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Once Upon a Time in Colorado #1
Once Upon a Sugar Plum
Sometimes the sweetest love stories aren’t choreographed—they’re discovered.
When my fiancé leaves me on our wedding day, going home is the last thing I want—until it becomes the only place left to start over.
Storybook Ridge is supposed to be a temporary reset… except I walk straight back into the arms of Colton Atwood.
My best friend. My almost. The boy I never kissed—and the man I never stopped comparing everyone else to.
Now he’s restoring the Sugar Plum Inn, a place practically stitched together with Christmas magic. And when the walls start humming with familiar music, and the lights flicker like they’re trying to tell me something, I can’t ignore the
This town—and this man—still feel like home.
Then Colton secretly signs us up as partners for the Christmas Tour of Homes, and suddenly we’re tangled in twinkle lights, late-night projects, and feelings I promised myself I’d never revisit.
I’m afraid of choosing wrong.
He’s afraid I’ll run again.
But the magic of the Sugar Plum Inn has other plans… and so does my heart.
This book was previously published as Love at the Sugar Plum Inn, but has been altered and expanded. Once Upon a Sugar Plum is a cozy, closed-door, (light) magical-realism Christmas romance featuring best friends to lovers , second chances , small-town charm , holiday magic , he falls first , she’s scared to , home renovation bonding , one couch , and a Nutcracker-themed enchantment that brings them back together .
Once Upon a Time in
Once Upon a Sugar PlumOnce Upon a Winter Beast (coming Dec. 2025)Once Upon a Rose (coming Dec. 2025)
When my fiancé leaves me on our wedding day, going home is the last thing I want—until it becomes the only place left to start over.
Storybook Ridge is supposed to be a temporary reset… except I walk straight back into the arms of Colton Atwood.
My best friend. My almost. The boy I never kissed—and the man I never stopped comparing everyone else to.
Now he’s restoring the Sugar Plum Inn, a place practically stitched together with Christmas magic. And when the walls start humming with familiar music, and the lights flicker like they’re trying to tell me something, I can’t ignore the
This town—and this man—still feel like home.
Then Colton secretly signs us up as partners for the Christmas Tour of Homes, and suddenly we’re tangled in twinkle lights, late-night projects, and feelings I promised myself I’d never revisit.
I’m afraid of choosing wrong.
He’s afraid I’ll run again.
But the magic of the Sugar Plum Inn has other plans… and so does my heart.
This book was previously published as Love at the Sugar Plum Inn, but has been altered and expanded. Once Upon a Sugar Plum is a cozy, closed-door, (light) magical-realism Christmas romance featuring best friends to lovers , second chances , small-town charm , holiday magic , he falls first , she’s scared to , home renovation bonding , one couch , and a Nutcracker-themed enchantment that brings them back together .
Once Upon a Time in
Once Upon a Sugar PlumOnce Upon a Winter Beast (coming Dec. 2025)Once Upon a Rose (coming Dec. 2025)
234 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 25, 2025
About the author
Monique Brasher
24 books138 followersMonique writes sweet, no-spice, small town romances. While they might have a smidge of angst, you'll always find a happily ever after with swoony couples and character growth. When she's not writing, she can be found watching The Big Bang Theory or Friends (or a Marvel movie), on the water with her family, or reading a book. She lives in Texas with her husband of 18 years, four kids, two dogs (Thor and Loki), and a cat.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
January 17, 2026
Darling book
Oh, Monique made me laugh and cry! She knows how to get me rooting for Madison and Colton! Read of you love almost kisses, inherited design x handyman, and building confidence after you had bad experiences.
Best quotes:
"Like what?" I ask.
"Wake up early to do something fun instead of fetching someone's coffee before a meeting I stand on the outskirts of. Walk around and complain about how my feet hurt and I'm cold, but I don't care because there's hot cocoa." A laugh slips from her, warm in the cold air.
I squeeze her hand gently. "You're allowed to enjoy things, Maddie.
"I know." She glances up at me, cheeks pink from the cold—or maybe from us
"It's been a long time since someone encouraged me to."
And something in my chest shifts.
This is the Madison I tripped into love with-the version that used to drag me through every holiday tradition like it was her job-driving around looking at Christmas lights, working on puzzles in front of a fire, and hours of Christmas movie marathons. We've even done one of the classic train routes that includes pajamas when there's snow on the ground.”
pause when I notice Colton staring at me with a strange look on his face.
"Too much? Sorry, I really love history-"
"No, Madison, not too much. You're just incredible-that's all. I love how pas-
sionate you are about what you do."
Love.
Gently, I tug her off the stool so we're standing eye to eye.
"Madison," I say, only using her full name because I need her to really hear me,
"you are not going to lose me.
Her laugh is tired and disbelieving. "You can't promise that."
"I can," I say, steady. "Because staying is a choice, and I've already made mine.
I'm not going anywhere. I've got an inn I've got to take care of and run, and a town that is as invested in my side hustle as you are with your books and reality shows.
She gives me a watery half-smile, so I plug on.
"Plus, there's this woman I've wanted to kiss since she dragged me to a winter formal and made me slow dance in a badly decorated gym to Aerosmith. I finally got my wish, and I can't walk away from her now." My thumb strokes her knuckles. "You're stuck with me, Madison-like overly sticky flay paper."
Her eyes fill, and a laugh bursts out of her. "You have such a way with words." But I can read the subtext, and I know she got my message.
'It's a gift," I say softly, then grin. "I'm not just saying this, though, Mads. meant what I said yesterday, and everything I'm saying now. The second that you said you'd start your firm here if you could? That was it for me. Game over I'm all in."
She bites her lip, staring at our joined hands. "And what if I screw it up?"
"You won't," I answer without hesitation. "But if you do, then we'll figure it out. Together. There is no version of this where I'm perfect, and you're perfect.”
Oh, Monique made me laugh and cry! She knows how to get me rooting for Madison and Colton! Read of you love almost kisses, inherited design x handyman, and building confidence after you had bad experiences.
Best quotes:
"Like what?" I ask.
"Wake up early to do something fun instead of fetching someone's coffee before a meeting I stand on the outskirts of. Walk around and complain about how my feet hurt and I'm cold, but I don't care because there's hot cocoa." A laugh slips from her, warm in the cold air.
I squeeze her hand gently. "You're allowed to enjoy things, Maddie.
"I know." She glances up at me, cheeks pink from the cold—or maybe from us
"It's been a long time since someone encouraged me to."
And something in my chest shifts.
This is the Madison I tripped into love with-the version that used to drag me through every holiday tradition like it was her job-driving around looking at Christmas lights, working on puzzles in front of a fire, and hours of Christmas movie marathons. We've even done one of the classic train routes that includes pajamas when there's snow on the ground.”
pause when I notice Colton staring at me with a strange look on his face.
"Too much? Sorry, I really love history-"
"No, Madison, not too much. You're just incredible-that's all. I love how pas-
sionate you are about what you do."
Love.
Gently, I tug her off the stool so we're standing eye to eye.
"Madison," I say, only using her full name because I need her to really hear me,
"you are not going to lose me.
Her laugh is tired and disbelieving. "You can't promise that."
"I can," I say, steady. "Because staying is a choice, and I've already made mine.
I'm not going anywhere. I've got an inn I've got to take care of and run, and a town that is as invested in my side hustle as you are with your books and reality shows.
She gives me a watery half-smile, so I plug on.
"Plus, there's this woman I've wanted to kiss since she dragged me to a winter formal and made me slow dance in a badly decorated gym to Aerosmith. I finally got my wish, and I can't walk away from her now." My thumb strokes her knuckles. "You're stuck with me, Madison-like overly sticky flay paper."
Her eyes fill, and a laugh bursts out of her. "You have such a way with words." But I can read the subtext, and I know she got my message.
'It's a gift," I say softly, then grin. "I'm not just saying this, though, Mads. meant what I said yesterday, and everything I'm saying now. The second that you said you'd start your firm here if you could? That was it for me. Game over I'm all in."
She bites her lip, staring at our joined hands. "And what if I screw it up?"
"You won't," I answer without hesitation. "But if you do, then we'll figure it out. Together. There is no version of this where I'm perfect, and you're perfect.”
January 15, 2026
This was an adorable friends to more story that felt like a great big hug with all of its cozy vibes.
Madison being left at the altar ended up being what finally brought her home again and allowed her to reconnect with her childhood friend (and teenage crush). These two were so sweet and were both so gone for each other! I loved seeing Madison begin to realize just how much Colton cared for her by the way he treater her, remembered things that she loved, and went out of his way to show her how special she was to him.
When Colton put his heart out there and let Madison know that he wanted them to be more, it was the beginning of some beautiful moments as these two finally moved from being friends to opening their hearts to love.
I really enjoyed this story. It is the first that I have read by this author and now I am looking forward to the rest of the series.
(4.5 stars)
Madison being left at the altar ended up being what finally brought her home again and allowed her to reconnect with her childhood friend (and teenage crush). These two were so sweet and were both so gone for each other! I loved seeing Madison begin to realize just how much Colton cared for her by the way he treater her, remembered things that she loved, and went out of his way to show her how special she was to him.
When Colton put his heart out there and let Madison know that he wanted them to be more, it was the beginning of some beautiful moments as these two finally moved from being friends to opening their hearts to love.
I really enjoyed this story. It is the first that I have read by this author and now I am looking forward to the rest of the series.
(4.5 stars)
January 14, 2026
This is definitely a book you want to snuggle up with your comfy blanket and mug of hot chocolate, settle in by a cozy fire and just get lost in the story. I loved it. I definitely had a big grin on my face while reading it. Madison definitely has some hiccups happening in her life and ending up back in her home town wasn't on her future plans. Yet here she is. And there Colton Atwood is as well. Hahaha! Oh these two are just full of sparks and chemistry and history! I loved it all!!!
The Sugar Plum Inn is the perfect location for them to rekindle their friendship and love. The charming Inn and its history combined with Colton's grandma and all of the other secondary characters is pure charm. I loved how it all unfolded. Even with some unknowns and insecurities and struggles in between. Watching characters struggle and grow and fight for something worth fighting for is wonderful!
Get ready to laugh out loud and sigh and swoon with this one. I'm excited to be reading the next book in this series really soon!!!
Content: Clean.
I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
The Sugar Plum Inn is the perfect location for them to rekindle their friendship and love. The charming Inn and its history combined with Colton's grandma and all of the other secondary characters is pure charm. I loved how it all unfolded. Even with some unknowns and insecurities and struggles in between. Watching characters struggle and grow and fight for something worth fighting for is wonderful!
Get ready to laugh out loud and sigh and swoon with this one. I'm excited to be reading the next book in this series really soon!!!
Content: Clean.
I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
December 27, 2025
The theme of the Sugar Plum Fairy is constant throughout this story, playing when the characters least expect it or at key points in their relationship. FYI, it is now my ringtone, just because.
Madison is back in Storybook Ridge, fresh from being jilted at the altar and losing her job. Being back with her father and grandfather also means seeing her childhood best friend. Colton Atwood, the one that got away, the one she almost kissed at their final high school disco. He’s now the owner of the Sugar Plum Inn and is lovingly renovating it. He just needs an interior designer, which happens to be Madison’s area of expertise. Cue much time spent together, many near kisses and the magic within the walls of the inn pushing them together.
I loved these two; they were the sweetest human beings. Madi was hurt and licking her wounds, but Colton was kind, patient and determined to show her how he really felt, and how much he wished he’d kissed her all those years ago. I loved Colton from the start, even before he waxed lyrical about The Muppet Christmas Carol. He and I share the same opinion about its magnificence.
The supporting cast was also a mix of intriguing and entertaining. We got a sneak preview of the next book with Aiden and Chloe, but I’m hoping for many more stories that include Harper, Cassie and Carter.
This is a beautiful love story; the connection and the bond between Madi and Colton are wonderful to read and the whole book gives you a warm, comforting glow as you read it.
Madison is back in Storybook Ridge, fresh from being jilted at the altar and losing her job. Being back with her father and grandfather also means seeing her childhood best friend. Colton Atwood, the one that got away, the one she almost kissed at their final high school disco. He’s now the owner of the Sugar Plum Inn and is lovingly renovating it. He just needs an interior designer, which happens to be Madison’s area of expertise. Cue much time spent together, many near kisses and the magic within the walls of the inn pushing them together.
I loved these two; they were the sweetest human beings. Madi was hurt and licking her wounds, but Colton was kind, patient and determined to show her how he really felt, and how much he wished he’d kissed her all those years ago. I loved Colton from the start, even before he waxed lyrical about The Muppet Christmas Carol. He and I share the same opinion about its magnificence.
The supporting cast was also a mix of intriguing and entertaining. We got a sneak preview of the next book with Aiden and Chloe, but I’m hoping for many more stories that include Harper, Cassie and Carter.
This is a beautiful love story; the connection and the bond between Madi and Colton are wonderful to read and the whole book gives you a warm, comforting glow as you read it.
March 10, 2026
Reader’s Notes:
*Series or Connected Books?* part of a series, but can be read as a stand-alone
*Point Of View:* Madison (Maddie) & Colton
*Any Cursing Or Possibly Offensive Language?* None!
*Romance?* Yes! Just kisses
*Things To Know:*
–there is some minor bullying from characters (trying to put a character down by mentioning what they went through)
-it is mentioned that characters grew up without parents around (grew up with their grandparents)
-it is mentioned that a character’s parent left when they were young
-it is mentioned that a character was jilted at the altar
Review:
This was my first read from Monique Brasher and it was cute! I loved the light magicalness of the story events (the reminders of when they were together last) and wonderful Christmas fun the characters participated in. I loved seeing their first chance together before the story’s current events were given to the reader and seeing that connection so early on. I also loved that Madison & Colton had been inseparable friends as kids as it gave them more memories together that they thought about during the events of this story!
I loved getting to know the small town of Storybook Ridge and can’t wait to see the stories of other characters unfold later in the series!
Summary:
Madison has returned to Storybook Ridge in order to reset her life after everything in the city went wrong. The stop is only meant to be temporary. But when her childhood best friend Colton keeps showing up around town and then needs her help decorating the town inn for a town tradition, Madison can’t say no. Especially when the inn itself wants to remind her that she and Colton could have almost been something more to each other. But with so many mistakes under her belt, could this just be another wrong choice she’d make?
Colton never got over his best friend, even when she moved on to bigger and better things. So when Madison returns to Storybook Ridge, he can’t help but reach out to her. Inviting her to help decorate the inn with him for their town’s tradition on the other hand has multiple purposes. Not only could it restore her faith in her own work merits, but it could restore the chance at something more between them. And with a little familiar music following them, Colton has hope that Madison could still want that too.
*Series or Connected Books?* part of a series, but can be read as a stand-alone
*Point Of View:* Madison (Maddie) & Colton
*Any Cursing Or Possibly Offensive Language?* None!
*Romance?* Yes! Just kisses
*Things To Know:*
–there is some minor bullying from characters (trying to put a character down by mentioning what they went through)
-it is mentioned that characters grew up without parents around (grew up with their grandparents)
-it is mentioned that a character’s parent left when they were young
-it is mentioned that a character was jilted at the altar
Review:
This was my first read from Monique Brasher and it was cute! I loved the light magicalness of the story events (the reminders of when they were together last) and wonderful Christmas fun the characters participated in. I loved seeing their first chance together before the story’s current events were given to the reader and seeing that connection so early on. I also loved that Madison & Colton had been inseparable friends as kids as it gave them more memories together that they thought about during the events of this story!
I loved getting to know the small town of Storybook Ridge and can’t wait to see the stories of other characters unfold later in the series!
Summary:
Madison has returned to Storybook Ridge in order to reset her life after everything in the city went wrong. The stop is only meant to be temporary. But when her childhood best friend Colton keeps showing up around town and then needs her help decorating the town inn for a town tradition, Madison can’t say no. Especially when the inn itself wants to remind her that she and Colton could have almost been something more to each other. But with so many mistakes under her belt, could this just be another wrong choice she’d make?
Colton never got over his best friend, even when she moved on to bigger and better things. So when Madison returns to Storybook Ridge, he can’t help but reach out to her. Inviting her to help decorate the inn with him for their town’s tradition on the other hand has multiple purposes. Not only could it restore her faith in her own work merits, but it could restore the chance at something more between them. And with a little familiar music following them, Colton has hope that Madison could still want that too.
January 4, 2026
“Fear doesn’t build dreams. It squashes them.” pg 12
“You’re having a pity party. And we don’t host those in this house.” pg 41
“Sometimes the thing you’re most scared of is exactly the thing — or the person — you should move toward.” pg 41
“Hope feels dangerous. Hope feels like lighting a match in a room full of kindling.” pg 59
“I’d pick you, every single time.” pg 64
“Maybe some roads aren’t meant to be chosen so much as followed. ” pg 90
This is a sweet friends to lovers Christmas romance.
Colton and Madison are childhood best friends. When Madison’s life falls apart, she comes back to Storybook Ridge to help her dad and Pops and to figure out what to do next. Colton has bought the Sugar Plum Inn and has been restoring it. One of his biggest regrets is missing his chance to kiss her at their senior winter formal. Now that she’s back, he asks her to help decorate the Inn and get it ready for the Christmas Tour of Homes and hopes that he can show her how he truly feels about her.
I really liked this book. While it’s a quick read, it captured my interest quickly and kept it to the end. I’m excited for rest of the series and I need to know about Aiden and Chloe and I’m hoping we also get Harper’s story.
“You’re having a pity party. And we don’t host those in this house.” pg 41
“Sometimes the thing you’re most scared of is exactly the thing — or the person — you should move toward.” pg 41
“Hope feels dangerous. Hope feels like lighting a match in a room full of kindling.” pg 59
“I’d pick you, every single time.” pg 64
“Maybe some roads aren’t meant to be chosen so much as followed. ” pg 90
This is a sweet friends to lovers Christmas romance.
Colton and Madison are childhood best friends. When Madison’s life falls apart, she comes back to Storybook Ridge to help her dad and Pops and to figure out what to do next. Colton has bought the Sugar Plum Inn and has been restoring it. One of his biggest regrets is missing his chance to kiss her at their senior winter formal. Now that she’s back, he asks her to help decorate the Inn and get it ready for the Christmas Tour of Homes and hopes that he can show her how he truly feels about her.
I really liked this book. While it’s a quick read, it captured my interest quickly and kept it to the end. I’m excited for rest of the series and I need to know about Aiden and Chloe and I’m hoping we also get Harper’s story.
December 24, 2025
🌟🌟🌟🌟
This was such a sweet, whimsical holiday read.
Inspired by The Nutcracker, this story follows Madison and Colton, best friends since kindergarten who never quite crossed the line. Madison has always wished she’d kissed Colton at their high school dance ten years ago. Now, a decade later, Colton has bought the Sugar Plum Inn, determined to restore it. Madison has also come back home after a broken engagement, helping care for her grandfather and trying to figure out her next chapter.
The story has all the cozy Christmas vibes with just a touch of fairytale magic. It’s heartwarming, comforting, and full of small-town charm. I really enjoyed the character growth, especially watching a lifelong friendship slowly turn into something more. The romance is gentle and emotional, with no spice, but plenty of warmth.
If you love holiday romances with magical touches, second chances, and friends-to-lovers stories, this one is a lovely way to kick off the series.
Thank you to the author for this Arc.
🎄 Tropes
✨ No Spice
🏘️ Small Town
💘 Second Chances
👫 Friends to Lovers
🎄 Holiday Magic
💙 He Falls First
🔁 Dual POV
This was such a sweet, whimsical holiday read.
Inspired by The Nutcracker, this story follows Madison and Colton, best friends since kindergarten who never quite crossed the line. Madison has always wished she’d kissed Colton at their high school dance ten years ago. Now, a decade later, Colton has bought the Sugar Plum Inn, determined to restore it. Madison has also come back home after a broken engagement, helping care for her grandfather and trying to figure out her next chapter.
The story has all the cozy Christmas vibes with just a touch of fairytale magic. It’s heartwarming, comforting, and full of small-town charm. I really enjoyed the character growth, especially watching a lifelong friendship slowly turn into something more. The romance is gentle and emotional, with no spice, but plenty of warmth.
If you love holiday romances with magical touches, second chances, and friends-to-lovers stories, this one is a lovely way to kick off the series.
Thank you to the author for this Arc.
🎄 Tropes
✨ No Spice
🏘️ Small Town
💘 Second Chances
👫 Friends to Lovers
🎄 Holiday Magic
💙 He Falls First
🔁 Dual POV
December 31, 2025
Madison has come back to Storywood Ridge with great sadness. Her future husband left her at the altar, and she lost her job. She needs a change of scenery. What she does not count on is seeing the one who got away all those years ago.
Colton Atwood is restoring the Sugar Plum Inn. Christmas magic seems to reside within the walls of this old inn where he has so many great memories with his childhood friend, Madison. When he learns she is back in town, he decides they could make a great team with his building skills and her interior design expertise, they could make the Sugar Plum Inn magical once again.
This sweet, second chance romance was perfect for the Christmas season. The family, the community who all love one another, the setting at Christmas with an inn named the Sugar Plum Inn and second chance romance all added up to make the perfect Christmas book to read on a cold winter night. The characters were delightful and easy to like and get to know. I found myself cheering them on as Christmas romance worked its magic.
Thank you to the author for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Colton Atwood is restoring the Sugar Plum Inn. Christmas magic seems to reside within the walls of this old inn where he has so many great memories with his childhood friend, Madison. When he learns she is back in town, he decides they could make a great team with his building skills and her interior design expertise, they could make the Sugar Plum Inn magical once again.
This sweet, second chance romance was perfect for the Christmas season. The family, the community who all love one another, the setting at Christmas with an inn named the Sugar Plum Inn and second chance romance all added up to make the perfect Christmas book to read on a cold winter night. The characters were delightful and easy to like and get to know. I found myself cheering them on as Christmas romance worked its magic.
Thank you to the author for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 13, 2026
Firstly, I must say thank you for my ARC of this book. I was thrilled to read this 5 star book. I am liking all of Monique Brasher's books that I have been reading and this was no exception. I got hooked from the first sentence of the book and took only a couple of hours to sleep so I could get back to it and finish it. I absolutely loved the setting, I am a huge fan of small towns wherever they are located. The characters were fabulous in this one. There were so many laugh out loud moments that my husband kept coming in to check that I was ok as I was laughing so much. The story was absolutely adorable and has made me want to see The Nutcracker so it's now back on my list even though I have seen it a few times. I wish I could find an Inn just like the Sugar Plum where I could stay and get lost during the Christmas holiday season. I cannot wait to travel back to Storybook Ridge to visit and get to know some of the other characters better and also to see how Madison and Colton are doing. I absolutely recommend this book to all fans of this author and if you want a new best friend author then you definitely need to read this one.
December 19, 2025
This is a clean Christmas romance.
Colton had bought the Sugar Plum Inn and didn’t realize how much is needed to fix it up. But, he continues to work on it. The inn has memories of his childhood best friend, Madison, and the times they used to play there. He believes she is the one who got away and he has loved her since he was a teen, but didn’t want to cross the line and lose his best friend. Madison comes back to town after being left at the alter. She needs to figure out what is the next thing. Colton wants her to help restore the inn. Can she get over her insecurities and help him get it done before the Christmas Tour of Homes? Can their friendship move to more?
I love seeing the characters. The author evokes emotion in that I want to smack the mean girls. I like seeing the relationship develop between Colton and Madison. I didn’t want to put the book down to see what happens next. A great Christmas read.
I received an ARC from the author and am leaving an honest review.
Read
January 25, 2026If you like small towns, cozy stories and a little bit of magic, this story is for you! This was a fun Christmas, Friends to More story in a small town with a hint of whimsy. It has a fun Nutcracker vibe to the story. This is an expanded version of the original novella and includes more. Madison and Colton are best friends and miss their chance. 10 years later, she leaves the city and ends up back at her favorite place Sugar Plum Inn. The Inn that Colton is restoring. Colton has always loved Maddie and he proves it to her with every little action while she helps decorate the inn. He isn't about to let his chance go again. He is the sweetest guy and he stands up for her no matter what! I loved all the side characters and their fun quirks and how much they knew that Maddie and Colton should be together.
“May whoever finds this build something even more beautiful than what was lost. And may love always find its way back through these doors.
“May whoever finds this build something even more beautiful than what was lost. And may love always find its way back through these doors.
December 26, 2025
✨: 4.75 stars
A clean nutcracker-inspired romance with friends to lovers and second chance tropes!
Thank you to the author for this arc copy! I loved this story and found it to be such a cute and lighthearted romance to read throughout Christmas Day. I loved how we got to see our characters develop their feelings from strictly friends to lovers.
This is a quick fast paced read and I will definitely be continuing with the series!
There was only one tiny thing that held this story back from being a five star read for me, and that was sometimes between the chapters of switching between our main characters pov’s, I would get a tad confused with exactly where the next chapter was jumping in. I still understood everything but for a sentence or two I had a bit of confusion at times. Other than this tiny detail, I loved this book so much and can’t wait to read the rest of the series!
A clean nutcracker-inspired romance with friends to lovers and second chance tropes!
Thank you to the author for this arc copy! I loved this story and found it to be such a cute and lighthearted romance to read throughout Christmas Day. I loved how we got to see our characters develop their feelings from strictly friends to lovers.
This is a quick fast paced read and I will definitely be continuing with the series!
There was only one tiny thing that held this story back from being a five star read for me, and that was sometimes between the chapters of switching between our main characters pov’s, I would get a tad confused with exactly where the next chapter was jumping in. I still understood everything but for a sentence or two I had a bit of confusion at times. Other than this tiny detail, I loved this book so much and can’t wait to read the rest of the series!
January 21, 2026
Monique you really got me in the heart with this one and I say thank you. I laughed. I cried. I said “awwwwwwwww” way too many times. This book read like curling up in a soft blanket by the fire with a purring cat and steaming hot cocoa. Absolutely sweet. Madison and Colton were honestly end game. They were beyond gone for each other. Colton was a complete cinnamon roll for her - remembering what she likes and showing her with actions, not just words, what she meant to him. He’s kind and patient with her, which was exactly what she needed. The moments between them felt so big, even when they were small. All the characters were on point and I truly felt like I was walking through the town watching this happen in real time. This book is such a beautiful story and I loved reading every page of it.
February 10, 2026
The store scene in chapter 9 is one of my favorite parts of the book🙌🏼 this is such a beautifully written redemptive story about two childhood best friends that had feelings for each other but the time was just never right and they end up drifting apart. Fast forward to 10 years later and they are thrown back together to work side by side on remodeling a failing inn that they both loved as kids. While dealing with some hard things they heal and grow together and therein blooms a beautiful relationship🥰
“You didn’t get left because you weren’t enough. He left because he couldn’t meet you where you shine.” Love this quotes so much😍
🎄Best Friends to Lovers
💖Jilted Bride
🎄He Falls First
💖Nutcracker-Inspired Romcom
🎄Christmas Season
💖Second Chance Romance
🎄Small Town
🌶️: Kisses Only
🤬: None
“You didn’t get left because you weren’t enough. He left because he couldn’t meet you where you shine.” Love this quotes so much😍
🎄Best Friends to Lovers
💖Jilted Bride
🎄He Falls First
💖Nutcracker-Inspired Romcom
🎄Christmas Season
💖Second Chance Romance
🎄Small Town
🌶️: Kisses Only
🤬: None
December 25, 2025
A perfect team and gorgeous plot
I fell in love. The town of Storywood Ridge, the Sugar Plum Inn, the plot, and the characters - everything came together to create a beautiful and entertaining rom com fit for the holiday season. The chemistry between these two best friends captured my attention from the start. Colton’s skill with building merges seamlessly with Maddy’s interior design talents. He looks after her in a way that shows he notices the small details without being overbearing. Once Upon a Sugar Plum is a quick Christmas rom com that is clean in language and content. I highly recommend this book, especially for people who love healthy relationships, holiday stories, interior design and house renovation, and best friends to lovers.
I fell in love. The town of Storywood Ridge, the Sugar Plum Inn, the plot, and the characters - everything came together to create a beautiful and entertaining rom com fit for the holiday season. The chemistry between these two best friends captured my attention from the start. Colton’s skill with building merges seamlessly with Maddy’s interior design talents. He looks after her in a way that shows he notices the small details without being overbearing. Once Upon a Sugar Plum is a quick Christmas rom com that is clean in language and content. I highly recommend this book, especially for people who love healthy relationships, holiday stories, interior design and house renovation, and best friends to lovers.
December 20, 2025
Sugar Plum Goodness
Oooohhhhh my heart! I absolutely loved this book. It’s the perfect blend of a cozy heartwarming romance with the magic of Christmas.
Colton is a book husband y’all. The way he is so protective, supportive, and respectful is chef’s kiss. I just love him so much!
Madison’s fears and insecurities are relatable without being overdone. I love the way they lean on each other.
Will I be reading everything from Monique because of this book? You bet I will.
No Spice (just kisses)
No Explicit Language
No Violence/Gore
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I loved this. So cute and cozy!
Oooohhhhh my heart! I absolutely loved this book. It’s the perfect blend of a cozy heartwarming romance with the magic of Christmas.
Colton is a book husband y’all. The way he is so protective, supportive, and respectful is chef’s kiss. I just love him so much!
Madison’s fears and insecurities are relatable without being overdone. I love the way they lean on each other.
Will I be reading everything from Monique because of this book? You bet I will.
No Spice (just kisses)
No Explicit Language
No Violence/Gore
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I loved this. So cute and cozy!
January 15, 2026
3,5 stars
I think the characters and theme of this novel are a bit ‘young’ for me!
The storyline is sweet with Madison returning to Storywood (or Storybook as it is sometimes referred to) Ridge after being abandoned by her fiancé. Re-connecting with her childhood best friend, Colton, unearths previously unacknowledged feelings from both protagonists as they use their separate skills to complete the renovation of the town’s iconic Sugar Plum Inn.
A heartwarming holiday story with underlying themes of disappointment, bullying and, ultimately, family pulling together as a unit to ensure a happy outcome. I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I think the characters and theme of this novel are a bit ‘young’ for me!
The storyline is sweet with Madison returning to Storywood (or Storybook as it is sometimes referred to) Ridge after being abandoned by her fiancé. Re-connecting with her childhood best friend, Colton, unearths previously unacknowledged feelings from both protagonists as they use their separate skills to complete the renovation of the town’s iconic Sugar Plum Inn.
A heartwarming holiday story with underlying themes of disappointment, bullying and, ultimately, family pulling together as a unit to ensure a happy outcome. I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 21, 2026
Enjoyed this CO Christmas story. Enjoyed all of the characters, especially main female Madison and male Colton. Enjoyed reading and seeing how the inn got brought back to life by Madison and Colton. He does the heavy work she does the designing. They work well together and found out that the spark they each carried for the other was still alive and it was fun watching their love grow. Would love to see this Storybrook town and all its uniqueness and the characters in the story who live there, sounds magical.
I received an early, free copy AR and am giving my honest, free and voluntary review.
I received an early, free copy AR and am giving my honest, free and voluntary review.
December 19, 2025
This is a sweet romance Christmas story. I loved Colton's character, he was so considerate, kind, and madly in love with Madison. I was rooting for them from the beginning. Madison's character was more complicated, she suffered from low self esteemed although she was very talented.
Their childhood memories of growing up as best friends and their time spent at the Sugar Plum Inn enhanced the story. I thought the book was very entertaining and it was a fun quick read.
I received a free copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Their childhood memories of growing up as best friends and their time spent at the Sugar Plum Inn enhanced the story. I thought the book was very entertaining and it was a fun quick read.
I received a free copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
December 25, 2025
“Madison,” I say, only using her full name because I need her to really hear me, “you are not going to lose me.” Her laugh is tired and disbelieving. “You can’t promise that.” “I can,” I say, steady. “Because staying is a choice, and I’ve already made mine. I’m not going anywhere. Colton and Madison have been best friends all their lives. They almost lost each other once. Can they be brave enough to open their hearts and have their HEA? Second chances, friendship, great family and a cozy small town.
January 26, 2026
Once Upon a Sugar Plum is a delightful, slightly magical, romantic comedy. Best friends Colton and Madison have each others' backs and their skills complement each other so well. I loved watching them renovate the inn and fall in love. Colton takes such good care of Madison. The entire town and this reader were rooting for these two to get their HEA. This well written book can be enjoyed any time - not just at Christmas. Storybook Ridge is on my list of places to visit. Of course I will stop at the inn!
April 26, 2026
Sweet as a sugar plum
In a time when the world is chaotic and thoughts of my own happily ever after seems still far into the distance, the romance of Madison and Colten brings back the hope.itll.happen sooner rather than later yet again. Moniques 's writing brings such warmth and also a sense of hope into reality. Madison and Colton definitely pulled at my heartstrings and I can't wait t finish the series. No matter how it mat affect my heart. This series is a fun and warm ride. I can't wait to read the rest.
In a time when the world is chaotic and thoughts of my own happily ever after seems still far into the distance, the romance of Madison and Colten brings back the hope.itll.happen sooner rather than later yet again. Moniques 's writing brings such warmth and also a sense of hope into reality. Madison and Colton definitely pulled at my heartstrings and I can't wait t finish the series. No matter how it mat affect my heart. This series is a fun and warm ride. I can't wait to read the rest.
November 27, 2025
Once Upon a Sugar Plum
This is a cute fairytale like story. Madison is home after her fiancé left her standing at the altar and losing her job in the city. Colton was her best friend and the man who she measured all of her dates by while dating. He is renovating the Sugar Plum Inn they loved to visit. What happens when he convinces her to help him prepare the inn for the Christmas Tour of Homes? If you like cute and whimsical, you should like this book.
This is a cute fairytale like story. Madison is home after her fiancé left her standing at the altar and losing her job in the city. Colton was her best friend and the man who she measured all of her dates by while dating. He is renovating the Sugar Plum Inn they loved to visit. What happens when he convinces her to help him prepare the inn for the Christmas Tour of Homes? If you like cute and whimsical, you should like this book.
December 22, 2025
This sweet Christmas Rom-Com did not disappoint.
There was whimsy and a sweet friendship that turns to more. A Nutcracker inspired holiday romance with a hint of magic in the air.
Colton and Madison are perfect for one another but they are both too worried about losing the friendship they've had for so long. Finally, they can't hold back any longer.
#closeddoorromance #closeddoorromcom #fairytaleretellings #sweetromancereads #kindleunlimitedromance
There was whimsy and a sweet friendship that turns to more. A Nutcracker inspired holiday romance with a hint of magic in the air.
Colton and Madison are perfect for one another but they are both too worried about losing the friendship they've had for so long. Finally, they can't hold back any longer.
#closeddoorromance #closeddoorromcom #fairytaleretellings #sweetromancereads #kindleunlimitedromance
December 22, 2025
This is a sweet, whimsical, and cozy Christmas romance. Madison returns to Storybrook Ridge after being left at the altar and losing her job. She sees her childhood best friend Colton who has bought the Sugarplum Inn, the town landmark. He has held onto his feelings for her for years, I loved how sweet and supportive he is to Madison after she feels like no one sees her or cares about her. Can they find their HEA and not lose their friendship? Sweet, wonderful story.
January 1, 2026
I liked this book a lot! I liked how the Sugar Plum Fairy song played at different points, and I really liked when Colton defended her to the mean girls. I was a little puzzled how Colton went from seventeen to thirty in the space of ten years, but that was a minor thing. I liked how Madison's friend talked her out of jumping to conclusions and running away even though she was frightened, and persuaded her to go talk to him.
I received an ARC of this book, but all opinions are my own.
I received an ARC of this book, but all opinions are my own.
January 3, 2026
What a beautiful Christmas RomCom this book is! And while I know it’s not Christmas anymore, I loved reading this Christmas small town romance in January. I loved the magic that Storybrook Ridge brought to Maddison & Colton and how well they complimented one another.
Thank you Monique for the free ebook. My favorite Disney movie is Beauty and the Beast, so I’m 100% looking forward to the second book in the series, Once Upon A Winter Beast 🫶
Thank you Monique for the free ebook. My favorite Disney movie is Beauty and the Beast, so I’m 100% looking forward to the second book in the series, Once Upon A Winter Beast 🫶
January 7, 2026
Loved reading this story. Madison and Colton are a wonderful couple. They work well together in getting the Inn ready for the Tour of Homes in only two weeks. Love how Colton keeps taking care of Madison in small, unobtrusive ways, like her favorite coffee, creamer and cookies. Love the Sugar Plum Fairy references. Can’t wait for the next one.
I received this book from the author and this is my voluntary, honest review.
I received this book from the author and this is my voluntary, honest review.
December 20, 2025
I really enjoyed reading this second chance romance set in a small mountain town in Colorado. Lots of fun and laughter shared while rediscovering the joys of family and Christmas. Restoring the town's favorite Inn to its previous glory and winning his high school sweethearts love. Happy ending ahead.
December 23, 2025
I first read Colton and Madison’s story when it was a novella with a different name. I loved it then but loved it even more now that it has expanded. Watching these two be brave and finally let themselves have what they always wanted made my heart happy. Colton was the absolute sweetest and every girl should have a guy like him encouraging her and loving her. Looking forward to the rest of the series.
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