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Maple Falls #3
The Cherry Crush Flower Shop
Not yet published
Expected 10 Feb 26Their relationship is fake… The chemistry is not! 🔥
A small-town girl with a secret crush and flowers in her hair. A dark, rugged veteran with scars only she can see. With spring fever all around, could fake dating turn into happily ever after? Gilmore Girls + Friends to Lovers + Spice = ❤️🔥
🌼🌼🌼
Zoe Hart is right where she in her cozy Maple Falls flower shop with her cat Whiskers. But her oldest friend (and secret crush) Jackson is back in their small town too. And most of all, she longs to be in his strong arms. So when her hopelessly romantic mom bets on them being Couple of the Year at the Spring Festival, Zoe finds herself fake-dating the friend-zoned guy she’s always wanted…
When Jackson returns from military service, even working on his llama sanctuary can’t heal him. But Zoe is the only person who can truly make him smile. He’d do anything for her… even pretend to be dating for the Spring Festival. There’s nothing fake about his feelings as he crushes his lips to hers. But there’s no way she’d really want a broken man like him, would she?
All eyes are on them as the town prepares to vote for Couple of the Year. But when a hidden wildflower meadow becomes their escape, real passion blooms amid falling cherry blossom. Will the magic of spring turn their make-believe romance into true love forever?
A small-town girl with a secret crush and flowers in her hair. A dark, rugged veteran with scars only she can see. With spring fever all around, could fake dating turn into happily ever after? Gilmore Girls + Friends to Lovers + Spice = ❤️🔥
🌼🌼🌼
Zoe Hart is right where she in her cozy Maple Falls flower shop with her cat Whiskers. But her oldest friend (and secret crush) Jackson is back in their small town too. And most of all, she longs to be in his strong arms. So when her hopelessly romantic mom bets on them being Couple of the Year at the Spring Festival, Zoe finds herself fake-dating the friend-zoned guy she’s always wanted…
When Jackson returns from military service, even working on his llama sanctuary can’t heal him. But Zoe is the only person who can truly make him smile. He’d do anything for her… even pretend to be dating for the Spring Festival. There’s nothing fake about his feelings as he crushes his lips to hers. But there’s no way she’d really want a broken man like him, would she?
All eyes are on them as the town prepares to vote for Couple of the Year. But when a hidden wildflower meadow becomes their escape, real passion blooms amid falling cherry blossom. Will the magic of spring turn their make-believe romance into true love forever?
328 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication February 10, 2026
22 people are currently reading
2148 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
January 12, 2026
I loved the first two books in this series, so when I was asked to read the third, I jumped at the chance and it is the best so far! The intrigue, the romance and the surprises are all worth the ride!
Each new books brings a new character or two but I love visiting old characters. We may be able to see a preview for book 4!
Tropes:
💕Childhood friends-to lovers
🌺 fake dating
🐎 small town mystery
☀️ a little grumpy sunshine but more like trauma sunshine
Thank you Harper Graham, Bookouture and NetGalley for the ARC. All opinions expressed are my own.
Each new books brings a new character or two but I love visiting old characters. We may be able to see a preview for book 4!
Tropes:
💕Childhood friends-to lovers
🌺 fake dating
🐎 small town mystery
☀️ a little grumpy sunshine but more like trauma sunshine
Thank you Harper Graham, Bookouture and NetGalley for the ARC. All opinions expressed are my own.
January 15, 2026
Thank you Bookouture for the ARC
The way I squealed when I saw this hit my email! I absolutely love this series so much!
Harper does it again another 5 stars read.
The Cherry Crush Flower Shop follows Zoe and Jackson, and I adored them together. From childhood friends, to fake dating they both have my whole heart.
Whiskers (Zoe’s cat) absolutely stole the show for me!
This series just keeps getting better, and I’m already counting down to the next one, and with that ending I think I can guess who book 4 will be about 😍
The way I squealed when I saw this hit my email! I absolutely love this series so much!
Harper does it again another 5 stars read.
The Cherry Crush Flower Shop follows Zoe and Jackson, and I adored them together. From childhood friends, to fake dating they both have my whole heart.
Whiskers (Zoe’s cat) absolutely stole the show for me!
This series just keeps getting better, and I’m already counting down to the next one, and with that ending I think I can guess who book 4 will be about 😍
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was just pure joy in book form. It's sweet and spicy and magical.
Zoe is the flower shop owner in Maple Falls and is organising flowers for a big wedding: the mayor and his new bride. Jackson is her old friend who is setting up a farm retreat for veterans after returning from war and finding solace in his farm. Both have always had a thing for each other, but of course, both believe they'd ruin their friendship if they took the first move. But when they're suddenly accidentally up for Couple of the Year at the Spring Festival, they have to keep the act going while holding back their feelings for one another, also trying to hunt down a local flower that hasn't been seen for decades, and trying to win a grant for a business opportunity that the two of them have been working on together.
I've read and loved the other two Maple Falls books, but I have to confess that I think this might be my favourite one of the series so far. Each book has a different seasonal vibe - the first was autumnal, the second Christmas, this one spring, I'm assuming the next one (which was teased through the book as being around the Hot Honey Cafe I believe) will be summer.
From that list, I'd say I would least anticipate enjoying the spring one and would love autumn the most, but there was just something about this one that I absolutely adored. The fresh new starts, a friendship turning to something more, no matter how hard they fight it, and the hunt for an elusive flower. The scene where they make the big discovery is so magical and beautifully described.
I can't say this is a highbrow read, but I'm all for reading what makes you happy, and this kind of happily ever story is that for me at the moment. It was a gorgeous mix of sweet and spicy, and I just couldn't stop reading it!
This has everything you'd want in this type of romance: friends to lovers, fake dating, yearning, small town, very seasonal vibes. I also love the friendship group that's forming in this series, some old friends, some new. It's similar to the Dream Harbor format which makes it feel familiar, but this series stands on its own two feet, and I think it deserves as much hype as the Laurie Gilmore series!
I couldn't wait to start book 3 in the Maple Falls world, now I can't wait for book 4!
Thank you to Netgalley, the author and the publishers for an ARC of this book.
Zoe is the flower shop owner in Maple Falls and is organising flowers for a big wedding: the mayor and his new bride. Jackson is her old friend who is setting up a farm retreat for veterans after returning from war and finding solace in his farm. Both have always had a thing for each other, but of course, both believe they'd ruin their friendship if they took the first move. But when they're suddenly accidentally up for Couple of the Year at the Spring Festival, they have to keep the act going while holding back their feelings for one another, also trying to hunt down a local flower that hasn't been seen for decades, and trying to win a grant for a business opportunity that the two of them have been working on together.
I've read and loved the other two Maple Falls books, but I have to confess that I think this might be my favourite one of the series so far. Each book has a different seasonal vibe - the first was autumnal, the second Christmas, this one spring, I'm assuming the next one (which was teased through the book as being around the Hot Honey Cafe I believe) will be summer.
From that list, I'd say I would least anticipate enjoying the spring one and would love autumn the most, but there was just something about this one that I absolutely adored. The fresh new starts, a friendship turning to something more, no matter how hard they fight it, and the hunt for an elusive flower. The scene where they make the big discovery is so magical and beautifully described.
I can't say this is a highbrow read, but I'm all for reading what makes you happy, and this kind of happily ever story is that for me at the moment. It was a gorgeous mix of sweet and spicy, and I just couldn't stop reading it!
This has everything you'd want in this type of romance: friends to lovers, fake dating, yearning, small town, very seasonal vibes. I also love the friendship group that's forming in this series, some old friends, some new. It's similar to the Dream Harbor format which makes it feel familiar, but this series stands on its own two feet, and I think it deserves as much hype as the Laurie Gilmore series!
I couldn't wait to start book 3 in the Maple Falls world, now I can't wait for book 4!
Thank you to Netgalley, the author and the publishers for an ARC of this book.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The Cherry Crush Flower Shop is a charming, feel-good romance that centers on second chances, personal growth, and the unexpected ways love can bloom. The story follows Zoe, the determined and creative owner of the local flower shop, who is trying to keep both her business and her dreams alive despite mounting challenges. Zoe is easy to connect with. She is hardworking, passionate about her craft, and quietly vulnerable, which makes her journey feel authentic and emotionally rewarding.
The love interest, Jackson, is equally well-developed, bringing both warmth and tension to the story. Their relationship has the foundation of a long-term friendship, with missed opportunities and unsaid feelings between the two. Jackson is a veteran struggling with life after service, especially a particularly traumatic moment in battle, and feels he is unable to be a partner for Zoe, or anyone, due to feeling like he is not whole and imperfect.
The plot arc is well paced and engaging. The forced proximity/pretend dating plot forces Zoe and Jackson to finally be confronted with long-held feelings and thoughts, while also trying to trick the town, their family, and friends they are really a couple. The story follows the ups-and-downs of our main characters with their changing relationship, their personal struggles, and their business ventures.
While this could technically be read prior to the other two books in the series (as the story itself does not depend on the plots of those prior), you may miss out of the town's dynamics, the town characters, and overall background of the series. I do wish we had a bit more background and history of the two main characters. We get the necessities, but a bigger insight to their friendship background would have helped the overall connection to the characters and their relationship.
Overall, The Cherry Crush Flower Shop is a cozy, uplifting read with well-rounded characters, a clear emotional arc, and a romance that feels heartfelt and sincere. It’s the kind of story that blends sweetness with substance and leaves readers feeling optimistic, comforted, and genuinely happy by the end.
The love interest, Jackson, is equally well-developed, bringing both warmth and tension to the story. Their relationship has the foundation of a long-term friendship, with missed opportunities and unsaid feelings between the two. Jackson is a veteran struggling with life after service, especially a particularly traumatic moment in battle, and feels he is unable to be a partner for Zoe, or anyone, due to feeling like he is not whole and imperfect.
The plot arc is well paced and engaging. The forced proximity/pretend dating plot forces Zoe and Jackson to finally be confronted with long-held feelings and thoughts, while also trying to trick the town, their family, and friends they are really a couple. The story follows the ups-and-downs of our main characters with their changing relationship, their personal struggles, and their business ventures.
While this could technically be read prior to the other two books in the series (as the story itself does not depend on the plots of those prior), you may miss out of the town's dynamics, the town characters, and overall background of the series. I do wish we had a bit more background and history of the two main characters. We get the necessities, but a bigger insight to their friendship background would have helped the overall connection to the characters and their relationship.
Overall, The Cherry Crush Flower Shop is a cozy, uplifting read with well-rounded characters, a clear emotional arc, and a romance that feels heartfelt and sincere. It’s the kind of story that blends sweetness with substance and leaves readers feeling optimistic, comforted, and genuinely happy by the end.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
3.5 stars. A cutesy little spring, friends-to-lovers romance! but with a little element that brought it down for me.
This is the third book a series, each of which has major “Dream Harbor” vibes. Meaning good things if you’re into small town romances.
Each book can be read as a standalone, which I love for the fact that you can pick and choose which stories fit your interests best.
While I remember enjoying book 2, “The Spiced Cocoa Cafe” quite a bit, I think this one just didn’t really align with my taste.
The setting and the nice spring vibes are cute (especially as I am currently desperate to escape the cold winter in which I’m reading it), and I honestly liked the plot and mental health representation.
But, it lost me a bit toward the end.
I couldn't vibe with the quickness with which these two began discussing/committing to starting a family. I mean, it has a place in this story for sure. I just can’t help but feel slightly off-put by two people, who have been together for no time at all, jumping into that commitment together.
While, for 80% of the story, he couldn’t decide if he should date her or not, and was struggling with mental health so severely that he was emotionally pulling her back and forth. (I understand why it happened, because of Zoe’s thing, but still. Smart, well-thought-out decisions are important)
On a positive note, I think the writing is good.
It’s pretty simple, and it is a nice fit for these types of plots. It doesn’t take up a ton of energy, and is fitting for a light, cozy read.
If you're a bit more relaxed than I am, and don't tend to overanalyze the decisions that fictional characters make- you will probably have a good time with this.
Thank you to Netgalley, Bookotoure and author Harper Graham, for providing me with the eARC of “The Cherry Crush Flower Shop”, in exchange for my honest review!
Publication date: February 10, 2026
This is the third book a series, each of which has major “Dream Harbor” vibes. Meaning good things if you’re into small town romances.
Each book can be read as a standalone, which I love for the fact that you can pick and choose which stories fit your interests best.
While I remember enjoying book 2, “The Spiced Cocoa Cafe” quite a bit, I think this one just didn’t really align with my taste.
The setting and the nice spring vibes are cute (especially as I am currently desperate to escape the cold winter in which I’m reading it), and I honestly liked the plot and mental health representation.
But, it lost me a bit toward the end.
I couldn't vibe with the quickness with which these two began discussing/committing to starting a family. I mean, it has a place in this story for sure. I just can’t help but feel slightly off-put by two people, who have been together for no time at all, jumping into that commitment together.
While, for 80% of the story, he couldn’t decide if he should date her or not, and was struggling with mental health so severely that he was emotionally pulling her back and forth. (I understand why it happened, because of Zoe’s thing, but still. Smart, well-thought-out decisions are important)
On a positive note, I think the writing is good.
It’s pretty simple, and it is a nice fit for these types of plots. It doesn’t take up a ton of energy, and is fitting for a light, cozy read.
If you're a bit more relaxed than I am, and don't tend to overanalyze the decisions that fictional characters make- you will probably have a good time with this.
Thank you to Netgalley, Bookotoure and author Harper Graham, for providing me with the eARC of “The Cherry Crush Flower Shop”, in exchange for my honest review!
Publication date: February 10, 2026
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I couldn’t wait to head back to Maple Falls—and honestly? Returning to Maple Falls was instant comfort, the kind you don’t have to think about. Back with the quirky, lovable locals and that cozy small-town magic, this instalment had me hooked from page one. Add in some of my all-time favourite tropes and I was feral to start reading.
Harper Graham has such a gift for storytelling. Her books are the perfect balance of cozy warmth and spicy heat, but the romance is never the only thing going on. There’s real character development here, layered with relatable, real-life struggles that make it so easy to connect with the characters on a deeper level.
I’ve been dying for Jackson’s story (our soldier 🥹), and it did not disappoint. The mutual longing between Zoe and Jackson is chef’s kiss...so tender, so intense, and set up in a way that has you absolutely rooting for them to figure it out already.
Friends-to-lovers PERFECTION.
The fake dating? Immaculate.
The yearning? Off the charts.
The pacing was spot-on—slow enough to let the slow burn simmer, but never so slow that it tested my patience.
And can we talk about the flower shop? Because surely it’s every book girlie’s dream to run a little flower shop in a small town… with a ridiculously handsome boyfriend. If that’s your vibe (it’s definitely mine), then you need to visit Maple Falls.
Cozy, emotional, swoony, and spicy in all the right ways—this one is an easy five stars and a must-read for small-town romance lovers 🌸❤️🔥 I cannot wait to visit Maple Falls again for Krista and Joe's love story!
Thank you to the author, Bookoture and NetGalley for a chance to read an early copy. All opinions are my own
Harper Graham has such a gift for storytelling. Her books are the perfect balance of cozy warmth and spicy heat, but the romance is never the only thing going on. There’s real character development here, layered with relatable, real-life struggles that make it so easy to connect with the characters on a deeper level.
I’ve been dying for Jackson’s story (our soldier 🥹), and it did not disappoint. The mutual longing between Zoe and Jackson is chef’s kiss...so tender, so intense, and set up in a way that has you absolutely rooting for them to figure it out already.
Friends-to-lovers PERFECTION.
The fake dating? Immaculate.
The yearning? Off the charts.
The pacing was spot-on—slow enough to let the slow burn simmer, but never so slow that it tested my patience.
And can we talk about the flower shop? Because surely it’s every book girlie’s dream to run a little flower shop in a small town… with a ridiculously handsome boyfriend. If that’s your vibe (it’s definitely mine), then you need to visit Maple Falls.
Cozy, emotional, swoony, and spicy in all the right ways—this one is an easy five stars and a must-read for small-town romance lovers 🌸❤️🔥 I cannot wait to visit Maple Falls again for Krista and Joe's love story!
Thank you to the author, Bookoture and NetGalley for a chance to read an early copy. All opinions are my own
Review of advance copy received from Autor
A huge thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the advanced reading copy (eARC) of this absolute gem. The Lit Whisperer’s analysis finds this to be a quintessential 5-star romance.
You know you’re reading a truly special book when you can’t put it down, find yourself sitting on the edge of your seat, or even shouting at the pages, "I can't believe you just did that!" Harper Graham has mastered the art of making you feel like you are right there in the story, rooting for the characters and suffering alongside them. She did it with the first two Maple Falls books, and she has absolutely done it again here.
If you don’t fall in love with Zoe and Jackson from page one, I don't know what to tell you! Their chemistry is sublime and undeniable. While the fake dating plot is a classic trope we all love, Harper executes it so well that it feels fresh and captivating. I was so hooked I finished the entire book in a single afternoon—I didn't even stop to refill my coffee cup!
What I appreciate most is that while the spice is definitely there, the story doesn't rely solely on it. The characters are relatable, real, and the magic of Maple Falls makes you never want to leave. And can we please talk about the Hawthorne brothers? Liam was perfect in book two, and now Jackson? @harpergrahambooks, please tell me there's a distant cousin coming for a future book! I’m already counting down to Book 4 this summer and planning a full series re-read in the meantime.
Follow me for more reviews @TheLitWhisperer
You know you’re reading a truly special book when you can’t put it down, find yourself sitting on the edge of your seat, or even shouting at the pages, "I can't believe you just did that!" Harper Graham has mastered the art of making you feel like you are right there in the story, rooting for the characters and suffering alongside them. She did it with the first two Maple Falls books, and she has absolutely done it again here.
If you don’t fall in love with Zoe and Jackson from page one, I don't know what to tell you! Their chemistry is sublime and undeniable. While the fake dating plot is a classic trope we all love, Harper executes it so well that it feels fresh and captivating. I was so hooked I finished the entire book in a single afternoon—I didn't even stop to refill my coffee cup!
What I appreciate most is that while the spice is definitely there, the story doesn't rely solely on it. The characters are relatable, real, and the magic of Maple Falls makes you never want to leave. And can we please talk about the Hawthorne brothers? Liam was perfect in book two, and now Jackson? @harpergrahambooks, please tell me there's a distant cousin coming for a future book! I’m already counting down to Book 4 this summer and planning a full series re-read in the meantime.
Follow me for more reviews @TheLitWhisperer
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
3.5: I’m a fan of the Maple Falls series and nearly lost my mind when I got an ARC of this one!
The romance is super sweet."He was like an underwater current that tugged at her soul, pulling her closer, deeper until there was only him." Cheesy? Sure. But Maple Falls is all about the cheese.
I kinda wish we'd seen more of the friendship. Like, we're told they're BFFs but I don't really see it. I would have loved to explore the move from lifelong friends to lovers a bit more. What changes? What stays the same?
In previous books, I loved the residents of Maple Falls. But in this one? Nosy. Creepy. Every page has someone commenting on the main couple, giving their unsolicited opinions, going on about how romantic they are, etc. And the whole "Spring Fling Couple of the Year” thing is… weird.
I’m sorry, WHAT? Also, the FMC’s mother can absolutely fuck right off. Nosy ass Gertie.
Issues with all the peeping Toms aside, the writing is easy, the town is as cozy as ever, it's sweet and lighthearted, and the mental health discussions are thoughtful. I usually prefer autumn vibes, but spring is so cute… if you can get past the small-town stalker energy.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC
The romance is super sweet."He was like an underwater current that tugged at her soul, pulling her closer, deeper until there was only him." Cheesy? Sure. But Maple Falls is all about the cheese.
I kinda wish we'd seen more of the friendship. Like, we're told they're BFFs but I don't really see it. I would have loved to explore the move from lifelong friends to lovers a bit more. What changes? What stays the same?
In previous books, I loved the residents of Maple Falls. But in this one? Nosy. Creepy. Every page has someone commenting on the main couple, giving their unsolicited opinions, going on about how romantic they are, etc. And the whole "Spring Fling Couple of the Year” thing is… weird.
"It was all about who seemed the most smitten. How in love, romantic, and downright adorable a couple had appeared that spring. People watched closely in the weeks leading up to the fair, trading whispers at the Cocoa Corner and jotting names on their ballots after seeing who held hands at the library or shared pie at the Maple Leaf Café."
I’m sorry, WHAT? Also, the FMC’s mother can absolutely fuck right off. Nosy ass Gertie.
Issues with all the peeping Toms aside, the writing is easy, the town is as cozy as ever, it's sweet and lighthearted, and the mental health discussions are thoughtful. I usually prefer autumn vibes, but spring is so cute… if you can get past the small-town stalker energy.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC
January 16, 2026
Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley for this ARC, released on February 10th. This is the third book in the Maple Falls series, and having absolutely adored the first two, I was very happy to return to this small town.
This installment follows Zoe and Jackson in a sweet fake-dating romance and delivers many of the elements that make this series such a comforting read. There’s fake dating done well, childhood friends with unresolved feelings, growing attraction, a mysterious flower thread, and those cosy, Stars Hollow–style vibes that make Maple Falls feel like a place you’d happily settle into. I also appreciated the thoughtful inclusion of PTSD representation, which added emotional depth to the story.
That said, a few aspects didn’t fully work for me. My main issue was with Jackson’s emotional trajectory. His hesitation around commitment felt believable for much of the story, but some of his later decisions seemed to move forward a little too quickly compared to the careful build-up earlier on. The pacing toward the end reflected this as well-after a slower, nicely developed progression, the conclusion felt somewhat rushed, leaving me wishing for a bit more space to let everything unfold naturally.
I still really enjoyed this book. It’s warm, comforting, and very much in line with what I’ve come to love about the Maple Falls series. A solid four-star read for me, and I’m always happy to return to this world. ⭐⭐⭐⭐
This installment follows Zoe and Jackson in a sweet fake-dating romance and delivers many of the elements that make this series such a comforting read. There’s fake dating done well, childhood friends with unresolved feelings, growing attraction, a mysterious flower thread, and those cosy, Stars Hollow–style vibes that make Maple Falls feel like a place you’d happily settle into. I also appreciated the thoughtful inclusion of PTSD representation, which added emotional depth to the story.
That said, a few aspects didn’t fully work for me. My main issue was with Jackson’s emotional trajectory. His hesitation around commitment felt believable for much of the story, but some of his later decisions seemed to move forward a little too quickly compared to the careful build-up earlier on. The pacing toward the end reflected this as well-after a slower, nicely developed progression, the conclusion felt somewhat rushed, leaving me wishing for a bit more space to let everything unfold naturally.
I still really enjoyed this book. It’s warm, comforting, and very much in line with what I’ve come to love about the Maple Falls series. A solid four-star read for me, and I’m always happy to return to this world. ⭐⭐⭐⭐
January 16, 2026
I would like to thank @NetGalley and @HarperGrahamBooks for the ARC in exchange for my honest review of Book 3 in the Maple Falls series, The Cherry Crush Flower Shop, releasing on February 10, 2026.
I really enjoyed the first two books by this author, and this installment was no exception. With each new book in the series, we follow a new couple while still seeing familiar faces from previous books, all woven together seamlessly. If you enjoyed Laurie Gilmore’s Harbour Series, you will likely enjoy this series as well.
In Book 3, we follow Zoe and Jackson in a fake-dating romance that grows out of a lifelong friendship. The story explores a range of emotions, including hidden feelings, love, attraction, and even a small mystery from the past. Jackson, a veteran living with PTSD, struggles with his trauma while trying to love Zoe without hurting her, all while learning how to heal himself. I appreciated how his emotional journey was portrayed.
While I felt that his decision to move forward at the end was resolved a bit too quickly, it didn’t take away from my overall enjoyment. As always, I was not disappointed—this was an easy, quick, and enjoyable read. I can’t wait for Book 4!
I really enjoyed the first two books by this author, and this installment was no exception. With each new book in the series, we follow a new couple while still seeing familiar faces from previous books, all woven together seamlessly. If you enjoyed Laurie Gilmore’s Harbour Series, you will likely enjoy this series as well.
In Book 3, we follow Zoe and Jackson in a fake-dating romance that grows out of a lifelong friendship. The story explores a range of emotions, including hidden feelings, love, attraction, and even a small mystery from the past. Jackson, a veteran living with PTSD, struggles with his trauma while trying to love Zoe without hurting her, all while learning how to heal himself. I appreciated how his emotional journey was portrayed.
While I felt that his decision to move forward at the end was resolved a bit too quickly, it didn’t take away from my overall enjoyment. As always, I was not disappointed—this was an easy, quick, and enjoyable read. I can’t wait for Book 4!
January 16, 2026
The Cherry Crush Flower Shop by Harper Graham absolutely stole my heart. This was my first Harper Graham read, and I can confidently say I’m officially a fan. I loved this book from start to finish.
Not a single moment felt cheesy or unrealistic—everything felt grounded, relatable, and so emotionally genuine. Zoe and Jackson’s relationship was truly to die for. This best-friends-to-lovers romance was top tier in every way. Their chemistry never wavered; it was consistent, soft, and deeply felt throughout the entire story.
There was something so pure and blissful about watching their connection unfold, and honestly, it was just such a nice book to read—comforting, heartfelt, and completely satisfying. I couldn’t put it down and didn’t want it to end.
Huge thanks to Harper Graham and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this one—I’m already looking forward to reading more from this author.
Not a single moment felt cheesy or unrealistic—everything felt grounded, relatable, and so emotionally genuine. Zoe and Jackson’s relationship was truly to die for. This best-friends-to-lovers romance was top tier in every way. Their chemistry never wavered; it was consistent, soft, and deeply felt throughout the entire story.
There was something so pure and blissful about watching their connection unfold, and honestly, it was just such a nice book to read—comforting, heartfelt, and completely satisfying. I couldn’t put it down and didn’t want it to end.
Huge thanks to Harper Graham and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this one—I’m already looking forward to reading more from this author.
January 9, 2026
In this book we get to follow Jackson and Zoe and what can I say I loved every minute of it.
Graham is a true artist when it comes to world-building and creating whole vibes in her book. I could hear the snow melt, saw the farmers market in my head and noticed the steam curling up above the thermal stream. It is amazing how she emerges you into the scenery.
Jackson and Zoe are a wonderful couple and you gotta love a fake-dating story because you always know what you get 😍🙈
Jackson is a great person with lots of problems but I love that he comes to realize that he does not have to solve them alone and it is good to accept help.
Zoe knows what she want and she makes sure to get it. I love how she does not compromise or back down from what she wants.
This book is the third in Maple Falls and will hopefully not be the last 🙌🏻🙌🏻
Graham is a true artist when it comes to world-building and creating whole vibes in her book. I could hear the snow melt, saw the farmers market in my head and noticed the steam curling up above the thermal stream. It is amazing how she emerges you into the scenery.
Jackson and Zoe are a wonderful couple and you gotta love a fake-dating story because you always know what you get 😍🙈
Jackson is a great person with lots of problems but I love that he comes to realize that he does not have to solve them alone and it is good to accept help.
Zoe knows what she want and she makes sure to get it. I love how she does not compromise or back down from what she wants.
This book is the third in Maple Falls and will hopefully not be the last 🙌🏻🙌🏻
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to Harper Graham and NetGalley for providing an advanced copy.
Harper Graham knocks it out of the park once again with Zoe and Jackson. Each return to Maple Falls feels like coming home, and Graham has a real gift for drawing readers into the town and its people. The characters are rich and layered, from their shared history and long-held, secret feelings for one another to the lovingly detailed backstory of the flower shop itself.
The addition of a town mystery added an extra layer of intrigue and kept me eagerly turning the pages. I also loved how seamlessly Graham wove in characters from previous novels, expanding the overall story without overwhelming new readers. This book works beautifully as a standalone, while still rewarding longtime fans.
I absolutely cannot wait for the next installment!
Harper Graham knocks it out of the park once again with Zoe and Jackson. Each return to Maple Falls feels like coming home, and Graham has a real gift for drawing readers into the town and its people. The characters are rich and layered, from their shared history and long-held, secret feelings for one another to the lovingly detailed backstory of the flower shop itself.
The addition of a town mystery added an extra layer of intrigue and kept me eagerly turning the pages. I also loved how seamlessly Graham wove in characters from previous novels, expanding the overall story without overwhelming new readers. This book works beautifully as a standalone, while still rewarding longtime fans.
I absolutely cannot wait for the next installment!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I was lucky to read this as an ARC the same as I have for books 1 & 2 and this just ticks all those cosy, small town romance vibes we want.
Zoe & Jackson have been friends since they were kids and when a misunderstanding sees them as the hottest new couple with some big wagers set on them winning Couple of the Year at the Spring Festival these 2 best friends don't find it as hard to pretend as they thought.
Jackson and Zoe only recently reconnected when he came back from deployment and she moved home after splitting with her ex. Zoe knows what she wants in a relationship and Jackson still needs to work on some stuff after his time spent away.
Friends to Lovers
Fake dating
Years of yearning
Protective MC
Independent FC
🌶️🌶️.5
Thank you Bookouture & NetGalley for approving this ARC.
Zoe & Jackson have been friends since they were kids and when a misunderstanding sees them as the hottest new couple with some big wagers set on them winning Couple of the Year at the Spring Festival these 2 best friends don't find it as hard to pretend as they thought.
Jackson and Zoe only recently reconnected when he came back from deployment and she moved home after splitting with her ex. Zoe knows what she wants in a relationship and Jackson still needs to work on some stuff after his time spent away.
Friends to Lovers
Fake dating
Years of yearning
Protective MC
Independent FC
🌶️🌶️.5
Thank you Bookouture & NetGalley for approving this ARC.
January 12, 2026
I love this little town and all its characters. This one about a soldier that comes home with PTSD and doesn’t believe he deserves good. Then Zoe who has loved Jackson since she was little but could never tell him and fears once he finds out she wants kids it will the dealbreaker. They start off fake dating but it quickly turns real. This book is heavy with spice from the beginning in daydreams of what they would like to do with each other. The author pulls you in so you are emotionally vested with this couples journey.
Thank you Bookouture through NetGalley for allowing me to review this book. I adore the series and the author!
Bookouture, a division of Hachette UK Group, registered in England and Wales under company no. 7893911.
Thank you Bookouture through NetGalley for allowing me to review this book. I adore the series and the author!
Bookouture, a division of Hachette UK Group, registered in England and Wales under company no. 7893911.
January 8, 2026
I adore this series. What is not to love!
Chemistry too hard to ignore, small town vibes and flowers.
This one hit differently for me, because I live in a military town and have seen first hand what PTSD does to service members.
One of the main characters Jackson is trying to heal from his military service.
There is a Spring Festival and Zoe is the person who might be able to help him through his struggles.
I am always up for a happy ending, but as these too navigate a fake-relationship, they struggle to keep their true feelings with each other.
Thank you Bookouture for having me on tour.
Chemistry too hard to ignore, small town vibes and flowers.
This one hit differently for me, because I live in a military town and have seen first hand what PTSD does to service members.
One of the main characters Jackson is trying to heal from his military service.
There is a Spring Festival and Zoe is the person who might be able to help him through his struggles.
I am always up for a happy ending, but as these too navigate a fake-relationship, they struggle to keep their true feelings with each other.
Thank you Bookouture for having me on tour.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
This was such a cozy, comforting read with more chemistry than I expected. The small town setting was warm and charming, and the fake dating friends to lovers trope worked really well without feeling rushed. I loved how the story balanced sweetness with emotional depth.
Zoe and Jackson’s connection felt genuine, especially in the quieter moments when it stopped feeling fake. Some tropes were familiar, which is why it’s a 4.5 instead of a full 5 for me, but overall this was a sweet, spicy, feel good romance that I really enjoyed.
This was such a cozy, comforting read with more chemistry than I expected. The small town setting was warm and charming, and the fake dating friends to lovers trope worked really well without feeling rushed. I loved how the story balanced sweetness with emotional depth.
Zoe and Jackson’s connection felt genuine, especially in the quieter moments when it stopped feeling fake. Some tropes were familiar, which is why it’s a 4.5 instead of a full 5 for me, but overall this was a sweet, spicy, feel good romance that I really enjoyed.
January 17, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley, the publishers, and the author for this ARC!
This was such a fun, cozy, romance. For me, this was a solid 3.5 rounded up. I enjoyed that this can function as a stand alone - I haven’t read the other 2 books in the Maple Hills world, but I didn’t feel like it was necessary. I absolutely LOVE both best friends to lovers and a fake dating trope, and this book gives you both. I really enjoyed how the characters both had traumas, both well dealt with by the author, and how they navigated those to be together. Overall, such a cute and cozy romance!
This was such a fun, cozy, romance. For me, this was a solid 3.5 rounded up. I enjoyed that this can function as a stand alone - I haven’t read the other 2 books in the Maple Hills world, but I didn’t feel like it was necessary. I absolutely LOVE both best friends to lovers and a fake dating trope, and this book gives you both. I really enjoyed how the characters both had traumas, both well dealt with by the author, and how they navigated those to be together. Overall, such a cute and cozy romance!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Book 3 of the Maple Falls series and the books keep getting better! Zoe and Jackson's love story has been hinted at leading up to this book. I was thrilled to learn that they would be the next couple in the series.
Both Zoe and Jackson have a past that has left them a little (or a lot) broken. It takes some time for them to work through their individual issues while trying to navigate a new, but fake, relationship that has been almost a lifetime in the making. It's not quite yearning and it's not quite tension but it is delicious nonetheless.
Both Zoe and Jackson have a past that has left them a little (or a lot) broken. It takes some time for them to work through their individual issues while trying to navigate a new, but fake, relationship that has been almost a lifetime in the making. It's not quite yearning and it's not quite tension but it is delicious nonetheless.
January 17, 2026
Another visit to Maple Falls and it did not disappoint! When this dropped into my emails, I was eager to get started. I’ve been looking forward to reading if someone could help Jackson face his demons and who better to do that than Zoe?! I absolutely love Maple Falls and all of its residents, especially the relationships between the younger and older residents. I cannot wait to read about Krista and Joe and how their summer turns out!! I love the seasonal feel to each book too and how they blend so well. Another fantastic book by Harper!!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I have had the pleasure of reading the other stories of this cute small town made by Harper Graham. I have enjoyed every single one! This one felt a just as cozy and spicy as the others. I love a good fake dating trope. This is the perfect spring read, great vibes, highly recommend!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
If you love Stardew Valley, Gilmore Girls, or Virgin River- this is the series for you!
It’s a cozy romance with a bit of spice, amidst a series that you don’t have to read in chronological order to enjoy.
It even has the intrusive neighbors and townspeople that we all can’t get enough of!
It’s a cozy romance with a bit of spice, amidst a series that you don’t have to read in chronological order to enjoy.
It even has the intrusive neighbors and townspeople that we all can’t get enough of!
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