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The Callahans #2.5
Sugar, Sprinkles, and Secrets
She thought protecting him meant walking away—but when danger strikes, he’s her first call and only hope.
If life has taught Cara Diaz anything, it’s that she can only count on herself. She will do whatever is necessary to protect the people she loves—even if it means denying her own happiness. Moving to the small town of Forrest Falls is Cara’s chance to pursue her dream of opening her own bakery, but keeping her niece and nephew safe will always come first.
Living with secrets is heavy enough, and—despite what her heart wants—Cara is convinced that walking away from Max Riley is for his own good.
Getting dumped by Cara was the icing on the cake when Max’s entire world shifted earlier this year. But as the months pass, his feelings don’t fade for Cara, if anything, they’ve only grown deeper. Cara insists they’re better off as friends, but Max isn’t willing to give up on their shot at happily ever after just yet.
When her past catches up with her, Cara is out of options. With the lives of loved ones on the line, she must ask for help, even if it requires giving up her secrets in order to save innocent lives.
Sugar, Sprinkles, and Secrets is a romantic suspense novella featuring a curvy bakery owner FMC that’s living with a major secret, and a protective, swoony MMC that wants a second chance at happily ever after with the woman he's head over heels in love with.
This holiday season, Sugar, Sprinkles, and Secrets will unwrap unexpected twists and turns for readers in this dual POV novella featuring a single guardian, age gap (eleven years), found family, and a guaranteed happily ever after. This independent spinoff novella falls between books two and three of Liz Colbert’s series The Callahans.
If life has taught Cara Diaz anything, it’s that she can only count on herself. She will do whatever is necessary to protect the people she loves—even if it means denying her own happiness. Moving to the small town of Forrest Falls is Cara’s chance to pursue her dream of opening her own bakery, but keeping her niece and nephew safe will always come first.
Living with secrets is heavy enough, and—despite what her heart wants—Cara is convinced that walking away from Max Riley is for his own good.
Getting dumped by Cara was the icing on the cake when Max’s entire world shifted earlier this year. But as the months pass, his feelings don’t fade for Cara, if anything, they’ve only grown deeper. Cara insists they’re better off as friends, but Max isn’t willing to give up on their shot at happily ever after just yet.
When her past catches up with her, Cara is out of options. With the lives of loved ones on the line, she must ask for help, even if it requires giving up her secrets in order to save innocent lives.
Sugar, Sprinkles, and Secrets is a romantic suspense novella featuring a curvy bakery owner FMC that’s living with a major secret, and a protective, swoony MMC that wants a second chance at happily ever after with the woman he's head over heels in love with.
This holiday season, Sugar, Sprinkles, and Secrets will unwrap unexpected twists and turns for readers in this dual POV novella featuring a single guardian, age gap (eleven years), found family, and a guaranteed happily ever after. This independent spinoff novella falls between books two and three of Liz Colbert’s series The Callahans.
137 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 3, 2025
About the author
Liz Colbert
7 books76 followersLiz Colbert loves her coffee strong and iced, getting lost in a good book, and believes in the Oxford comma. She always dreamed of writing a novel one day and decided to intentionally pursue that dream in 2024. Her stories include heartfelt characters, maybe an unexpected twist or two, but will always end with a happily ever after.
Liz lives in the Midwest with her husband and children. She is particular about pens that write smoothly, is an avid reader of romance novels, and when not busy with all of the above, she enjoys meeting friends for coffee.
Her debut romantic suspense novel was published on April 21, 2025.
Liz lives in the Midwest with her husband and children. She is particular about pens that write smoothly, is an avid reader of romance novels, and when not busy with all of the above, she enjoys meeting friends for coffee.
Her debut romantic suspense novel was published on April 21, 2025.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 163 reviews
November 13, 2025
4 stars.
I really enjoyed Liz Colbert's "Sugar, Sprinkles, and Secrets," a second-chance small-town romantic suspense between two characters who are clearly head over heels for one another. I found myself engaged throughout this book, and I was even on the edge of my seat towards the end of the story. I loved the connection between the main characters, Cara and Max, and was excited to watch them make their way back to one another despite the very extenuating circumstances of their crumbled relationship. From the very beginning of the book, you can feel the connection between them oozing from the pages. Colbert writes their dynamic so well! It is full of yearning and pining between them. The Thanksgiving scene! GAH! Loved it! I also loved the relationship between Cara, her niece, and her nephew. Cara is their guardian for the time being, and we find out why she must always keep them safe as the story goes on. Her dedication to them is noble and unwavering. When Max is back in the picture, the four of them are such a sweet little unit. Max cares for her niece and nephew as if they were his own, faint!! This is a standalone novella, but it is part of a bigger universe of stories, so I cannot wait to go back and read the books I missed. I honestly could have read three times the number of pages about Cara and Max! This is a fast-paced, swoon-worthy, suspenseful story that will have you wanting more!
Thank you to Liz Colbert and Love Notes PR for the complimentary ARC of this book. All opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review.
I really enjoyed Liz Colbert's "Sugar, Sprinkles, and Secrets," a second-chance small-town romantic suspense between two characters who are clearly head over heels for one another. I found myself engaged throughout this book, and I was even on the edge of my seat towards the end of the story. I loved the connection between the main characters, Cara and Max, and was excited to watch them make their way back to one another despite the very extenuating circumstances of their crumbled relationship. From the very beginning of the book, you can feel the connection between them oozing from the pages. Colbert writes their dynamic so well! It is full of yearning and pining between them. The Thanksgiving scene! GAH! Loved it! I also loved the relationship between Cara, her niece, and her nephew. Cara is their guardian for the time being, and we find out why she must always keep them safe as the story goes on. Her dedication to them is noble and unwavering. When Max is back in the picture, the four of them are such a sweet little unit. Max cares for her niece and nephew as if they were his own, faint!! This is a standalone novella, but it is part of a bigger universe of stories, so I cannot wait to go back and read the books I missed. I honestly could have read three times the number of pages about Cara and Max! This is a fast-paced, swoon-worthy, suspenseful story that will have you wanting more!
Thank you to Liz Colbert and Love Notes PR for the complimentary ARC of this book. All opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review.
October 26, 2025
Thank you to LoveNotesPR for giving me this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This was good. The story was sweet and suspenseful and the writing was very easy to read. It was a little small for me to really be invested in the characters story, but I did enjoy reading it!
This was good. The story was sweet and suspenseful and the writing was very easy to read. It was a little small for me to really be invested in the characters story, but I did enjoy reading it!
November 10, 2025
This was a fun, and quick book to read. I loved the suspense. Just when I thought we would get more information, the door would be slammed in my face 😆
Her devotion to her family was absolutely inspiring. It definitely fit a "he fell hard trope" and boy did he prove it. He was there when it mattered, with no hesitation.
🌶️/5
Her devotion to her family was absolutely inspiring. It definitely fit a "he fell hard trope" and boy did he prove it. He was there when it mattered, with no hesitation.
🌶️/5
October 25, 2025
I have quickly fallen in love with Liz’ writing, and this was definitely a fun, suspenseful novella that was so enjoyable! I binge read this one in one sitting, and I absolutely fell for Cara and Max! This story was so needed, yet I didn’t know I needed it! Thank you so much to Liz for the e-arc!
November 3, 2025
A sweet, suspenseful with a hint of spice novella!! Max and Cara were so good together! 🥹 I love the way they love each other and out each other’s needs first while also doing what’s safest for them. Cara’s love for Dante and Mila is unmatched, and she reminded me so much of my sister who’s the best and most protective Zia to my own kids! 🥹🩵🩷 The way Max also understands and loves Cara and her niece and nephew was sooooo sweet! I enjoyed how the Callahan brothers were tied into this novella, it was a great time!
Liz’ writing is always so captivating and easy to read and this Novella was no different ❤️
I think the loss of star for me was just at times it was a little confusing to keep up with all the characters on the “rescue mission” and just to visualize what was going on. It was a novella so I understand it couldn’t be too long or in depth of a “crime scene investigation” type scene!
Thank you for this enjoyable ARC! 🩷
🌶️
Liz’ writing is always so captivating and easy to read and this Novella was no different ❤️
I think the loss of star for me was just at times it was a little confusing to keep up with all the characters on the “rescue mission” and just to visualize what was going on. It was a novella so I understand it couldn’t be too long or in depth of a “crime scene investigation” type scene!
Thank you for this enjoyable ARC! 🩷
🌶️
November 3, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
I loved this story! It was such a cute and fun novella to read for the holidays. It took me a minute to realize who Max was but once it clicked I enjoyed it so much more!
I loved this story! It was such a cute and fun novella to read for the holidays. It took me a minute to realize who Max was but once it clicked I enjoyed it so much more!
November 2, 2025
This was a good, quick read, and on the whole I really enjoyed it! For a novella it was great that we got to see so much of Cara's strength and determination to create a good, solid life for her niblings, despite everything working against her! I loved that we got to see pieces of her dreams coming true, even through the heartache and drama! Plus getting to see Max be such a rock for Cara and the kids was so beautiful! The way he fought for what he wanted and stepped up through the trauma was so wonderful! These two were great to watch come together! Not having read the first two books, I still felt like I had a good sense of the pieces happening in this novella, but I would reading the first two for more details into this world. Overall, I really enjoyed this one! 4.25 stars; closed door
Tropes:
- Second Chance
- Single Guardian
- Small Town
- Romantic Suspense
Tropes:
- Second Chance
- Single Guardian
- Small Town
- Romantic Suspense
October 21, 2025
4⭐️
Oh I loved it!
I didn’t know I need this book until I was reading it and I just couldn’t stop until I finished and now I’m sad because I loved Cara and Max so much!
It was fast paced and the story was very good and addictive, the suspense, the angst, but also the romance and family connection between Cara, Dante, Mila and Max was soooo beautiful ❤️
I was sobbing with chapter 19 😭❤️🩹 it was the cherry on top for this book!
Now of course, I need the next one because I’m enjoying this series so much!
Oh I loved it!
I didn’t know I need this book until I was reading it and I just couldn’t stop until I finished and now I’m sad because I loved Cara and Max so much!
It was fast paced and the story was very good and addictive, the suspense, the angst, but also the romance and family connection between Cara, Dante, Mila and Max was soooo beautiful ❤️
I was sobbing with chapter 19 😭❤️🩹 it was the cherry on top for this book!
Now of course, I need the next one because I’m enjoying this series so much!
November 2, 2025
This story has a sweet and sizzling second chance, age-gap romance and has an enduring found family aspect. There is suspense and secrets and hidden identities. All this wrapped into an engaging, holiday novella. Max was devastated when Cara broke things off abruptly but slowly works his way into being her friend and protector. Cara has secrets that she can’t share…until her family’s past catches up with her and puts her and her wards in danger. I couldn’t put this novella down, and I’m ever so grateful that romances have happily ever afters. 4.25 stars
Thanks to the author for the eARC.
Thanks to the author for the eARC.
November 2, 2025
(3,5🌟)
Confesso que, numa novella de natal, eu gosto de sentir toda a vibe de natal. Por isso não amei o mistério e, mesmo a novella acontecendo durante as festividades, senti 0 espírito.
No entanto, é a Liz Colbert, por isso pelo menos as 3🌟 eu dou, por adorar a escrita da autora.
Estes não eram personagens super memoráveis para mim, pelo que demorei a situar-me na história, mas acabei por gostar muito deles!
O Max é um amor de homem, e a Cara é tão forte que só desejo ser como ela.
E os pequenos Dante e Mila são tão fofos, que o meu coração ficou apertado (quem leu, sabe).
Confesso que, numa novella de natal, eu gosto de sentir toda a vibe de natal. Por isso não amei o mistério e, mesmo a novella acontecendo durante as festividades, senti 0 espírito.
No entanto, é a Liz Colbert, por isso pelo menos as 3🌟 eu dou, por adorar a escrita da autora.
Estes não eram personagens super memoráveis para mim, pelo que demorei a situar-me na história, mas acabei por gostar muito deles!
O Max é um amor de homem, e a Cara é tão forte que só desejo ser como ela.
E os pequenos Dante e Mila são tão fofos, que o meu coração ficou apertado (quem leu, sabe).
November 6, 2025
4.5* - Rounded up to 5...
Liz Colbert LOVES her action, and it's NOT missing in Cara and Max's story... There's history, there's intrigue, there's secrets, and then you add in two little cuties, some amazing baking, and a FABULOUS love story with a stunning HEA, and you get this super cute action Christmas novella and that is a fun read...
I received a free copy of this book through Love Notes PR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Liz Colbert LOVES her action, and it's NOT missing in Cara and Max's story... There's history, there's intrigue, there's secrets, and then you add in two little cuties, some amazing baking, and a FABULOUS love story with a stunning HEA, and you get this super cute action Christmas novella and that is a fun read...
I received a free copy of this book through Love Notes PR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 23, 2025
What’s your favourite combo: cozy romance or romantic suspense? Honestly, I love both and this book delivered on those with a holiday twist!!🤌
This novella didn’t even have a lot of spice, it’s focused more on the plot and relationship building which suited this story SO well. The characters had fantastic chemistry, but how their story was built? I adored it so much more!!
It comes as no surprise that I love a good romance with some suspense, and this book delivered!✨
This novella didn’t even have a lot of spice, it’s focused more on the plot and relationship building which suited this story SO well. The characters had fantastic chemistry, but how their story was built? I adored it so much more!!
It comes as no surprise that I love a good romance with some suspense, and this book delivered!✨
November 2, 2025
ARC review:
This was a really lovely novella - short and sweet but managed to have character development and suspense within it.
I loved Cara and Max and found their relationship believable from the start. This would've been 5 stars if the actual suspense at the end had a little more time to unravel. But I understand it was not the focus or purpose of the story so it didn't bother me at all.
Liz Colbert wins again!
This was a really lovely novella - short and sweet but managed to have character development and suspense within it.
I loved Cara and Max and found their relationship believable from the start. This would've been 5 stars if the actual suspense at the end had a little more time to unravel. But I understand it was not the focus or purpose of the story so it didn't bother me at all.
Liz Colbert wins again!
November 30, 2025
ARC review
Such a fun and heartwarming novella, the perfect small town holiday read. I loved the mix of romance, suspense and festive charm.
Cara and Max had such a strong connection. My heart broke when she tried to protect him by walking away, but I was so happy when they found their way back to each other. I also adored her bond with her niece and nephew, she would do anything for them, and it was wonderful to see that Max and his family and friends were just as caring and supportive. And that Thanksgiving scene? Absolutely adorable 🥺.
All the other characters were engaging too, and since this novella is part of a bigger series, I can’t wait to read the rest of the books!
Such a fun and heartwarming novella, the perfect small town holiday read. I loved the mix of romance, suspense and festive charm.
Cara and Max had such a strong connection. My heart broke when she tried to protect him by walking away, but I was so happy when they found their way back to each other. I also adored her bond with her niece and nephew, she would do anything for them, and it was wonderful to see that Max and his family and friends were just as caring and supportive. And that Thanksgiving scene? Absolutely adorable 🥺.
All the other characters were engaging too, and since this novella is part of a bigger series, I can’t wait to read the rest of the books!
October 30, 2025
✨ARC REVIEW✨
4.5⭐️
OH MY GOSH I FINISHED THIS IN A DAY!
This novella was sooooo good. I LOVE A GOOD HOLIDAY ROMANTIC SUSPENSE NOVELLA 🤣🤪❤️
I was so excited to return to Forrest Falls. I loved learning more about the side characters we have seen in Letting Go and Soaring Free.
Max and Cara are a prime example of right person, wrong time. Max has gone through so much with what happened with his mom and Cara is currently the sole guardian of her niece and nephew, unsure when she can see her brother again.
Cara pushes Max away because she doesn’t want to hurt him but after a while Max decides that Cara is what he wants, and isn’t going to let her get away.
“If there’s one thing I’ve learned this year, it’s that when you find something good and true, you fight like hell and hold on to it with everything you have. I’m not willing to let go of Cara—not yet—and hopefully, if she lets me convince her, not ever.”
I loved the two of them together. And how Max comes into her bakery every morning?! SWOON. And the thanksgiving scene was so wholesome. 🥹
But then, Cara is forced to tell Max everything, all of her secrets, but Max, being the man that he is, doesn’t even bat an eye and does everything in his power to help Cara.
because of course when the SUSPENSE part comes in to play, we’re thrown back into the Callahan Cavalry world and I was here for it!!! I can’t get enough of the Callahan men!!!
“…but you don’t ever have to thank me for taking care of what’s mine.”
“Cara was so used to always taking care of everything and everyone on her own. Whenever she gives me the opportunity to carry a part of her load, or opens herself up to me in a new way, it feels like the greatest gift I’ve ever been given. She can be strong and take no bullshit to the rest of the world, but the fact that she is soft and vulnerable only with me is an incredible honor.”
🫠🫠🫠 I’m a puddle of emotions. THEN THE CHRISTMAS SCENE COMES AND I LITERALLY CRIED 😭😭😭
“I’m not going anywhere, unless it’s with you.”
Ugh it was so so good and I can’t recommend this series enough. I CANNOT WAIT FOR THE NEXT BOOK!
thank you Liz and Love Notes PR for this arc 💚❤️
4.5⭐️
OH MY GOSH I FINISHED THIS IN A DAY!
This novella was sooooo good. I LOVE A GOOD HOLIDAY ROMANTIC SUSPENSE NOVELLA 🤣🤪❤️
I was so excited to return to Forrest Falls. I loved learning more about the side characters we have seen in Letting Go and Soaring Free.
Max and Cara are a prime example of right person, wrong time. Max has gone through so much with what happened with his mom and Cara is currently the sole guardian of her niece and nephew, unsure when she can see her brother again.
Cara pushes Max away because she doesn’t want to hurt him but after a while Max decides that Cara is what he wants, and isn’t going to let her get away.
“If there’s one thing I’ve learned this year, it’s that when you find something good and true, you fight like hell and hold on to it with everything you have. I’m not willing to let go of Cara—not yet—and hopefully, if she lets me convince her, not ever.”
I loved the two of them together. And how Max comes into her bakery every morning?! SWOON. And the thanksgiving scene was so wholesome. 🥹
But then, Cara is forced to tell Max everything, all of her secrets, but Max, being the man that he is, doesn’t even bat an eye and does everything in his power to help Cara.
because of course when the SUSPENSE part comes in to play, we’re thrown back into the Callahan Cavalry world and I was here for it!!! I can’t get enough of the Callahan men!!!
“…but you don’t ever have to thank me for taking care of what’s mine.”
“Cara was so used to always taking care of everything and everyone on her own. Whenever she gives me the opportunity to carry a part of her load, or opens herself up to me in a new way, it feels like the greatest gift I’ve ever been given. She can be strong and take no bullshit to the rest of the world, but the fact that she is soft and vulnerable only with me is an incredible honor.”
🫠🫠🫠 I’m a puddle of emotions. THEN THE CHRISTMAS SCENE COMES AND I LITERALLY CRIED 😭😭😭
“I’m not going anywhere, unless it’s with you.”
Ugh it was so so good and I can’t recommend this series enough. I CANNOT WAIT FOR THE NEXT BOOK!
thank you Liz and Love Notes PR for this arc 💚❤️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 8, 2025
**ARC Review**
🎁 Sugar, Sprinkles, and Secrets by Liz Colbert
In this cozy small-town holiday novella, Cara Diaz has built her life around protecting her niece and nephew, and opening her dream bakery in Forrest Falls. But she’s also carrying heavy secrets, ones that require keeping her guard up and walking away from more intimacy than she ever planned. Enter Max Riley: hurt by her decision to step away, but unwilling to give up on the woman he loves. When danger from Cara’s past strikes, she’s forced to realise help isn’t weakness, and that she might just deserve more than survival.
💬 Review (Spoilers Ahead!)
This novella pleasantly surprised me with how it blended heart, heat and holiday charm. The setting of Forrest Falls provides that warm, cozy backdrop you want for a festive romance, while the single-guardian element gives Cara’s character genuine stakes beyond just her personal desire. Watching Cara and Max navigate their history, reconnect under pressure, and finally choose vulnerability over distance felt emotionally satisfying.
The romance is tender but spicy enough to keep things engaging. The protective instincts of Max, Cara’s determination to keep her family safe, and the slow burn of their rediscovery make for a compelling dynamic. I especially appreciated how the found-family theme threaded through Cara’s relationships with her niece, nephew and the town; they ground the story in more than just the couple.
If I had a caveat, it would be that because it’s a novella the pace naturally moves quite fast, and some of the “secrets” and conflicts resolve more quickly than one might expect. Occasionally things felt wrapped up a bit tidily for my taste. But that doesn’t spoil the enjoyment, if anything, the briskness makes it a perfect holiday-pick for a cosy, sweet read with emotional depth.
In all: warm, engaging, and just the right balance of comfort and tension for a holiday romance.
⭐ Rating: 4/5
🌶️ Spice: Moderate (emotive intimacy rather than full-on heat)
✨ Vibes: Bakery-town charm • single guardian • holiday redemption • found family
Thank you to Liz and Love Notes PR for this ARC1
🎁 Sugar, Sprinkles, and Secrets by Liz Colbert
In this cozy small-town holiday novella, Cara Diaz has built her life around protecting her niece and nephew, and opening her dream bakery in Forrest Falls. But she’s also carrying heavy secrets, ones that require keeping her guard up and walking away from more intimacy than she ever planned. Enter Max Riley: hurt by her decision to step away, but unwilling to give up on the woman he loves. When danger from Cara’s past strikes, she’s forced to realise help isn’t weakness, and that she might just deserve more than survival.
💬 Review (Spoilers Ahead!)
This novella pleasantly surprised me with how it blended heart, heat and holiday charm. The setting of Forrest Falls provides that warm, cozy backdrop you want for a festive romance, while the single-guardian element gives Cara’s character genuine stakes beyond just her personal desire. Watching Cara and Max navigate their history, reconnect under pressure, and finally choose vulnerability over distance felt emotionally satisfying.
The romance is tender but spicy enough to keep things engaging. The protective instincts of Max, Cara’s determination to keep her family safe, and the slow burn of their rediscovery make for a compelling dynamic. I especially appreciated how the found-family theme threaded through Cara’s relationships with her niece, nephew and the town; they ground the story in more than just the couple.
If I had a caveat, it would be that because it’s a novella the pace naturally moves quite fast, and some of the “secrets” and conflicts resolve more quickly than one might expect. Occasionally things felt wrapped up a bit tidily for my taste. But that doesn’t spoil the enjoyment, if anything, the briskness makes it a perfect holiday-pick for a cosy, sweet read with emotional depth.
In all: warm, engaging, and just the right balance of comfort and tension for a holiday romance.
⭐ Rating: 4/5
🌶️ Spice: Moderate (emotive intimacy rather than full-on heat)
✨ Vibes: Bakery-town charm • single guardian • holiday redemption • found family
Thank you to Liz and Love Notes PR for this ARC1
November 8, 2025
Nonrelated to these main characters but I really, really need Liam and Cami to be endgame in Liam's book...and I really need Liam's book to be here lol
Now..Cara and Max? Perfection.
I kept wondering "what is she hiding? what is she hiding?" And then when it was revealed that she was in WitSec, I was like "oh, this is a fun new twist." The love Cara had for her niece and nephew definitely just reached into your heart and squeezed. You could tell that those two were her whole world, and she 100% would do anything and everything for them. She also loves her job as a baker and the way you could feel her heartbreak on the daily seeing Max? She did everything in her power to protect him even if that meant sacrificing her love life happiness. I did love that she had Cami in her friendship corner, tho!
And Max...you could feel this man's yearning leap right off the pages. He most definitely gave loyal golden retriever vibes. He wasn't going to give up on Cara and their relationship regardless how many times she pushed him away. And regardless that he could tell she was hiding something. I love that he full on admitted from the get go that she was his and he knew she was a package deal with Mila and Dante. And I loved getting to see his friendships with Wells and Jack.
I loved watching Max with Mila and Dante. His family dynamics and healing after his crazy ass mother from Letting Go (and I'm 200% ashamed to admit it took me way too long to remember the connection lol). It warmed my heart to see his brothers and dad just accept Cara and the kids into their family. How Max promised that he had Cara to her brother. I just loved it from start to finish.
I hope down the road we get to see Luca come home. I'm still very intrigued by Sophia and her backstory. I wanna know what happened with Jack and Tinsley. This book most definitely lined things up for the next couple books in the series and I'M READY!
Now..Cara and Max? Perfection.
I kept wondering "what is she hiding? what is she hiding?" And then when it was revealed that she was in WitSec, I was like "oh, this is a fun new twist." The love Cara had for her niece and nephew definitely just reached into your heart and squeezed. You could tell that those two were her whole world, and she 100% would do anything and everything for them. She also loves her job as a baker and the way you could feel her heartbreak on the daily seeing Max? She did everything in her power to protect him even if that meant sacrificing her love life happiness. I did love that she had Cami in her friendship corner, tho!
And Max...you could feel this man's yearning leap right off the pages. He most definitely gave loyal golden retriever vibes. He wasn't going to give up on Cara and their relationship regardless how many times she pushed him away. And regardless that he could tell she was hiding something. I love that he full on admitted from the get go that she was his and he knew she was a package deal with Mila and Dante. And I loved getting to see his friendships with Wells and Jack.
I loved watching Max with Mila and Dante. His family dynamics and healing after his crazy ass mother from Letting Go (and I'm 200% ashamed to admit it took me way too long to remember the connection lol). It warmed my heart to see his brothers and dad just accept Cara and the kids into their family. How Max promised that he had Cara to her brother. I just loved it from start to finish.
I hope down the road we get to see Luca come home. I'm still very intrigued by Sophia and her backstory. I wanna know what happened with Jack and Tinsley. This book most definitely lined things up for the next couple books in the series and I'M READY!
November 30, 2025
“So, I’ll play by her rules—for now—but I’m not interested in just being her friend, and I intend on playing for keeps.”
✔️holiday novella
✔️romantic suspense
✔️hidden identity
✔️second chance
✔️age gap (she’s 31, he’s 42)
✔️single guardian
✔️no breakup
3.75⭐️ rounded up
This holiday novella is a little angsty, a little suspenseful, and a little spicy. While this is connected to the Callahans series by this author and will make the most sense after reading book two in the series, I read it as a complete standalone (I haven’t read anything by this author prior to picking this up) and I was only confused during one part of the story and was able to figure out what felt like missing pieces easily. Max (MMC) and Cara (FMC) dated prior to the events of this story (and thought they had the potential to be a “forever” kind of couple), but after something major happened with his mom (in a prior story in the series) she broke up with him. What he doesn’t realize is that she did it to protect him and she is hiding some major secrets that could change everything.
I love a good romantic suspense, and though I usually prefer those stories to be full-length novels (because it can be difficult to include all of the necessary suspense building elements and character growth with a limited page count), I think it was done well here. There is one chapter in the perspective of a random side character during the suspense action in the third act, but for the most part we switch between the perspectives of the MCs. I love how he reacted when the truth came out, and how their HEA was set up. They wouldn’t have broken up if it wasn’t necessary, and I love how they got their second chance.
✔️holiday novella
✔️romantic suspense
✔️hidden identity
✔️second chance
✔️age gap (she’s 31, he’s 42)
✔️single guardian
✔️no breakup
3.75⭐️ rounded up
This holiday novella is a little angsty, a little suspenseful, and a little spicy. While this is connected to the Callahans series by this author and will make the most sense after reading book two in the series, I read it as a complete standalone (I haven’t read anything by this author prior to picking this up) and I was only confused during one part of the story and was able to figure out what felt like missing pieces easily. Max (MMC) and Cara (FMC) dated prior to the events of this story (and thought they had the potential to be a “forever” kind of couple), but after something major happened with his mom (in a prior story in the series) she broke up with him. What he doesn’t realize is that she did it to protect him and she is hiding some major secrets that could change everything.
I love a good romantic suspense, and though I usually prefer those stories to be full-length novels (because it can be difficult to include all of the necessary suspense building elements and character growth with a limited page count), I think it was done well here. There is one chapter in the perspective of a random side character during the suspense action in the third act, but for the most part we switch between the perspectives of the MCs. I love how he reacted when the truth came out, and how their HEA was set up. They wouldn’t have broken up if it wasn’t necessary, and I love how they got their second chance.
October 27, 2025
Sugar,Sprinkles and Secrets ✨
Firstly,I want to thank LoveNotes PR & Liz Colbert for trusting me with this ARC!🎄
Cara Diaz's life is turned upside down after having to change all her plans for the people she loves.However,things are not that simple for her,Afterwards,they never were.
Oh.My.God.
This one had me from the moment I started it.
Mystery?
Forbidden Love?
Secrets?
SING ME IN.
Oh,wait I HAVE ALREADY DONE THAT!
To get things from the start,we follow a story not only full of secrets and sprinkles,but one with so many delicious treats!The pastries that,this bakery has,gimme one please!🥹Also,there are a lot funny moments,mostly from our two little babies!-My boy Dante and his love for turkey is MY FAVOURITE PART OF THE BOOK.period.
Going into more serious stuff,Sugar,Sprinkles and Secrets,points out a serious aspect of drug use.
That not only the user,but that the family & the people that are left behind ofter have to deal with the mess that is left.Something that may makes their safety endangered & their lifes carved forever.
I really liked how she wrote about that specific topic using not judge but care and making it 100% understandable for us.
Plus,we have such a strong fmc,who protecting her littles is the only thing that matters to her.More,it's something that is written about her that got MY JAW TO THE FLOOR.-I will not spoil anything but guys BE PREPARED!
Rounding it all up,this is a unique story about love & secrets that you have & need to read this season.
Out on Nov,3rd🥐
4⭐
Firstly,I want to thank LoveNotes PR & Liz Colbert for trusting me with this ARC!🎄
Cara Diaz's life is turned upside down after having to change all her plans for the people she loves.However,things are not that simple for her,Afterwards,they never were.
Oh.My.God.
This one had me from the moment I started it.
Mystery?
Forbidden Love?
Secrets?
SING ME IN.
Oh,wait I HAVE ALREADY DONE THAT!
To get things from the start,we follow a story not only full of secrets and sprinkles,but one with so many delicious treats!The pastries that,this bakery has,gimme one please!🥹Also,there are a lot funny moments,mostly from our two little babies!-My boy Dante and his love for turkey is MY FAVOURITE PART OF THE BOOK.period.
Going into more serious stuff,Sugar,Sprinkles and Secrets,points out a serious aspect of drug use.
That not only the user,but that the family & the people that are left behind ofter have to deal with the mess that is left.Something that may makes their safety endangered & their lifes carved forever.
I really liked how she wrote about that specific topic using not judge but care and making it 100% understandable for us.
Plus,we have such a strong fmc,who protecting her littles is the only thing that matters to her.More,it's something that is written about her that got MY JAW TO THE FLOOR.-I will not spoil anything but guys BE PREPARED!
Rounding it all up,this is a unique story about love & secrets that you have & need to read this season.
Out on Nov,3rd🥐
4⭐
October 23, 2025
❤️ Blurb -
life has taught Cara Diaz anything, it’s that she can only count on herself. She will do whatever is necessary to protect the people she loves—even if it means denying her own happiness. Moving to the small town of Forrest Falls is Cara’s chance to pursue her dream of opening her own bakery, but keeping her niece and nephew safe will always come first.
Living with secrets is heavy enough, and—despite what her heart wants—Cara is convinced that walking away from Max Riley is for his own good.
Getting dumped by Cara was the icing on the cake when Max’s entire world shifted earlier this year. But as the months pass, his feelings don’t fade for Cara, if anything, they’ve only grown deeper. Cara insists they’re better off as friends, but Max isn’t willing to give up on their shot at happily ever after just yet.
When her past catches up with her, Cara is out of options. With the lives of loved ones on the line, she must ask for help, even if it requires giving up her secrets in order to save innocent lives.
💜 Review -
Even though I hadn't read the rest of the series I still enjoyed the book. This was such a cute and cosy read. It was easy to follow with a great cast of characters. I loved the small town place setting in the story and the pacing was just right. Being a short novella, I couldn't put it down and I read it in one sitting. I highly recommend it and I look forward to reading more by the author.
💝 Thank you to Love Notes PR and the author Liz Colbert for my arc ebook copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
life has taught Cara Diaz anything, it’s that she can only count on herself. She will do whatever is necessary to protect the people she loves—even if it means denying her own happiness. Moving to the small town of Forrest Falls is Cara’s chance to pursue her dream of opening her own bakery, but keeping her niece and nephew safe will always come first.
Living with secrets is heavy enough, and—despite what her heart wants—Cara is convinced that walking away from Max Riley is for his own good.
Getting dumped by Cara was the icing on the cake when Max’s entire world shifted earlier this year. But as the months pass, his feelings don’t fade for Cara, if anything, they’ve only grown deeper. Cara insists they’re better off as friends, but Max isn’t willing to give up on their shot at happily ever after just yet.
When her past catches up with her, Cara is out of options. With the lives of loved ones on the line, she must ask for help, even if it requires giving up her secrets in order to save innocent lives.
💜 Review -
Even though I hadn't read the rest of the series I still enjoyed the book. This was such a cute and cosy read. It was easy to follow with a great cast of characters. I loved the small town place setting in the story and the pacing was just right. Being a short novella, I couldn't put it down and I read it in one sitting. I highly recommend it and I look forward to reading more by the author.
💝 Thank you to Love Notes PR and the author Liz Colbert for my arc ebook copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
October 29, 2025
🍪 ARC Book Review – Sugar, Sprinkles & Secrets by Liz Colbert
What a fun and warming read! Even though I haven’t read the earlier books in the series, I found this novella cleanly written and very easy to follow as a standalone, so I’ll definitely be going back to read the others.
The story centers around Cara Diaz, a bakery-owner with a big secret, who’s moved to the small town of Forrest Falls to open her bakery and protect her niece and nephew. She’s quietly trying to keep things together.
Max Riley, is the man who once had a chance with her and now still cares deeply. He’s protective, swoony, and very much wants a second shot at happily ever after.
The tension is lovely: secrets, found-family elements, age-gap (handled well), and the holiday-season backdrop make things especially cozy. The “sprinkles and secrets” metaphor really works here: sweetness with something heavier underneath.
For a novella (in between books #2 and #3 of the series) it still packs in emotional stakes and suspense — you’re invested in Cara & Max from early on.
Writing style: It flows easily, the characters felt real, and the setting (small-town bakery vibe) was very appealing.
It is part of the Callahans series (#2.5), but you absolutely don’t need to have read books #1 or #2 to enjoy this. The author explicitly states it reads independently.
I was charmed and felt satisfied by the ending, yet also excited to dive into the rest of the series. I need to read the other books in the series now! 📚
If you’re looking for a cozy read with emotional depth and a bit of suspense without being heavy, this is a great pick.
Happy to have been selected as an ARC for this book.
What a fun and warming read! Even though I haven’t read the earlier books in the series, I found this novella cleanly written and very easy to follow as a standalone, so I’ll definitely be going back to read the others.
The story centers around Cara Diaz, a bakery-owner with a big secret, who’s moved to the small town of Forrest Falls to open her bakery and protect her niece and nephew. She’s quietly trying to keep things together.
Max Riley, is the man who once had a chance with her and now still cares deeply. He’s protective, swoony, and very much wants a second shot at happily ever after.
The tension is lovely: secrets, found-family elements, age-gap (handled well), and the holiday-season backdrop make things especially cozy. The “sprinkles and secrets” metaphor really works here: sweetness with something heavier underneath.
For a novella (in between books #2 and #3 of the series) it still packs in emotional stakes and suspense — you’re invested in Cara & Max from early on.
Writing style: It flows easily, the characters felt real, and the setting (small-town bakery vibe) was very appealing.
It is part of the Callahans series (#2.5), but you absolutely don’t need to have read books #1 or #2 to enjoy this. The author explicitly states it reads independently.
I was charmed and felt satisfied by the ending, yet also excited to dive into the rest of the series. I need to read the other books in the series now! 📚
If you’re looking for a cozy read with emotional depth and a bit of suspense without being heavy, this is a great pick.
Happy to have been selected as an ARC for this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 3, 2025
You know you've found a great author when they can develop emotion and suspense in a novella, and the reader feels satisfied at the end. Colbert does exactly that in this small town, second chance romance. And with the cozy background of Christmas? Grab your hot cocoa and dive in.
Cara will do whatever it takes to keep her niece and nephew safe even at the expense of her own heart. Talk about true love right there. Keeping her secrets, Cara moves to Forest Falls and opens her bakery, never expecting to see Max again. When her worst fears start to come true and the secrets begin unraveling, Max is the one person she can depend on. And Max? He's right there for her; he doesn't care that she broke up with him because Max is going to do what it takes to get Cara back. He's all in and will protect Cara and those kids. And as it's a novella, well, I can't tell you too much about the suspense, but you'll enjoy it!
Yes, it is part of a series, but per usual, I've jumped into a series without having read any of the books. Did I feel lost? Not at all. Prior characters are mentioned so if you've read the rest of the series, you'll probably enjoy seeing the familiar faces. This is a complete standalone, but I'd be willing to bet you that like me, you'll want to go read the other books after reading this one!
🌹 Romantic Suspense
🏡 Small Town Romance
🤭 Second Chance Romance
🛡️ Protective MMC
🧡 Found Family
🕰️ Age Gap (11 years)
😇 Single Guardian
🎭 Hidden Identity
Thank you to the author and Love Notes PR for the gifted copy!
Cara will do whatever it takes to keep her niece and nephew safe even at the expense of her own heart. Talk about true love right there. Keeping her secrets, Cara moves to Forest Falls and opens her bakery, never expecting to see Max again. When her worst fears start to come true and the secrets begin unraveling, Max is the one person she can depend on. And Max? He's right there for her; he doesn't care that she broke up with him because Max is going to do what it takes to get Cara back. He's all in and will protect Cara and those kids. And as it's a novella, well, I can't tell you too much about the suspense, but you'll enjoy it!
Yes, it is part of a series, but per usual, I've jumped into a series without having read any of the books. Did I feel lost? Not at all. Prior characters are mentioned so if you've read the rest of the series, you'll probably enjoy seeing the familiar faces. This is a complete standalone, but I'd be willing to bet you that like me, you'll want to go read the other books after reading this one!
🌹 Romantic Suspense
🏡 Small Town Romance
🤭 Second Chance Romance
🛡️ Protective MMC
🧡 Found Family
🕰️ Age Gap (11 years)
😇 Single Guardian
🎭 Hidden Identity
Thank you to the author and Love Notes PR for the gifted copy!
November 1, 2025
Sugar, Sprinkles, and Secrets by Liz Colbert hit every note I love in a novella. It blends cozy holiday vibes with romantic suspense, and the result is a story that’s both comforting and thrilling.
Cara Diaz is a fiercely protective woman who’s sacrificed her own happiness to keep her niece and nephew safe. Her move to Forrest Falls to open a bakery feels like a fresh start, but danger isn’t far behind. Then there’s Max, the man she walked away from to protect. When things go south, he’s the only one she can turn to. Their chemistry is palpable, and the emotional tension between them had me in hurry to see what happened next.
Even though this is a novella, the characters feel fully formed and the pacing is tight without sacrificing emotional beats. The age gap (11 years) and single guardian trope are handled with care, and the dual POV gives insight into both Cara’s guarded strength and Max’s unwavering devotion.
What I adored about most was how seamlessly Colbert wove together emotional depth and romantic tension. Cara’s fierce love for her niece and nephew added a layer of vulnerability that made her choices feel real and raw. Max, as the protective male lead, was everything you want in a second-chance romance; he was steadfast, tender, and quietly intense. They are truly meant to be and the way they navigated their past while facing present danger kept me hooked. The holiday setting added so much warmth and charm, while the suspenseful undertones gave the story bite. Colbert’s ability to balance cozy and exciting made this novella a standout seasonal read.
If you’re looking for a quick read that packs emotional punch, romantic tension, and a dash of danger, all wrapped in holiday warmth, this one’s for you. I’ll definitely be checking out more from Liz Colbert and the Callahans series.
A huge thank you to Liz Colbert and Love Notes PR for an early copy!
Cara Diaz is a fiercely protective woman who’s sacrificed her own happiness to keep her niece and nephew safe. Her move to Forrest Falls to open a bakery feels like a fresh start, but danger isn’t far behind. Then there’s Max, the man she walked away from to protect. When things go south, he’s the only one she can turn to. Their chemistry is palpable, and the emotional tension between them had me in hurry to see what happened next.
Even though this is a novella, the characters feel fully formed and the pacing is tight without sacrificing emotional beats. The age gap (11 years) and single guardian trope are handled with care, and the dual POV gives insight into both Cara’s guarded strength and Max’s unwavering devotion.
What I adored about most was how seamlessly Colbert wove together emotional depth and romantic tension. Cara’s fierce love for her niece and nephew added a layer of vulnerability that made her choices feel real and raw. Max, as the protective male lead, was everything you want in a second-chance romance; he was steadfast, tender, and quietly intense. They are truly meant to be and the way they navigated their past while facing present danger kept me hooked. The holiday setting added so much warmth and charm, while the suspenseful undertones gave the story bite. Colbert’s ability to balance cozy and exciting made this novella a standout seasonal read.
If you’re looking for a quick read that packs emotional punch, romantic tension, and a dash of danger, all wrapped in holiday warmth, this one’s for you. I’ll definitely be checking out more from Liz Colbert and the Callahans series.
A huge thank you to Liz Colbert and Love Notes PR for an early copy!
November 10, 2025
🍪 A young bakery owner, Cara, is hiding a dark secret from the small community she moved to and the man she loves, Max. He still wants to be with her but she doesn’t want any lies to come between them. When tragedy strikes he steps up to save her family and the truth is revealed.
This was the perfect short and sweet holiday novella. This quick, closed door romance was fully developed with an interesting plot, thrilling suspense, all the cozy holiday vibes, and a HEA ending. Max was a steadfast and tender hearted MMC who could melt your ovaries with his tenderness towards Cara’s niece and nephew. I loved that Max kept trying to orchestrate reasons to see Cara and pursue a relationship with her on her terms and the way he stepped in to help her when needed without hesitation. I loved Cara’s strength and resilience despite her difficult past. The secrets Cara was keeping were completely justified and I appreciated that Max could understand her furtiveness. Cara’s sweet nephew and niece were a highlight of the story with their silliness and wonder and it was completely endearing to see the love Cara and Max both had for the children.
✅ Check this one out if you’re looking for a quick and cozy second chance, found family, age gap, small town holiday romance with a strong and capable FMC, a tender and caring MMC, and minimal spice. Pairs well with a cup of hot cocoa and madeleine cookies.
This was the perfect short and sweet holiday novella. This quick, closed door romance was fully developed with an interesting plot, thrilling suspense, all the cozy holiday vibes, and a HEA ending. Max was a steadfast and tender hearted MMC who could melt your ovaries with his tenderness towards Cara’s niece and nephew. I loved that Max kept trying to orchestrate reasons to see Cara and pursue a relationship with her on her terms and the way he stepped in to help her when needed without hesitation. I loved Cara’s strength and resilience despite her difficult past. The secrets Cara was keeping were completely justified and I appreciated that Max could understand her furtiveness. Cara’s sweet nephew and niece were a highlight of the story with their silliness and wonder and it was completely endearing to see the love Cara and Max both had for the children.
✅ Check this one out if you’re looking for a quick and cozy second chance, found family, age gap, small town holiday romance with a strong and capable FMC, a tender and caring MMC, and minimal spice. Pairs well with a cup of hot cocoa and madeleine cookies.
November 3, 2025
Sugar, Sprinkles and Secrets is sweet and swoony like a Hallmark Christmas movie but with all the suspense and some spice set in small town Forest Falls . And Liz Colbert just added with this one to The Callahans series but gave us a different point of view to the events of Soaring Free. And now we have the opportunity to see what happened with Chase and his family after that dramatic events in the first book. I loved it that the Callahans stayed in touch with the Rileys and life continued almost like always. Max and his brothers and their father struggle with the aftermath but find their way in healing. But Max can't cope with secrets and that's the reason Cara breaks up with him. Because she has a secret to keep that's not hers but a lot of lives depend on it. And every time they meet is a little torture wondering what if. Until Max decides to win her again and some Thanksgivings miracle helped his case. When all of Cara's fears come reality Max is the first she's turning to. I loved how fierce and independent Cara was and how emotional and vulnerable at the same time. And she did everything to protect her family. And Max was so supportive and understanding. I loved it how the Rileys and the Callahans united and overcome all that came their way. And like in a Christmas story all ends well and Cara and Max got their happily ever after. Sugar, Sprinkles and Secrets is a nice addition to The Callahans series and now I can wait for Jack's story .
Thanks to the author for the opportunity to read and review an early copy of this book .
Thanks to the author for the opportunity to read and review an early copy of this book .
November 1, 2025
𝗢𝘃𝗲𝗿𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝗿𝗮𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
𝗦𝗽𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹: 🌶️🌶️
𝗩𝗶𝗯𝗲: Small Town Suspense Romance • Found Family
"𝗜 𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗻𝗱 𝗼𝗻 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘆𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗸𝗲𝗲𝗽𝘀"
💭 𝗠𝘆 𝗧𝗵𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀
𝘚𝘶𝘨𝘢𝘳, 𝘚𝘱𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘬𝘭𝘦𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘚𝘦𝘤𝘳𝘦𝘵𝘴 follows Cara Diaz, who’s just moved to Forrest Falls to chase her dream of opening her very own bakery. But while her heart might be set on sugar and frosting, her top priority is keeping her niece and nephew safe, even if it means walking away from the love of her life, Max Riley.
For me, the story was just a touch too short to fully sink into the characters and their world. I found myself wishing for a few more chapters to explore their emotions and the tension between love and responsibility. That said, the Christmas scene had me tearing up, truly, how could anyone get through that moment dry-eyed?
I’m such a sucker for a cosy holiday novella, and this one was the sweetest introduction to Forrest Falls / The Callahans. It gave me all the warm, small-town feels, and now I’m even more excited to dive into 𝘓𝘦𝘵𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘎𝘰 and 𝘚𝘰𝘢𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘍𝘳𝘦𝘦. I can’t wait to see where Liz Colbert takes us next!
A huge thank you to 𝗟𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗡𝗼𝘁𝗲𝘀𝗣𝗥 and 𝗟𝗶𝘇 𝗖𝗼𝗹𝗯𝗲𝗿𝘁 for sending me this e-ARC! 💌
📅 𝘚𝘶𝘨𝘢𝘳, 𝘚𝘱𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘬𝘭𝘦𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘚𝘦𝘤𝘳𝘦𝘵𝘴 by Liz Colbert releases on 𝗡𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿 𝟯𝗿𝗱!
📚 𝗧𝗿𝗼𝗽𝗲𝘀: Romantic Suspense • Small Town Romance • Second Chance Romance • Protective MMC • Found Family • Age Gap (11 Years) • Single Guardian • Hidden Identity
𝗦𝗽𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹: 🌶️🌶️
𝗩𝗶𝗯𝗲: Small Town Suspense Romance • Found Family
"𝗜 𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗻𝗱 𝗼𝗻 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘆𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗸𝗲𝗲𝗽𝘀"
💭 𝗠𝘆 𝗧𝗵𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀
𝘚𝘶𝘨𝘢𝘳, 𝘚𝘱𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘬𝘭𝘦𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘚𝘦𝘤𝘳𝘦𝘵𝘴 follows Cara Diaz, who’s just moved to Forrest Falls to chase her dream of opening her very own bakery. But while her heart might be set on sugar and frosting, her top priority is keeping her niece and nephew safe, even if it means walking away from the love of her life, Max Riley.
For me, the story was just a touch too short to fully sink into the characters and their world. I found myself wishing for a few more chapters to explore their emotions and the tension between love and responsibility. That said, the Christmas scene had me tearing up, truly, how could anyone get through that moment dry-eyed?
I’m such a sucker for a cosy holiday novella, and this one was the sweetest introduction to Forrest Falls / The Callahans. It gave me all the warm, small-town feels, and now I’m even more excited to dive into 𝘓𝘦𝘵𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘎𝘰 and 𝘚𝘰𝘢𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘍𝘳𝘦𝘦. I can’t wait to see where Liz Colbert takes us next!
A huge thank you to 𝗟𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗡𝗼𝘁𝗲𝘀𝗣𝗥 and 𝗟𝗶𝘇 𝗖𝗼𝗹𝗯𝗲𝗿𝘁 for sending me this e-ARC! 💌
📅 𝘚𝘶𝘨𝘢𝘳, 𝘚𝘱𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘬𝘭𝘦𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘚𝘦𝘤𝘳𝘦𝘵𝘴 by Liz Colbert releases on 𝗡𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿 𝟯𝗿𝗱!
📚 𝗧𝗿𝗼𝗽𝗲𝘀: Romantic Suspense • Small Town Romance • Second Chance Romance • Protective MMC • Found Family • Age Gap (11 Years) • Single Guardian • Hidden Identity
November 8, 2025
This was a super cute novella that involved past characters from the author's Callahan series. The book had light, suspense and conflict, open door romance, second chances and a HEA
Cara/FMC- was a baker who owned her own store, raised her niece and nephew on her own and still had feelings for her exboyfriend, Max.
Max/MMC- millionaire, worked with the Callahans, and did not accept his ex girlfriend ending the relationship.
Cara had to keep her life on the down low due to her brother's activities and she felt she was betraying Max's trust due to this. She ends the perfect relationship they both enjoyed for months, and Max is left confused. When trouble comes to the bakery, Cara turns to Max and the Callahans for help, so as not to involve the law for fear of making the situation worse.
There is a third POV from Sophie(in previous book), to allow the reader to know how the team engaged in their mission to reclaim the children and take them to safety. When Max is finally told the reason for the secrets, he feels differently than Cara and told her it did not matter.
This book ends on a happy ending with an open door romantic scene with Max and Cara and the opening for more character coupling in future stories.
Cara/FMC- was a baker who owned her own store, raised her niece and nephew on her own and still had feelings for her exboyfriend, Max.
Max/MMC- millionaire, worked with the Callahans, and did not accept his ex girlfriend ending the relationship.
Cara had to keep her life on the down low due to her brother's activities and she felt she was betraying Max's trust due to this. She ends the perfect relationship they both enjoyed for months, and Max is left confused. When trouble comes to the bakery, Cara turns to Max and the Callahans for help, so as not to involve the law for fear of making the situation worse.
There is a third POV from Sophie(in previous book), to allow the reader to know how the team engaged in their mission to reclaim the children and take them to safety. When Max is finally told the reason for the secrets, he feels differently than Cara and told her it did not matter.
This book ends on a happy ending with an open door romantic scene with Max and Cara and the opening for more character coupling in future stories.
November 11, 2025
“Yes to living together, yes to making a life together,” She leans up and kisses me again, “and yes to maybe even making a new life together one day. Yes to when you ask me some day to marry you, yes to all of it. Whatever happens, it’s a yes from me. It’s all my wishes on on every single star come true so long as you’re with me.”
This was such a cute, quick holiday read. Even though this is a novella in the middle of a series, I didn't feel like I was too out of the loop, so I could still enjoy this cute story! I love a story that encapsulates the feeling of when your partner loves you no matter what circumstances come between you, and this second-chance romance really did deliver on that! It was so amazing to see Cara and Max's story unfold 🥰
🎁 Novella
🎁 Small Town Romance
🎁 Age Gap
🎁 Hidden Identity
🎁 Protective MMC
🎁 Curvy FMC
🎁 Romantic Suspense
🎁 Second Chance
🎄 Overall: ⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
🎄 Characters: ⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
🎄 Plot: ⭐⭐⭐/5
🎄 World Building: ⭐⭐⭐/5
🎄 Spice (if any): 🌶️🌶️/5
🎄 Ending: ⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
Thank you to the author & Love Notes PR for the eARC! 🧡
🧡 Like my review? Follow me on my Bookstagram to see more of my reviews & bookish content 🧡
This was such a cute, quick holiday read. Even though this is a novella in the middle of a series, I didn't feel like I was too out of the loop, so I could still enjoy this cute story! I love a story that encapsulates the feeling of when your partner loves you no matter what circumstances come between you, and this second-chance romance really did deliver on that! It was so amazing to see Cara and Max's story unfold 🥰
🎁 Novella
🎁 Small Town Romance
🎁 Age Gap
🎁 Hidden Identity
🎁 Protective MMC
🎁 Curvy FMC
🎁 Romantic Suspense
🎁 Second Chance
🎄 Overall: ⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
🎄 Characters: ⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
🎄 Plot: ⭐⭐⭐/5
🎄 World Building: ⭐⭐⭐/5
🎄 Spice (if any): 🌶️🌶️/5
🎄 Ending: ⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
Thank you to the author & Love Notes PR for the eARC! 🧡
🧡 Like my review? Follow me on my Bookstagram to see more of my reviews & bookish content 🧡
October 28, 2025
“I wish things could be different-but I can’t tell him any of that, not when I can’t even tell him my real name.”
Holiday spice, Callahan sibling cameos, suspense that is going to leave you holding your breath, and 2 of the most adorable kiddos!
I mean, seriously Dante I feel you… bring on all of the turkey buddy!
Get cozy but be prepared!
Sprinkles and festive love appear but it is so much more.
🎄 Single Guardian
🎄 Corp. Exec.
🎄 Age Gap (11 years)
🎄 Hidden Identity
🎄 Romantic Suspense
Sweet Cara is doing everything she can to keep her nephew and niece safe after their life has been flipped upside down. She’s so fierce and protective. Guarded, with serious reason, but also longing for her HEA. Enter Max. Their tension is next level. This man with those kids, guard your ovaries. They will be aching. Max though isn’t without his own hurts he’s sorting. Want to know why? Book 1, Letting Go, gives you those answers. Even with those hurts he can’t shake the pull to Cara & it’s the sweetest thing. What I wouldn’t do to go sit at Sprinkles and Java Jive. Pretty please? I need all the drinks, sweet treats & community.
This book had me from the dedication! From the start you know Cara’s secrets are going to leave you in a chokehold & boy to do they ever! I just wanted to wrap her in a hug and let her know she’s not alone. The way Max is present makes him such a heartthrob. Truly, I don’t think this man could do anything wrong. Even though this is a novella it packs such a punch of Liz’s known banter and her stunning imagery. I felt like I was right there in the middle of every scene. I cannot get enough of the suspense that Liz paints. Each book is top tier and I loved the little cameos of Liam’s “crew”. They are seriously bada**. The community Liz has created leaves me feeling like I’m wrapped in a warm hug and undeniably safe! I am here for every word!
Holiday spice, Callahan sibling cameos, suspense that is going to leave you holding your breath, and 2 of the most adorable kiddos!
I mean, seriously Dante I feel you… bring on all of the turkey buddy!
Get cozy but be prepared!
Sprinkles and festive love appear but it is so much more.
🎄 Single Guardian
🎄 Corp. Exec.
🎄 Age Gap (11 years)
🎄 Hidden Identity
🎄 Romantic Suspense
Sweet Cara is doing everything she can to keep her nephew and niece safe after their life has been flipped upside down. She’s so fierce and protective. Guarded, with serious reason, but also longing for her HEA. Enter Max. Their tension is next level. This man with those kids, guard your ovaries. They will be aching. Max though isn’t without his own hurts he’s sorting. Want to know why? Book 1, Letting Go, gives you those answers. Even with those hurts he can’t shake the pull to Cara & it’s the sweetest thing. What I wouldn’t do to go sit at Sprinkles and Java Jive. Pretty please? I need all the drinks, sweet treats & community.
This book had me from the dedication! From the start you know Cara’s secrets are going to leave you in a chokehold & boy to do they ever! I just wanted to wrap her in a hug and let her know she’s not alone. The way Max is present makes him such a heartthrob. Truly, I don’t think this man could do anything wrong. Even though this is a novella it packs such a punch of Liz’s known banter and her stunning imagery. I felt like I was right there in the middle of every scene. I cannot get enough of the suspense that Liz paints. Each book is top tier and I loved the little cameos of Liam’s “crew”. They are seriously bada**. The community Liz has created leaves me feeling like I’m wrapped in a warm hug and undeniably safe! I am here for every word!
October 27, 2025
Did I stay up late on a school night reading this in one sitting - yes, yes I did.
Was it worth it - yes, yes it was.
Forrest Falls is fast becoming one of my favourite towns, and this is a novella set at Christmas (my favourite holiday) withbthe FMC owning a bakery (one of my favourite hobbies).
Cara moved to Forrest Falls a bit over a year ago and started seeing Max, but she had a secret and ended it prior to the novel to avoid hurting him. Neither of them are happy with this decision, but keep it to themselves... at first.
The MCs connection and care for each other (and Cara's neice/nephew) is immediately obvious and this novel has them finding their way back to each other, with the threat of Cara's "secret" that could hurt her family.
Although not a Callaghan novel, they are all mentioned with Jack & Liam being present and their amazing-selves. There is updated tidbits on other townsfolk like Chase & Cami, that will give you just enough to tide you over until book 3, whilst still swooning over the two MCs.
All this in just over 100 pages. Liz is amazing! Sign me up for the rest of the series
Was it worth it - yes, yes it was.
Forrest Falls is fast becoming one of my favourite towns, and this is a novella set at Christmas (my favourite holiday) withbthe FMC owning a bakery (one of my favourite hobbies).
Cara moved to Forrest Falls a bit over a year ago and started seeing Max, but she had a secret and ended it prior to the novel to avoid hurting him. Neither of them are happy with this decision, but keep it to themselves... at first.
The MCs connection and care for each other (and Cara's neice/nephew) is immediately obvious and this novel has them finding their way back to each other, with the threat of Cara's "secret" that could hurt her family.
Although not a Callaghan novel, they are all mentioned with Jack & Liam being present and their amazing-selves. There is updated tidbits on other townsfolk like Chase & Cami, that will give you just enough to tide you over until book 3, whilst still swooning over the two MCs.
All this in just over 100 pages. Liz is amazing! Sign me up for the rest of the series
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