Candy Apple Kisses: A cozy, low-spice fall romance

by Amy Clipston

In a pumpkin spice-drenched best-friends-to-lovers sweet romance, a struggling artist returns to her hometown to save her best friend's orchard. Their fight against a corporate giant ignites an unexpected romance full of heart and small-town charm.

Emily never expected to return to Splendid Lake, the quaint town that held her childhood memories, and certainly not to help save Jake's family orchard. She left years ago with dreams of artistic glory in the city, but when Jake calls for help, she can't say no. As she steps back into the beauty of the lakeside community, Emily feels a tug of inspiration she thought she'd lost. Painting the orchard and its autumnal splendor breathes new life into her art, but it also stirs long-dormant emotions for Jake--feelings she's too scared to name, especially with Claire, his ex, hovering so close. Splendid Lake feels like home again, but Emily wonders if she belongs there--and if Jake sees her as more than just a friend.

For Jake, the orchard is more than just a business; it's a living legacy, a bond with his father and a promise to his family. But with a corporate giant threatening to buy up the market and modernize farming in ways he doesn't agree with, Jake feels the weight of saving it all on his shoulders. He knows he can't do it alone, so calling Emily was a no-brainer. What he didn't expect was how much her presence would change things--not just for the orchard but for his life. Amid the chaotic harvest preparations and Claire's lingering attempts to rekindle their broken relationship, Jake begins to realize that Emily might be more than his partner-in-saving-apples; she might just be the missing piece he's been too afraid to reach for.

As the two pour their hearts into revitalizing the orchard, their friendship deepens into something undeniable--until Claire's dramatic reappearance throws everything into chaos. Emily is left wondering if Jake's ready to leave his past behind, while Jake struggles to prove that this time, it's Emily he wants. With the orchard's future hanging by a thread and tensions mounting, Emily and Jake must overcome old fears, meddling exes, and the pressures of family expectations to find the courage to build something new a home, a partnership, and a love worth fighting for.

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

Audible Audio

Expected publication July 7, 2026

About the author

Hi! I'm a bestselling author of heartwarming romance and happily ever after.

Contemporary Romance (Non-Amish)
The Heart of Splendid Lake (2021)
The View from Coral Cove (2022)
On the Way to Christmas (Anthology) (2022)
Something Old, Something New (2023)
Starstruck (2023)
Finding You (2024)
With This Ring (2025)
Second Chance at Sunshine Inn (7/2025)
The Lighthouse at the Cove (12/2025)

Stand Alone Amish Fiction
Caring for the Amish Family (4/2025)

Guideposts Amish Suspense
A Heart Set Free (9/2025)


An Amish Legacy
1. Foundation of Love (2022)
2. Building a Future (2022)
3. Breaking New Ground (2023)
4. The Hearts of Shelter (2023)

An Amish Marketplace
1. The Bake Shop (2019)
2. The Farm Stand (2020)
3. The Coffee Corner (2020)
4. The Jam and Jelly Nook (2021)

An Amish Homestead
1. A Place at our Table (2017)
2. Room on the Porch Swing (2018)
3. Seat by the Hearth (2018)
4. A Welcome at Our Door (2019)

An Amish Heirloom
1. The Forgotten Recipe (2015)
2. The Courtship Basket (2016)
3. The Cherished Quilt (2017)
4. The Beloved Hope Chest (2017)

Hearts of Lancaster Grand Hotel
1. A Hopeful Heart (2013)
2. A Mother’s Secret (2014)
3. A Dream of Home (2015)
4. A Simple Prayer (2015)

Kauffman Amish Bakery
1. A Gift of Grace (2009)
2. A Promise of Hope (2010)
3. A Place of Peace (2011)
4. A Life of Joy (2012)
5. A Season of Love (2012)

Amish Anthologies
• An Amish Kitchen (2012) – Spoonful of Love (Stand-alone story)
• An Amish Cradle (2015) – A Son for Always (This story complements A Mother’s Secret)
• An Amish Market (2016) – Love Birds (This story complements The Forgotten Recipe)
• An Amish Harvest (2016) – Love & Buggy Rides (This complements The Courtship Basket)
• An Amish Home (2017) – Home Sweet Home (Stand-alone story)
• An Amish Summer (2017) – Summer Storms (Stand-alone story)
• Amish Sweethearts (2018) –Complements The Kauffman Amish Bakery Series and also has a sequel to my story in An Amish Summer
• An Amish Heirloom (2018) – Complements A Place at our Table
• An Amish Homecoming (2018) – Complements A Place at our Table
• Seasons of an Amish Garden (2019) – Complements The Christmas Cat, novella included in An Amish Christmas Love
• An Amish Reunion (2019) – Complements Room on the Porch Swing
• An Amish Christmas Bakery (2019) – Cookies and Cheer (Stand-alone story)
• An Amish Singing (2021) (Collection of four stories by Amy Clipston)
• An Amish Christmas Wedding (2020) –Evergreen Love (Stand-alone story)
• An Amish Barn Raising (2021)
• An Amish Schoolroom (2021)
• An Amish Quilting Bee (2021)

Young Adult
1. Roadside Assistance (2011)
2. Reckless Heart (2012) (Kauffman Amish Bakery young adult book)
3. Destination Unknown (2014)
4. Miles from Nowhere (2015)

Non-Fiction
A Gift of Love (2014)

Seasonal
• A Plain and Simple Christmas (2010) Naomi’s Gift (2011)
• Kauffman Amish Christmas Collection (2012)
• An Amish Christmas Gift (2015) includes Naomi’s Gift
• An Amish Christmas Love (2017) –The Christmas Cat
• An Amish Christmas Bakery (2019)
• An Amish Christmas Wedding (2020)
• On the Way to Christmas (2022)

Reviews

[cat]

・❥・⁀➷ 🍎🍂 𝕡𝕣𝕖-𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕕

buddy reading with my cutie sis eve 🤭😝
this cover is gorgeous and the trope!? childhood friends to lovers has my heart forever 🥹🥹

[Sarah Bryant · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐️ i would like to thank the author for this ARC and in return for my honest review.

I loved this book!! It was such a sweet cozy small town friends to lovers romance!!! It was an easy read and the premise of the story was right in tune with a small town! And the emotional roller coaster was perfect! Definitely recommend!

[Rachel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Candy Apple Kisses by Amy Clipston is A Sweet Romance Novel is a great second chance romance.

This book is a nice example of a good second-chance romance. Both Emily and Jake had a redo to find one another again after their lives took diverting paths.

Both characters were realistic, flawed, and presented with their own past issues, hang-ups, and also hearts willing to love again.

The author presented it all in a way that kept me interested throughout, hoping for that positive ending.

4/5 stars

Thank you NG and Thomas Nelson for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 7/6/26.

[Natalie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have really been enjoying Amy Clipston’s contemporary romances set in the charming town of Splendid Lake.

This story had a wonderful autumn setting as well, which would make it the perfect fall read. As with all of her books set in Splendid Lake, the setting and small town vibes really came to life. I enjoyed all the fall vibes as well, like crisp breezes, candy apples, and cider. It made me long for fall even though it’s not even spring yet!

I really liked Emily and Jake as characters. Jake’s devotion to his family’s apple orchard (that has been in his family for a century!) was really sweet to see and I liked seeing Emily become more confident with her art as well. This is a friends-to-more romance which isn’t typically my favorite but it worked well here. They had a good friendship and were always there for each other. Emily liked Jake for a long time but never acted on her feelings since he had a girlfriend so I appreciated that.

I will say that I found the ending to be a bit convenient but overall this was another sweet romance story by one of my favorite authors!



I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Kass Rob · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is exactly the kind of cozy romance thats perfect to curl up with on a crisp fall afternoon! Between the small town charm, autumn vibes, and sweet romance, this book felt like strolling through a harvest festival with a warm drink! Amy Clipston creates such a comforting atmosphere that I could practically smell the cider and pumpkin treats!

Now, lets talk about Emily and Jake! I spent most of the book quietly (ok… maybe not so quietly) rooting for them to finally figure things out! Their journey had just the right mix of tension, and friendship that make you want to just nudge them together already. The romance is wholesome, the setting is delightful, and the entire story feels fall! Plus! I love that the only "spice" you'll find in this book is pumpkin kind!

Thank you so much to the author, Netgalley, and Thomas Nelson Fiction Audio for an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts are my own

[Kaitlyn Pruitt · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a sweet second-chance romance! Amy Clipston created a charming small-town setting that completely drew me in. The way she describes the orchard makes it feel so cozy, beautiful, and nostalgic, you can’t help but wish you could visit it yourself. The romance was heartwarming, feel-good, and had me smiling the whole time. It’s the kind of story that will have you kicking your feet and rooting for the characters from beginning to end. If you’re looking for a cute, wholesome small-town romance filled with charm, this is definitely one to pick up!

Thank you to Amy Clipston and the publisher for this ALC!

[Holli D.W. · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a very cute small-town fall (clean) romance!
Best friends are reunited in their hometown and hatch up a plan to save the failing family orchard. But as they reminisce over all the good times they’ve shared, they are both secretly longing for more. They can’t picture life without the other, but it feels like it is never the right time to make a move.

Throw in all of the cozy autumn vibes with the apple orchard, fresh candy apples, chilly nights, and cider- and you have a perfect fall romance.

Despite a few hiccups and some sabotage along the way, this was a sweet friends to lovers romance.

Thank you Thomas Nelson Fiction Audio & NetGalley for the ALC.

[Elizabeth Foss · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the kind of book you reach for when life feels a little too heavy—when you’re sitting in a waiting room, or coming off a long day, and you want the reassurance of a story that will end well. Candy Apple Kisses offers a gentle, comforting romance wrapped in the sensory pleasures of autumn.

Set in the small-town world of Splendid Lake, the novel follows artist Emily Carmichael as she returns to the North Carolina mountains to help her childhood best friend, Jake Hughes, save his family’s apple orchard. (Yes, it's really Hallmark movie-ish.) The stakes are familiar: a beloved legacy under threat, a corporate shadow looming, and a centennial celebration that feels like both a deadline and a last hope. What unfolds is a classic friends-to-more romance, one that leans into the slow realization that what has always been steady and dependable might also be something deeper.

The setting is one of the book’s greatest strengths. The orchard, with its century-old roots, feels lovingly drawn, and the town itself carries that cozy, lived-in charm that makes you want to linger. There’s a tangible sense of season here—crisp air, cider, candy apples, and the golden glow of fall—that makes this an especially fitting read as the leaves begin to turn.

Emily and Jake are easy to like. Jake’s devotion to his family and their orchard gives the story a grounded sweetness, while Emily’s return home allows space for her own growth, particularly in her confidence as an artist. Their relationship is built on a believable foundation of friendship—they show up for each other, they understand each other—and that makes the romantic shift feel natural, even if it follows a familiar path.

The conflict, particularly in the form of Jake’s ex-girlfriend, requires a bit of suspension of disbelief. She’s more dramatic than nuanced, and at times her presence feels designed to stir the pot rather than deepen the story. And Jake's mom is hard to understand relative to each girl. But if you’re willing to accept that—and this is the kind of book that invites you to—her role doesn’t ultimately detract from the overall charm.

This is not a novel that sets out to surprise you. You’ll likely see the ending coming from the beginning. But that’s part of its appeal. Candy Apple Kisses offers the steady comfort of a happily-ever-after you can trust, delivered with warmth, small-town charm, and a generous helping of fall atmosphere. It’s a sweet, light read—perfect for when you want to rest in a story that asks very little of you and gives back something cozy and kind. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Tracie Piqué · Rating 2 out of 5]

Candy Apple Kisses was a frustrating read for me because it contained so many of the elements that should have worked. I've read most of Amy Clipston's contemporary romances, and one of the things I typically appreciate about her books is that they know exactly what they are: wholesome, small-town romances with likable characters, strong family themes, and a comforting Hallmark-style feel. Unfortunately, this one never came together for me.

The biggest issue was that I never fully believed Jake and Emily's friendship. The story repeatedly tells readers that they've been best friends for years, but the more I learned about their history, the less convincing that friendship felt. Major life events, personal struggles, family tragedies, and even lifelong dreams seemed to be things they never actually shared with one another. By the end, I felt like I was being asked to accept their closeness rather than being shown it on the page.

Jake was also a difficult hero for me to connect with. He wasn't cruel or intentionally hurtful, but he was so conflict-avoidant that it became frustrating. Much of the story's tension could have been resolved if he had been willing to set clear boundaries and communicate honestly, particularly when it came to Claire and the increasingly messy situation surrounding their relationship.

The pacing also felt repetitive. Conversations about the orchard failing, warnings from townspeople, and resistance from family members seemed to repeat without adding much new tension. As a result, the story often felt like it was circling the same conflicts instead of building toward something bigger. I was also disappointed by the lack of atmosphere. Since this book takes place in Splendid Lake, I suspect some readers may already feel connected to the setting from previous books. As someone who has read Amy Clipston's Coral Cove novels but not her Splendid Lake books, I never felt immersed in the town, the orchard, or the fall setting the way I hoped to.

Ironically, the most engaging part of the story ended up being Claire's involvement because it was one of the few times the plot felt like it was genuinely moving forward.

I didn't hate this book, and there were moments that reminded me why I've enjoyed Amy Clipston's work in the past. However, this one never delivered the emotional connection, believable friendship, or sense of atmosphere I was looking for. Unfortunately, the frustration outweighed the enjoyment for me, making this a 2-star read.

Thank you to Netgalley and Thomas Nelson Fiction Audio for an ALC of this book.

[BookLoverAmanda · Rating 2 out of 5]

Candy Apple Kisses by Amy Clipston
2 Stars

I have enjoyed several of Amy's clean romance reads. This one is a childhood friends-to-lovers romance that sounded cute for fall time. I really liked the orchard and fall vibes, those bits were cozy and had that small town feel. It's like a hallmark movie because there is a struggling family orchard preparing for the towns centennial celebration and they are all working on ways to bring it back to life so I was really interested.... BUT.....Y'ALL.... honestly, this one just didn't work for me.

The romance is between Jake and Emily. They are childhood friends but Jake has been with his girlfriend Claire a super long time, I think they said 14 years? Or he at least knew her for 14 years I think.

Claire is wanting Jake to leave town and go with her to Nashville and spend his life with her but he isn't feeling the relationship anymore, doesn't want to move to Nashville and breaks up with her, asking for time apart and to see other people.

It's been a month apart at least and Claire is not giving up. She continues to pursue Jake but Jake starts to realize he never really had that love for Claire, he's always deep down loved Emily.

I was so frustrated with the Claire storyline. So much of it was unrealistic. First of all, he's almost 30 and they still ain't married? Nah, that wouldn't happen. And then Emily loved Jake this whole time and she been waitin around...listen...I ain't waitin around y'all LOL

This gets the petty pen for the ending alone with the crazy stuff Claire was doing to try and not let Jake break up with her.

This miscommunication, non-communication and 3rd act breakup added to my frustrations.

I've liked some of Amy's books but this storyline just wasn't it for me. I would have liked less of the Claire stuff and more of the family, Orchard details, fall vibes and Jake and Emily together without Claire's intrusions.

Content/Trigger Warnings: No language, clean romance, mild grief from past parental loss, parental health emergency

Thank you to the publisher for a complimentary audiobook to listen to review. All thoughts are my own.

[Ifeanyi Omoike · Rating 3 out of 5]

Candy Apple Kisses is a sweet friends-to-lovers romance about Emily, an artist who is still trying to find her place in life, and Jake, her longtime best friend whose family orchard is struggling. When Emily comes to town to help save the orchard, she throws herself into the effort with creativity, determination, and heart.

I had mixed feelings about this book because there were elements I genuinely enjoyed. I loved Emily's passion for helping the orchard succeed and all the creative ideas she brought to the table. I'm always drawn to stories about saving a family business, especially when that business plays an important role in the community. I also enjoyed the small-town setting and the way some of the townspeople rallied around Jake and his family.

Unfortunately, some aspects of the story didn't work as well for me. Jake's handling of Emily often felt immature and, at times, cowardly. While some of his actions were intended to be romantic, I struggled to see him as an admirable hero. Claire's (Jake's ex-girlfriend who he broke up with a month ago) behavior also felt unrealistic, and some of the conflict came across as drama created for the sake of drama rather than developing naturally from the characters and circumstances.

I also found Jake's mother difficult to understand. She claimed to see Emily as a second daughter and later admitted she knew Emily had feelings for Jake, yet she continued pushing him toward Claire while seeming completely unaware of his growing feelings for Emily. Her reactions felt oddly disconnected from what was happening around her, and I struggled to find them believable.

Emily, however, was the standout character for me. Her love for Jake's family, her commitment to the orchard, and her positive outlook made her easy to root for. I also enjoyed Andi and Seth's presence in the story. My one frustration with Emily was her continued hope that Jake would eventually see her romantically. Personally, I would have preferred to see her place a little less of her happiness in his hands.

Thanks to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson Fiction for the complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own.

[BLove · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a free ARC from Net Galley in exchange for an unbiased review. Thank you, Thomas Nelson!

If you’re craving a cozy small-town romance that feels like a caramel apple and a Hallmark movie had a book baby, Candy Apple Kisses is ready to charm you.

Emily and Jake have been best friends since they were five years old, and their bond is as sweet and familiar as a favorite fall treat. Jake stayed in Splendid Lake to care for his family and help keep Hughes Orchard running, while Emily has been trying to find her footing after the loss of her parents. When Emily returns to town to help Jake, the two fall right back into their “two peas in a pod” rhythm. Candy Apple Kisses is a sweet, wholesome love story with all the cozy charm of a PG Hallmark movie. If feel-good romance is your jam, this one is perfect for you!

I thoroughly enjoy Amy Clipston’s writing style. It’s conversational, comforting, and such an easy feel-good read. Her books are sweet palate cleansers for me—perfect when I want something light, heartwarming, and guaranteed to deliver a HEA. Splendid Lake gives off cozy small-town vibes, with a neighborly community that genuinely shows up for one another. Clipston also does a lovely job weaving in neighbors and side characters without making the cast feel overwhelming. While Emily and Jake are the heart of the story, we also get plenty of Claire, Jake’s ex-girlfriend, who is delightfully diabolical. The only thing that kept this little dessert book from being a 5-star read is that sometimes I wanted to reach into the pages and shake Jake a little! I wanted him to grow more of a backbone and be less of a doormat. He can be an amazing human, help others, and still stand up for himself once in a while—especially with his dad. Honestly, Jake might need a therapy appointment or two to unpack whatever happened between him and his father that keeps him from speaking up. But maybe that’s what makes the story feel more believable: even the good guys aren’t perfect.

[Alcovia · Rating 3 out of 5]

I really liked the premise of this book. As a huge Hallmark fan, I was very excited for a cozy fall friends-to-lovers story, and the orchard setting and fall atmosphere were exactly what I was hoping for.

Unfortunately, the story lost me about 40% in. We are told repeatedly that Emily and Jake are lifelong best friends, but it was hard to believe when Jake spent years in a relationship that his supposed best friend never once questioned. When his ex reappears, the situation starts out understandably enough but quickly escalates in ways that Jake repeatedly fails to address.

When the big misunderstanding happens, Emily immediately jumps to the worst possible conclusion. For someone who has known Jake for 25 years, it felt completely out of character. Two people who have been best friends that long should have more trust in each other than that.

It was also difficult to believe these characters were supposed to be 30 years old. The way they talked, reacted to situations, and approached relationships often felt much younger than their actual ages. The romance also felt rushed. One kiss later, they're calling each other boyfriend and girlfriend and using pet names, which felt awkward rather than romantic.

Claire is set up as the villain, but we don't get enough backstory early in the story to make her behavior feel believable. Details revealed later actually raised more questions than they answered, making the whole dynamic harder to accept rather than easier.

I also struggled to care about Jake's father because he was written so unlikeably that his health storyline never landed for me. The moment tied to the title also felt more awkward than sweet to me.

None of these issues on their own would have been enough to derail the story, but together they made it difficult for me to stay invested in the characters and their relationships.

Thank you to Thomas Nelson Fiction Audio and NetGalley for this ALC in exchange for an honest review.

[Ree · Rating 4 out of 5]

🎧 ALC Review 📚
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5

🗓 PUB DATE: July 07, 2026

🍁Setting🍁:

🍎Apple Orchard (cider, candy apples, apple pie)
🍂Fall Festival
🎃Pumpkin Patch
🌾Hay Rides
🏘 Small Town

Love the fall atmosphere and setting of Splendid Lake in the western North Carolina mountains. If this wasn't from Netgalley, I would have saved this to read in the fall.

"Soon the humid days would fade into cool nights and the leaves would transform into brilliant shades of gold, orange and brown."

The perfect mood read/listen. Weather you read it in the fall or any other time of year, the atmosphere that Amy Clipston creates through her writing will take you right to the warm coziness of fall. 

🗣Narrator🗣: I liked the pacing Brittany Goodwin brought to the story through her narration. Some narrators read too slow for me and I have to speed it up, but the pace was great even on 1.0 speed. I also liked the different voices she did for the various characters. 

📙Cover📙: So pretty! I wanted to read this just from the cover alone.

📖Story📖:

🎬Hallmark Vibes
👩‍❤️‍💋‍👨 Friends to Lovers
❤️‍🩹 Miscommunication
🤪 Crazy Ex

A clean second chance romance for Emily and Jake, who reunite when Emily returns home to Splendid Lake to help Jake save his family's apple orchard. Oftentimes I struggle to truly enjoy the plot and romance in many PG romance novels. While on the other hand, I find myself enjoying the plot and romance in spicy romances, but not enjoying the spicy parts. This is my second book from this author and I thoroughly enjoyed it yet again. They remind me of cute little Hallmark movies. If you enjoy clean romances with an emotional payoff, you should add this fall romance to your TBR. If you completely despise miscommunication tropes, you may not enjoy this as much.

🙏Thank you, Netgalley, Amy Clipston and Thomas Nelson Fiction Audio for the ALC.🙏

[Angela · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Thomas Nelson and NetGalley for the eARC in exchange for my honest review.

Amy Clipston brings the reader a stand alone novel with 'Candy Apple Kisses'. Growing up Emily Carmichael had a secret crush on Jake Hughes, her best friend. She left the small-town of Splendid Lake to pursue her artistic dreams in the city, but stayed away after her parents death and the sale of her childhood home. They have maintained their friendship, so when Jake calls to say he needs help saving his family apple orchard she can't say no. Welcomed back to the orchard by his family, she stays with them and discovers that maybe her talent isn't dead but needed new inspiration.

While Jake seems to have ended things with Claire, she is not accepting it and continues to hover around his family.. As Jake and Emily spend more time together, Jake is starting to see her differently. Emily is not as sure, and wonders if she will be hurt again. With the work on the orchard continuing and the 100th celebration just around the corner, it seems that all things are possible. However, Claire's presence continues to linger as she attempts to repair their broken relationship and destroy a chance between Jake and Emily. Will this rural orchard be able to withstand the pressure from the corporate giant and will Jake and Emily's budding romance blossom?

I found the small town charm of this novel to be enjoyable. The characters were well developed and each had to go through their own growth before they came together. There were a few instances, where I had hoped Jake would speak up, but the story line unfolded as its own pace. If you are looking for a christian fiction romance, then this novel is for you.

[Julianne · Rating 3 out of 5]

Warm and sweet, packed with big emotions, drenched in nostalgia, but super stressful.

Emily Carmichael drops everything, returning to her childhood small town, Splendid Lake, to save her best friend, Jake Hughes. He sent out a SOS text with no further information, but after two decades of friendship, the details don't matter. Emily moved away after her parents were tragically killed, but she would move mountains for Jake, so she can ignore that trauma to help him. Jake's panicking because the rival apple orchard made big changes this year and he knows the Hughes' 100th orchard celebration will fail if he doesn't make big changes to compete- and fast!

Seeing Jake arouses Emily's longstanding admiration for him- which she dutifully tries to ignore until she discovers he broke up with his long time, long distance girlfriend, Claire, over irreconcilable differences.

Unfortunately, Claire refuses to accept their breakup and acts psychotically in the hopes of trapping, er, wooing, Jake. Emily doesn't know what to believe when presented with two completely opposing "truths", but running away becomes the catalyst for deeply needed clarity and peace that she's been lacking for years.

Buckle up, buttercup: you're in for a wild ride.

Troupes: clean romance, returning home, childhood friends, found family, apple orchard, small town, cozy setting, slow burn, friends to lovers, miscommunication break-up, she saves the day, grand gesture
Spice: 1/5 🌶️
Gore: 1/5 🩸
Language: 0/5 👀
Triggers: volatile parent, over-reaching/narcissistic ex

Thank you to Thomas Nelson and NetGalley for this ARC!

[January · Rating 4 out of 5]

Candy Apple Kisses by Amy Clipston (July 2026) [reading in June]
8h 36m narrated by Brittany Goodwin, 320 pages
ALC courtesy of Thomas Nelson Fiction Audio, Thomas Nelson Fiction, and NetGalley

Genre: Contemporary Christian Romance, Women's Fiction, Seasonal > Autumn/Fall

Rating as a movie: PG

Featuring: Friendships, Home Visit to Homecoming, Western North Carolina Town Hours From Charlotte; August, Second Chance Trope > Childhood Friends-to-Lovers, Orphan, Family Dynamics, Artist, Apple Orchard, Orchardist, Money Trouble, Corporation Buy Out Trope, Secret Crush, Coffee Shop, Community, Legacy, September, Almost Tricenarians, Drama, Thanksgiving, Family Businesses

My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🛻🍂🍎✝️

My thoughts: 📱5% 7h 49m left Chapter 2 - Okay, this has a really cute background story. I'm a little excited to see how it develops. So far, there's no pining and that's always a plus for me.

This story was quite enjoyable. Although there was a third act, I felt like it didn't follow the usual pattern of romance stories, and that was a bit refreshing. I also wouldn't mind if it were turned into a series; the characters were phenomenal.

Recommend to others: Yes. This story is sweet without being cheesy, delivering a mature plot while maintaining a clean, PG vibe.

Songs for the soundtrack: "Glass Onion" by The Beatles, "The Monkees" by The Monkees, "Happy Together" by The Turtles, "Louie Louie" by The Kingsmen, "Do You Believe In Magic" by The Lovin' Spoonful, "Good Vibrations" by The Beach Boys, "Stand by Me" Ben E. King, "Groovy Kind Of Love" by Mindbenders, "Save Yhe Best For Last" by Vanessa Williams

[ria · Rating 1 out of 5]

reading the premise, the book had exactly what i wanted. the small town, autumn candy apple feel. i have to say i was disappointed.

i didn’t enjoy the evil ex trope, especially because it was not done well. if she wanted him that bad, how come she doesn’t live in the same town as her parents and boyfriend.

jake is a really annoying male lead. conflict-avoidant and so boring. i especially hate how his pov felt like he was talking about the same things over and over:
emily
dad
the orchard
ally’s school tuition
the orchard
emily

we understand what the conflict is, thanks.

i also have an issue with emily’s character. youre telling me she moved away after her parents passed to a mew city, and there’s nothing for her there so many years later? how is she so willing to move. yes she denied wanting to several times, but it was still on her mind.
speaking of on her mind, we know practically nothing about her except that she is an artist and that shes in love with jake. she has no personality.

building off of that, throughout the book everyone mentions how jake and emily are bestfriends, but you never feel it. they know basic things about eachother and it feels very surface-level.
especially after THAT scene, does she not know her bestfriend enough to trust him, at least? it all felt very shallow.

if the writing was good, i wouldn’t be mad. it felt like i was reading a wattpad story, and even then it is an insult to the authors on that website. the writing was boring, bland and repetitive.

i had high expectations going into this, and i was very disappointed.

[Lisa M. · Rating 4 out of 5]

While Amy Clipston is best known for her delightful Amish stories, I also really enjoy her contemporary romances. And Candy Apple Kisses? That title alone totally grabbed my attention — because let’s be honest… it is peak romance novel energy. 😍🍎

I went into this story having not even read the synopsis.
Yep — just the title + the author.

And I got exactly what I expected: a lovely, sweet, clean romance with full-on Hallmark movie charm. Honestly, that’s probably how I’d market it — because this book absolutely has the makings of a future Hallmark Channel flick! 🎬💕

Here’s what you get:

🍏 Small-town girl trying to make it big in the big city
🍎 An SOS from her childhood best friend — who also happens to be the guy she’s loved forever
🍏 He owns an orchard in jeopardy due to a giant corporate competitor
🍎 He needs her help to save the family farm
🍏 Oh, and he’s on the outs with his girlfriend because she just “doesn’t get him”

I mean… ring a bell?
😂😂😂

Sure — it’s cliché, but it works because you know you’re reading this book for the happily-ever-after. Not for some big life-altering revelation.

Just like those Hallmark movies everyone loves. 💖

🌟 Final Verdict: 4 stars
Cute, cozy, warm, fuzzy, and full of happily-ever-after vibes. Plus… now I desperately want to go visit an orchard myself. 🍏✨

[Helen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Candy Apple Kisses is a contemporary story by Amy Clipston. This story focuses on the Hughes Family Orchard as it struggles to prosper at it’s 100th year. Jake has called his best friend, Emily, to ask for her help. Not only is Jake struggling with the future of the orchard and family responsibilities, but he is also struggling with being able to move forward after breaking up with his long time girlfriend.

This is a very well written story that is easy to follow and imagine. The beginning moved a little slow for me, but I was able to get into it very quickly. There are so many good points to this story. Jake feels so committed to his family and the orchard that was started by his grandfather. Emily has been struggling to move on since the death of her parents and agrees to go back to Splendid Lake to help Jake. I just love how she is able to come up with all the ideas for the orchard. I like how she was able to get his father to go along with her ideas just by talking with him. I enjoyed how their friendship has been with them for so long and how they share so many things. I especially enjoyed how Emily was able to get back to her art and how that makes such a big difference for her and Jake. It’s hard not to feel for Jake as his ex-girlfriend will not accept his decision and goes to extremes to try to get him back. This is an enjoyable story to read.

I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book, this is my honest review.

[Simply Stevie Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 stars rounded up :)
I was so incredibly excited to return to Splendid Lake! I absolutely adored Amy Clipston's last two books set in this gorgeous small town, so diving into Candy Apple Kisses felt like coming home to a cozy, charming community filled with found family, crisp fall vibes, and plenty of swoon-worthy moments.

While I truly enjoyed the story overall, this one wasn't quite my favorite of the series, and that is 100% because of the drama surrounding the exes. Let’s just say I truly, truly despised Claire—she was just so annoying! Because Jake is such a sweetheart who constantly worries about other people's feelings, he let things linger far longer than he should have. I kept wishing he would just step up and nip Claire's behavior in the bud so much faster and louder! I totally get that the miscommunication and the vile ex-girlfriend were necessary to drive the plot forward and create the conflict, but it definitely had me talking back to my headphones a few times.

Aside from that frustration, the actual romance and the Splendid Lake setting were just as lovely as ever. If you love a good Hallmark movie full of drama, small-town autumn aesthetics, sweet swoons, and a tight-knit community, you are still going to want to pick this one up!

Thank you so much to Thomas Nelson Publishing for the advanced listener copy (ALC) of this audiobook! I am so incredibly appreciative as always.

[Ayla · Rating 4 out of 5]

Candy Apple Kisses by Amy Clipston

Rating: 4/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Thank you to Thomas Nelson Fiction, Thomas Nelson, Netgalley, and the author for access to this ARC in exchange for an honest review!

Candy Apple Kisses is a sweet and lighthearted contemporary romance with impeccable autumn vibes. An atmospheric read, Candy Apple Kisses is a super charming story perfectly set in a cozy small town. With a warm, nostalgic, and wholesome feel, this story feels heartfelt, memorable, and cozy!

Emily Carmichael, an artist, considers Splendid Lake her home, but never thought she would ever return. However, when she discovers that her childhood best friend, Jake Hughes, is struggling to save the Hughes Family Orchard, she returns to the North Carolina mountains. As Emily and Jake work together to prepare for the orchard's anniversary, feelings begin to emerge. Jake realizes how much he has been missing Emily in his life and Emily begins feeling emotions she's afraid to address. However, when Jake's ex-girlfriend's reappears and the pressure to save the orchard from increases, their developing romance is tested.

Candy Apple Kisses is such a sweet and tender read. Emily and Jake’s dynamic is wonderful and their history gives the story some nostalgia. The small town setting is wonderful and the orchard is delightful. The friends to lovers romance is absolutely adorable and further enhances the book’s cozy atmosphere. Overall, a super fun and cozy read with fantastic autumnal vibes!

[Anne Wolters · Rating 5 out of 5]

Emily Carmichael and Jake Hughes have been best friends since they were five years old. During their teen years, Emily developed a deep crush on Jake, but by then he was dating someone else, so she kept her feelings to herself. After the tragic loss of her parents, Emily sold the family home and left Splendid Lake behind, convinced she would never return.
Years later, at twenty-nine, Jake is fighting to save his family’s apple orchard. With the orchard’s 100th anniversary approaching, he reaches out to Emily, hoping her artistic talent and creative vision can help him plan a memorable centennial celebration. As they work side by side, old feelings begin to resurface for Emily — and Jake starts to realize that the sparks between them might be more than friendship. But complications arise when Jake’s ex-girlfriend continues inserting herself into his life and his parents’, stirring up tension and doubt.
Amy Clipston has a gift for crafting heartwarming stories filled with lovable, relatable characters, and this novel is no exception. Once I settled into this delightful tale, I couldn’t put it down. The blend of friendship, second chances, and emotional depth kept me turning pages straight through to the end.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All comments and opinions are my own.

[Tiffany Segal · Rating 4 out of 5]

ALC for Net Galley and Thomas Nelson Fiction Audio

Candy Apple Kisses is a non-spicy, hallmarky romance. Very different from my usual but is a sweet story about two best friends and unrequited love.

I personally really loved the two main characters. Best friends to lovers is one of my favorite tropes, especially when one has loved the other for years without the other realizing it. Emily has such a giving heart and is down to help anyone. She has an incredibly tragic story. Your heart will just break for her.

Jake is the classic country boy, looking out for his family and their 100 year old orchard. He has always loved Emily as his best friend but never saw her as anything else until she comes back to town to help him. Seeing their love grow week by week is so endearing.

Jake has recently broke up with his total nutter of an ex and she just won't accept it. I promise you that she will drive you up the wall throughout this book. She will go to any lengths to keeps Jake, even telling blatant lies.

I am giving this book four stars but I have to be honest, there is a moment that almost ruined this book for me. I don't want to give away spoilers but something major happens and Jake does not make a great enough effort to shut it down. I just can't imagine the reality of this and it is totally unbelievable that he wouldn't.

[Chantal · Rating 4 out of 5]

Emily goes back to her home town Splendid Lake to help her best friend Jake. Jake will soon take over the family orchard that has been in their family for ages. The orchard now has a competitor and slowly Jake started to loose clients, employees and money. Together with Emily they come up with a lot of ideas to keep the orchard in business. When they rekindle their friendship more feelings start to develop. Then Jake's ex girlfriend comes back to Splendid Lake. Will Jake choose to go back to his ex girlfriend or will he choose Emily?

I have read many books my Amy Clipston and once again she didn't disappoint. I really like her writing style and storytelling. It felt at times like I was flying through the book. This book was written in third person which I personally don’t really like because it was confusing to me.
I really liked the main characters but I wished they had a bit more depth to them. I really liked how the two main characters uncovered secrets and grew together.
I also listened to the audiobook and the production was really great. I really enjoyed the narrator.
Overall I highly recommend this book if you are looking for a good fall childhood friends to lovers book.

Thank you NetGalley and Thomas Nelson Fiction for the ARC. All opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

⭐️: 3,8
🌶: no spice

[Rosie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Candy Apple Kisses had such a cozy and sweet small-town fall vibe that I really enjoyed at first. I liked the setting of the orchard and how Emily is trying to help with Jake’s orchard while navigating her feelings for Jake, who has always been part of her life in some way. The seasonal atmosphere and the community elements gave the story a warm, comforting feel, and there were moments where Emily’s dedication and kindness really stood out.

What didn’t work for me at all was the amount of miscommunication, especially toward the second half of the book. Jake’s relationship with Claire was frustrating to read, and the way he handled that situation made it hard to fully root for him. It felt like the story kept creating avoidable tension instead of letting the characters grow naturally, and because of that, I found myself more invested in Emily as an individual than in the romance itself. Honestly, Emily deserved better than how things played out.

Even with those frustrations, the setting and overall tone still made this an okay read. The small-town charm and fall atmosphere are definitely highlights, but the relationship dynamics and repeated misunderstandings kept it from being as satisfying as I hoped. Three stars.

[Jessie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Candy Apple Kisses by Amy Clipston

This was such a fun, sweet, clean, and wholesome fall romance. I did a mix of ebook and audiobook. I really enjoyed the narrator and thought she did a wonderful job.

The story has so many aspects that will pull on your heartstrings. Emily is trying to find a place to call home after both her parents are killed and the place she grew up in and knew and loved, doesn't feel like home without them.

Even though she struggles to be home, Emily knows she must return to help her lifelong friend, Jake, save his family’s ranch.

Jake is struggling dealing with his sick father, trying to support the family, keep the orchard open, and escape his crazy ex girlfriend, Claire.

Claire made me CRINGE. She just sucks so bad!

But Emily and Jake were perfection. You could feel that sweet tension from the beginning. It is a slow burn but a worth it burn. I love the found family aspect and the childhood best friends to lovers.

If spice is your thing, this would not be the book for you but I ABSOLUTELY adored this part. I’m all about the low to no spice.

This book is so fun for a fall read and I will probably read it again come October.

Thank you to @thomasnelsonfiction, @Amy_clipston, and @uplitreads for the ARC and ALC

[Marie Yarwood · Rating 5 out of 5]

A lovely heartwarming storyline about second chances in life and romance.
Emily Carmichael has always loved her hometown named Splendid Lake and missed it when she left to spread her wings, so when her old school friend Jake messages her begging her to return to help him on his family’s apple farm she can’t help but pack her bag and jump in her car.
It turns out Jake’s family farm is underperforming and potentially going to have to be sold to a competitor who happens to also be taking their business in more than one way, but when Emily returns with multiple fresh ideas to increase the chance of saving the business James dad is less than optimistic as he is set in the family traditions and doesn’t like change - somehow Emily manages to persuade him to give her ideas a chance.
All seems to be going great until the tornado of James ex girlfriend turns up and doesn’t everything she could to try and win Jake back, in her eyes they are the perfect couple and deserve happiness - how wrong can she be and is so delusional that she invites both families and Emily to a meal to announce that Jake and herself are engaged. Happiness from both families and shock/ sadness and anger from Emily leaves Jake torn.

[Michelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 ⭐⭐⭐✨ 📖 Candy Apple Kisses by Amy Clipston was exactly what I needed, a sweet and heartwarming cozy romance!

It’s a wonderful, slow-burn, friends-to-lovers, clean romance that makes for a great feel-good escape. The chemistry between the main characters develops naturally, and their emotional connection feels genuine and earned. It touches beautifully on themes of forgiveness, grief and second chances

While I really liked the book overall, a few things kept it from a higher rating. The plot felt a little repetitive at times, and slightly unrealistic (it was hard to believe everyone was so nice that no one wanted to charge Jake for their services). Additionally, while I felt bad for Claire ( The Ex girlfriend) at the beginning because the were together for a decade, she ended up being quite obsessive and manipulative as the story went on. I found her actions unnecessary.

Overall, I really enjoyed this book! it’s a charming and comforting read. If you need a light and wholesome romance that delivers exactly what it promises: a sweet escape with plenty of heart and small-town charm, this is definitely worth adding to your TBR.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher Thomas Nelson for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.

[Kay Defreese · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just love the romance stores set in small towns. I love this one. Made me wish I could live in a place like Splendid Lake. Spendid Lake is the setting from a previous book by Amy Clipston but this is a stand alone book. I don't recall if the previous characters from Splendid Lake were mentioned in this book. In this book Emily has always been in love with Jake but they always remained in the best buddies category. Jake's family has an orchard business and when the orchard starts to decline because of a large scale competition moving in that undercuts their prices Jake calls on his best friend Emily to come help him out. Jake has had an of again and on again relationship with the beautiful Claire, currently an ex. Jake and Emily might have a chance to be more than friends if Claire doesn't get in the way. I could not put this book down. This author usually writes in the Amish romance genre but I really do like her contemporary romance stories. She is such a good writer that I might read some of her Amish novels.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher. All opions are my own.