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Once Upon a Rose: A Sweet Rapunzel Rom-Com Retelling
Some love stories wait quietly until it’s time to bloom.
Harper
I learned the hard way that loving Flynn Jackson means getting left behind.
Eight years ago, he kissed me under fireworks and promised we’d talk at sunrise. He never showed.
Now he’s back in Storywood Ridge—famous, charming, and starring on a reality dating show designed to give him a wife. Somehow, I’m not just filling the house with roses… I’m part of the experiment.
I know better than to hope for anything. I’ve built a quiet life I can control. A café, a town that knows me, walls that keep my heart safe.
But Flynn has always been the one thing I can’t protect myself from.
Flynn
Everyone thinks I’m here to find a wife.What they don’t know is that the only woman who’s ever mattered to me already lives here—and she’s standing on the other side of the cameras.
Harper Evans has always been home. The girl I left behind when choosing my career felt safer than choosing love.
I’m supposed to date other women. Follow the script. Give the audience a love story.
But every time I look at her, I remember the one I walked away from.
This time, I can't pretend it didn’t matter.
This book was previously published as Love at the Flower Cafe, but has been altered and expanded to fit the fairytale it was originally meant to be.
Once Upon a Rose is a cozy, closed-door (light) magical realism winter romance featuring brother's best friend, second chances, small-town charm, holiday magic, opposites attract, a fairytale themed reality show, water kisses, and a Rapunzel vibes that will have you grinning the whole time.
Once Upon a Time in
Once Upon a Sugar PlumOnce Upon a Winter BeastOnce Upon a Rose
Harper
I learned the hard way that loving Flynn Jackson means getting left behind.
Eight years ago, he kissed me under fireworks and promised we’d talk at sunrise. He never showed.
Now he’s back in Storywood Ridge—famous, charming, and starring on a reality dating show designed to give him a wife. Somehow, I’m not just filling the house with roses… I’m part of the experiment.
I know better than to hope for anything. I’ve built a quiet life I can control. A café, a town that knows me, walls that keep my heart safe.
But Flynn has always been the one thing I can’t protect myself from.
Flynn
Everyone thinks I’m here to find a wife.What they don’t know is that the only woman who’s ever mattered to me already lives here—and she’s standing on the other side of the cameras.
Harper Evans has always been home. The girl I left behind when choosing my career felt safer than choosing love.
I’m supposed to date other women. Follow the script. Give the audience a love story.
But every time I look at her, I remember the one I walked away from.
This time, I can't pretend it didn’t matter.
This book was previously published as Love at the Flower Cafe, but has been altered and expanded to fit the fairytale it was originally meant to be.
Once Upon a Rose is a cozy, closed-door (light) magical realism winter romance featuring brother's best friend, second chances, small-town charm, holiday magic, opposites attract, a fairytale themed reality show, water kisses, and a Rapunzel vibes that will have you grinning the whole time.
Once Upon a Time in
Once Upon a Sugar PlumOnce Upon a Winter BeastOnce Upon a Rose
- GenresRomance
412 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 3, 2026
8 people are currently reading
62 people want to read
About the author
Monique Brasher
22 books133 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 - 29 of 29 reviews
January 11, 2026
Such a sweet story with closed door romance involving her brothers best friend and a tv show!
-Thank you to the author for an arc copy!
This couple’s story was so beautiful and emotional. We see what happens when the brothers best friend returns to the small hometown for the filming of reality show involved in finding a wife. Everything changes when his best friends little sister appears as a contestant and is the only girl he’s ever had real feelings for. But after a missed opportunity looming in their past, will this reality show force them to confront their feelings or will Harper’s plan to guard her heart successfully deter the pull they both continue to feel towards one another.
-this sweet romance is a rapunzel inspired story with little hints of magic interwoven subtly.
- I really found myself relating to our FMC Harper. I understand the anxiety she feels and how she wants to be independent and doesn’t need others protecting her as a way of ensuring she protects herself after experiencing a past of being let down. I understand the feeling of taking efforts to ensure your heart and feelings are protected from being let down even if the end result is being alone. I loved getting to see her get the happy ending she deserves, especially when I see so much of myself in her.
- I also liked the way the tension and drama was portrayed among the girls themselves because I also know what it is like to experience being unwelcome by other girls and how lonely that can feel when you are the outsider. I liked how our FMC realizes that sometimes she doesn’t have to carry everything all by herself and can rely on the others in her life.
- overall this story was so cute and I flew through it! I absolutely adored Flynn and Harper and I can’t wait to read the next book in the series!
-I absolutely recommend this book!!
-Thank you to the author for an arc copy!
This couple’s story was so beautiful and emotional. We see what happens when the brothers best friend returns to the small hometown for the filming of reality show involved in finding a wife. Everything changes when his best friends little sister appears as a contestant and is the only girl he’s ever had real feelings for. But after a missed opportunity looming in their past, will this reality show force them to confront their feelings or will Harper’s plan to guard her heart successfully deter the pull they both continue to feel towards one another.
-this sweet romance is a rapunzel inspired story with little hints of magic interwoven subtly.
- I really found myself relating to our FMC Harper. I understand the anxiety she feels and how she wants to be independent and doesn’t need others protecting her as a way of ensuring she protects herself after experiencing a past of being let down. I understand the feeling of taking efforts to ensure your heart and feelings are protected from being let down even if the end result is being alone. I loved getting to see her get the happy ending she deserves, especially when I see so much of myself in her.
- I also liked the way the tension and drama was portrayed among the girls themselves because I also know what it is like to experience being unwelcome by other girls and how lonely that can feel when you are the outsider. I liked how our FMC realizes that sometimes she doesn’t have to carry everything all by herself and can rely on the others in her life.
- overall this story was so cute and I flew through it! I absolutely adored Flynn and Harper and I can’t wait to read the next book in the series!
-I absolutely recommend this book!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is a sweet second chance romcom with nods to Rapunzel.
While this book can be read as a standalone, it is best read in the Once Upon a Time in Colorado Series as the characters crossover.
In this book, we get Flynn and Harper's story. Flynn is best friends with Harper's brother. Before Flynn left to chase his dream/career, Flynn and Harper had a moment, but there was a miss opportunity and both have wondered "what if" for years.
Flynn is coming back to his home town for a TV reality show where he is to "find" his wife in an effort to repair his image; however, one isn't always to believe the media as not everything is always as it seems. One of Flynn's biggest hopes in coming back - to see Harper again.
Harper has worked hard to build her business and has been asked to provide the flowers for the show. She's also been asked to be a last minute additional contestant and hesitantly accepts as the money would help, but she doesn't know if she can watch Flynn "date" all the girls.
With the close proximity and the past history this book provides some of the best tender swoon moments I have read. I was instantly endeared to Flynn and Harper and loved how their relationship progressed. This is a book that will suck you in and keep your interest until the very end.
I received an Advanced Copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Quotes:
"Do you ever wish you could hit the reset button? Just get the world to see you, not all the things other people project into the universe about you?"
"I want to succeed. I want a chance at all things that feel just barely out of reach. I want my own story. It's just that my story never involved a Prince Charming."
"I'm doing this for the girl who felt left behind, and the woman who's fought every day since to matter."
"I just wanted someone to choose me."
"...hope deserves something to hold on to. And dreams deserve to come true."
"...sometimes, in rescuing ourselves, we rescue someone else, too."
While this book can be read as a standalone, it is best read in the Once Upon a Time in Colorado Series as the characters crossover.
In this book, we get Flynn and Harper's story. Flynn is best friends with Harper's brother. Before Flynn left to chase his dream/career, Flynn and Harper had a moment, but there was a miss opportunity and both have wondered "what if" for years.
Flynn is coming back to his home town for a TV reality show where he is to "find" his wife in an effort to repair his image; however, one isn't always to believe the media as not everything is always as it seems. One of Flynn's biggest hopes in coming back - to see Harper again.
Harper has worked hard to build her business and has been asked to provide the flowers for the show. She's also been asked to be a last minute additional contestant and hesitantly accepts as the money would help, but she doesn't know if she can watch Flynn "date" all the girls.
With the close proximity and the past history this book provides some of the best tender swoon moments I have read. I was instantly endeared to Flynn and Harper and loved how their relationship progressed. This is a book that will suck you in and keep your interest until the very end.
I received an Advanced Copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Quotes:
"Do you ever wish you could hit the reset button? Just get the world to see you, not all the things other people project into the universe about you?"
"I want to succeed. I want a chance at all things that feel just barely out of reach. I want my own story. It's just that my story never involved a Prince Charming."
"I'm doing this for the girl who felt left behind, and the woman who's fought every day since to matter."
"I just wanted someone to choose me."
"...hope deserves something to hold on to. And dreams deserve to come true."
"...sometimes, in rescuing ourselves, we rescue someone else, too."
Review of advance copy received from Author
I wasn’t sure how I was going to feel about this because the reality tv trope can be awkward but I ended up adoring this book. Once Upon a Rose is the third book in Monique Brasher’s Once Upon a Time in Colorado.
Harper and Flynn had history together but it just made their relationship more complicated. They had to learn to truly see the other person and be brave in different ways. I loved reading about Harper growing and learning to stand up for herself. She didn’t allow her circumstances to bring her down though she did get overwhelmed at times. Flynn was going through it. He was trying to fix up his image but he also just wanted to prove his love for Harper.
It was sweet to read about them reconnecting and learning more about each other. I loved their easy banter and how you could tell that they truly wanted the best for the other. The plot was interesting and I wanted to see how Harper would survive the reality TV show. I am not really a reality TV show kind of person but it was fun to read about it through Harper and Flynn’s perspectives.
Candance and Danielle were a lot of fun and I hope that they get their own books! I also adored Tom. Basically all of the side characters, the good ones, deserve their own books. Oh my goddess, I hated Laurel but she made the book interesting. This was fun and it kept me engaged. I would recommend it to those who enjoy contemporary romances inspired by fairytales. Once Upon a Rose is a clean contemporary romance.
I received a complimentary copy
Harper and Flynn had history together but it just made their relationship more complicated. They had to learn to truly see the other person and be brave in different ways. I loved reading about Harper growing and learning to stand up for herself. She didn’t allow her circumstances to bring her down though she did get overwhelmed at times. Flynn was going through it. He was trying to fix up his image but he also just wanted to prove his love for Harper.
It was sweet to read about them reconnecting and learning more about each other. I loved their easy banter and how you could tell that they truly wanted the best for the other. The plot was interesting and I wanted to see how Harper would survive the reality TV show. I am not really a reality TV show kind of person but it was fun to read about it through Harper and Flynn’s perspectives.
Candance and Danielle were a lot of fun and I hope that they get their own books! I also adored Tom. Basically all of the side characters, the good ones, deserve their own books. Oh my goddess, I hated Laurel but she made the book interesting. This was fun and it kept me engaged. I would recommend it to those who enjoy contemporary romances inspired by fairytales. Once Upon a Rose is a clean contemporary romance.
I received a complimentary copy
Review of advance copy received from Author
Imagine having a moment with your brother's best friend only to have him leave right after... then years later agreeing to work as the florist to the Bachelor-type reality show he's starring in to find a wife... then getting roped into actually competing on the show! If Flynn and Harper's story sounds a bit familiar to you, you may have read it when it was previously published as Love at the Flower Cafe. But as someone who doesn't typically reread books, trust me when I say this one was absolutely worth it. I loved their story the first time around... I mean, with a story like this, how could you not? But this time around, I loved it even more. Honestly, I've loved all of Monique's books that I've read, but it's definitely the fairy tale retellings where she really shines, and I loved that she's added some more of those elements that I love from the Enchanted Hollow into this story I had already enjoyed making it that much better! I loved the nods to Rapunzel. I loved the (light) whimsical magic. And of course, I loved the chemistry between Flynn and Harper. If you love reality dating shows and/or fairy tale retellings, this is one not to be missed!
Once Upon a Rose is a closed-door romance with kisses only and no language. It is part of the Once Upon a Time in Colorado series but could be enjoyed as a standalone as well.
**ARC received for consideration. All opinions are my own.
Once Upon a Rose is a closed-door romance with kisses only and no language. It is part of the Once Upon a Time in Colorado series but could be enjoyed as a standalone as well.
**ARC received for consideration. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
It’s always fun to go behind the scenes of reality tv, because we use the word reality very loosely. We all know that what we see on camera is either half a story, or edited highlights. There is a script and actors and not much reality at all.
What is real in this book is the story and the characters who make it. The author has a lovely niche of magical realism in her stories, The Enchanted Hollow series and now this collection of Storywood Ridge books.
We see the realty show Once Upon A Rose filming at the Sugar Plum Inn. The lucky bachelor Flynn Jackson is a hometown boy, snowboarding superstar and supposedly looking for a wife to settle down with. Harper is the girl he left behind, she runs her own flower shop and cafe and is responsible for all the flowers on the show, until the producer writes her into the show as ‘the wildcard’. Knowing they have history and she’s the ‘best friend’s little sister’, the producer knows ‘ratings gold’ when she sees it. However, their history is too much to ignore and before long, Flynn isn’t looking for a future wife, his future is Harper. And that’s when the fireworks really start.
Flynn was adorable, sexy and funny. It’s easy to see why Harper (and most of the other contestants) are in love with him. Harper has never gotten over Flynn leaving back when they were younger and she’s built herself a tower that she feels safe in, but never allows herself to fall in love, like she had with Flynn.
I loved this story and all the characters, I’m hoping we see more of some of them in the future.
What is real in this book is the story and the characters who make it. The author has a lovely niche of magical realism in her stories, The Enchanted Hollow series and now this collection of Storywood Ridge books.
We see the realty show Once Upon A Rose filming at the Sugar Plum Inn. The lucky bachelor Flynn Jackson is a hometown boy, snowboarding superstar and supposedly looking for a wife to settle down with. Harper is the girl he left behind, she runs her own flower shop and cafe and is responsible for all the flowers on the show, until the producer writes her into the show as ‘the wildcard’. Knowing they have history and she’s the ‘best friend’s little sister’, the producer knows ‘ratings gold’ when she sees it. However, their history is too much to ignore and before long, Flynn isn’t looking for a future wife, his future is Harper. And that’s when the fireworks really start.
Flynn was adorable, sexy and funny. It’s easy to see why Harper (and most of the other contestants) are in love with him. Harper has never gotten over Flynn leaving back when they were younger and she’s built herself a tower that she feels safe in, but never allows herself to fall in love, like she had with Flynn.
I loved this story and all the characters, I’m hoping we see more of some of them in the future.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Oh this book is darling!
Thank you to Monique for the gifted copy!
I love the Princess Bride references, and Harper and Flynn getting better at being confident with each other and communicating was great!
Best lines: “Laughing through a breath, I catch her left hand, gently tug off the Claddagh ring from her finger, and slide it onto her other hand. Then I turn it so the heart points home.
“I promised. Mine,” I murmur.
“Yours,” she says, and squeezes.
Eight years of almosts and one clean landing.
“You saved the tubing hill,” she whispers.
“I’d save the world for you.”
“As Madison said, he’s the Westley to my Buttercup. The floorboards give a soft, settling sigh, as if the house agrees.
Tonight, I’m not waiting in a tower. I’ve said my whole life I don’t need rescuing, though I’m learning it’s always the worst thing. And sometimes, in rescuing ourselves, we rescue someone else, too.
Which is exactly what I’m about to do.”
I came here looking for a future I didn’t think existed. Something that only existed in my dreams. You think I can let that go now that I found it?”
“I really hope not,” she whispers. “Because I’ve dreamed of you, too.”
I kiss her because hope deserves something to hold on to. And dreams deserve to come true.”
Thank you to Monique for the gifted copy!
I love the Princess Bride references, and Harper and Flynn getting better at being confident with each other and communicating was great!
Best lines: “Laughing through a breath, I catch her left hand, gently tug off the Claddagh ring from her finger, and slide it onto her other hand. Then I turn it so the heart points home.
“I promised. Mine,” I murmur.
“Yours,” she says, and squeezes.
Eight years of almosts and one clean landing.
“You saved the tubing hill,” she whispers.
“I’d save the world for you.”
“As Madison said, he’s the Westley to my Buttercup. The floorboards give a soft, settling sigh, as if the house agrees.
Tonight, I’m not waiting in a tower. I’ve said my whole life I don’t need rescuing, though I’m learning it’s always the worst thing. And sometimes, in rescuing ourselves, we rescue someone else, too.
Which is exactly what I’m about to do.”
I came here looking for a future I didn’t think existed. Something that only existed in my dreams. You think I can let that go now that I found it?”
“I really hope not,” she whispers. “Because I’ve dreamed of you, too.”
I kiss her because hope deserves something to hold on to. And dreams deserve to come true.”
Review of advance copy received from Author
Once Upon a Rose by Monique Brasher is a Rapunzel fairytale retelling, second chance romcom including a reality TV show bachelor style.
This was a cute romance that includes a bit of whimsy and an adorable girl who seems to have locked her self in her own tower. Harper gets overwhelmed easily but also a wonderful person who does so much for her community and never forgot the one who got away with her heart.
Flynn, yes an ode to Flynn Ryder, is a pro snowboarder who measures every girl against the one he walked away from. Can he choose the one he truly wants to be with when the producer of the show wants to see “show gold”?
Once Upon a Rose is part 3 in Once Upon a Time in Colorado Series but can be read as a stand-alone. This book releases on February 3.
Once Upon a Sugar Plum is book 1 and be read on Kindle for free right now or Kindle Unlimited. Another highly recommended by myself. It is a sweet Nutcracker inspired Christmas romcom.
Once Upon a Winter Beast is book 2 and is a Beauty and the Beast retelling that releases on January 27.
#fairytaleretelling #modernfairytale #fairytaleromcom #smalltown #secondchanceromance #brothersbestfriend #sweetromcom #arcread
This was a cute romance that includes a bit of whimsy and an adorable girl who seems to have locked her self in her own tower. Harper gets overwhelmed easily but also a wonderful person who does so much for her community and never forgot the one who got away with her heart.
Flynn, yes an ode to Flynn Ryder, is a pro snowboarder who measures every girl against the one he walked away from. Can he choose the one he truly wants to be with when the producer of the show wants to see “show gold”?
Once Upon a Rose is part 3 in Once Upon a Time in Colorado Series but can be read as a stand-alone. This book releases on February 3.
Once Upon a Sugar Plum is book 1 and be read on Kindle for free right now or Kindle Unlimited. Another highly recommended by myself. It is a sweet Nutcracker inspired Christmas romcom.
Once Upon a Winter Beast is book 2 and is a Beauty and the Beast retelling that releases on January 27.
#fairytaleretelling #modernfairytale #fairytaleromcom #smalltown #secondchanceromance #brothersbestfriend #sweetromcom #arcread
Review of advance copy received from Author
Oh my goodness such a sweet and adorable story. This book had me in all the feels. After just the prologue I was filled with righteous indignation for Harper. And was firmly on the screw Flynn bus. But after the first chapter my emotional life became so much more complicated than that. Flynn and Harper were much more complicated and in depth than the characters we typically get in this type of book, which is par for the course from Monique. The worlds in which the characters exist and the characters themselves are always so multilayered and multifaceted in Monique’s books. And this book was no different. The connection and tension between our MCs was on fire 🔥 I could feel it coming off the page. They both were highly realistic and very relatable. Harper is the kind of girl we all either know or were/are. She goes to great lengths to protect her heart and herself from needing others since, for the most part, she’s always been let down. It was so vindicating and emotional to see her get the ending she deserves. The extent to which Harper and Flynn are both influenced by their past is insane, in a good way. Neither wants to admit it out loud but it was always about the one who got away. Toss your emotional baggage in the hotel cart and check in for this amazing story.
February 4, 2026
Oh my stars! This book has owned me completely for the entire day as I lapped up every page of this book like a thirsty dog while smiling, cheering and jeering at times (you will understand when you read it).
A reality dating show, a hunky sweetheart of a man who is most happy on a snowboard, and a damsel in distress made this charming romance completely delightful.
The little girl inside of me still loves a good fairy tale, and this author has an exceptional talent for storytelling and turning a modern day romance into a real life fairy tale.
Flynn is a hero and gentleman in every sense of the word. Harper is a small town girl with big dreams and artistic talent second to none. She does not fit into this world of a reality dating show, but yet she does fit in more than she realizes because the bachelor only has eyes for her. She is guarded, but this is for her own protection.
Emotional does not even begin to describe this story. The rich details of a love story that will make your heart soar and envelop you with warmth all the way from your head to your feet. That ending was pure bliss with a giant cherry on top, as I sat back with a satisfied smile on my face.
Thank you to the author for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
A reality dating show, a hunky sweetheart of a man who is most happy on a snowboard, and a damsel in distress made this charming romance completely delightful.
The little girl inside of me still loves a good fairy tale, and this author has an exceptional talent for storytelling and turning a modern day romance into a real life fairy tale.
Flynn is a hero and gentleman in every sense of the word. Harper is a small town girl with big dreams and artistic talent second to none. She does not fit into this world of a reality dating show, but yet she does fit in more than she realizes because the bachelor only has eyes for her. She is guarded, but this is for her own protection.
Emotional does not even begin to describe this story. The rich details of a love story that will make your heart soar and envelop you with warmth all the way from your head to your feet. That ending was pure bliss with a giant cherry on top, as I sat back with a satisfied smile on my face.
Thank you to the author for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 2, 2026
Once Upon a Rose by Monique Brasher is a second-chance romance with brother’s best friend vibes, fairytale energy, and a The Bachelor–style twist. When I learned this was a Rapunzel retelling, I knew I had to read it. I’m thankful I received an ARC—these are my honest opinions.
I’ll be honest: I’ve never watched The Bachelor and I’m not a fan of reality TV, so I felt a little hesitant going in since the premise mirrors that setup. That said, this story quickly won me over. Flynn is a well-known snowboard athlete, and Harper is a baker and florist with clear “tower” symbolism that beautifully nods to Rapunzel.
I haven’t read the first book in this series, but this one called out to me, and I’m so glad I followed that instinct. Any early uncertainty I had was worth pushing through. This never felt like a typical reality romance with shallow competition—instead, it stayed focused on emotional depth, history, and unresolved feelings.
I loved the tension between two people who want different things out of life and aren’t sure how—or if—those paths can align. The fairytale elements were woven in thoughtfully without feeling forced, and the story balanced romance, personal growth, and heart really well.
The supporting cast added so much charm, and I especially enjoyed the friendships that formed along the way. Monique Brasher does a wonderful job putting her own spin on contemporary fairytale retellings—you can see the inspiration without it ever feeling cookie-cutter or overly tied to the original tale.
This story had love, tension, drama, friendship, and growth, and it left me feeling genuinely happy when I finished.
Highly recommend. 🌹
I’ll be honest: I’ve never watched The Bachelor and I’m not a fan of reality TV, so I felt a little hesitant going in since the premise mirrors that setup. That said, this story quickly won me over. Flynn is a well-known snowboard athlete, and Harper is a baker and florist with clear “tower” symbolism that beautifully nods to Rapunzel.
I haven’t read the first book in this series, but this one called out to me, and I’m so glad I followed that instinct. Any early uncertainty I had was worth pushing through. This never felt like a typical reality romance with shallow competition—instead, it stayed focused on emotional depth, history, and unresolved feelings.
I loved the tension between two people who want different things out of life and aren’t sure how—or if—those paths can align. The fairytale elements were woven in thoughtfully without feeling forced, and the story balanced romance, personal growth, and heart really well.
The supporting cast added so much charm, and I especially enjoyed the friendships that formed along the way. Monique Brasher does a wonderful job putting her own spin on contemporary fairytale retellings—you can see the inspiration without it ever feeling cookie-cutter or overly tied to the original tale.
This story had love, tension, drama, friendship, and growth, and it left me feeling genuinely happy when I finished.
Highly recommend. 🌹
February 6, 2026
Once Upon a Rose
Once Upon a Rose is a second-chance, childhood friends to lovers, loose Rapunzel retelling taking place during a reality dating show. It is a mix of everything, and it is done in the best way possible.
You don’t have to like reality dating shows to enjoy this book. This book takes place during a reality dating show, but the reality dating show is not the story. I feel like both groups of people can enjoy this book equally.
The chemistry and banter between Harper and Flynn is unmatched. I felt like I spent the whole time highlighting everything because all of the quotes were so good! Their interactions made me laugh almost constantly.
I really enjoyed Harper’s character because I felt like she was the perfect mixture of confident yet reserved. I think it’s easy to pick one or the other when writing, but they can coexist and I felt like it added so much to her character. Her competitive nature also made me happy because I enjoy the chaos and spark it adds to daily life.
The found family also deserves to be highlighted. I loved that Harper found such amazing friends, and that Flynn had good friends too.
I don’t know what more to say that will do this book justice. It’s a very emotionally deep story, it’s a very funny story, and it’s a really good romance book. It’s simultaneously serious and lighthearted, which makes for the best books. It is definitely worth the read!!
I received a free ebook copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own!
Once Upon a Rose is a second-chance, childhood friends to lovers, loose Rapunzel retelling taking place during a reality dating show. It is a mix of everything, and it is done in the best way possible.
You don’t have to like reality dating shows to enjoy this book. This book takes place during a reality dating show, but the reality dating show is not the story. I feel like both groups of people can enjoy this book equally.
The chemistry and banter between Harper and Flynn is unmatched. I felt like I spent the whole time highlighting everything because all of the quotes were so good! Their interactions made me laugh almost constantly.
I really enjoyed Harper’s character because I felt like she was the perfect mixture of confident yet reserved. I think it’s easy to pick one or the other when writing, but they can coexist and I felt like it added so much to her character. Her competitive nature also made me happy because I enjoy the chaos and spark it adds to daily life.
The found family also deserves to be highlighted. I loved that Harper found such amazing friends, and that Flynn had good friends too.
I don’t know what more to say that will do this book justice. It’s a very emotionally deep story, it’s a very funny story, and it’s a really good romance book. It’s simultaneously serious and lighthearted, which makes for the best books. It is definitely worth the read!!
I received a free ebook copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is a clean romance. It is part of a series but can be read as a stand-alone.
Harper lives in Storywood, Colorado and runs a fusion bakery/floral store. A show called Once Upon a Rose has come to town and it was arranged that she would do the floral arrangements. Flynn, who she has crushed on since she was a teenager, is the main character for the reality show, trying to find a wife. She’s hoping to make it through without breaking her heart. However, she gets roped into being one of the contestants of the how by the producer. Will they finally get their happy ever after?
This was such a good story. A bit long, but oh so worth it. I was engaged from the very start and had a hard time putting it down to go to sleep and work. If I could give it more than 5 stars, I would. This is a must read. You’ll smile, laugh, get mad and keep hoping for a happy ending.
I received an ARC from the author and am leaving an honest review.
Harper lives in Storywood, Colorado and runs a fusion bakery/floral store. A show called Once Upon a Rose has come to town and it was arranged that she would do the floral arrangements. Flynn, who she has crushed on since she was a teenager, is the main character for the reality show, trying to find a wife. She’s hoping to make it through without breaking her heart. However, she gets roped into being one of the contestants of the how by the producer. Will they finally get their happy ever after?
This was such a good story. A bit long, but oh so worth it. I was engaged from the very start and had a hard time putting it down to go to sleep and work. If I could give it more than 5 stars, I would. This is a must read. You’ll smile, laugh, get mad and keep hoping for a happy ending.
I received an ARC from the author and am leaving an honest review.
February 8, 2026
Ooooooo the dating show angle had me hooked. It felt exactly like watching a reality TV show with all the drama, jealousy, and tension. It was so well done with Harper and Flynn balancing what was real and fake during all of it.
Harper and Flynn are two of the greenest flags ever! I loved how they were relatable, vulnerable, and flawed. Monique is amazing at writing characters this way!
I loved how Harper laid it all out about being a team and standing by each other through everything. This is what couple goals are all about!
I received a voluntary ARC for an honest review. All thoughts are my own. (Trust me you don’t want to be in my mind 24/7)
No spice (just kisses)
No explicit language
No violence/gore
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️drama filled Rapunzel retelling
Harper and Flynn are two of the greenest flags ever! I loved how they were relatable, vulnerable, and flawed. Monique is amazing at writing characters this way!
I loved how Harper laid it all out about being a team and standing by each other through everything. This is what couple goals are all about!
I received a voluntary ARC for an honest review. All thoughts are my own. (Trust me you don’t want to be in my mind 24/7)
No spice (just kisses)
No explicit language
No violence/gore
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️drama filled Rapunzel retelling
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was an enjoyable story which I rate as a 4.5. Harper has an unique business, a combination flower shop and cafe, in her hometown. Her first and only love, her brother's best friend since childhood, Flynn, is back in town for a dating reality show. Harper has some emotional baggage including low self esteemed while trying to keep her business afloat and not think about Flynn abandoning her all those years ago. Overall I liked the story but there some parts which I felt were repetitive. I loved the ending.
I received a free advance copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I received a free advance copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
February 5, 2026
Once Upon a Rose is a small town, second chances, reality show, winter romance. It is not hard to imagine a reality show run by such a conniving, manipulative, egoist as Laurel. I am not a reality show fan because of how much staging happens, but Laurel makes a great villain! I love the strong woman portrayed by Harper and the disillusioned athlete Flynn. Once they reconnect, I love how Flynn woos Harper. I love how Harper opens her heart again. The ending when Flynn defies Laurel is perfection! There are so many characters I would like to see get their own books - Candace, Danielle, Tom and Steven. This series might never have to end!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was such a cute book that I read it in one day. The opening scene pulled me in right away. Harper and Flynn were both lovable characters and I was invested in them finally figuring things out. This series has only hints of magic but it makes it seem a little more like a fairytale. Even though Harper was the one “stuck in the tower” she was the one to rescue herself, with some help from Flynn. Also loved the cameos from Madison and Colton and the introduction to Jax, who will be a character in the Enchanted Hollow series!
February 3, 2026
I enjoyed reading this fun, sweet story that had me smiling, laughing, frustrated and hoping for a HEA. Flynn is part of a reality show to find a wife. Harper has had a secret crush on Flynn since she was in middle school. When the show hires her to provide roses, she is hopeful to get her café/floral store some recognition. But the show producer only wanting drama and cares nothing for the people and ropes Harper into being a contestant. Will she get her heart broken? Or can they find love? Such a fantastic read I didn’t want to put it down.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Really enjoyed this story. It was an easy, light read but held plenty of intrigue and mystery in the main characters; Flynn and Harper, or as Flynn’s fave name Buttercup. Each have cared for the other for many years but were afraid to share and be open about their feelings for each other. Enjoyed the reality tv show as well. Liked how their love for each other came through together.
I received an early and free copy from author and am giving my honest free and voluntary review.
I received an early and free copy from author and am giving my honest free and voluntary review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Even though I’m not interested in reality tv, I enjoyed reading this. The characters are interesting with great interactions. Love that Harper actually makes real friends with Danielle and Candace and how they are willing to support her. Flynn is an intricate person who makes the wrong choices but is willing to do whatever it takes to correct them. Great story.
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.
February 3, 2026
What a cute story! It was clean and uplifting and had a ton of fairytale Easter eggs, as well as references to The Princess Bride! I loved the ending, the way they both fought for true love, and the way the good guys all stood up for each other! My only complaint was that there seemed to be a lot of alcohol consumption throughout the book, which detracted from the family friendly feel I was hoping for. Other than that, this was a winner! I received an ARC copy and this is my review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Overall, I enjoyed the storyline of this one. I like Flynn and Harper a lot. I liked the villain, as she was really fitting in her role. There were a few times I felt the story was a little wordy, and a couple spots I got a little confused with. Having said that, I do think this is a book I would read and enjoy again!
Review of advance copy received from Author
"Then stop bleeding in front of me and start standing eith me. Chossr with me, not for me. You're not my shield. If we're going to do this, all life-changing decisions happen side by side from now on" A modern Ranpunzel's fairytale. Harper and Flynn are mean to be together if they are able to fave their fears, their mistakes and finally find their HEA.
Review of advance copy
I loved this book and couldn’t put this down it was such a sweet story of retelling of Rapunzel .
Flynn is a famous ⛷️ snowboarder and Harper lives in Colorado runs a bakery and the floral shop.
They met years ago at a 4th of July party but Flynn walked away from her after a kiss . After that she never heard from her after she goes on his bachelor dating show ( I loved the behind the scenes of the show)
Will they find they way back to each other even with her being on a bachelor show with him ?
Such a good twist to a good book
I can’t wait to read more by this author
Thank you for my arc
Flynn is a famous ⛷️ snowboarder and Harper lives in Colorado runs a bakery and the floral shop.
They met years ago at a 4th of July party but Flynn walked away from her after a kiss . After that she never heard from her after she goes on his bachelor dating show ( I loved the behind the scenes of the show)
Will they find they way back to each other even with her being on a bachelor show with him ?
Such a good twist to a good book
I can’t wait to read more by this author
Thank you for my arc
January 27, 2026
A lighthearted romcom fairytale retelling. The TV dating show theme was a fun way for Harper and Flynn to reconnect. Loved all the behind the scenes with the banter and competition between the contestants. This story will have you smiling throughout and cheering for Harper and Flynn from the get go. A perfect winter read. It is a book you won’t want to put down.
February 10, 2026
Such a fun world - I really enjoyed watching these two re-connect after years apart, but it not feeling like a second chance because the "first chance" was so short lived. The reality dating show concept is one that either hits me very wrong or goes ok, and I'm happy to report this one worked! I hope you check it out soon!
Review of advance copy received from Author
An enjoyable story depicting a reality TV show involving a hometown snowboarder bachelor. A lot of behind the scenes action that you wouldn't realize might go on in a reality TV production. Many likeable characters as well as ones you hope have 'karma' get them.
February 2, 2026
Flynn and Harper stole my heart with their first scene. Brother's best friend and the little sister of his best friend finally having their chance only to be separated for several years. The heartache and unknown and longing. I loved it all. Now Harper is going to have to face Flynn since he's back in town for a bachelor type tv show. Oh man! This is gonna be good!!!
I'm loving the books in this Once Upon a Time in Colorado series! I love these characters and seeing them show up throughout each others' stories. You're going to love them. I like having the added aspect of the fairytales being woven throughout each story. I'm a fairytale loving gal so this makes me really happy to see how the author incorporates them in. Each book can be read as a standalone or in any order. I love the sweetness, beauty and magical aspects of the book. And watching the characters realize their mistakes and facing each other to figure that out. Flynn is all in for loving Harper and having a second chance with her. *Happy Sigh* When he's put in a precarious situation due to the tv show, he has to decide how he's going to move forward and fix it all. I love what he does and the reinforcement he calls in through his friends! Yep, definitely a magically delightful read!!!
Content: Clean.
I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
I'm loving the books in this Once Upon a Time in Colorado series! I love these characters and seeing them show up throughout each others' stories. You're going to love them. I like having the added aspect of the fairytales being woven throughout each story. I'm a fairytale loving gal so this makes me really happy to see how the author incorporates them in. Each book can be read as a standalone or in any order. I love the sweetness, beauty and magical aspects of the book. And watching the characters realize their mistakes and facing each other to figure that out. Flynn is all in for loving Harper and having a second chance with her. *Happy Sigh* When he's put in a precarious situation due to the tv show, he has to decide how he's going to move forward and fix it all. I love what he does and the reinforcement he calls in through his friends! Yep, definitely a magically delightful read!!!
Content: Clean.
I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Can be read as a standalone but is interconnected with books within this series and others. Characters overlap so reading in order recommended.
Second chances
Best friend's little sister
Reality TV gone sideways
Magic in the air
Unexpected friendships
Second chances
Best friend's little sister
Reality TV gone sideways
Magic in the air
Unexpected friendships
Review of advance copy received from Author
A bachelor-style dating reality show where the bachelor is a giant green flag
Flynn and Harper belong together. Their chemistry is off the charts. Their constant references to Rapunzel and The Princess Bride sold me on their relationship. Once they made up their minds to choose one another, they demonstrated how much they cared about each other. In a house of women vying for his attention, Flynn takes his commitment to Harper seriously. Flynn recognizes who Harper is and gives her the freedom to make her own choices, and he learns to stay and stop letting fear drive him. I enjoyed every moment of this book from first entry to last rose. The villain twist was ingenious. For me, this book was 'ratings gold' in every way. Clean in language and content. Would highly recommend.
*I received an ARC. All opinions are my own.
Flynn and Harper belong together. Their chemistry is off the charts. Their constant references to Rapunzel and The Princess Bride sold me on their relationship. Once they made up their minds to choose one another, they demonstrated how much they cared about each other. In a house of women vying for his attention, Flynn takes his commitment to Harper seriously. Flynn recognizes who Harper is and gives her the freedom to make her own choices, and he learns to stay and stop letting fear drive him. I enjoyed every moment of this book from first entry to last rose. The villain twist was ingenious. For me, this book was 'ratings gold' in every way. Clean in language and content. Would highly recommend.
*I received an ARC. All opinions are my own.
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