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Baked in Promise
A birthday wish, a high school crush, and a love that never faded.
Emilee Duquette’s life is as predictable as her morning coffee—safe, comforting, and just a little too comfortable. But when Westley Roberts, her high school best friend and heartthrob, who also happens to disappear without warning, strolls back into town, her carefully curated calm is turned upside down.
With a camera slung over his shoulder and a grin that makes her pulse race, Westley is determined to make her relive every electric moment they once shared—and leave her questioning if the past really was as simple as she remembers. However, Emilee’s no longer the same carefree girl who once dreamed of love letters and long-distance promises—she’s grounded now, with a business to run, a life she’s proud of, and a heart that’s learned to play it safe.
But then there’s that old pact they made when they were seventeen: If neither of us is married by 35, we’ll marry each other.
Now, with the clock ticking on a promise made in innocence, Emilee must decide: take a chance on the only man she’s ever truly loved—or finally close the chapter that never stopped writing itself.
Emilee Duquette’s life is as predictable as her morning coffee—safe, comforting, and just a little too comfortable. But when Westley Roberts, her high school best friend and heartthrob, who also happens to disappear without warning, strolls back into town, her carefully curated calm is turned upside down.
With a camera slung over his shoulder and a grin that makes her pulse race, Westley is determined to make her relive every electric moment they once shared—and leave her questioning if the past really was as simple as she remembers. However, Emilee’s no longer the same carefree girl who once dreamed of love letters and long-distance promises—she’s grounded now, with a business to run, a life she’s proud of, and a heart that’s learned to play it safe.
But then there’s that old pact they made when they were seventeen: If neither of us is married by 35, we’ll marry each other.
Now, with the clock ticking on a promise made in innocence, Emilee must decide: take a chance on the only man she’s ever truly loved—or finally close the chapter that never stopped writing itself.
89 pages, Paperback
First published April 23, 2025
143 people are currently reading
229 people want to read
About the author
H.M. Shander
46 books502 followersH.M. Shander is an award winning and USA TODAY bestselling author who is a hopeless romantic and lover of chocolate, coconut and a damn good cup of coffee.
She's the author of several reader's choice books (Bronze medal for Return to Cheshire Bay and the Gold Medal for Living La Vida Mocha). An upcoming release was also a Kobo Writing Life finalist - so watch for that to release soon.
She writes swoon-worthy, gentle beta heroes, in sweet or steamy storylines that all end with a happily ever after.
When not writing, she is a part-time librarian and Educational Assistant to a group of kindergartens, a devoted mother to her two kids, and believes she's married the sweetest man and the greatest inspiration for her heroes.
Sign up for the newsletters: https://h-m-shander.eo.page/z5tgg
She's the author of several reader's choice books (Bronze medal for Return to Cheshire Bay and the Gold Medal for Living La Vida Mocha). An upcoming release was also a Kobo Writing Life finalist - so watch for that to release soon.
She writes swoon-worthy, gentle beta heroes, in sweet or steamy storylines that all end with a happily ever after.
When not writing, she is a part-time librarian and Educational Assistant to a group of kindergartens, a devoted mother to her two kids, and believes she's married the sweetest man and the greatest inspiration for her heroes.
Sign up for the newsletters: https://h-m-shander.eo.page/z5tgg
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
November 17, 2025
proof I'll read anything
July 5, 2025
I loved this short & sweet second chance romance! It was clean & wholesome, with so much love and delight involved!
I highly recommend this for all my romance girlies who love a good clean read!
I highly recommend this for all my romance girlies who love a good clean read!
August 11, 2025
A birthday wish brings Emilee face to face with her high school best friend—and first love—Westley, who vanished years ago. Now he's back, camera in hand and grin intact, stirring up feelings she thought she’d buried. With an old “marry me at 35” pact looming, Emilee must decide if she’ll finally take the leap—or close the door on the love that never really left.
I expected a lot more from this short read. Most of the time I was just confused… I had no idea what Emilee really wanted — marriage, closure, something else? The back-and-forth felt endless and the first-person POV didn’t help much.
Honestly, I understood more about the side characters than the actual main one. Even though it’s predictable, so much felt missing. Definitely not what I hoped for.
I expected a lot more from this short read. Most of the time I was just confused… I had no idea what Emilee really wanted — marriage, closure, something else? The back-and-forth felt endless and the first-person POV didn’t help much.
Honestly, I understood more about the side characters than the actual main one. Even though it’s predictable, so much felt missing. Definitely not what I hoped for.
October 21, 2025
Kindle—free stuff your Kindle (get what you pay for)
Emilee and Westley, best friend Eva, few other minor characters, bland characters all around
Small town setting, generic. However, I read afterwards that it was supposed to be a small mountain town in Alberta. There were no context clues for that. It was described as a small town that Emilee never left but where Westley could never stay. I’m sad that we missed out on descriptions of our beautiful, Canadian Rocky Mountains. Source: dear reader page at the end
Read this book in less than two hours. Was it supposed to be a novella? It was too short. It needed more depth, description and detail. I kept waiting for more details and then “poof” it was over. I literally checked to make sure the kindle wasn’t glitching and I had missed a bunch. The characters kept hinting at backstories from the past and I kept waiting for things to be explained more. That never happened.
Example: Emilee mentioned she dated Todd, she thought it was serious but they broke up. No backstory, no explanation.
Example: why was Eva so mad at Westley? Then why wasn’t she so mad all of a sudden?
Example: Westley said, “Remember our first year of college?” Then we don’t get any details—where was college, what are we remembering Westley
Another thing I wondered was where were her parents? It hinted that Emilee had a rough childhood and that she grew up not rich like Eva. No details there, no mention of parents. We were celebrating her birthday but no parents anywhere. Did they die, did they move away?
Also, Westley just moves back no details about anything, where he went what is he going to do now, why is he moving boxes at the bar. What was the situation with the boxes? Super confused.
This whole book felt like it was the outline for the book and it was published without filling in the gaps.
Good things: I liked the descriptions of the food. I really want a cinnamon twist right now.
-very PG in the romance category
Recommend only if you are looking to read something really fast and you are in the mood for a feel good romance. You won’t be weighed down with much detail. For instance, if you are in a challenge with someone to see who can read the most books in the year and you need a quick read. This one will boost your numbers without much time commitment.
Emilee and Westley, best friend Eva, few other minor characters, bland characters all around
Small town setting, generic. However, I read afterwards that it was supposed to be a small mountain town in Alberta. There were no context clues for that. It was described as a small town that Emilee never left but where Westley could never stay. I’m sad that we missed out on descriptions of our beautiful, Canadian Rocky Mountains. Source: dear reader page at the end
Read this book in less than two hours. Was it supposed to be a novella? It was too short. It needed more depth, description and detail. I kept waiting for more details and then “poof” it was over. I literally checked to make sure the kindle wasn’t glitching and I had missed a bunch. The characters kept hinting at backstories from the past and I kept waiting for things to be explained more. That never happened.
Example: Emilee mentioned she dated Todd, she thought it was serious but they broke up. No backstory, no explanation.
Example: why was Eva so mad at Westley? Then why wasn’t she so mad all of a sudden?
Example: Westley said, “Remember our first year of college?” Then we don’t get any details—where was college, what are we remembering Westley
Another thing I wondered was where were her parents? It hinted that Emilee had a rough childhood and that she grew up not rich like Eva. No details there, no mention of parents. We were celebrating her birthday but no parents anywhere. Did they die, did they move away?
Also, Westley just moves back no details about anything, where he went what is he going to do now, why is he moving boxes at the bar. What was the situation with the boxes? Super confused.
This whole book felt like it was the outline for the book and it was published without filling in the gaps.
Good things: I liked the descriptions of the food. I really want a cinnamon twist right now.
-very PG in the romance category
Recommend only if you are looking to read something really fast and you are in the mood for a feel good romance. You won’t be weighed down with much detail. For instance, if you are in a challenge with someone to see who can read the most books in the year and you need a quick read. This one will boost your numbers without much time commitment.
May 3, 2025
This is a book in The Coffee Loft series and it is Emilee and Westley’s story. Emilee and Westley were high school best friends who at seventeen made a pact that if they hadn’t got married by the age of 35 then they would marry each other but then he disappeared leaving Emilee behind which changed her outlook in life. Emilee now had her own bakery and love the life that she had and the only thing that she would have liked is too find someone to spend her life with because she couldn’t keep pining for something that would never happen. When Westley walked back into her life he bought many complications with it but neither are who they used to be and even though they are both approaching their 35 birthday would they decide to keep their word on the pact or just walk away because too much water had gone under the bridge for it too ever work for them anymore especially as it was a pact made when they were so young. What a beautiful and sweet romance and even though it was a short story it was definitely worth reading. I have read and enjoyed every single book in this series and I look forward to reading more in the future.
June 25, 2025
This delightful, clean friends to lovers romance is about Westley, a photographer and his school friend, Emilee who owns her own bakery.
They made a pact at seventeen that if neither was married by thirty five, that they would marry each other. Emilee thought that their relationship was changing after college but Westley suddenly upped and left to travel for his career. But they kept in touch and he came back to visit regularly.
But this time his visit feels different. Westley seems different - more serious, just as charming and cocky but with a hint of vulnerability. He laughingly insists that they get married and he was very persistent about going on a date with her.
This was a charming story but there wasn't much detail about their small mountainous town in the storyline. The main characters were endearing though I felt there was more emphasis placed in Westley's character rather than Emilee's, as this book was written from her perspective. I wish the epilogue gave more information about what was ahead in Westley's future after he decides to remain in town with Emilee.
This book was a heartwarming novella.
They made a pact at seventeen that if neither was married by thirty five, that they would marry each other. Emilee thought that their relationship was changing after college but Westley suddenly upped and left to travel for his career. But they kept in touch and he came back to visit regularly.
But this time his visit feels different. Westley seems different - more serious, just as charming and cocky but with a hint of vulnerability. He laughingly insists that they get married and he was very persistent about going on a date with her.
This was a charming story but there wasn't much detail about their small mountainous town in the storyline. The main characters were endearing though I felt there was more emphasis placed in Westley's character rather than Emilee's, as this book was written from her perspective. I wish the epilogue gave more information about what was ahead in Westley's future after he decides to remain in town with Emilee.
This book was a heartwarming novella.
April 28, 2025
H.M. Shander never disappoints! This was another perfect addition to this little series. Not only did I have a great time reading this novella but this cover is absolutely GORGEOUS!!!!!
Emilee and Westley's story was so sweet! I just loved how they made a pact when they were teenagers and then when Emilee was turning 35 he came back to finish the pact. Well at least that's what he wanted her to believe. He never told Emilee how he felt and now he's hoping to show her. I swooned over Westley with the sweet little things he did for Emilee. I smiled throughout the entire book because it just makes you so happy! I would highly recommend this book.
I would also recommend reading the other three books in this series by H.M. Shander. Living La Vida Mocha is the first book in this series. It's a Brewtiful Day is the second book. Mountain Bean Dream is the third book.
Emilee and Westley's story was so sweet! I just loved how they made a pact when they were teenagers and then when Emilee was turning 35 he came back to finish the pact. Well at least that's what he wanted her to believe. He never told Emilee how he felt and now he's hoping to show her. I swooned over Westley with the sweet little things he did for Emilee. I smiled throughout the entire book because it just makes you so happy! I would highly recommend this book.
I would also recommend reading the other three books in this series by H.M. Shander. Living La Vida Mocha is the first book in this series. It's a Brewtiful Day is the second book. Mountain Bean Dream is the third book.
April 28, 2025
I really enjoyed reading, Baked in Promise by H.M. Shander because it was a sweet second chance story about Emilee and Westley. I loved Westley character so much. He was willing to do anything for Emilee. I also loved Emilee's character because she was kind and an awesome baker. These two characters really needed that second chance at love. The story was told in Emilee's POV. This was a short book but it was so good. I received an ARC of this wonderful story and I am voluntarily choosing to leave this review. This is a prequel of the Coffee Loft Book. I would highly recommend reading this and that series!!
September 7, 2025
Emilee, owner of the Cinnamon Swirl bakery in town leads a very comfortable life. That is until Westley, photographer, best friend since high school and crush strolls back into town ready to fulfill a pact they made back when they were seventeen. Now she must decide if she wants to take a chance or close that chapter of her life.
This was such a cute story about friends to lovers. I enjoyed stepping back into the Coffee Loft series. The small town community feeling and helping others is great. The way Westley reminders Emilee of their past is so sweet. A fast, easy read story, great for reading between some heavier books.
I would totally recommend the other Coffee Loft series books.
This was such a cute story about friends to lovers. I enjoyed stepping back into the Coffee Loft series. The small town community feeling and helping others is great. The way Westley reminders Emilee of their past is so sweet. A fast, easy read story, great for reading between some heavier books.
I would totally recommend the other Coffee Loft series books.
May 15, 2025
Firstly, I should like to thank H. M. Shander for my ARC of this novella. I have to think that the Coffee Loft series of books are becoming some of my favorites. The author never ever disappoints and found a winner with this one too. This 5 star read was delightful to read and told a lot of story in a very little book. Wonderful characters to fall in love with in another adorable little town. I truly enjoyed this book and look forward to more books by this author and especially in the Coffee Loft series. Definitely would recommend this for somebody who needs something light, short and sweet.
December 10, 2025
2,5⭐️
No spice
I like the idea of the story. But I did not like the MMC or his behavior at all. He’s coming back to town yeeeears after leaving, grins his way through town, shows no regret or apologies and just says things like: you never could say no to me. He plans one(!) date and that’s it he redeems himself with that, no groveling. I understands its a novella and we don’t have that much pages but if I at least would have seen him groveling instead of grinning from the beginning things would have been different for me
No spice
I like the idea of the story. But I did not like the MMC or his behavior at all. He’s coming back to town yeeeears after leaving, grins his way through town, shows no regret or apologies and just says things like: you never could say no to me. He plans one(!) date and that’s it he redeems himself with that, no groveling. I understands its a novella and we don’t have that much pages but if I at least would have seen him groveling instead of grinning from the beginning things would have been different for me
June 25, 2025
Emilee was the creator and owner of a bakery. She had taken her home, moved to the 2nd story and converted the first level to her bakery. The Cinnamon Swirl Bakery was just like herself. Sweet, doughy and spicy like cinnamon. She loved her life. But she was turning 35 and wasn’t married. In blows an old boyfriend from school. He traveled and took photos from around the world. And then he reminded her of their pact about turning 35 and both not being married
June 29, 2025
2 stars
Baked in Promise had a heartfelt concept, and I appreciated the themes of love, loss, and second chances.
However, I struggled to fully connect with the characters, and the pacing felt slow at times.
While there were a few emotional moments that stood out, overall the story didn’t quite hold my attention the way I’d hoped, even with being so short.
It had potential, but it just didn’t resonate with me.
December 15, 2025
This was a short read, but it was so cute Though! I wish it were longer and had more plot. A Birthday wish brings Emilee face to face with her high school best friend-and first love-Westley, who vanished years ago. Emilee decides if she'll finally take the leap-or close the door on the love that never really left. What Emilee really wanted - marriage, closure, something else? The back-and-forth felt endless and the first-person Point of view didn't help much.❤️🎄🥰🎅🏽🥳🧁🎂👫🏽🫶🏽✨
April 28, 2025
Very cute and sweet short story!! The characters feel real right from the start and the story is well written. There are laugh out loud moments, poignant moments, and all out swoony moments that will have you smiling from ear to ear! Great for when you just need a shorter story to put a smile on your face! I recommend this book!
May 29, 2025
You can’t go wrong with a coffee loft book, especially a short and sweet novella! I love the visit with already known characters and the fun of meeting new ones. This one was heartbreaking at times, and so so hopeful, wondering if there could possibly be a HEA. Throw in some Princess Bride references and I’m hooked! I read this in one sitting, I couldn’t put it down!
July 17, 2025
A sweet story about best friends in high school and a silly/sweet pact. Successful in their endeavors, but not settled into their happily ever afters, Wes returns to town and Emilee's bakery.
A small town with charm and caring people, Emilee listens to advice and is unsure what to hope for, yet hopeful!
A charming story and a HEA that will tug at your heartstrings!
A small town with charm and caring people, Emilee listens to advice and is unsure what to hope for, yet hopeful!
A charming story and a HEA that will tug at your heartstrings!
July 29, 2025
Short, feel good book. The storyline had the potential to be longer with more character development. It’s all from the girl’s point of view, and because it jumps right in to present time, it’s hard to really feel any angst or heartache or understand any kind of journey or growth. It wasn’t bad, just not long enough to be fully invested. Great for a quick read.
June 30, 2025
Emilee and Westley
This is a fun and interesting short book. I enjoyed getting to know the characters and some of their friends. I liked the romance between the characters, eventually. Read it.
This is a fun and interesting short book. I enjoyed getting to know the characters and some of their friends. I liked the romance between the characters, eventually. Read it.
July 25, 2025
It was a cute short read. They both loved each other since they were teenagers but thought the other one didn't, but it moved fast to the admittance of feelings. I would have like a little more to it.
August 22, 2025
The story is told in a span of like 4 to 5 days?
I feel it's a cute short hallmark romance story. The main character is a baker and she made a promise with her high school Love. the story is all about her thinking about him and their coming date. it is a span of 3 days I think.
I feel it's a cute short hallmark romance story. The main character is a baker and she made a promise with her high school Love. the story is all about her thinking about him and their coming date. it is a span of 3 days I think.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 30, 2025
Multiple spelling errors. The timeline from the final chapter to the epilogue made no sense. They already celebrated the main character’s birthday but supposedly they are celebrating her birthday one week later, again? It just felt rushed and underdeveloped
December 8, 2025
This was a short and sweet novella. If you like cheesy hallmark you’ll like this book. The story has potential but I feel like was rushed in novella form. We went from A to Z very quickly that I felt I couldn’t really connect with the characters.
May 17, 2025
Absolutely loved this short story.
June 16, 2025
OMG what a sweet story baked with love and the magic of H.M. Shander’s romantic heart. A must read for those who loved her books in The Coffee Loft series.
June 20, 2025
Fun story
This is a fun story with witty banter, sweet friendships and some swoony kisses. A fun quick read that I enjoyed reading.
This is a fun story with witty banter, sweet friendships and some swoony kisses. A fun quick read that I enjoyed reading.
July 22, 2025
This was short and very sweet!
August 10, 2025
I didn't really know how to feel about it. It was ok? but didn't really have me intrigued at all 😭
August 15, 2025
Such a cute story although shorter than I expected.
August 15, 2025
Something Sweet
This was a sweet second chance love story. A f boy turned husband kinda feel. Definitely made cinnamon rolls while reading the book, lol.
This was a sweet second chance love story. A f boy turned husband kinda feel. Definitely made cinnamon rolls while reading the book, lol.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews