory Cabinet, is a YFC National Ambassador, and is World Vision’s international spokesperson for their Knit for Kids charity initiative. A devoted grandmother, Debbie and Wayne live in Port Orchard, Washington, the town which inspired the Cedar Cove series.
In 2023, Macomber’s all-new hardcover publication includes Must Love Flowers (July). In addition to fiction, Macomber has also published three bestselling cookbooks, three adult coloring books, numerous inspirational and nonfiction works, and two acclaimed children’s books.
Celebrated as “the official storyteller of Christmas”, Macomber’s annual Christmas books are beloved and six have been crafted into original Hallmark Channel movies. Macomber is also the author of the bestselling Cedar Cove Series which the Hallmark Channel chose as the basis for its first dramatic scripted television series. Debuting in 2013, Debbie Macomber’s Cedar Cove was a ratings favorite for three seasons.
She serves on the Guideposts National Advisory Cabinet, is a YFC National Ambassador, and is World Vision’s international spokesperson for their Knit for Kids charity initiative. A devoted grandmother, Debbie and Wayne live in Port Orchard, Washington, the town which inspired the Cedar Cove series.
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
November 18, 2025
Sugar and Spice Kisses is one of those reads that feels warm and familiar, even if it didn’t completely sweep me away.
Yesterday Once More has that classic Debbie Macomber second-chance heart to it. Julie and Daniel’s story is tender, and I loved the idea of coming home and trying again. I just found myself wishing for a little more depth between them, but it’s still a sweet, hopeful reunion story.
Sugar and Spice was my favorite of the two. Jayne’s awkward charm and Riley’s steady presence made their opposites-attract storyline really easy to enjoy. It’s predictable in a comforting way—like a cozy rom-com you’ve seen before but don’t mind revisiting.
Overall, this 2-in-1 is soft, nostalgic, and simple. It didn’t become a standout read for me, but the gentle vibes and easy storytelling make it a nice pick when you’re in the mood for something light and feel-good.
Yesterday Once More has that classic Debbie Macomber second-chance heart to it. Julie and Daniel’s story is tender, and I loved the idea of coming home and trying again. I just found myself wishing for a little more depth between them, but it’s still a sweet, hopeful reunion story.
Sugar and Spice was my favorite of the two. Jayne’s awkward charm and Riley’s steady presence made their opposites-attract storyline really easy to enjoy. It’s predictable in a comforting way—like a cozy rom-com you’ve seen before but don’t mind revisiting.
Overall, this 2-in-1 is soft, nostalgic, and simple. It didn’t become a standout read for me, but the gentle vibes and easy storytelling make it a nice pick when you’re in the mood for something light and feel-good.
November 11, 2025
This is book is two stories in one. You first meet Julie and Daniel, Julie leaves Daniel right before their wedding. .Julie couldn't handled being pushed into a life she didn't want by her soon to be mother in law and not having Daniel stand up to his own mom and support Julie. Now 3 years later, Julie who has never stopped loving Daniel returns to their hometown in hopes or reconnecting and explaining herself and she has grown up but Daniel wants nothing to do with her. Julie goes to meet with Daniel's mom only to realize that his mom is ill and now she regrets her actions more then anything. One wish his mom has it for Julie and Daniel to be married before she dies. This is a sweet second chance romance.
Second book you meet Jayne and Rile who both live in the same apartment complex. . Jayne is a librarian and Riley has not been honest with what he does and Jayne is worried it's something she doesn't want to be part of. Jayne is looking for someone to take her to high school reunion so she doesn't have to show up alone, can Riley be the one? Riley says he'll be out of town but yet Jayne sees him around town. When Jayne turns to the police thinking Riley has gotten himself involved in something she is met with a complete surprise that she didn't expect.
Debbie Macomber has a gift for writing and creating characters who feel lived in from the first page. She blends everyday struggles with soft sparks of hope that love grows not from dramatic twists but from kindness, patience and small choices that can change everything.
Thank you to the Netgalley, Debbie Macomber and the publisher for this ARC
Second book you meet Jayne and Rile who both live in the same apartment complex. . Jayne is a librarian and Riley has not been honest with what he does and Jayne is worried it's something she doesn't want to be part of. Jayne is looking for someone to take her to high school reunion so she doesn't have to show up alone, can Riley be the one? Riley says he'll be out of town but yet Jayne sees him around town. When Jayne turns to the police thinking Riley has gotten himself involved in something she is met with a complete surprise that she didn't expect.
Debbie Macomber has a gift for writing and creating characters who feel lived in from the first page. She blends everyday struggles with soft sparks of hope that love grows not from dramatic twists but from kindness, patience and small choices that can change everything.
Thank you to the Netgalley, Debbie Macomber and the publisher for this ARC
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is a two book collection. The first book, Yesterday Once More, tells the story of Julie Houser and Daniel Van Deen and their reconnecting after not seeing each other for over three years. They were once engaged to be married but things didn't quite go as planned and they parted ways. Can they get over old hurts, mistrust, and resentment and try to rebuild what they once had or are they destined to only be a couple that was once and will never be again? Read this charming short story to find out what happens when you try to put the past behind you and build a new future.
The second book, Sugar and Spice, tells the story of shy librarian, Jayne Gilbert, who is planning on attending her 10 year high school reunion ..... if she can find Mr. Perfect to go with her so that she can show her old classmates who were none too nice to her that she's no longer the mousy bookish plain Jayne that she was in high school. The problem is that she kinda still is that mousy bookish girl so she doesn't even have the first clue how she is going to meet a man who will wow her former classmates and get him to go with her in just a matter of a few months. Her fellow librarian and friend, Gloria, is bound and determined to help her succeed and before long Jayne is checking out an armload of "how to meet the perfect man and make him fall for you" books. Will Jayne find the perfect man to accompany her to the class reunion or will she find more than she bargained for while looking? This is another really good story from Debbie Macomber.
The second book, Sugar and Spice, tells the story of shy librarian, Jayne Gilbert, who is planning on attending her 10 year high school reunion ..... if she can find Mr. Perfect to go with her so that she can show her old classmates who were none too nice to her that she's no longer the mousy bookish plain Jayne that she was in high school. The problem is that she kinda still is that mousy bookish girl so she doesn't even have the first clue how she is going to meet a man who will wow her former classmates and get him to go with her in just a matter of a few months. Her fellow librarian and friend, Gloria, is bound and determined to help her succeed and before long Jayne is checking out an armload of "how to meet the perfect man and make him fall for you" books. Will Jayne find the perfect man to accompany her to the class reunion or will she find more than she bargained for while looking? This is another really good story from Debbie Macomber.
December 26, 2025
Sugar and Spice Kisses by Debbie Macomber
Rating: 4/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you to Harlequin Trade Publishing, MIRA, Netgalley, and the author for access to this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Sugar and Spice Kisses is absolutely sparkling and brimming with charm. With loads of love and laughter, every page is so heartwarming. A 2-in-1 story including Yesterday Once More and Sugar and Spice, Sugar and Spice Kisses is a classic Debbie Macomber story that’s perfect for romcom fans!
Yesterday Once More: Julie Houser, who called off her engagement and left town three years ago, is now back in Wichita. She’s hoping for a fresh start and to earn the forgiveness of her ex-fiancé, Daniel Van Deen. She never stopped loving him. After his mother falls ill and her only request is for Julie and Daniel to get back together, they wonder if they can make her wish come true.
Sugar and Spice: Jayne Gilbert wants to attend her high school reunion with a man on her arm. The only romances in her life are those she reads about. A surprise encounter with her neighbor Riley Chambers quickly changes everything. Riley is bold and mysterious while Jayne is prim and proper. Opposites may attract, but Jayne wonders whether she and Riley can last.
A quick and cute read, these two short stories are both wonderful! Both are light and enjoyable reads that have a sweet happily-ever-after ending.
Rating: 4/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you to Harlequin Trade Publishing, MIRA, Netgalley, and the author for access to this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Sugar and Spice Kisses is absolutely sparkling and brimming with charm. With loads of love and laughter, every page is so heartwarming. A 2-in-1 story including Yesterday Once More and Sugar and Spice, Sugar and Spice Kisses is a classic Debbie Macomber story that’s perfect for romcom fans!
Yesterday Once More: Julie Houser, who called off her engagement and left town three years ago, is now back in Wichita. She’s hoping for a fresh start and to earn the forgiveness of her ex-fiancé, Daniel Van Deen. She never stopped loving him. After his mother falls ill and her only request is for Julie and Daniel to get back together, they wonder if they can make her wish come true.
Sugar and Spice: Jayne Gilbert wants to attend her high school reunion with a man on her arm. The only romances in her life are those she reads about. A surprise encounter with her neighbor Riley Chambers quickly changes everything. Riley is bold and mysterious while Jayne is prim and proper. Opposites may attract, but Jayne wonders whether she and Riley can last.
A quick and cute read, these two short stories are both wonderful! Both are light and enjoyable reads that have a sweet happily-ever-after ending.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Both of these stories were excellent
From a young woman that fled from her upcoming wedding because she felt she was losing her identity with what her future mother-in-law was picking out for her to seeing Daniel in the elevator on her first day at work. She was shocked and he was not speaking to her. When she finally saw him again, he was still angry with her and told her to stay away from him and his mother. What follows takes awhile to set things right, but they were right for each other, they just had to be honest about what they wanted.
The second story was more involved in some ways as Jayne wanted to go to her class reunion but she was not very popular and wanted to have a date that was handsome and show she could date. She was a librarian but was feisty when confronted. The man she had seen in her apartment building was gruff and there was mystery surrounding him. Quite a few misunderstandings that had to be settled and worked out but in the end, she was happy.
I got this book from NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving a review
From a young woman that fled from her upcoming wedding because she felt she was losing her identity with what her future mother-in-law was picking out for her to seeing Daniel in the elevator on her first day at work. She was shocked and he was not speaking to her. When she finally saw him again, he was still angry with her and told her to stay away from him and his mother. What follows takes awhile to set things right, but they were right for each other, they just had to be honest about what they wanted.
The second story was more involved in some ways as Jayne wanted to go to her class reunion but she was not very popular and wanted to have a date that was handsome and show she could date. She was a librarian but was feisty when confronted. The man she had seen in her apartment building was gruff and there was mystery surrounding him. Quite a few misunderstandings that had to be settled and worked out but in the end, she was happy.
I got this book from NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving a review
November 9, 2025
This is actually two stories. Yesterday Once More is about Julie and Daniel. Julie ran away shortly before their wedding was to take place. She was being pushed by Daniel's mother to have a life that was nothing like she wanted and Daniel didn't stand up for her. Three years later she returns and Daniel wants nothing to do with her. When she goes to meet with his mother, she learns that she is ill and truly regrets her actions. This is a sweet second chance book.
Sugar and Spice is about Riley and Jayne. Jayne is a librarian, and Riley seems to be involved in something that Jayne is worried about. When he supposedly goes away on a trip, Jayne sees him around town. When she turns to the police for help, she is met with a surprise.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book from NetGalley, and this is my honest review.
Sugar and Spice is about Riley and Jayne. Jayne is a librarian, and Riley seems to be involved in something that Jayne is worried about. When he supposedly goes away on a trip, Jayne sees him around town. When she turns to the police for help, she is met with a surprise.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book from NetGalley, and this is my honest review.
December 5, 2025
Debbie Macomber has created magic once again. In Sugar and Spice Kisses we have two stories (Yesterday Once More and Sugar and Spice), each centering on a couple working to find themselves and each other. In Yesterday Once More, we meet Julie and Daniel. Having called off their engagement years ago, they find themselves face-to-face once again. Could they find it in their hearts to forgive each other and find love once again? In Sugar and Spice, we meet Jayne and Riley who keep bumping into each other and find out there could be possibly be more then just being neighbors. Loved that the book contained two stories. Each equally good and pulls at your heart strings. If you are a fan of Debbie Macomber, this is a definite must read!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Sugar and Spice Kisses is a set of two cute little stories.
The first one , Yesterday Once More is a story about Julie and Daniel. They were supposed to get married but Julie had called it off. After regretting her decision she moves back to town to try to convince Daniel she was wrong and show him that she wants to start over.
Book two,Sugar and Spice is about Riley and Jayne. Jayne is a librarian that has lived a fairly straight and narrow life. Riley , her neighbor seems to live a more adventurous life. They quickly fall for each other but Jayne is unsure she can trust him.
Both Debbie Macomber stories are cute little novellas that make for a fast read. Thanks NetGalley and publisher for a copy for my opinion.
The first one , Yesterday Once More is a story about Julie and Daniel. They were supposed to get married but Julie had called it off. After regretting her decision she moves back to town to try to convince Daniel she was wrong and show him that she wants to start over.
Book two,Sugar and Spice is about Riley and Jayne. Jayne is a librarian that has lived a fairly straight and narrow life. Riley , her neighbor seems to live a more adventurous life. They quickly fall for each other but Jayne is unsure she can trust him.
Both Debbie Macomber stories are cute little novellas that make for a fast read. Thanks NetGalley and publisher for a copy for my opinion.
January 9, 2026
This was super cute and cozy, the kind of read you pick up when you want something light and comforting without a ton of emotional heavy lifting. It’s actually two stories in one, which I liked because you get two different romances and vibes in the same book.
Both stories lean into classic, feel good romance with familiar tropes and gentle pacing. Think second chances, small town warmth, opposites attract energy, and characters who are easy to root for. Nothing shocking or groundbreaking, but very sweet and easy to settle into.
It didn’t completely sweep me away, but it was charming and pleasant the whole way through. Perfect if you’re in the mood for something soft, romantic, and low stress.
Definitely a nice palate cleanser between heavier reads 💕
Both stories lean into classic, feel good romance with familiar tropes and gentle pacing. Think second chances, small town warmth, opposites attract energy, and characters who are easy to root for. Nothing shocking or groundbreaking, but very sweet and easy to settle into.
It didn’t completely sweep me away, but it was charming and pleasant the whole way through. Perfect if you’re in the mood for something soft, romantic, and low stress.
Definitely a nice palate cleanser between heavier reads 💕
November 3, 2025
I was given an ARC by Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
This book is actually two short stories in one. The first story, "Yesterday once More" was a very quick, short read. I loved how the author wrote this about forgiveness. Dropping our pride is never easy, and Julie just needed to ask forgiveness from Daniel, her ex-fiance. As well as his mother. I love how the author wrote forgiveness into this story even while dealing with hurt feelings and hurt hearts. I had this read in just a few hours as I couldn't put it down.
Sugar and Spice was a different read to me. While it was cute, I felt it was a little pushed, and rushed.
Debbie Macomber is, as always, a fantastic author!!
This book is actually two short stories in one. The first story, "Yesterday once More" was a very quick, short read. I loved how the author wrote this about forgiveness. Dropping our pride is never easy, and Julie just needed to ask forgiveness from Daniel, her ex-fiance. As well as his mother. I love how the author wrote forgiveness into this story even while dealing with hurt feelings and hurt hearts. I had this read in just a few hours as I couldn't put it down.
Sugar and Spice was a different read to me. While it was cute, I felt it was a little pushed, and rushed.
Debbie Macomber is, as always, a fantastic author!!
November 13, 2025
Yesterday Once More
This is a great second chance, marriage of convenience romance. I loved Julie & Daniel and enjoyed their story. This story had a lot of angst and the characters had to figure out how to trust each other again.
Sugar and Spice
Jayne & Riley are proof that opposites attract. He gives her the confidence and support she needs and she brings out the joy and softness he’s been burying for years.
I enjoyed both of these instalove romances. The conflicts and struggles encountered in both stories lend a feeling of "will they make it" which is something Debbie Macomber does masterfully.
This is a great second chance, marriage of convenience romance. I loved Julie & Daniel and enjoyed their story. This story had a lot of angst and the characters had to figure out how to trust each other again.
Sugar and Spice
Jayne & Riley are proof that opposites attract. He gives her the confidence and support she needs and she brings out the joy and softness he’s been burying for years.
I enjoyed both of these instalove romances. The conflicts and struggles encountered in both stories lend a feeling of "will they make it" which is something Debbie Macomber does masterfully.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Another wonderful book by Debbie Macomber, and this will get you into the spirit of Valentine's. This is two books in one, and each one will take you on the journey, of meeting someone new, the ups and downs, the surprises, the struggles, and navigating, that path that might lead to a happy ever after. Being older, I enjoyed this book because it was a reminder that you can do this at any stage of a relationship. I always look forward to her new book, and they have never disappointed me, they remind me of things I left behind as I moved on, and then I reignite it and bring it with me to where I am now and into my future.
I received an ARC from MIRA through NetGalley.
I received an ARC from MIRA through NetGalley.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Jayne Gilbert is a librarian, and her class reunion is coming up soon. Jayne needs a date and wants to find a handsome to take with her. Riley Chambers lives in her apartment building, but he is interested in dating any woman. Jayne is reading books how to meet men and Riley is working and undercover investigation.
Julie Houser is back in Wichita and wants to reconnect with her former fiancé Daniel Van Deen. Julie broke her engagement three years ago; she was too young to marry Daniel. Julie reconnects with Daniel's mother and finds she is now ill. Daniel agrees to meet with Julie at his mother's urging.
Julie Houser is back in Wichita and wants to reconnect with her former fiancé Daniel Van Deen. Julie broke her engagement three years ago; she was too young to marry Daniel. Julie reconnects with Daniel's mother and finds she is now ill. Daniel agrees to meet with Julie at his mother's urging.
November 18, 2025
Sugar and Spice Kisses are two short stories; combined this book is about 304 pages.
These individual novellas were originally published in 1986 and 1987.
I really hate to say this (as I really in awe of Debbie Macomber), but these both seem a little dated.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for approving my request to read Sugar and Spice Kisses: Yesterday Once More in exchange for an honest review.
Anticipated publication date is Feb 3, 2026.
These individual novellas were originally published in 1986 and 1987.
I really hate to say this (as I really in awe of Debbie Macomber), but these both seem a little dated.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for approving my request to read Sugar and Spice Kisses: Yesterday Once More in exchange for an honest review.
Anticipated publication date is Feb 3, 2026.
December 9, 2025
Oh my gosh! What a fun cute holiday/valentines read! I absolutely loved this so much giggling was happening. I love the characters the build up and the storyline. The plot was so well written you felt like you were experiencing everything with them! I can’t wait to read more from this author! -Kerin Ray
December 11, 2025
I picked this up thinking it was a new and halfway through I kept getting that déjà vu feeling. Turns out they’re re-releases of novellas I read back in the day (I’m absolutely aging myself here)
It felt nostalgic and just comforting.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
It felt nostalgic and just comforting.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
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December 14, 2025I have always been a fan of Debbie Macomber novels, and I found this one to be no exception. The lives of Julie and Daniel take on a romance that began in high school and then circumstances occur that the romance fails. Years later can they rekindle their romance and find happiness. This is a light read that I found enjoyable.
December 21, 2025
This is two stories and both are east reads with happy endings. I thank NetGalley for the arc and am providing an honest review! Debbie Macomber’s book are the kind you read when you want to boost your own spirits. Her characters all have flaws to work through, which they do, but in each of the stories they had me pulling for them to work out their differences. A very nice read.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Two wonderful stories for the price of one! Each one of them is worth it. In true Debbie Macomber fashion, a love story that couldn’t be put down. I blame her for my lack of sleep, because I had to finish. Clean and inspiring. Strong women and award winning men. It just doesn’t get better. Provided by NetGalley.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I really enjoy the books that Debbie Macomber writes. The stories in this one were both sweet and romantic. The ending turned out great in both of them. I think this is the perfect book to read for Valentine's day. I'm grateful that netgalley and the publishers let me read this in exchange for an honest review.
December 9, 2025
fantastically cute romcom with impressive vibes. would definitely recommend this one. 4 stars. tysm for the arc.
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
Little dated
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews