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Love Tapped
Willow Alder is a liar.
When she unexpectedly comes home to Sugar Hill Hollow, everyone thinks she’s there to take some time off before she starts veterinary school, but the truth is–she didn’t get in. And how better to prove to everyone and herself that her life isn’t a complete failure than accepting the challenge to revive her family’s shuttered maple syrup store before her brothers officially close it?
Only the situation gets even stickier when Jace Miller walks back into her life. Her older brother’s best friend. The man who was always off-limits, whose gaze always lingered a little too long and who she’s carried a silent, stubborn crush on for years.
He’s back at home after being forced into early retirement by a career-ending injury. Nursing a bruised ego, and with time on his hands, Jace offers to help Willow with her shop in exchange for fixing up the town’s old ice rink.
Their arrangement should be simple, but isn’t. Willow quickly discovers that saving the shop isn’t her biggest problem. It’s falling even harder for the one man she can’t risk wanting. His smoldering eyes and the unspoken heat between them has her questioning everything she thought she knew.
Because in Sugar Hill Hollow, the sweetest things simmer slowly…and some old feelings can never stay buried.
When she unexpectedly comes home to Sugar Hill Hollow, everyone thinks she’s there to take some time off before she starts veterinary school, but the truth is–she didn’t get in. And how better to prove to everyone and herself that her life isn’t a complete failure than accepting the challenge to revive her family’s shuttered maple syrup store before her brothers officially close it?
Only the situation gets even stickier when Jace Miller walks back into her life. Her older brother’s best friend. The man who was always off-limits, whose gaze always lingered a little too long and who she’s carried a silent, stubborn crush on for years.
He’s back at home after being forced into early retirement by a career-ending injury. Nursing a bruised ego, and with time on his hands, Jace offers to help Willow with her shop in exchange for fixing up the town’s old ice rink.
Their arrangement should be simple, but isn’t. Willow quickly discovers that saving the shop isn’t her biggest problem. It’s falling even harder for the one man she can’t risk wanting. His smoldering eyes and the unspoken heat between them has her questioning everything she thought she knew.
Because in Sugar Hill Hollow, the sweetest things simmer slowly…and some old feelings can never stay buried.
328 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 8, 2026
50 people are currently reading
386 people want to read
About the author
Cali Melle
32 books1,314 followersCali Melle is a USA Today Bestselling Author who writes sports romance that will pull at your heartstrings. You can always expect her stories to come fully equipped with heartthrobs and a happy ending, along with some steamy scenes.
In her free time, Cali can usually be found living in a magical, fantasy world with the newest book or fanfic she's reading or freezing at the ice rink while she watches her kids play hockey.
In her free time, Cali can usually be found living in a magical, fantasy world with the newest book or fanfic she's reading or freezing at the ice rink while she watches her kids play hockey.
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January 6, 2026⋅˚₊‧ ୨ 𝒫𝓇𝑒-𝓇𝑒𝒶𝒹: ୧ ‧₊˚ ⋅ In case you haven't heard or don't follow me on my Bookstagram, last week, I got invited to join the Hambright PR influencer squad! They reached out to me and invited me to join, and this is the first ARC I've received from them since joining. Am I reading a fall romance in January? Yes.🍂🍁🎃 Is this also getting published in about *checks watch* 48 hours? Also yes. Am I going to try my absolute hardest to read this before then? Yup.
HUGE thank you to Cali Melle and Hambright PR for the free eARC in exchange for an honest review. Love Tapped will be officially published on January 8th, 2026!
HUGE thank you to Cali Melle and Hambright PR for the free eARC in exchange for an honest review. Love Tapped will be officially published on January 8th, 2026!
December 29, 2025
⊹ ࣪ ˖⌗ ┆ ARC Review - 5 ★
this book feels like a warm,comforting hug. it was kinda slow burn but that’s what made their love story feel realistic and special. there wasn’t any lust between them, just a pure and genuine feeling of love. their relationship and love story were overall very wholesome. there was also a little appearance from mia from 'make your shot' which made the story more interesting. willow’s relationship with her brothers was wholesome and healthy too. they really understood each other and communicated well. the small town setting helped create a cozy atmosphere with kind and supportive people who looked out for each other.
i’m so happy my end of the year reads were all great including this book <3
❥・tropes:
🍁 small town
🧡 brother's best friend
🏘️ returning home
🔥 forced proximity
❤️🔥 mutual pining
🛠️ working together
₊⊹ Thank you to author Cali Melle for the e-ARC!
this book feels like a warm,comforting hug. it was kinda slow burn but that’s what made their love story feel realistic and special. there wasn’t any lust between them, just a pure and genuine feeling of love. their relationship and love story were overall very wholesome. there was also a little appearance from mia from 'make your shot' which made the story more interesting. willow’s relationship with her brothers was wholesome and healthy too. they really understood each other and communicated well. the small town setting helped create a cozy atmosphere with kind and supportive people who looked out for each other.
i’m so happy my end of the year reads were all great including this book <3
❥・tropes:
🍁 small town
🧡 brother's best friend
🏘️ returning home
🔥 forced proximity
❤️🔥 mutual pining
🛠️ working together
₊⊹ Thank you to author Cali Melle for the e-ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Author
arc rtc
Review of advance copy
🤎 ᴀʀᴄ ʀᴇᴠɪᴇᴡ ʟᴏᴠᴇ ᴛᴀᴘᴘᴇᴅ - ᴄᴀʟɪ ᴍᴇʟʟᴇ 🤎
ᴍʏ ʀᴀᴛɪɴɢ: ★★★★.5
This was my first encounter with the author’s work, but I already know it won’t be my last. What initially drew me to this story was its description and the themes it explored. I had a feeling it might be a book for me, so I was truly delighted to be given the opportunity to read it early and review it.
I had a wonderful time with this book – I laughed more than once, but there were also moments that genuinely moved me. I can’t wait for the next installments, because I already know they will appeal to me just as much.
The author’s writing style is incredibly pleasant, light, and easy to follow, which made the book a very quick and enjoyable read. She has a remarkable ability to portray the emotions and feelings of the characters, allowing me to connect with them almost instantly and experience everything right alongside them.
The small-town atmosphere completely won me over. It was described so beautifully that I quickly felt as if I were there myself, witnessing everything firsthand.
Willow and Jace are characters I liked from the very beginning. I grew deeply attached to them, and discovering their story was incredibly satisfying. I loved the way their relationship was portrayed – how with each page it became clearer that they were growing more and more important to one another, how they cared for each other, spent time together, and slowly fell in love. They were a tremendous source of support for one another, and even when things became difficult or they made decisions that hurt each other, they always found their way back through honest conversation. Despite their doubts, they knew that in each other’s arms they had found a home and something truly special – something that doesn’t happen very often.
This story stole my heart, and I’m grateful I had the chance to experience it. I can’t wait to read more stories written by this author, as I’m convinced I’ll enjoy them just as much. I wholeheartedly recommend this book – it is truly worth discovering.
ᴍʏ ʀᴀᴛɪɴɢ: ★★★★.5
This was my first encounter with the author’s work, but I already know it won’t be my last. What initially drew me to this story was its description and the themes it explored. I had a feeling it might be a book for me, so I was truly delighted to be given the opportunity to read it early and review it.
I had a wonderful time with this book – I laughed more than once, but there were also moments that genuinely moved me. I can’t wait for the next installments, because I already know they will appeal to me just as much.
The author’s writing style is incredibly pleasant, light, and easy to follow, which made the book a very quick and enjoyable read. She has a remarkable ability to portray the emotions and feelings of the characters, allowing me to connect with them almost instantly and experience everything right alongside them.
The small-town atmosphere completely won me over. It was described so beautifully that I quickly felt as if I were there myself, witnessing everything firsthand.
Willow and Jace are characters I liked from the very beginning. I grew deeply attached to them, and discovering their story was incredibly satisfying. I loved the way their relationship was portrayed – how with each page it became clearer that they were growing more and more important to one another, how they cared for each other, spent time together, and slowly fell in love. They were a tremendous source of support for one another, and even when things became difficult or they made decisions that hurt each other, they always found their way back through honest conversation. Despite their doubts, they knew that in each other’s arms they had found a home and something truly special – something that doesn’t happen very often.
This story stole my heart, and I’m grateful I had the chance to experience it. I can’t wait to read more stories written by this author, as I’m convinced I’ll enjoy them just as much. I wholeheartedly recommend this book – it is truly worth discovering.
January 8, 2026
Willow’s back in Sugar Hill Hollow to save her family’s maple syrup shop… and ends up working alongside Jace, her brother’s best friend and longtime crush. 🥹💞 Childhood friends, secret crushes, and that brother’s best friend tension? Totally irresistible.
The slow burn makes their love story feel real and heartfelt, but there are some spicy moments that add just the right amount of heat. 🔥
One of my favorite parts was when Jace called his mom, he’s always worried he’s failed the people he cares about, and seeing him open up and get her encouragement was beautifully written. 💛 Willow’s relationship with her brothers was equally amazing they’re protective but also trust her and let her make her own decisions, never treating her like a little girl. 🏡
Huge thanks to Cali Melle and Hambright PR for the free eARC in exchange for an honest review! 💖
The slow burn makes their love story feel real and heartfelt, but there are some spicy moments that add just the right amount of heat. 🔥
One of my favorite parts was when Jace called his mom, he’s always worried he’s failed the people he cares about, and seeing him open up and get her encouragement was beautifully written. 💛 Willow’s relationship with her brothers was equally amazing they’re protective but also trust her and let her make her own decisions, never treating her like a little girl. 🏡
Huge thanks to Cali Melle and Hambright PR for the free eARC in exchange for an honest review! 💖
January 8, 2026
This book felt like being wrapped up in a warm blanket and you never want to leave. I loved this book so much. I couldn’t put it down from the first chapter I wanted to get to know the characters more deeply and I did. This book didn’t disappoint.
Stars:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️
Stars:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️
Review of advance copy received from Revisori indipendenti
What a cozy read Love Tapped was!
It transported me to a small town full of lovable characters, I immediately felt part of the Adlers family, and I adored Jace and Willow's love story. They have such a strong chemistry and the simmering tension between them is palpable! I loved the slow burn of the first half of the book and, by the end of it, I really was ready for them to say "f**k it" and kiss! And the spice was a pretty good mix of sweet and hot. The bathroom scene will always live rent free in my mind.
It transported me to a small town full of lovable characters, I immediately felt part of the Adlers family, and I adored Jace and Willow's love story. They have such a strong chemistry and the simmering tension between them is palpable! I loved the slow burn of the first half of the book and, by the end of it, I really was ready for them to say "f**k it" and kiss! And the spice was a pretty good mix of sweet and hot. The bathroom scene will always live rent free in my mind.
January 8, 2026
Rating | 3.5 ⭐
After loving Cali’s Aston Archers series, I was really excited to see her start this new one. This was such an easy, feel-good read that gives all the cozy small-town fall vibes you could want. The story felt very immersive, and reading it genuinely made me want to be transported straight into Sugar Hill Hollow.
For the most part, I really liked the progression of Willow and Jace’s relationship. These two give “it’s always been you for me,” and I adored that. The slow-burn pacing was done so well, and I was constantly waiting for the tension to finally snap. I especially loved seeing their friendship reconnect and watching them find comfort in each other after such big changes in their personal lives.
Another thing I really appreciated was Willow’s relationship with her brothers. Their bond is so strong, supportive, and loving, which I found incredibly sweet. I also loved seeing Willow form connections with other people in Sugar Hill Hollow. It really helped build out the town and made the world of this series feel alive and well developed.
My one reservation with this book came once Willow and Jace entered their situationship. Personally, it felt like some of the sweetness from their established friendship was pushed aside in favor of spice. Not that the spice was bad, but I just would’ve loved a few more wholesome moments alongside it.
Overall, I still really enjoyed this and I’m excited to see what comes next in this series.
After loving Cali’s Aston Archers series, I was really excited to see her start this new one. This was such an easy, feel-good read that gives all the cozy small-town fall vibes you could want. The story felt very immersive, and reading it genuinely made me want to be transported straight into Sugar Hill Hollow.
For the most part, I really liked the progression of Willow and Jace’s relationship. These two give “it’s always been you for me,” and I adored that. The slow-burn pacing was done so well, and I was constantly waiting for the tension to finally snap. I especially loved seeing their friendship reconnect and watching them find comfort in each other after such big changes in their personal lives.
Another thing I really appreciated was Willow’s relationship with her brothers. Their bond is so strong, supportive, and loving, which I found incredibly sweet. I also loved seeing Willow form connections with other people in Sugar Hill Hollow. It really helped build out the town and made the world of this series feel alive and well developed.
My one reservation with this book came once Willow and Jace entered their situationship. Personally, it felt like some of the sweetness from their established friendship was pushed aside in favor of spice. Not that the spice was bad, but I just would’ve loved a few more wholesome moments alongside it.
Overall, I still really enjoyed this and I’m excited to see what comes next in this series.
January 7, 2026
First book of 2026 and what a cute one it is!
We’re taken back to a small town, where two people who have been friends forever slowly start wondering if they’re feeling more than friendship for each other. The problem is that they both have fears and troubles they’re struggling with in their own way.
”There’s no comparison between someone else’s situation and your own. The way each person perceives or experiences life is theirs, not yours.”
Jace is such an attentive, caring sweetheart. Not a single bad bone in his body. Willow knows how to get into people’s hearts and is such a kind person. She’s been in love with him forever, but always to scared to act on it, while he’s always been to scared to miss things up with his best friend, who’s also her brother. Yet, I loved the great connections and communication in this story among all the characters. The support they always give everyone around them is truly admirable.
“If you don’t know what you want, if you’re not sure that I’m what you want, or if you’re going to continue to live in your fear of letting me down or failing me, then that’s all it will ever be. And I don’t want that.”
What a perfect small town romance! It gave me all the giggles and butterflies, it had me melting like maple syrup 🍯
”She’s my final destination.”
Thank you so much to Cali Melle for the ARC, I really appreciate it!
We’re taken back to a small town, where two people who have been friends forever slowly start wondering if they’re feeling more than friendship for each other. The problem is that they both have fears and troubles they’re struggling with in their own way.
”There’s no comparison between someone else’s situation and your own. The way each person perceives or experiences life is theirs, not yours.”
Jace is such an attentive, caring sweetheart. Not a single bad bone in his body. Willow knows how to get into people’s hearts and is such a kind person. She’s been in love with him forever, but always to scared to act on it, while he’s always been to scared to miss things up with his best friend, who’s also her brother. Yet, I loved the great connections and communication in this story among all the characters. The support they always give everyone around them is truly admirable.
“If you don’t know what you want, if you’re not sure that I’m what you want, or if you’re going to continue to live in your fear of letting me down or failing me, then that’s all it will ever be. And I don’t want that.”
What a perfect small town romance! It gave me all the giggles and butterflies, it had me melting like maple syrup 🍯
”She’s my final destination.”
Thank you so much to Cali Melle for the ARC, I really appreciate it!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
“I don’t ever want it back, just so you know.”
“What?"
“My heart.”
A story of hope, persistence, and believing in a vision and in themselves.
This was an easy, feel-good read that kept me turning the pages. While I’m not usually a big fan of the friends-to-lovers trope, it never felt overwhelming here. The progression of Willow and Jace’s relationship was natural and well developed, making their journey believable and engaging.
The story flows smoothly and is easy to follow, with added glimpses into past interactions without ever slowing the pace. Those moments added depth and emotional context without feeling repetitive or heavy-handed.
There’s a steady tension and build-up between Willow and Jace that’s been present since they were younger, and it only intensifies now that they’re working closely and supporting one another. Both characters are held back by fear—of failing, of disappointing the other, and of opening themselves up emotionally—which makes this a true slow-burn romance. When it finally pays off, it hits all the right spots.
I really enjoyed the side characters, especially the Alder brothers, and I’m definitely looking forward to reading more about them in future books.
Thank you Hambright PR for the advance e-copy!
“What?"
“My heart.”
A story of hope, persistence, and believing in a vision and in themselves.
This was an easy, feel-good read that kept me turning the pages. While I’m not usually a big fan of the friends-to-lovers trope, it never felt overwhelming here. The progression of Willow and Jace’s relationship was natural and well developed, making their journey believable and engaging.
The story flows smoothly and is easy to follow, with added glimpses into past interactions without ever slowing the pace. Those moments added depth and emotional context without feeling repetitive or heavy-handed.
There’s a steady tension and build-up between Willow and Jace that’s been present since they were younger, and it only intensifies now that they’re working closely and supporting one another. Both characters are held back by fear—of failing, of disappointing the other, and of opening themselves up emotionally—which makes this a true slow-burn romance. When it finally pays off, it hits all the right spots.
I really enjoyed the side characters, especially the Alder brothers, and I’m definitely looking forward to reading more about them in future books.
Thank you Hambright PR for the advance e-copy!
January 5, 2026
This was a great start for a new series! Willow and Jace have known each other forever. They both return home because their lives are at a crossroad. Willow returns home when she doesn’t get accepted into vet school and Jace is back because he was forced to retire from his hockey career. Both of them feel like failures but they are trying to adapt to their new normal in the place where life was just more simple.
Willow decides to rebrand her family’s store and Jace volunteers to help her. Their working together makes them remember how close they were and to act on feeling they’ve never acknowledged. They agree that their situation is temporary but their feelings are not casual. Both of them are afraid to fail and there’s the fact that Jace is her brother’s best friend. Willow and Jace have to realize that they’ve always had a connection and that they were destined for each other.
**I received an advanced copy of this book for free and O am voluntarily leaving this review.**
Willow decides to rebrand her family’s store and Jace volunteers to help her. Their working together makes them remember how close they were and to act on feeling they’ve never acknowledged. They agree that their situation is temporary but their feelings are not casual. Both of them are afraid to fail and there’s the fact that Jace is her brother’s best friend. Willow and Jace have to realize that they’ve always had a connection and that they were destined for each other.
**I received an advanced copy of this book for free and O am voluntarily leaving this review.**
January 8, 2026
Love Tapped by Cali Melle is a super cute small town brothers best friend romance that will have your heart right from the start!
Willow has always had a soft spot for Jace—ever since they were kids—but sometimes the one thing we want most is the one thing we can’t have.
Jace is Willow’s brother Noah’s best friend, and playing with fire is never a good idea… until maybe it is. Years later, Willow returns to her small town to run her family’s generational shop, only to come face-to-face with feelings she thought she’d left behind. Jace, an ex–hockey star forced into early retirement after an injury, has also returned home.
When they reunite, sparks fly in this small-town friends-to-lovers romance filled with sneaking around, spice, and raw emotions.
I thoroughly enjoyed the characters, their growth, and watching their love for each other unfold throughout the story.
Tropes:
Brothers best friend
Small town
Friends to lovers
Willow has always had a soft spot for Jace—ever since they were kids—but sometimes the one thing we want most is the one thing we can’t have.
Jace is Willow’s brother Noah’s best friend, and playing with fire is never a good idea… until maybe it is. Years later, Willow returns to her small town to run her family’s generational shop, only to come face-to-face with feelings she thought she’d left behind. Jace, an ex–hockey star forced into early retirement after an injury, has also returned home.
When they reunite, sparks fly in this small-town friends-to-lovers romance filled with sneaking around, spice, and raw emotions.
I thoroughly enjoyed the characters, their growth, and watching their love for each other unfold throughout the story.
Tropes:
Brothers best friend
Small town
Friends to lovers
December 27, 2025
Jace & Willow
The small town, childhood friends who have always secretly had a crush on each other reunite in this cute romance story
Both of them feeling lost and a bit defeated with life, they find themselves back in their home town where old feelings ignite and the pull towards each other is undeniable
This is everything you love in a brothers best friend story, where the sneaking around and the ‘we shouldn’t do this’ makes the chemistry so much fun
🧡Brothers Best Friend
🧡It’s Always been You
🧡Small town Romance
🧡Friends to Lovers
🧡Mutual Pining
4⭐️ 2.5🌶️
Bonus points for spice scenes, they were well written and worth the build up to get there!
Thankyou to Cali for the arc opportunity 🫶🏻
The small town, childhood friends who have always secretly had a crush on each other reunite in this cute romance story
Both of them feeling lost and a bit defeated with life, they find themselves back in their home town where old feelings ignite and the pull towards each other is undeniable
This is everything you love in a brothers best friend story, where the sneaking around and the ‘we shouldn’t do this’ makes the chemistry so much fun
🧡Brothers Best Friend
🧡It’s Always been You
🧡Small town Romance
🧡Friends to Lovers
🧡Mutual Pining
4⭐️ 2.5🌶️
Bonus points for spice scenes, they were well written and worth the build up to get there!
Thankyou to Cali for the arc opportunity 🫶🏻
January 8, 2026
A romance that delivers a stack of small town charm and a happily ever after. Two floundering souls return to their hometown and find their purpose and love. Willow is determined to prove she isn’t a failure by reviving her grandmother’s maple syrup store. After an injury derails his hockey career, Willow’s brother’s best friend Jace, returns to revive the rundown hockey rink. The two agree to help each with their endeavors, and a romantic relationship builds as well. I appreciated most the vulnerability of both of the characters—although their steamy romance was the whipped topping and added just the right amount of extra sweetness. This was a great start to a new series, I’m excited to go back and visit more of Sugar Hill Hollow.
Thanks to the author for the eARC.
Thanks to the author for the eARC.
December 28, 2025
Love Trapped by Cali Melle eARC Review 🍯
This book is such a sweet, small town, friends to lovers story. Cali’s writing is always such a comfort read, like a warm hug.
Willow and Jace are so sweet. They are both struggling with feeling like they are failing at certain aspects of their life and don’t want that to affect an emotional relationship between the two of them. When they can’t deny that they have chemistry they try to just have a physical relationship but after learning they have both had strong feelings for eachother for years it doesn’t go exactly as they had planned. 🤭
This is such a beautiful and heartwarming story. I loved it and can’t wait for more of this series.
What to expect:
🏘️ small town
🤫 brother's best friend
💑 friends to lovers
🔒 forced proximity
🔥 mutual pining
Thank you so much Cali for the ARC!
This book is such a sweet, small town, friends to lovers story. Cali’s writing is always such a comfort read, like a warm hug.
Willow and Jace are so sweet. They are both struggling with feeling like they are failing at certain aspects of their life and don’t want that to affect an emotional relationship between the two of them. When they can’t deny that they have chemistry they try to just have a physical relationship but after learning they have both had strong feelings for eachother for years it doesn’t go exactly as they had planned. 🤭
This is such a beautiful and heartwarming story. I loved it and can’t wait for more of this series.
What to expect:
🏘️ small town
🤫 brother's best friend
💑 friends to lovers
🔒 forced proximity
🔥 mutual pining
Thank you so much Cali for the ARC!
January 8, 2026
This sweet book was the perfect way to kick off a new series! Jace and Willow were so stinking cute. These two knuckleheads were so worried about letting each other down they couldn’t see what was right I front of them. Luckily they worked out their issues and got their HEA!!! The flip during the third act was perfect! I was so proud of Willow for standing up for herself! Loved that Jace was a cat daddy and I got a kick out of the names he chose, Snoop and Dr Grey! The story of their adoption was perfect and had me getting a little misty eyed.
These two were so perfect for each other and I enjoyed their story.
These two were so perfect for each other and I enjoyed their story.
Review of advance copy received from Author
4 ⭐️.
Full review soon…
Full review soon…
January 8, 2026
✨ARC Review✨
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️
I sat and read this book in one sitting. I couldn’t put it down. I was in love with this book from the moment I started it. I went in thinking it was going to play out one way, and it went a whole other way and I was not disappointed at all!
Jace and Willow both have their troubles. I couldn’t wait to hear their story unfold. They had been friends forever and they both fought their feelings for each other. But it was written so well and felt natural.
One thing I love about this book is that while they might have hurt each other, they always had hard, honest conversations. That will always be a win in my book.
I love this small town romance, I can’t wait to see what comes next from this town. Because that maple syrup was…perfection! ;)
What to Expect
🍁 Small Town
🍁 Brother's Best Friend
🍁 Friends to Lovers
🍁 Forced Proximity
🍁 Mutual Pining
Cali thank you so much for this eARC. I loved this book so much! Thanks for dealing with my messages throughout reading this, ha!
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️
I sat and read this book in one sitting. I couldn’t put it down. I was in love with this book from the moment I started it. I went in thinking it was going to play out one way, and it went a whole other way and I was not disappointed at all!
Jace and Willow both have their troubles. I couldn’t wait to hear their story unfold. They had been friends forever and they both fought their feelings for each other. But it was written so well and felt natural.
One thing I love about this book is that while they might have hurt each other, they always had hard, honest conversations. That will always be a win in my book.
I love this small town romance, I can’t wait to see what comes next from this town. Because that maple syrup was…perfection! ;)
What to Expect
🍁 Small Town
🍁 Brother's Best Friend
🍁 Friends to Lovers
🍁 Forced Proximity
🍁 Mutual Pining
Cali thank you so much for this eARC. I loved this book so much! Thanks for dealing with my messages throughout reading this, ha!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wow....this book was the perfect start to the Sugar Hill Hollows Series. Jace and Willow are perfection, I am struggling to find a better word because this book is so good! I will definitely be buying it to have Cali sign it when I get to a book signing.
Willow's family has lived in Sugar Hill Hollows for generations and provided high quality maple syrup for years. With the high demands on the farm, her brother's decided to shutter her Grandmother's legacy, the store in town. When Willow moves back home after college, defeated from her veterinary school rejection, she is determined to show not only her brothers but herself that the store can be a success. She won't let her Grandmother's dreams fail and needs to prove to herself that she isn't a failure. With renewed energy and a gung-ho attitude she sets out to get the store ready for the Harvest Fest. After seeing the store, she knows that it will be a challenge but soon it becomes her dream. Willow quickly discovers a new passion and collaborates with other local businesses to support each other and help spread the success.
Jace was unexpectedly forced to retire from his NHL career because of an ankle injury that didn’t heal properly. He didn't want his career end due to an injury and felt like a failure. His plans for the future were shattered like his ankle. He shut everyone out and had no clear path except to return home. For the first couple weeks, he agreed to help his aunt and uncle but that was only temporary. After learning that the local ice rink was for sale, it was suggested that he buy it and reopen it. As much as the rink meant to him, he was scared that he would fail again. He was scared to let down the people he loved and those that loved him. He had friends but didn't feel like he deserved more.
Jace and Willow grew up together and Jace was best friends with one of her brothers. Wherever they went, Jace made sure that Willow was welcome to tag along. Soon childhood crushes developed but never went anywhere with Jace moving to the NHL before Willow graduated high school. Willow tried to move on and find someone worthy but no one proved to be the one for her. Jace was so focused on hockey that he never made finding his person a priority.
With both of them now in Sugar Hill Hollow, they rekindled their friendship and they both offered to help the other make their new dreams come true. Jace worked tirelessly helping Willow set up the store in time for the festival. Willow helped Jace see the possibilities for the old rink and reassured him that she would do whatever she could to help him succeed. With their friendship growing stronger, the feelings that they both buried from childhood began to resurface. Soon they couldn't fight the attraction and the sparks flew. They kept their feelings locked up and their extra curricular activities a secret from everyone.
As time passed it became harder and harder to hide the truth. Though both tried to play it off and say that their hearts weren't involved. They were lying to everyone and themselves. After her brother confronted Jace, he got scared and wanted to run. Scared that he failed again and that that everything he touched resulted in another failure. Willow could see what Jace was doing and chose to walk away, not letting Jace control the narrative. By doing this, it forced Jace to really look at their situationship and what he truly wanted for his future. He finally reached out for help and with the help if his mother and business partner, he knew what he needed to do to get the life he wanted. He finally had a goal that he was determined to follow through on.
Willow succeeded in having a wonderful grand opening for the store. The town and tourists seemed to love all the products and the lattes and cookies. Seeing success, she finally had the courage to tell her family about not getting into vet school and how it no longer felt like the right fit. She told them that the store and preserving her Grandmother's legacy was where she belonged. It was her new dream. She wanted Hace to ve part of her future but knew that she had to let him decide if he wanted a shared path.
Jace and Willow are strong main characters who are perfect for each other and it is clear to those who know them well. They are their own worse enemy and critic. They are each other’s fiercest cheerleader and ally. They both are terrified of hurting the people they love and believe that they are failures because their dreams didn't turn out as planned. Once they realize that dreams change and that the only way they truly would fail is by not trying at all they can find their happily ever after!
Thank you Cali Melle for sharing an ARC with me and giving me the opportunity to review!
Willow's family has lived in Sugar Hill Hollows for generations and provided high quality maple syrup for years. With the high demands on the farm, her brother's decided to shutter her Grandmother's legacy, the store in town. When Willow moves back home after college, defeated from her veterinary school rejection, she is determined to show not only her brothers but herself that the store can be a success. She won't let her Grandmother's dreams fail and needs to prove to herself that she isn't a failure. With renewed energy and a gung-ho attitude she sets out to get the store ready for the Harvest Fest. After seeing the store, she knows that it will be a challenge but soon it becomes her dream. Willow quickly discovers a new passion and collaborates with other local businesses to support each other and help spread the success.
Jace was unexpectedly forced to retire from his NHL career because of an ankle injury that didn’t heal properly. He didn't want his career end due to an injury and felt like a failure. His plans for the future were shattered like his ankle. He shut everyone out and had no clear path except to return home. For the first couple weeks, he agreed to help his aunt and uncle but that was only temporary. After learning that the local ice rink was for sale, it was suggested that he buy it and reopen it. As much as the rink meant to him, he was scared that he would fail again. He was scared to let down the people he loved and those that loved him. He had friends but didn't feel like he deserved more.
Jace and Willow grew up together and Jace was best friends with one of her brothers. Wherever they went, Jace made sure that Willow was welcome to tag along. Soon childhood crushes developed but never went anywhere with Jace moving to the NHL before Willow graduated high school. Willow tried to move on and find someone worthy but no one proved to be the one for her. Jace was so focused on hockey that he never made finding his person a priority.
With both of them now in Sugar Hill Hollow, they rekindled their friendship and they both offered to help the other make their new dreams come true. Jace worked tirelessly helping Willow set up the store in time for the festival. Willow helped Jace see the possibilities for the old rink and reassured him that she would do whatever she could to help him succeed. With their friendship growing stronger, the feelings that they both buried from childhood began to resurface. Soon they couldn't fight the attraction and the sparks flew. They kept their feelings locked up and their extra curricular activities a secret from everyone.
As time passed it became harder and harder to hide the truth. Though both tried to play it off and say that their hearts weren't involved. They were lying to everyone and themselves. After her brother confronted Jace, he got scared and wanted to run. Scared that he failed again and that that everything he touched resulted in another failure. Willow could see what Jace was doing and chose to walk away, not letting Jace control the narrative. By doing this, it forced Jace to really look at their situationship and what he truly wanted for his future. He finally reached out for help and with the help if his mother and business partner, he knew what he needed to do to get the life he wanted. He finally had a goal that he was determined to follow through on.
Willow succeeded in having a wonderful grand opening for the store. The town and tourists seemed to love all the products and the lattes and cookies. Seeing success, she finally had the courage to tell her family about not getting into vet school and how it no longer felt like the right fit. She told them that the store and preserving her Grandmother's legacy was where she belonged. It was her new dream. She wanted Hace to ve part of her future but knew that she had to let him decide if he wanted a shared path.
Jace and Willow are strong main characters who are perfect for each other and it is clear to those who know them well. They are their own worse enemy and critic. They are each other’s fiercest cheerleader and ally. They both are terrified of hurting the people they love and believe that they are failures because their dreams didn't turn out as planned. Once they realize that dreams change and that the only way they truly would fail is by not trying at all they can find their happily ever after!
Thank you Cali Melle for sharing an ARC with me and giving me the opportunity to review!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Oh boy how I always say eat up a brother best friend, childhood crush small town romance so much! Cali never ever disappoints with these books because I devoured this so much!
overall rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
spice rating: 🌶️🌶️
sweetness level: well... things are going to get VERY sticky 🍆🍯
Jace Miller, suffering from a bruised ego after an early retirement, he comes back to the small town of Sugar Hill Hollow and what he didn't expect to find was the one woman he had feelings for when he was younger, but now she's a woman and those feelings are creeping back in... but she's also not the same girl she once was. So Jace finds a solution, they help each other. he helps her with the maple store and she helps him with the rink.
Willow Alder, is returning home after she didn't get into vet school and when her brothers mention that the family maple syrup store is about to close, Willow takes this as an opportunity to be good at something and have a sense of purpose. Although, her childhoods crush and brother's best friend, Jace is back in town and stirring all kinds of feelings inside her again. Although, they agree to help each other out with their projects.
Jace's admiration for Willow was just so freaking sweet to read about. The way he remembers the way she likes her grilled cheese, he knows her coffee order, he kept the DAMN KITTENS SHE RESCUED AS A TEEN?!?!?! Like this man was and is so in love and I just could not stop swooning over how hard he fell for Willow again. Their secret spot too?! I just can;t get over how obsessed he was without realising.
Willow, my sweet girl, I feel her on such a deep level. After failing a goal you work towards for so long only to end up back home without a 'purpose' and lost. I relate a lot to that and I think I admire this book a lot for being open minded about being okay with not achieving something you work so hard towards. Not to say that getting it isn't as rewarding but when you work so hard for something only to lose not and have to find a new path, that's realistic and authentic.
I do love that the brothers are 'protective' but not in the way other book have the brother's lose their minds and freak out but more that they want Willow to be happy and if that's with Jace then they are happy for her, only if Jace can prove to them too that he'll commit to her without hesitation. I think that's really admirable.
Jace doesn't know how to love someone the way he knows Willow deserves and is worried about hurting her but it ultimately hurts her a lot because she wants everything with him, specially because she's been in love with him since she was young... but when they break this 'friends with benefits' arrangement Jace finally realises his true feelings and makes a grand gesture!
Willow is so inspiring. Proving to her family that she is determined to do anything she outs her mind to and learning to accept that what she thought was her path in life, and adjusting to new beginnings. Willow is string and resilient and full of love, she deserves all the happiness in the world.
Jace and Willow's chemistry too? My god! I was facing myself harrrddddd. Firstly, they have amazing banter and conversation, Jace is the biggest flirt to Willow and can;t help himself (we loooveeee that) and let's not forgot to add the MAPLE SCENEEEEE?!?!?! Holy moly, that's a sticky mess I would be very into. Jace is so hot and has such a filthy mouth but Willow is just as sexy. Those two are a match made in heaven.
I had such a wonderful tine entering this new series of Cali's and I am beyond excited with what is too come in the next few books! I really hope I guess who's next in the series. Love Tapped is such a sweet start to the Sugar Hill Hollow series, Jace and Willow (and their adorable cats) are so wholesome and loving and I truely adored this book!
A big thank you to Cali Melle and her team for selecting me as an ARC reader for this new series! I always have such a blast with Cali's books and can't wait to devour more of them!
overall rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
spice rating: 🌶️🌶️
sweetness level: well... things are going to get VERY sticky 🍆🍯
Jace Miller, suffering from a bruised ego after an early retirement, he comes back to the small town of Sugar Hill Hollow and what he didn't expect to find was the one woman he had feelings for when he was younger, but now she's a woman and those feelings are creeping back in... but she's also not the same girl she once was. So Jace finds a solution, they help each other. he helps her with the maple store and she helps him with the rink.
Willow Alder, is returning home after she didn't get into vet school and when her brothers mention that the family maple syrup store is about to close, Willow takes this as an opportunity to be good at something and have a sense of purpose. Although, her childhoods crush and brother's best friend, Jace is back in town and stirring all kinds of feelings inside her again. Although, they agree to help each other out with their projects.
Jace's admiration for Willow was just so freaking sweet to read about. The way he remembers the way she likes her grilled cheese, he knows her coffee order, he kept the DAMN KITTENS SHE RESCUED AS A TEEN?!?!?! Like this man was and is so in love and I just could not stop swooning over how hard he fell for Willow again. Their secret spot too?! I just can;t get over how obsessed he was without realising.
Willow, my sweet girl, I feel her on such a deep level. After failing a goal you work towards for so long only to end up back home without a 'purpose' and lost. I relate a lot to that and I think I admire this book a lot for being open minded about being okay with not achieving something you work so hard towards. Not to say that getting it isn't as rewarding but when you work so hard for something only to lose not and have to find a new path, that's realistic and authentic.
I do love that the brothers are 'protective' but not in the way other book have the brother's lose their minds and freak out but more that they want Willow to be happy and if that's with Jace then they are happy for her, only if Jace can prove to them too that he'll commit to her without hesitation. I think that's really admirable.
Jace doesn't know how to love someone the way he knows Willow deserves and is worried about hurting her but it ultimately hurts her a lot because she wants everything with him, specially because she's been in love with him since she was young... but when they break this 'friends with benefits' arrangement Jace finally realises his true feelings and makes a grand gesture!
Willow is so inspiring. Proving to her family that she is determined to do anything she outs her mind to and learning to accept that what she thought was her path in life, and adjusting to new beginnings. Willow is string and resilient and full of love, she deserves all the happiness in the world.
Jace and Willow's chemistry too? My god! I was facing myself harrrddddd. Firstly, they have amazing banter and conversation, Jace is the biggest flirt to Willow and can;t help himself (we loooveeee that) and let's not forgot to add the MAPLE SCENEEEEE?!?!?! Holy moly, that's a sticky mess I would be very into. Jace is so hot and has such a filthy mouth but Willow is just as sexy. Those two are a match made in heaven.
I had such a wonderful tine entering this new series of Cali's and I am beyond excited with what is too come in the next few books! I really hope I guess who's next in the series. Love Tapped is such a sweet start to the Sugar Hill Hollow series, Jace and Willow (and their adorable cats) are so wholesome and loving and I truely adored this book!
A big thank you to Cali Melle and her team for selecting me as an ARC reader for this new series! I always have such a blast with Cali's books and can't wait to devour more of them!
Review of advance copy received from Author
🍁 Small Town Romance
👫 Brother’s Best Friend
🔥 Slow Burn
❤️🔥 Mutual Pining
🏒 Injured Athlete Hero
🛠️ Working Together
💔 Career Setback
✨ Second Chances
🏡 Returning Home
💞 Friends to Lovers
Star: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25
Love Trapped by Cali Melle is a heartfelt small town romance that leans heavily into emotional growth, quiet yearning, and the kind of slow burn that builds steadily until it feels impossible to ignore. As the first book in the Sugar Hill Hollow series, it does an excellent job of establishing a cozy, close knit setting while delivering a romance that feels personal, layered, and deeply satisfying.
Willow Alder is a compelling heroine because her struggle feels real and relatable. Returning home under the weight of a lie about veterinary school immediately places her in a vulnerable position, and her determination to revive her family’s closed maple syrup store becomes more than just a project. It is her way of reclaiming control, restoring her sense of worth, and proving to herself that one setback does not define her future. Her internal conflict is written with care, balancing self-doubt with quiet resilience, and it is easy to connect with her fear of disappointing the people she loves most.
Jace Miller brings a grounded, emotionally rich presence to the story. Forced into early retirement due to a career-ending injury, he is navigating his own loss of identity and purpose. His return to Sugar Hill Hollow mirrors Willow’s in a way that feels intentional and meaningful. As her older brother’s best friend, his restraint and loyalty add an extra layer of tension to every interaction. The attraction between them has clearly existed for years, and that history makes their connection feel deep rather than rushed. The chemistry is subtle but constant, built through shared moments, unspoken feelings, and a mutual understanding that neither quite knows how to voice.
The partnership they form, helping each other restore meaningful pieces of the town, is one of the strongest elements of the story. Working side by side allows their walls to lower naturally, creating space for emotional intimacy to grow alongside physical attraction. The romance unfolds at a measured pace that fits the tone of the book, making each step forward feel earned and emotionally rewarding.
Sugar Hill Hollow adds warmth and charm without overpowering the romance. The small-town atmosphere, family dynamics, and sense of community enhance the story and give it a comforting backdrop that suits the gentle, simmering nature of the relationship. By the time the feelings between Willow and Jace come fully into the light, the payoff feels satisfying and true to the characters.
Overall, Love Trapped is a tender, slow burning romance that excels at emotional connection and character driven storytelling. It is a strong introduction to the Sugar Hill Hollow series and a great choice for readers who enjoy brother’s best friend romances, small town charm, and love stories that unfold with patience and heart.
👫 Brother’s Best Friend
🔥 Slow Burn
❤️🔥 Mutual Pining
🏒 Injured Athlete Hero
🛠️ Working Together
💔 Career Setback
✨ Second Chances
🏡 Returning Home
💞 Friends to Lovers
Star: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25
Love Trapped by Cali Melle is a heartfelt small town romance that leans heavily into emotional growth, quiet yearning, and the kind of slow burn that builds steadily until it feels impossible to ignore. As the first book in the Sugar Hill Hollow series, it does an excellent job of establishing a cozy, close knit setting while delivering a romance that feels personal, layered, and deeply satisfying.
Willow Alder is a compelling heroine because her struggle feels real and relatable. Returning home under the weight of a lie about veterinary school immediately places her in a vulnerable position, and her determination to revive her family’s closed maple syrup store becomes more than just a project. It is her way of reclaiming control, restoring her sense of worth, and proving to herself that one setback does not define her future. Her internal conflict is written with care, balancing self-doubt with quiet resilience, and it is easy to connect with her fear of disappointing the people she loves most.
Jace Miller brings a grounded, emotionally rich presence to the story. Forced into early retirement due to a career-ending injury, he is navigating his own loss of identity and purpose. His return to Sugar Hill Hollow mirrors Willow’s in a way that feels intentional and meaningful. As her older brother’s best friend, his restraint and loyalty add an extra layer of tension to every interaction. The attraction between them has clearly existed for years, and that history makes their connection feel deep rather than rushed. The chemistry is subtle but constant, built through shared moments, unspoken feelings, and a mutual understanding that neither quite knows how to voice.
The partnership they form, helping each other restore meaningful pieces of the town, is one of the strongest elements of the story. Working side by side allows their walls to lower naturally, creating space for emotional intimacy to grow alongside physical attraction. The romance unfolds at a measured pace that fits the tone of the book, making each step forward feel earned and emotionally rewarding.
Sugar Hill Hollow adds warmth and charm without overpowering the romance. The small-town atmosphere, family dynamics, and sense of community enhance the story and give it a comforting backdrop that suits the gentle, simmering nature of the relationship. By the time the feelings between Willow and Jace come fully into the light, the payoff feels satisfying and true to the characters.
Overall, Love Trapped is a tender, slow burning romance that excels at emotional connection and character driven storytelling. It is a strong introduction to the Sugar Hill Hollow series and a great choice for readers who enjoy brother’s best friend romances, small town charm, and love stories that unfold with patience and heart.
January 9, 2026
4 stars.
"Love Tapped" by Calli Melle is a charming, sweet, well-paced small-town, brother's best friend, "it's always been you" romance between two main characters who have been pining for each other since they were younger. They both find themselves back in their small, cozy hometown, Sugar Hill Hollow, because their "plan A" hasn't worked out for them. Jace used to play professional hockey, but he was forced into an early retirement because of a gnarly injury that effectively ended his career. Willow wants to be a vet, but she was not accepted into vet school. She winds up returning home to help save her family's fledgling maple syrup business and homefront store. She doesn't necessarily *want* to be back home, but that's where circumstances have led her. Jace, on the other hand, has always wanted to return to Sugar Hill Hollow. He's always known he wanted to go back there... especially knowing Willow might be there at some point, too! They have always circled around each other, but Jace stayed away because of Willow's brothers. The "will they or won't they?" aspect of their childhood and subsequent adulthood makes for some top-tier tension between the two of them. Whenever they are even in the same room as one another, it feels like fireworks are shooting off! So WHY, IN GOD'S NAME, DID JACE TRY TO TELL HIMSELF IT WAS A TEMPORARY THING WHEN HE HAS ALWAYS BEEN IN LOVE WITH HER?!?!? GAH! I seriously wanted to reach into the book and kick him!! I know it's all part of his growth as a character, but I was still so frustrated because she like LOVE loves him, girl, get it together!! That adds to the baggage they both need to work through, physically, emotionally, and mentally. Willow has to figure out if she really still wants to go to vet school, and when Willow and Jace stop getting in their own way and finally confess their feelings for one another, the slow-burning feelings are hard-fought and well-earned! I loved watching them, at long last, get to explore one another even though they aren't 100% sure that it's a good idea. I like how they supported one another in their mutual endeavors as well. Sugar Hill Hollow also stands in as a character in its own right. I love a small-town romance, and this one was sweet and cozy and quite the vibe, as the youths say. There are also some great spicy scenes in this book as well, made all the more believable because of their mutual pining and long-standing chemistry. Overall, a great book, and I cannot wait for the second!
Thank you to Calli Melle and Hambright PR for the complimentary ARC of this book. All opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review.
"Love Tapped" by Calli Melle is a charming, sweet, well-paced small-town, brother's best friend, "it's always been you" romance between two main characters who have been pining for each other since they were younger. They both find themselves back in their small, cozy hometown, Sugar Hill Hollow, because their "plan A" hasn't worked out for them. Jace used to play professional hockey, but he was forced into an early retirement because of a gnarly injury that effectively ended his career. Willow wants to be a vet, but she was not accepted into vet school. She winds up returning home to help save her family's fledgling maple syrup business and homefront store. She doesn't necessarily *want* to be back home, but that's where circumstances have led her. Jace, on the other hand, has always wanted to return to Sugar Hill Hollow. He's always known he wanted to go back there... especially knowing Willow might be there at some point, too! They have always circled around each other, but Jace stayed away because of Willow's brothers. The "will they or won't they?" aspect of their childhood and subsequent adulthood makes for some top-tier tension between the two of them. Whenever they are even in the same room as one another, it feels like fireworks are shooting off! So WHY, IN GOD'S NAME, DID JACE TRY TO TELL HIMSELF IT WAS A TEMPORARY THING WHEN HE HAS ALWAYS BEEN IN LOVE WITH HER?!?!? GAH! I seriously wanted to reach into the book and kick him!! I know it's all part of his growth as a character, but I was still so frustrated because she like LOVE loves him, girl, get it together!! That adds to the baggage they both need to work through, physically, emotionally, and mentally. Willow has to figure out if she really still wants to go to vet school, and when Willow and Jace stop getting in their own way and finally confess their feelings for one another, the slow-burning feelings are hard-fought and well-earned! I loved watching them, at long last, get to explore one another even though they aren't 100% sure that it's a good idea. I like how they supported one another in their mutual endeavors as well. Sugar Hill Hollow also stands in as a character in its own right. I love a small-town romance, and this one was sweet and cozy and quite the vibe, as the youths say. There are also some great spicy scenes in this book as well, made all the more believable because of their mutual pining and long-standing chemistry. Overall, a great book, and I cannot wait for the second!
Thank you to Calli Melle and Hambright PR for the complimentary ARC of this book. All opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review.
December 29, 2025
🍁 Small-town sweetness with a slow-burn sting 🍁
4.5 ⭐️ | 3.5 🌶️
There’s just something about coming home that cracks you wide open and Love Tapped does exactly that.
As the first installment in Cali Melle’s new Sugar Hill Hollow series, this book eases you into a small town that feels lived-in, warm, and just a little bit messy in the best way. The story arc isn’t revolutionary but it doesn’t need to be. It works, and it works beautifully.
Willow Alder is our FMC, and she’s quietly unraveling. She returns to Sugar Hill Hollow under the guise of “taking time before vet school,” when in reality, she didn’t get in. Instead of spiraling, she sets her sights on reopening her family’s shuttered maple syrup shop: partly to prove something to her two older brothers, and partly to prove something to herself. Willow is relatable, flawed, and easy to root for, especially as she starts redefining what success actually looks like.
Enter Jace Miller. Former NHL hockey player. Career-ending injury. Bruised ego. Too much time on his hands. And, oh yeah, he’s her middle brother’s best friend and very much off-limits. Jace offers to help Willow revive the shop in exchange for her help while he restores the town’s old skating rink, and from there? The forced proximity does exactly what forced proximity does best.
The tension. The restraint. The not yet of it all.
I was genuinely yelling at Jace to make a move sooner, which tells you everything you need to know about how well the slow burn is handled. Their chemistry is undeniable: raw, deep, and quietly all-consuming. You don’t just see them falling for each other; you feel it. Both characters are forced to reassess their dreams, their identities, and what they want out of life, and that emotional growth is one of the book’s biggest strengths.
The pacing is solid, the writing flows effortlessly, and nothing feels rushed. Sugar Hill Hollow itself adds so much charm, grounding the romance in maple syrup, old rinks, and second chances.
Tropes you’ll love ✨
🏡 Small Town Romance
🤫 Brother’s Best Friend
🏠 Forced Proximity
💞 Friends to Lovers
Overall, Love Tapped is heartfelt, cozy, and quietly sexy, proof that some of the sweetest love stories really do simmer slowly.
A massive thank you to Hambright PR for the e-ARC, and congratulations to Cali Melle on her upcoming release (January 8th). If this book is any indication, Sugar Hill Hollow is a place I’ll happily return to again and again 🍁💛.
4.5 ⭐️ | 3.5 🌶️
There’s just something about coming home that cracks you wide open and Love Tapped does exactly that.
As the first installment in Cali Melle’s new Sugar Hill Hollow series, this book eases you into a small town that feels lived-in, warm, and just a little bit messy in the best way. The story arc isn’t revolutionary but it doesn’t need to be. It works, and it works beautifully.
Willow Alder is our FMC, and she’s quietly unraveling. She returns to Sugar Hill Hollow under the guise of “taking time before vet school,” when in reality, she didn’t get in. Instead of spiraling, she sets her sights on reopening her family’s shuttered maple syrup shop: partly to prove something to her two older brothers, and partly to prove something to herself. Willow is relatable, flawed, and easy to root for, especially as she starts redefining what success actually looks like.
Enter Jace Miller. Former NHL hockey player. Career-ending injury. Bruised ego. Too much time on his hands. And, oh yeah, he’s her middle brother’s best friend and very much off-limits. Jace offers to help Willow revive the shop in exchange for her help while he restores the town’s old skating rink, and from there? The forced proximity does exactly what forced proximity does best.
The tension. The restraint. The not yet of it all.
I was genuinely yelling at Jace to make a move sooner, which tells you everything you need to know about how well the slow burn is handled. Their chemistry is undeniable: raw, deep, and quietly all-consuming. You don’t just see them falling for each other; you feel it. Both characters are forced to reassess their dreams, their identities, and what they want out of life, and that emotional growth is one of the book’s biggest strengths.
The pacing is solid, the writing flows effortlessly, and nothing feels rushed. Sugar Hill Hollow itself adds so much charm, grounding the romance in maple syrup, old rinks, and second chances.
Tropes you’ll love ✨
🏡 Small Town Romance
🤫 Brother’s Best Friend
🏠 Forced Proximity
💞 Friends to Lovers
Overall, Love Tapped is heartfelt, cozy, and quietly sexy, proof that some of the sweetest love stories really do simmer slowly.
A massive thank you to Hambright PR for the e-ARC, and congratulations to Cali Melle on her upcoming release (January 8th). If this book is any indication, Sugar Hill Hollow is a place I’ll happily return to again and again 🍁💛.
Review of advance copy received from Author
this book felt like a warm hug in the winter. i smiled, blushed, screamed and cried with them. has to be one of my fav brother's best friend romance with the right amount of angst and the way it was all handled. yes, these are my mature babies.
willow is such a sweet and strong character. my girl knows what she wants and deserves and she isn't getting anything less. the way she felt she would be disappointing her family with what happened but her family just loves her for the way she is and supported her was so sweet. i loved her trying to regain control in her life and her need to not feel like a failure and how dedicated she was to it. her relationship with her brothers was so adorable and i loved how they weren't against her relationship and only wanted best for her.
jace has to be one of my fav mmc. my heart broke for how he never believed in himself and the self-doubt, his internal conflicts of not wanting to fail one more person in his life, it was written in such a delicate manner. and i loved how it just didn't disappear. his mom was so sweet and supportive and loved that he got friends and family always ready to tell him he deserves best. also i really liked how he acknowledged his shortcomings and was ready to work it all out. his conversation with noah was so sweet and mature.
there has been a visible tension between them since the very start and i loved how it was slow-burn and well paced, although i was screaming for them to make a move. it just made this more realistic. their connection formed slowly, from being partners and helping each other out to lovers. their emotional intimacy is so powerful and the physical attraction was everything. her belief in jace through everything was just so sweet and also how he remembered all her likes and dislikes and little things was everything. he bought the cats just because she was so sad about it, like i really cried at that part. also i loved the angst in here, it has always been present since the start. watching them finally be together in the real sense was just so so beautiful. they are really made for each other.
sugar hill hollow has to be one of my favorite place from now on. the small town vibes, the found family in making, the friendship dynamics make it just so beautiful. the support everyone had for each other really makes me cry. the second chance here was written in such a natural manner. sweetest love stories do simmer slowly. i am excited for more to come.
willow is such a sweet and strong character. my girl knows what she wants and deserves and she isn't getting anything less. the way she felt she would be disappointing her family with what happened but her family just loves her for the way she is and supported her was so sweet. i loved her trying to regain control in her life and her need to not feel like a failure and how dedicated she was to it. her relationship with her brothers was so adorable and i loved how they weren't against her relationship and only wanted best for her.
jace has to be one of my fav mmc. my heart broke for how he never believed in himself and the self-doubt, his internal conflicts of not wanting to fail one more person in his life, it was written in such a delicate manner. and i loved how it just didn't disappear. his mom was so sweet and supportive and loved that he got friends and family always ready to tell him he deserves best. also i really liked how he acknowledged his shortcomings and was ready to work it all out. his conversation with noah was so sweet and mature.
there has been a visible tension between them since the very start and i loved how it was slow-burn and well paced, although i was screaming for them to make a move. it just made this more realistic. their connection formed slowly, from being partners and helping each other out to lovers. their emotional intimacy is so powerful and the physical attraction was everything. her belief in jace through everything was just so sweet and also how he remembered all her likes and dislikes and little things was everything. he bought the cats just because she was so sad about it, like i really cried at that part. also i loved the angst in here, it has always been present since the start. watching them finally be together in the real sense was just so so beautiful. they are really made for each other.
sugar hill hollow has to be one of my favorite place from now on. the small town vibes, the found family in making, the friendship dynamics make it just so beautiful. the support everyone had for each other really makes me cry. the second chance here was written in such a natural manner. sweetest love stories do simmer slowly. i am excited for more to come.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to the author for giving me this chance of reading an ARC. My reviews are my own honest thoughts.
I’ve previously read the author’s Aston Archers series and immensely enjoyed the entire thing, and this book carries that same charm, while perfectly introducing a cosy, small-town vibe that feels comforting.
This book is witty, charming, and quietly addictive: it might be my favourite book by this author so far.
I absolutely loved Jace and Willow. The pining between them? Chef’s kiss. A slow burn that simmers just long enough before delivering that hold-on-to-the-headboard moment . The tension felt earned, not rushed, and I was fully invested in every almost, every hesitation, every longing glance. I felt butterflies reading the longing between these two characters.
The main theme in this book is the fear of failure; both Jace and Willow are grappling with it in different ways, trying to figure out who they are and which paths they’re brave enough to take. That emotional thread added depth to their story and made their journey grounded and relatable (at least to me in this moment of reading).
Although the main characters of the book is Jace and Willow, and I do love them, but the side characters are the scene-stealers. There’s Noah. I love Noah (I think I fell for Noah since he made a brief appearance in Mia's book). His conversation with Jace was one of my favourite moments in the book, especially the line: “You hesitated, and my sister deserves more than that.” Iconic. Finn was also a joy, albeit a tad mysterious, and Harrison? A walking quote machine. I need his story immediately. I need all of their stories, and I enjoyed seeing the author lay down the groundwork for this series. Truly got me hooked.
I also don’t think I’ve ever highlighted so many quotes in one book. Ever.
Sometimes, Jace’s indecision frustrates me (but that is probably something that is a me problem). Because it makes sense given his inner turmoil, and ultimately added to the emotional payoff.
This book is a compelling start to a new series, and it’s left me genuinely excited to continue. I’ll absolutely be picking up the rest of the books as they’re released.
All in all, this was a sweet, engaging, and genuinely relaxing read.
I’ve previously read the author’s Aston Archers series and immensely enjoyed the entire thing, and this book carries that same charm, while perfectly introducing a cosy, small-town vibe that feels comforting.
This book is witty, charming, and quietly addictive: it might be my favourite book by this author so far.
I absolutely loved Jace and Willow. The pining between them? Chef’s kiss. A slow burn that simmers just long enough before delivering that hold-on-to-the-headboard moment . The tension felt earned, not rushed, and I was fully invested in every almost, every hesitation, every longing glance. I felt butterflies reading the longing between these two characters.
The main theme in this book is the fear of failure; both Jace and Willow are grappling with it in different ways, trying to figure out who they are and which paths they’re brave enough to take. That emotional thread added depth to their story and made their journey grounded and relatable (at least to me in this moment of reading).
Although the main characters of the book is Jace and Willow, and I do love them, but the side characters are the scene-stealers. There’s Noah. I love Noah (I think I fell for Noah since he made a brief appearance in Mia's book). His conversation with Jace was one of my favourite moments in the book, especially the line: “You hesitated, and my sister deserves more than that.” Iconic. Finn was also a joy, albeit a tad mysterious, and Harrison? A walking quote machine. I need his story immediately. I need all of their stories, and I enjoyed seeing the author lay down the groundwork for this series. Truly got me hooked.
I also don’t think I’ve ever highlighted so many quotes in one book. Ever.
Sometimes, Jace’s indecision frustrates me (but that is probably something that is a me problem). Because it makes sense given his inner turmoil, and ultimately added to the emotional payoff.
This book is a compelling start to a new series, and it’s left me genuinely excited to continue. I’ll absolutely be picking up the rest of the books as they’re released.
All in all, this was a sweet, engaging, and genuinely relaxing read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Cali had me waiting with bated breath for the fate of Willow Alder and who she was with at the end of the Aston Archer series, Make Your Change.
My mind raced wondering if it was gonna be Daddy Dean Landry, the father of best friend, Mia Landry — or if we would get a whole new guy for Willow.
I am glad we get to get a brand new series with Willow leading the series off with Love Tapped, that takes us to Sugar Hill Hollow, where she returns home for a new start professionally and personally.
Love Tapped isn’t your typical romance filled with insta-love that takes you straight down the path of hot passion. This is a contemporary romance that delves into how the lives of Willow and her leading man, Jace Miller have changed, and how each come to terms with those changes that not only affect them, but also each other.
Jace, once a longstanding star on his professional hockey team, retires early due to injury, returns home to Sugar Hill Hollow, and must come to terms that he needs to take a different path in his life. He immerses himself in rebuilding his friendships with his best friend Noah Alder and Noah’s older brother Finn. But he soon is taken back to things that could and should never be when he lays eyes on their sister — Willow.
I absolutely love their reconnection to one another- and I love that Jace remembers every thing about Willow, and vice versa. Their attraction for each other is so natural and not rushed.
Absolutely love their supporting characters: Natalie seems infectious with joy, but has something personal going on in her life. I also love Harrison, Jace’s best friend, who I definitely want to see more of in the future. I also love what Cali teases for Noah and potentially Finn.
FYI: The syrup scene 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Cali held my whole heart with Love Tapped - so much so I am waiting patiently for the second book in the series.
TROPES IN LOVE TAPPED
🏠 Small Town Romance
🧢 Brother’s Best Friend
👩❤️👨 Friends to Lovers
🔒Forced Proximity
😍 Mutual Pining
BRING THE FAN IT’S HOT MOMENTS
🪭 The Syrup Scene
🪭 F*ck It Moment
🪭 “Be Quiet Or They’ll Hear Us.”
🪭 Edging
🪭 “Grab the Headboard”
RATING FOR LOVE TAPPED
4 1/2 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️1/2
My mind raced wondering if it was gonna be Daddy Dean Landry, the father of best friend, Mia Landry — or if we would get a whole new guy for Willow.
I am glad we get to get a brand new series with Willow leading the series off with Love Tapped, that takes us to Sugar Hill Hollow, where she returns home for a new start professionally and personally.
Love Tapped isn’t your typical romance filled with insta-love that takes you straight down the path of hot passion. This is a contemporary romance that delves into how the lives of Willow and her leading man, Jace Miller have changed, and how each come to terms with those changes that not only affect them, but also each other.
Jace, once a longstanding star on his professional hockey team, retires early due to injury, returns home to Sugar Hill Hollow, and must come to terms that he needs to take a different path in his life. He immerses himself in rebuilding his friendships with his best friend Noah Alder and Noah’s older brother Finn. But he soon is taken back to things that could and should never be when he lays eyes on their sister — Willow.
I absolutely love their reconnection to one another- and I love that Jace remembers every thing about Willow, and vice versa. Their attraction for each other is so natural and not rushed.
Absolutely love their supporting characters: Natalie seems infectious with joy, but has something personal going on in her life. I also love Harrison, Jace’s best friend, who I definitely want to see more of in the future. I also love what Cali teases for Noah and potentially Finn.
FYI: The syrup scene 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Cali held my whole heart with Love Tapped - so much so I am waiting patiently for the second book in the series.
TROPES IN LOVE TAPPED
🏠 Small Town Romance
🧢 Brother’s Best Friend
👩❤️👨 Friends to Lovers
🔒Forced Proximity
😍 Mutual Pining
BRING THE FAN IT’S HOT MOMENTS
🪭 The Syrup Scene
🪭 F*ck It Moment
🪭 “Be Quiet Or They’ll Hear Us.”
🪭 Edging
🪭 “Grab the Headboard”
RATING FOR LOVE TAPPED
4 1/2 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️1/2
Review of advance copy received from Author
Love Tapped ( Sugar Hill Hollow Series book 1 ) Tropes 🏠 Small Town 👨Brothers Best Friend 🔥Forbidden 🤍Age Gap ( by 3 years ) 🏒Retired Hockey Player 💕It’s always been you 🔒Forced Proximity 👩❤️👨 friends to lovers !!!
There are some books out there that just resonate with you and touch your heart ❤️ in a way that’s not so easy to put into words. In a way that rarely ever happens. Well I can say with 100% certainty that every time I pick up one of Cali’s romances , it doesn’t matter if it’s part of a series or not . That’s exactly what happens . love Tapped may only be book 1 in Cali’s brand new Sugar Hill Hollow series - but it’s no different, in fact it’s just spectacular, it’s utterly addicting and beautiful and emotional to the point I can guarantee it Will pull on all your heartstrings in ways you’ll never ever be expecting. Willow and Jace - oh my gosh guys !!! I’m not even sure I have the right words to express how utterly and completely in love with these two I fell . Both were just so likable and relatable and the chemistry between the them omg was it just insane , you can literally feel the heat and sparks coming right off the pages every time they’re around one another. What I loved most of all the was the progression of their relationship, the pace at which it developed, it wasn’t rushed at all and it was so natural . Another thing I loved was the fact it wasn’t all heart and flowers , both have struggles in their life their dealing with For Willow it’s not getting into Vet School and for Jace it was a terrible accident/ injury that forced him to retire from his hockey career. Both are trying to figure out what their future now looks like , both are struggling with the feeling of being a failure, when the opportunity presents itself for Willlow to rebrand her family’s store Jace offers to help . Feelings start to arise , the more time they spend together the more they remember how close they use to be and the harder they end up falling. This was genuinely one of the best books I’ve read in such a long longtime. It’s beautiful and emotionllal It’s fun , it’s steamy , it’s heartwarming and heartbreaking, it’s quite simply chefs kiss 💋
There are some books out there that just resonate with you and touch your heart ❤️ in a way that’s not so easy to put into words. In a way that rarely ever happens. Well I can say with 100% certainty that every time I pick up one of Cali’s romances , it doesn’t matter if it’s part of a series or not . That’s exactly what happens . love Tapped may only be book 1 in Cali’s brand new Sugar Hill Hollow series - but it’s no different, in fact it’s just spectacular, it’s utterly addicting and beautiful and emotional to the point I can guarantee it Will pull on all your heartstrings in ways you’ll never ever be expecting. Willow and Jace - oh my gosh guys !!! I’m not even sure I have the right words to express how utterly and completely in love with these two I fell . Both were just so likable and relatable and the chemistry between the them omg was it just insane , you can literally feel the heat and sparks coming right off the pages every time they’re around one another. What I loved most of all the was the progression of their relationship, the pace at which it developed, it wasn’t rushed at all and it was so natural . Another thing I loved was the fact it wasn’t all heart and flowers , both have struggles in their life their dealing with For Willow it’s not getting into Vet School and for Jace it was a terrible accident/ injury that forced him to retire from his hockey career. Both are trying to figure out what their future now looks like , both are struggling with the feeling of being a failure, when the opportunity presents itself for Willlow to rebrand her family’s store Jace offers to help . Feelings start to arise , the more time they spend together the more they remember how close they use to be and the harder they end up falling. This was genuinely one of the best books I’ve read in such a long longtime. It’s beautiful and emotionllal It’s fun , it’s steamy , it’s heartwarming and heartbreaking, it’s quite simply chefs kiss 💋
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This is a deliciously, sweet, small town romance with a taboo love, and a slow burn worth the wait!
Willow alder just found out. She wasn’t accepted into veterinary school. And instead of being honest and open with her family, she moves back home, hiding her failure by distracting herself and reopening her family store.
For generations, the alders have grown and harvested maple trees, turning it into syrup and candies. And her two older brothers, Noah and Finn run the farm.
Jace Miller is reluctantly moving back home after being forced into retirement from professional hockey after an ankle injury.
His feelings of failure on the cusp of swallowing him whole.
But helping his Uncle with his veterinary clinic for two weeks is an ample excuse to get out of his head for a while.
That is, until Willow Alder enters the clinic to drop off her oldest brother’s dog.
Now Jace has been Willow’s crush since she was a child, she always looked at him like he hung the moon.
But, Jace is Noah’s best friend. So he has always been off-limits. That never stopped her from being his biggest cheerleader though.
Willow isn’t alone in her emotions though.
Jace’s love for Willow runs deep, so deep, his conflicted feelings, and fear of portraying his best friend kept him always at arms length.
Seeing her again after years apart, he never would have imagined all those deep rooted emotions would come back to life by seeing her deep blue eyes again.
Late night bonfires, impromptu drives home after drinking too much, and Jace helping Willow with the prep to reopen the store before the harvest festival keeps them in Forest proximity. But neither are complaining.
Will this tabby romance and in shambles if Noah finds out?
Will Jason Willow find their failures were nothing more than detours back to each other?
Or will they let those failures consume them and hinder them from ever getting what they want for fear of feeling again?
This sweet contemporary romance is a perfect little palette cleanser, and adorably written. The spice is perfect, and you will not be left unsatisfied. Callie created a great book here, and perfect for anyone who loves a small town romance.
Willow alder just found out. She wasn’t accepted into veterinary school. And instead of being honest and open with her family, she moves back home, hiding her failure by distracting herself and reopening her family store.
For generations, the alders have grown and harvested maple trees, turning it into syrup and candies. And her two older brothers, Noah and Finn run the farm.
Jace Miller is reluctantly moving back home after being forced into retirement from professional hockey after an ankle injury.
His feelings of failure on the cusp of swallowing him whole.
But helping his Uncle with his veterinary clinic for two weeks is an ample excuse to get out of his head for a while.
That is, until Willow Alder enters the clinic to drop off her oldest brother’s dog.
Now Jace has been Willow’s crush since she was a child, she always looked at him like he hung the moon.
But, Jace is Noah’s best friend. So he has always been off-limits. That never stopped her from being his biggest cheerleader though.
Willow isn’t alone in her emotions though.
Jace’s love for Willow runs deep, so deep, his conflicted feelings, and fear of portraying his best friend kept him always at arms length.
Seeing her again after years apart, he never would have imagined all those deep rooted emotions would come back to life by seeing her deep blue eyes again.
Late night bonfires, impromptu drives home after drinking too much, and Jace helping Willow with the prep to reopen the store before the harvest festival keeps them in Forest proximity. But neither are complaining.
Will this tabby romance and in shambles if Noah finds out?
Will Jason Willow find their failures were nothing more than detours back to each other?
Or will they let those failures consume them and hinder them from ever getting what they want for fear of feeling again?
This sweet contemporary romance is a perfect little palette cleanser, and adorably written. The spice is perfect, and you will not be left unsatisfied. Callie created a great book here, and perfect for anyone who loves a small town romance.
Review of advance copy received from Author
“Whatever life it is, I will always find you, Willow. You will always be mine.”
✔️small town
✔️brother’s best friend
✔️friends with benefits
✔️forced proximity
✔️mutual pining
✔️it’s always been you
4.75⭐️ rounded up
Jace (MMC) and Willow (FMC) have known each other for years, and though nothing ever happened between them when they were younger, it was always a case of “right person, wrong time”. That said, they weren’t aware that the other felt the same. The yearning and pining in this book is so good, by the time the tension actually snaps and they give into their feelings I was rooting for them so hard. The main topic of this book is fear and failure, and what happens when you are so afraid to fail (and in turn hurt those around you) that you forget to live and love. Both MCs deal with this in their own ways and it affects those around them differently, and I enjoyed watching them grow and mature through the story.
Though this is a brother’s best friend story, you don’t really have to worry about the toxic big brother nonsense. I mean, there is a tiny bit of that, but it feels realistic and doesn’t turn the FMC’s brother into a cartoon villain. He stands up for his sister, but after everything hits the fan the two men actually communicate and clear the air in a mature way. If I’m reading the clues correctly, this particular brother could be the next MMC in the series and I am really looking forward to him getting his own book.
I have enjoyed this author’s hockey romances in the past, and I like that she chose to go in a different direction with this series (small town, which I love!!) but still keep some nods to hockey. The MMC is a former pro, and though he is still trying to figure out what comes next, he finds something new that is still related to his love of the sport (no spoilers here). I am excited to see where she decides to take this series next!
*Thank you so much to the author (Cali Melle) and her team for the opportunity to ARC read this book! All opinions are my own*
✔️small town
✔️brother’s best friend
✔️friends with benefits
✔️forced proximity
✔️mutual pining
✔️it’s always been you
4.75⭐️ rounded up
Jace (MMC) and Willow (FMC) have known each other for years, and though nothing ever happened between them when they were younger, it was always a case of “right person, wrong time”. That said, they weren’t aware that the other felt the same. The yearning and pining in this book is so good, by the time the tension actually snaps and they give into their feelings I was rooting for them so hard. The main topic of this book is fear and failure, and what happens when you are so afraid to fail (and in turn hurt those around you) that you forget to live and love. Both MCs deal with this in their own ways and it affects those around them differently, and I enjoyed watching them grow and mature through the story.
Though this is a brother’s best friend story, you don’t really have to worry about the toxic big brother nonsense. I mean, there is a tiny bit of that, but it feels realistic and doesn’t turn the FMC’s brother into a cartoon villain. He stands up for his sister, but after everything hits the fan the two men actually communicate and clear the air in a mature way. If I’m reading the clues correctly, this particular brother could be the next MMC in the series and I am really looking forward to him getting his own book.
I have enjoyed this author’s hockey romances in the past, and I like that she chose to go in a different direction with this series (small town, which I love!!) but still keep some nods to hockey. The MMC is a former pro, and though he is still trying to figure out what comes next, he finds something new that is still related to his love of the sport (no spoilers here). I am excited to see where she decides to take this series next!
*Thank you so much to the author (Cali Melle) and her team for the opportunity to ARC read this book! All opinions are my own*
Review of advance copy received from Author
Love Tapped: Cali Melle
ARC Edition 🖤
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
So honored to receive this ARC from the lovely @
I have been looking forward to this series for a long time; probably since meeting Willow in a previous book Cali has written. And it did NOT disappoint. 🤭
“Willow unexpectedly comes home to Sugar Hill Hollow. Everyone thinks she’s there to take some time off before she starts veterinary school, but the truth is—𝘴𝘩𝘦 𝘥𝘪𝘥𝘯’𝘵 𝘨𝘦𝘵 𝘪𝘯. When Willow discovers her brothers have shut down her grandmother’s maple syrup store, she makes it her mission to revive it just in time for the Harvest Festival.
Only the situation gets even stickier when Jace Miller walks back into her life. Her older brother Noah’s best friend. He was a man who was always off-limits, whose gaze always lingered a little too long, and who she’s carried a silent crush on for years.
Jace is back at home after being forced into early retirement by a career-ending injury. Nursing a bruised ego, and with time on his hands, Jace offers to help Willow with her shop in exchange for fixing up the town’s old ice rink.
Their arrangement should be simple, but isn’t. Willow quickly discovers that saving the shop isn’t her biggest problem. It’s falling even harder for the one man she can’t risk wanting.”
Review ➡️ If this is how the series starts, I better buckle up. This book has everything I needed and have been waiting for with this series. Willow is a firecracker who is not afraid to say what she wants and knows what she deserves. These two characters go so well together; the chemistry is just electric. There is a very sticky syrup scene that I DIED FOR. 🥵 I don’t know if I can look at syrup the same way again. And the bathroom scene during the bonfire…. 🔥 This had spark, it had banter, and it has amazing side characters. I laughed, cried, got angry, and could relate to a lot of the feelings and things said. I’m praying I know the next two characters in the series based off this book— and I’m even more excited. 😆
🏘️ small town
🤫 brother's best friend
💑 friends to lovers
🔒 forced proximity
🔥 mutual pining
#Bookstagram #Review #CaliMelle
ARC Edition 🖤
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
So honored to receive this ARC from the lovely @
I have been looking forward to this series for a long time; probably since meeting Willow in a previous book Cali has written. And it did NOT disappoint. 🤭
“Willow unexpectedly comes home to Sugar Hill Hollow. Everyone thinks she’s there to take some time off before she starts veterinary school, but the truth is—𝘴𝘩𝘦 𝘥𝘪𝘥𝘯’𝘵 𝘨𝘦𝘵 𝘪𝘯. When Willow discovers her brothers have shut down her grandmother’s maple syrup store, she makes it her mission to revive it just in time for the Harvest Festival.
Only the situation gets even stickier when Jace Miller walks back into her life. Her older brother Noah’s best friend. He was a man who was always off-limits, whose gaze always lingered a little too long, and who she’s carried a silent crush on for years.
Jace is back at home after being forced into early retirement by a career-ending injury. Nursing a bruised ego, and with time on his hands, Jace offers to help Willow with her shop in exchange for fixing up the town’s old ice rink.
Their arrangement should be simple, but isn’t. Willow quickly discovers that saving the shop isn’t her biggest problem. It’s falling even harder for the one man she can’t risk wanting.”
Review ➡️ If this is how the series starts, I better buckle up. This book has everything I needed and have been waiting for with this series. Willow is a firecracker who is not afraid to say what she wants and knows what she deserves. These two characters go so well together; the chemistry is just electric. There is a very sticky syrup scene that I DIED FOR. 🥵 I don’t know if I can look at syrup the same way again. And the bathroom scene during the bonfire…. 🔥 This had spark, it had banter, and it has amazing side characters. I laughed, cried, got angry, and could relate to a lot of the feelings and things said. I’m praying I know the next two characters in the series based off this book— and I’m even more excited. 😆
🏘️ small town
🤫 brother's best friend
💑 friends to lovers
🔒 forced proximity
🔥 mutual pining
#Bookstagram #Review #CaliMelle
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