Honey Bee Library

Sweet Tea and a Southern Gentleman #7

by Anne-Marie Meyer, Liz Krane (Narrator)

If Willow thinks she can scare me off, she’s wrong.

Harmony is quickly becoming my home...

And so is she.

Willow

I told myself that Jasper and I would just stay the night with Cole. One night to sleep in a bed and take a hot shower, then we’d be on our way.

But one night turns into more and suddenly, I discover what my marriage should have been like with Harold.

What a family could feel like.

Until I wake up to find that Jasper is missing and so is Cole, a phone call later and I find out that my son decided to be a stowaway with Cole’s impromptu trip back to Miami. Now I’m in a big city, discovering Cole’s world. I want to ignore the stark difference between his life and mine, but I already had my heart broken once by ignoring red flags.

I’m determined not to have that happen again.

Sabrina

My life is finally turning around.

After experiencing the worst depression, I can finally see the light again. I have a job. I have ambition. I have hope.

If only Abigail would stop living in the past, she might actually see that I’ve changed too. I’m ready for some consistency when the very inconsistent Liam shows up at the library and decides that I am his person of interest. He’s flirty. He’s fun. He’s dangerous.

He tells me he can give me the freedom I crave.

I try to stay the course.... until I realize the course I’m on isn’t mine, it’s Abigail’s.

I want to rediscover who I am, but I’m starting to believe that’s impossible while living under Abigail’s roof.

Genres: Romance, Audiobook, Contemporary, Fiction, Contemporary Romance

Audible Audio

First published July 31, 2025

About the author

Anne-Marie Meyer is a USA Today Bestselling author who lives south of the Twin Cities in MN. She spends her days with her knight in shining armor, four princes, and a baby princess.

When she's not running after her kids, she's dreaming up romantic stories. She loves to take her favorite moments in the books and movies she loves and tries to figure out a way to make them new and fresh.

Join her newsletter at anne-mariemeyer.com

Reviews

[Mia S. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Single mommas get the book on this one! Loved both stories, did get a little annoyed with Willow but get why she’s so guarded. Can’t wait for next book!

[Holli D.W. · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 ⭐️ Willow jumped to conclusions and made harsh judgments too many times. That was annoying.

[Rina ♡ · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book! Willow and Cole are from totally different worlds but somehow fit perfectly together. They have a slow burn romance that’s filled with delicious tension, but it's definitely worth the wait! I also adore the bond between Cole and Jasper, it warmed my heart. And it was nice seeing more of Sabrina and meeting Liam. I'm excited to continue their story in the next book. If you like sweet small town romance, then I think you'll love this book. I highly recommend it and the entire Sweet Tea series!

[Cara Nicewarner · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed diving into Cole and Willows story. His desire to care for the things important to him and her strength as a single mom really showed how two people may come from completely different worlds but the world around them has a different story to tell. I can’t wait to see what’s in store for Sabrina. Watching her rebuild after PPD is something that can be challenging to do in life and through writing but Anne Marie did a great job bringing her new beginning to life.

[Janaye Grow · Rating 5 out of 5]

First of all thank you Anne-Marie Meyer for allowing me to be an ARC reader!

I absolutely loved this book! I love a good single mom trope and the way Cole wanted to be there for Willow was 🤌😘. I loved every minute of this book. I was happy to see Sabrina finally stand up to her sister too. Sabrina deserves a happy life and I am glad Liam can help her get a fresh start after having a rough few month with PPD!

I can’t wait to read The Solver Lake Hotel!!🥰🥰

[Karlien · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was thrilled and honored to be selected as an ARC reader for Book 7, Honey Bee Library - a book I had already pre-ordered the moment it became available. Anne-Marie Meyer continues to shine in her storytelling, delivering a heartfelt tale of love, growth, and family that captures the charm of small-town romance with sincerity and warmth.

Willow quickly became one of my favorite characters. As a single mom and entrepreneur, she embodies strength, resilience, and the beauty of doing the best for her child - qualities that are portrayed with authenticity and tenderness. Her relationship with Cole, who comes from a completely different world, is both unexpected and deeply satisfying. Their slow-burn romance is packed with delicious tension and emotional depth, making the payoff worth every page.

One of the things Meyer does so well is highlight the emotional walls women often put up as a defense mechanism. Initially, I found myself frustrated with the recurring theme of self-pity among the women in the story. But as the book unfolded, I came to appreciate how these characters evolve - opening up, learning to trust, and allowing love to take root. Meyer captures that journey of vulnerability with grace and insight.

Cole’s character is a quiet standout. His humility, patience, and gentle strength make him incredibly endearing - not to mention how naturally he steps up as a father figure to Jasper. Watching the bond between Cole and Jasper blossom was one of the most touching aspects of the book. Truly, nothing makes a man more attractive than kindness and quiet courage.

It was also a treat to see more of Sabrina and to meet Liam - laidback, intriguing, and clearly hiding some layers I’m eager to uncover. I do hope Sabrina’s story starts to shift away from the pity party; she deserves some healing and joy of her own. And I'm curious to see more of Emery and Noah, whose storyline hints at something quietly beautiful beneath the surface.

While the book is a joy to read, it’s worth noting that there are a few noticeable spelling and editing mistakes throughout. They don’t ruin the story, but they do interrupt the flow here and there. I hope these can be cleaned up in the final edition because the story truly deserves a polished presentation.

Overall, Book 7, Honey Bee Library is a heartwarming, emotionally satisfying read for anyone who enjoys sweet, small-town romance with real characters and second chances. I highly recommend this book - and the entire Sweet Tea Series - to anyone looking for a cozy, feel-good escape. I just wish I didn’t have to wait until January 2026 for the next one! Until then, I’ll be imagining what comes next. 😍❤️

[Tara Edwards · Rating 4 out of 5]

Willow really annoyed me. I thought direct conversation would be more like moms I know, and the yo-yoing with her kid seemed really unhealthy and made me uncomfortable.

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

SPOILER ALERT ⚠️
I am so thankful to have gotten this ARC copy!
Shout out to Anne-Marie Meyer and her team! 😊
I loved this book just like I have loved all the others in this series! I enjoyed the slow burn between Cole and Willow and the peak into Sabrina's life. I got annoyed with Willow at times but at the same time I understood that it must be hard coming from her past relationship and being a single mom. She's protective her child and shes insecure about things like her body. I resonate with that for sure. The scenes with Cole and Gran towards the end of the book made me so emotional 😢 I was so happy that she was able to remember him. ❤️ Overall, its a good story and it's not long and drawn out. I really want to see what happens with Sabrina, baby Sam, and Liam.

[Jenna Palazzolo · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was able to read this as an early reader for AMM and loved the continued storyline! AND FINALLY a story for Sabrina! It’s about time she had her story start!
AMM continues to develop great characters and amazing twists to her storyline. This was the perfect addition to her series. I cannot wait for the next one!

[Shannon Scott · Rating 3 out of 5]

Again, I continued with the series because I enjoy the characters and would like to see what comes next for them. I just get so annoyed how the author draws everything out and takes forever and ever to get to the point of a relationship that it becomes kind of frustrating. Willow characters was getting so frustrating how her lack of self-esteem and self assurance of herself and the relationship. It would be fine if it was a small part of the book, where she’s timid, shy, and unsure in the beginning, and then there could be a lot more substance regarding their relationship and good things that might happen but to have it be the full eight hours of the book. It’s so hard to listen to. When it gets to the last 10 minutes, I’m like finally! OK great. Not that I didn’t know what was going to happen but it is painful getting there.

[Stephanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very entertaining audiobook

[Deb Durgin · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is the 7th book in the series “Sweet tea and a southern gentleman” and with each book I see a pattern. It takes forever for the author to get to the point, because it’s so wordy. She details every little thing that my brain is on overload, and sometimes I just skip pages. We all know how the books will end.. with the one, we know Cole and Willow will end up together, but it takes like 300 pages for them to get their “stuff” together before it happens. And then when it does, it’s over in 2 pages and we move on to the next couple who will be the main characters in the next book.
Willow was insecure about her body and then her ex making her feel down about her looks too,..but for the love of Pete, Cole was practically spelling it out, while not in so many words, but with the little thing he did for her, and then that first make out session in the hot tub.. but she still thought “nope he doesn’t like me” yeah, I was annoyed. I guess I am just tired of all the main characters being the same story.
I know the next book will follow the same pattern.. Liam likes Sabrina, Sabrina likes Liam but neither will have the ability to not act childish ( does he like me like I like him??? Does she like me like I like her????? )Back and forth for 300 plus pages before they realize that yes indeed they both want to be together, and then we get a 3 page look at their relationship before the author moves onto the next couple.
Granted, I am already this far down the rabbit whole of this series and can’t stop, but I continue to just roll my eyes at the silliness of these characters, and the wordiness of these books. No need for ALL the details … give us more depth into the relationship that took half my life reading to get too. That’s what I am here for… not the games they play.
Then let’s talk about the added bonus chapters you can download .. this one in particular did nothing to give me the ending I expected for them. 300 plus pages of them pining away for each other to have it end with “this is the man I love”. Done, end … moving on to next characters. UMMMMM what?! Give me more …

That is all …

[HEATHER · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW this book stole my heart! I fell in love with this story so fast! Cole will make your heart melt! Anne-Marie Meyer's writes the sweetest stories and this series is just so much fun to read. Every time I pick up one of these books I'm swept up into this wonderful small town and I don't want to leave.

Cole lives in Florida with his Grandma but he's having to put her into a facility that can take care of her since her Dementia is getting worse and he can't take care of her anymore. This breaks his heart because she means the world to him. She was the one who raised him since his mom left him when he was younger. Now he's going to Harmony to see if he can find his mom. But little does he know that's not all he might find!

Willow is co-owner of The Sunny Side-Up Diner and a single mom to Jasper. She is struggling right now so they have been staying at the diner. But when Cole shows up he offers them a place to stay at his rental. Jasper and Cole instantly hit it off! (I LOVE the bond these two will make) Willow is very closed off and has a hard time excepting help. She has some things she has to work on but slowly she will let her walls come down.

We will also get time with Sabrina as well in this book. She will start a friendship with Liam who is a friend of Cole's. Sabrina and Liam will get their story told in the next book and I CAN't WAIT!!!

This is a beautiful story that will have you swooning, smiling, laughing, melting your heart and will leave you with a wonderful ending! I HIGHLY recommend this book and this series!

Thank you Anne-Marie Meyer for allowing me to read this ARC for my honest opinion.

[Shara Black · Rating 5 out of 5]

Here is my book review for Anne Marie Meyer’s newest book that released July 31! I absolutely loved reading Honey Bee Library. From the very first chapter, I was drawn into the world of Harmony Island and found myself deeply connected to the characters. Cole and Willow’s story was especially touching—real, heartfelt, and full of growth. I also loved getting a glimpse into Liam, Sabrina, and Emery’s lives, and I can’t wait to learn more about them in future books.

What made this story even more meaningful for me was how much I related to Willow’s journey. Having watched my sister navigate life as a single mom, I saw so many moments in this book that mirrored her struggles—and her strength. It felt deeply personal and incredibly authentic.

Anne-Marie Meyer has such a warm, inviting writing style that made this an easy, feel-good read. It was heartwarming, emotional, and honestly hard to put down. If you’re looking for a story full of love, hope, and relatable characters, Honey Bee Library is a perfect pick.

[Randi Sampson · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the moment I saw the first promo for the Sweet Tea and Southern Gentleman series on social media, I was drawn in and it made its way to the top of my TBR. Just one book in, and I was completely hooked. Now seven books in with Honey Bee Library and these characters feel like visiting home--- with lots of drama and swoon-worthy romance to keep me coming back for more. Let's be clear though, this isn't one of those series that you can just pick up in the middle or read as standalones. While each book DOES focus on one primary couple, they are told in 3-4 points of view, introducing the characters whose story we will get next. So, Cole and Willow's story actually started in the previous book and wraps up here, and we get the start of Sabrina and Liam's story which will continue on in the next book along with Emery's (who we also briefly get introduced to as well). Make sense? It's definitely different for a romance series, but I have found that I actually really love it, and it only heightens my anticipation for what's coming next. (But if you're someone who wants everything completely wrapped up in the end, it may be better to wait until the series is complete!)

When the previous book ended, I knew that Willow and Cole's story was going to be a great one--- and it did not disappoint. Willow is a single mom who has been burned in the past and has no desire to repeat the experience. But the way Cole keeps showing up for her and Jasper, and how he calls her son is best friend? Oh my goodness, how could she not fall for him? These two had an undeniable chemistry and I couldn't help but root for them, despite their very different worlds. Their story was tender and emotional, and I loved seeing them work through the challenges. I also loved getting to know a little more of Sabrina's story from her POV, and I absolutely cannot wait to see her get her much deserved happily ever after. If you love a story that brings all the drama and smalltown vibes, this is a series you'll definitely want to check out for yourself.

Honey Bee Library is a closed-door romance with detailed/steamy kisses only on page. There is some innuendo and language throughout, as well. While most of the language is more mild (no f-words, etc.), there is one use of G- d—. There is an optional bonus scene that you can choose to download, with the choice for the sweet (closed-door with fade to black) version or a spicy (open door) version.

**ARC received for consideration. All opinions are my own.

[Carissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the 7th book in the “Sweet Tea & a Southern Gentleman” series. I would recommend reading this series in order to get a feel for all the characters as the series builds each book and the storylines are intertwined. Be sure to check out this series if you love friends to lovers with a sweet small town vibe.

Willow is a struggling single mom to Jasper and Cole I loved Willow and Cole! They are from different worlds, but the diner brings them together. Jasper was so patient, sweet and kind. Especially when he offered to let Willow and Jasper stay in his rental house when he found out they were staying in the diner. Willow had a hard time accepting any help and was so closed off with her walls up high, but I loved it as Jasper slowly crumbled those walls to the ground. I love how Jasper and Cole immediately hit it off and had such a strong bond! The chemistry between Jasper and Willow was undeniable!

We also get a little time with Sabrina in this story, I love how she is adjusting to her new job at the library. I really enjoyed meeting Liam too! I’m excited to get their story soon!

I loved this slow burn romance with all the romantic tension that will have you laughing, swooning and smiling all the way to the end!

Thank you to the author for the copy of this book. All thoughts are my own.

CW: This is a closed-door romance with detailed kisses, some innuendo, and a little language. The optional bonus scene, if you choose to download, has the option of closed-door-fade to black or an open-door version.

[Lindsey · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved so many things about this book! Enemies-to-lovers, opposites attract, single mom, etc. Willow has had some very rough things happen to her and earning her trust was extremely difficult for Cole. In some ways, he didn’t have it until the very end. No matter how hard she pushed him away and tried to keep her distance, he always showed up and kept being there for Willow and Jasper. Their connection was so strong and the tension kept me at the edge of my seat throughout. They deserved a HEA and I loved the rollercoaster of emotions I rode to get there. These are the only books that I’ve read that sort of have two stories happening at once with one finishing in the current book and the other in the following book. It drives me crazy but also excites me. I’m always hooked into the next book!

[Jamie Stanton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Honey Bee Library by Anne Marie Meyer is a beautiful testament to single moms starting over—focused on building a life for themselves, not chasing love, only to find it when they least expect it. Willow’s journey is heartfelt and empowering, and Cole? So patient and understanding. Their story had me hooked from the beginning, and I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough. It’s a reminder that being a single mom doesn’t mean you’re just that—you can be seen, cherished, and loved deeply. I’m already counting down the days for Sabrina and Emery’s story. Anne Marie Meyer did not disappoint with this one!

[Tiffany C · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Review: Anne-Marie does it again!! I absolutely loved this book and truly enjoying the whole series. Read the book in 1 day!
Willow and Cole were so frustrating! I just kept telling them to just talk to each other. It goes to show how certain traumas in life can affect so many of our relationships. Love Jasper! Great age and he basically was like eh this is how it is. lol.
As a single mom myself Willow’s struggle of trying to do it all really resonated with me. Sometimes you have to let things slip through the cracks and look for them later.
I am so very grateful that I was chosen to be on the ARC team and was able to read this book early.

[Catherine Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love how the author transports you to this small town. You not only fall in love with this town, but all those that live there. I can't wait for the next book. This book captivated me with the story of Cole and Willow. Willow deserved love and to be loved. 10/10 highly recommend! Want a cute love story, this entire series will have you hooked starting with the first book. Love, love, love this series.

[Kristi Johnson · Rating 3 out of 5]

“Honey Bee Library” by Anne-Marie Meyer is a sweet and charming addition to the Sweet Tea & Southern Gentleman series. As book seven, it delivers the small-town warmth and heartfelt romance fans have come to expect. The story blends community, second chances, and a touch of Southern charm, making it an easy, feel-good read. While it follows a familiar formula, the lovable characters and cozy setting make it an enjoyable installment for series readers.

[D Kriskewic · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so excited to be chosen as one of the ARC reader for this book. I loved how the story unfolded, with Willow and Cole finding there path. And seeing Sabrina getting stronger for herself and Samuel was wonderful. I can’t wait to see how her story plays out in the next book with Liam. All in all it was a great story

I always love Meyer’s books. I know there is always a HEA

[Amber · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this book and series. A great read. No super spicy scenes. You don’t have to read in order but I do love how they all tie together. Can’t wait to read the next. If you are looking for a great series to read that will keep you reading for awhile I highly recommend this series but really anything from this author.

[Shannon Binegar-Foster · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think Cole and Willow’s story is my favorite so far. I found it very endearing. I am looking forward to more of Sabrina’s story. I feel like she isn’t being given the forgiveness she deserves from Abigail. I also am glad we will see more of Emery in book 8. I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book provided by bookfunnel.

[crystal · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely love this book series and the characters. She introduced the reader to new characters in each book she writes and Honey Bee Library did not disappoint. Willow and Cole whew keep me on my toes but showed the reality of life. Cannot wait to hear more of Sabrina & Emery’s stories.

Released date July 31, 2025

[AMM · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was waiting and waiting for this one and read it in 2 days! I love the back and forth between Cole and Willow- the misunderstanding and understanding…. Now we have Sabrina’s cliffhanger. The poignant exchange Willow has with Bethany …. It was everything and such a shame Cole didn’t witness it first hand

[Tracy George · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was able to read this as an ARC reader and am so grateful for the opportunity! I really enjoy this series and can't wait for each new book to come out to continue the story. I will say this book was a little slower and less interesting to me than some of the others, but overall, I still really enjoyed it.

[Deidra Simmons · Rating 3 out of 5]

This series has been a bit frustrating for me. Each book title seems to actually be meant for the prior story. And this one in particular drove me insane. Willows indecisiveness and the way she responded to Cole was frustrating. While I understood some of why she responded how she did, it was still annoying. I almost stopped reading.

[Casey Schwartz · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this series! Willow and Cole’s story was sweet and fun to read. It was touching to see someone care for Willow and to witness the raw, honest side of her life as a single momma. I'm really looking forward to Sabrina and Liam’s story—can’t wait! 🥰

** Thank you Anne-Marie Meyer and Publishing team for an eARC copy of “Honey Bee Library”.

[Cortney · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC copy of this book. I really enjoyed the storyline with Cole and Willow and look forward to finding out more about Sabrina and Liam in the next one! This is a great addition to the rest of the series.