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Ashwood Falls #4
Love at First Loaf
One inheritance. Sixty days. A possessed oven, a porch-eating moose, and the silent man next door who keeps leaving salmon on her steps.
Pastry chef Gabby Diaz didn't even know she had a great-aunt in Alaska — and now she has a bakery, a cabin, and a 60-day residency clause she has to honor before she can sell. After her ex-husband and her best friend blew up everything she built in Austin, sixty days at the edge of the world sounds like a vacation.
Until she lands at midnight in heels, no luggage, holding her French rolling pin like a weapon against a 900-pound moose chewing her porch.
Jace Maddox has been quietly maintaining Edna's property for two years — a promise he made to his grandfather, a stoic Alaskan habit, a wall he's built between himself and the rest of the world. He doesn't expect a verbal disaster in a flour-dusted apron. He doesn't expect his dog to fall in love with her on sight. He absolutely doesn't expect to start leaving fish on her steps just to have an excuse to walk the four hundred yards between their cabins.
Gabby came to Alaska to be alone. Jace came back to Alaska to disappear. The bakery, the moose, and a forty-year love story preserved in someone else's journal have other plans.
Perfect for readers who grumpy/sunshine • small-town romance • he-falls-first • forced proximity • mountain men • found family • stress-baking as a love language
Love At First Loaf is Book 4 of the Ashwood Falls series — readable as a standalone, bingeable as a set.
Read now and walk into Sugar & Flour. The salmon is on the porch.
Pastry chef Gabby Diaz didn't even know she had a great-aunt in Alaska — and now she has a bakery, a cabin, and a 60-day residency clause she has to honor before she can sell. After her ex-husband and her best friend blew up everything she built in Austin, sixty days at the edge of the world sounds like a vacation.
Until she lands at midnight in heels, no luggage, holding her French rolling pin like a weapon against a 900-pound moose chewing her porch.
Jace Maddox has been quietly maintaining Edna's property for two years — a promise he made to his grandfather, a stoic Alaskan habit, a wall he's built between himself and the rest of the world. He doesn't expect a verbal disaster in a flour-dusted apron. He doesn't expect his dog to fall in love with her on sight. He absolutely doesn't expect to start leaving fish on her steps just to have an excuse to walk the four hundred yards between their cabins.
Gabby came to Alaska to be alone. Jace came back to Alaska to disappear. The bakery, the moose, and a forty-year love story preserved in someone else's journal have other plans.
Perfect for readers who grumpy/sunshine • small-town romance • he-falls-first • forced proximity • mountain men • found family • stress-baking as a love language
Love At First Loaf is Book 4 of the Ashwood Falls series — readable as a standalone, bingeable as a set.
Read now and walk into Sugar & Flour. The salmon is on the porch.
- GenresRomance
340 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 24, 2026
About the author
Annie Carlisle
59 books81 followersAnnie Carlisle is the author of steamy romantic suspense novels, including the beloved Hibiscus Harbor series. She crafts stories with resilient women and challenging men, offering readers a perfect mix of love, intrigue, and excitement.
A Florida native, Annie has worn many hats throughout her life, including working as a street paramedic and flight medic, but her favorite role has always been storytelling.
When she’s not writing, Annie is a lover of all animals, especially dogs. She’s an avid collector of all things Goofy and believes in the magic of happily ever after, both on and off the page. Married to a retired Sheriff’s Deputy, Annie enjoys spending time with her husband and their dogs, whether at the beach, the dog park, or relaxing at home.
To learn more about her work, visit her website: www.AnnieCarlisle.com.
A Florida native, Annie has worn many hats throughout her life, including working as a street paramedic and flight medic, but her favorite role has always been storytelling.
When she’s not writing, Annie is a lover of all animals, especially dogs. She’s an avid collector of all things Goofy and believes in the magic of happily ever after, both on and off the page. Married to a retired Sheriff’s Deputy, Annie enjoys spending time with her husband and their dogs, whether at the beach, the dog park, or relaxing at home.
To learn more about her work, visit her website: www.AnnieCarlisle.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
June 19, 2026
THE RISK OF COMPLETE, OVERWHELMING LOVE WAS WORTH TAKING
The series takes place in the town of Ashwood Falls, Alaska. The story is a contemporary tale revolving around two people, Jace Maddox, a resident, and newcomer Gabby Diaz, who plans to only stay temporarily. While the story also has many of the colorful characters from the previous stories in the series, it will bring out a hidden love story of Edna Flores and Hank. While they fell in love with one another, they never acted on their feelings.
What a surprise when Gabby Diaz is contacted by an attorney for Edna Flores, who apparently was an aunt no one talked about. Aunt Edna had moved to Ashwood Falls, Alaska, where she opened a bakery called Sugar & Flour. She has passed away, it has been two years, and now Gabby is expected to go to Alaska, stay at least sixty days, and then decide to stay and make a go of the bakery or sell and leave.
“The plan: survive sixty days, sell everything, start over anywhere that isn't Texas.”
Jace Maddox came to live with Hank, his grandfather, when he was nineteen, after both of his parents were killed in a bush plane accident. Hank taught Jace the art of woodworking and furniture making—and listening to the wood telling him what it should be. One thing Hank made Jace promise is that he will continue to look out for Edna and the bakery. So even though both Hank and Edna are gone, for over two years, he has been taking care of Edna’s home and business.
The story will bring two unlikely people together—through others, Edna and Hank. Jace is a man of few words and has a bitterness about him because he feels that people he cares about leave him, his parents, and Hank. Gabby was married and trusted Marco and her best friend, Valentina, until they betrayed her, taking everything she ever worked for and accomplished, like her bakery in Austin, Texas. Gabby is so out of her element in Alaska, dealing with a stove older than her, a grumpy neighbor whose dog, Jasper, adores her, and trying to make plans for her future.
I loved the story, the characters, and their interactions. Both Jace and Gabby have experienced loss and heartache, and are both afraid to trust. Jace is permanent; he does well building and selling furniture. Gabby has been beaten down so much by others, making her believe she isn’t trying hard enough, she needs to do more, when they are the ones with issues. Now, she is on a sixty-day timeline to either make the bakery work and stay, or sell and leave after the deadline.
Salmon becomes a key factor in the story—with Jace bringing her fresh salmon in the morning, and Gabby coming up with unusual and unique creations. Making salmon croissants and salmon scones becomes a huge success. The town is pulling for her to stay, and while Jace is there, he tries to stay neutral, not wanting to be hurt. Both Gabby and Jace must accept that life is full of the good and bad, and anything worthwhile takes commitment and dedication.
“The salmon croissant at Sugar & Flour is what happens when a pastry chef from Austin meets Alaska and decides to stop fighting it.”
“For the woman who taught me that silence isn’t always the loudest thing in a room.”
Note: I read this book with my paid subscription to Kindle Unlimited.
The series takes place in the town of Ashwood Falls, Alaska. The story is a contemporary tale revolving around two people, Jace Maddox, a resident, and newcomer Gabby Diaz, who plans to only stay temporarily. While the story also has many of the colorful characters from the previous stories in the series, it will bring out a hidden love story of Edna Flores and Hank. While they fell in love with one another, they never acted on their feelings.
What a surprise when Gabby Diaz is contacted by an attorney for Edna Flores, who apparently was an aunt no one talked about. Aunt Edna had moved to Ashwood Falls, Alaska, where she opened a bakery called Sugar & Flour. She has passed away, it has been two years, and now Gabby is expected to go to Alaska, stay at least sixty days, and then decide to stay and make a go of the bakery or sell and leave.
“The plan: survive sixty days, sell everything, start over anywhere that isn't Texas.”
Jace Maddox came to live with Hank, his grandfather, when he was nineteen, after both of his parents were killed in a bush plane accident. Hank taught Jace the art of woodworking and furniture making—and listening to the wood telling him what it should be. One thing Hank made Jace promise is that he will continue to look out for Edna and the bakery. So even though both Hank and Edna are gone, for over two years, he has been taking care of Edna’s home and business.
The story will bring two unlikely people together—through others, Edna and Hank. Jace is a man of few words and has a bitterness about him because he feels that people he cares about leave him, his parents, and Hank. Gabby was married and trusted Marco and her best friend, Valentina, until they betrayed her, taking everything she ever worked for and accomplished, like her bakery in Austin, Texas. Gabby is so out of her element in Alaska, dealing with a stove older than her, a grumpy neighbor whose dog, Jasper, adores her, and trying to make plans for her future.
I loved the story, the characters, and their interactions. Both Jace and Gabby have experienced loss and heartache, and are both afraid to trust. Jace is permanent; he does well building and selling furniture. Gabby has been beaten down so much by others, making her believe she isn’t trying hard enough, she needs to do more, when they are the ones with issues. Now, she is on a sixty-day timeline to either make the bakery work and stay, or sell and leave after the deadline.
Salmon becomes a key factor in the story—with Jace bringing her fresh salmon in the morning, and Gabby coming up with unusual and unique creations. Making salmon croissants and salmon scones becomes a huge success. The town is pulling for her to stay, and while Jace is there, he tries to stay neutral, not wanting to be hurt. Both Gabby and Jace must accept that life is full of the good and bad, and anything worthwhile takes commitment and dedication.
“The salmon croissant at Sugar & Flour is what happens when a pastry chef from Austin meets Alaska and decides to stop fighting it.”
“For the woman who taught me that silence isn’t always the loudest thing in a room.”
Note: I read this book with my paid subscription to Kindle Unlimited.
Review of advance copy
LOVE AT FIRST LOAF by ANNIE CARLISLE ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Love At First Loaf is the fourth (#4) book in the ASHWOOD FALLS series.
When Gabby’s life implodes (her husband cheats with her best friend and steals away her bakery), she grasps on to the inheritance left her by a great aunt she never knew existed. Except. Except in order to sell the cabin and bakery she’s inherited, she has reside there, in Alaska, for 60 days.
Arriving sans luggage and dressed completely inappropriately, Gabby is not prepared for her new life, for the stubborn moose eating her porch or for the silent man who lives 400 yards away and conveys his emotions through fish….
—————————————
I am thoroughly enjoying this delightful series about life and love in Alaska.
If you’re looking for high action, high drama, then this book isn’t for you. This story is a delightful, slow burn, emotional read. It’s quiet, it’s gentle, it’s two people trying to figure their way through life.
I loved the somewhat unrequited love story of Edna & Hank that is told between the lines, it’s sad, it’s beautiful, it’s deep, it’s heartbreaking. I loved the way Gabby and Jace individually (through reading notes & remembered words) related Edna and Hanks relationship to their own, especially how Jace determined that he wouldn’t repeat Hanks regret.
This is a story about how opposites in personality can be drawn together and learn to coexist, each making space for the other, it’s about not expecting someone to change to suit your life, rather developing a unique new life together. Actions speak far louder than words in this love story.
I’m so glad that Marco wasn’t allowed the space to dominate is story, he didn’t deserve it.
There are plenty of delightful side characters in this book, and the best? Morris the moose and Jasper the malamute.
I read an ebook version of this book, with around 225 pages, a character cover and good editing.
With thanks to Annie Carlisle and Book Sirens for an early chance to read. All comments are my own honest, unbiased opinion.
🫎 Slow Burn
🫎. Small Town Romance
🫎 Found Family
🫎 Forced Proximity
🫎 He Falls First
🫎 Mountain Man
🫎 Spice 🔥
Love At First Loaf is the fourth (#4) book in the ASHWOOD FALLS series.
When Gabby’s life implodes (her husband cheats with her best friend and steals away her bakery), she grasps on to the inheritance left her by a great aunt she never knew existed. Except. Except in order to sell the cabin and bakery she’s inherited, she has reside there, in Alaska, for 60 days.
Arriving sans luggage and dressed completely inappropriately, Gabby is not prepared for her new life, for the stubborn moose eating her porch or for the silent man who lives 400 yards away and conveys his emotions through fish….
—————————————
I am thoroughly enjoying this delightful series about life and love in Alaska.
If you’re looking for high action, high drama, then this book isn’t for you. This story is a delightful, slow burn, emotional read. It’s quiet, it’s gentle, it’s two people trying to figure their way through life.
I loved the somewhat unrequited love story of Edna & Hank that is told between the lines, it’s sad, it’s beautiful, it’s deep, it’s heartbreaking. I loved the way Gabby and Jace individually (through reading notes & remembered words) related Edna and Hanks relationship to their own, especially how Jace determined that he wouldn’t repeat Hanks regret.
This is a story about how opposites in personality can be drawn together and learn to coexist, each making space for the other, it’s about not expecting someone to change to suit your life, rather developing a unique new life together. Actions speak far louder than words in this love story.
I’m so glad that Marco wasn’t allowed the space to dominate is story, he didn’t deserve it.
There are plenty of delightful side characters in this book, and the best? Morris the moose and Jasper the malamute.
I read an ebook version of this book, with around 225 pages, a character cover and good editing.
With thanks to Annie Carlisle and Book Sirens for an early chance to read. All comments are my own honest, unbiased opinion.
🫎 Slow Burn
🫎. Small Town Romance
🫎 Found Family
🫎 Forced Proximity
🫎 He Falls First
🫎 Mountain Man
🫎 Spice 🔥
April 27, 2026
Another delightful visit to Ashwood Falls! Gabby Diaz has accepted an inheritance from a great aunt Edna, that she hadn’t known, in Ashwood Falls, Alaska. The decision to do so was made easier by the fact that her best friend was intimate with her now ex-husband. The bakery that they had started was now in his sole possession, well, with the ex-best friend! Her aunt had owned the Sugar and Flour bakery in town and her plan is to abide by the terms of inheritance, sell, then leave. Was her beginning in town, a run in with a moose (named Morris) going to be a precursor of what is to become? Or maybe a first meeting with the man who lives in the woods near her, Jace Maddox and his dog Jasper? Jasper is overly friendly, while Jace, not so much. A salmon left on her porch will begin her relationship with Lucifer, aka the oven which she will have to beg and threaten to heat correctly. Jace is used to taking care of the cabin, as he has done since Edna passed. He would have anyway, but did so at the request of his grandfather. Little by little, Gabby has worked her way into the community and a “relationship” with Jace who continues to leave fresh caught salmon on her porch. As her bakery begins to flourish, will she stay after the terms of her inheritance or leave when her ex arrives in town? I really enjoy when, in a series, the author (who has a great sense of humor which translates to her characters) gives an update on previous characters as this author does. I received an advance review copy at no cost and without obligation for an honest review. (paytonpuppy)
May 20, 2026
I absolutely adored Love at First Loaf. Annie Carlisle delivers everything I want in a small-town romance: crackling chemistry, laugh-out-loud banter, emotional depth, and a hero whose actions speak so loudly they’ll melt your heart. Gabby and Jace are magnetic together, and their grumpy/sunshine dynamic is pure catnip from the very first page.
Ashwood Falls feels warm, vivid, and wonderfully lived-in—the kind of place you want to visit and never leave. Between the baking, the mountain-town charm, the found-family energy, and the perfectly timed chaos, this story wraps around you like a cozy blanket while still bringing plenty of tension and steam. Every side character adds heart, humor, and that irresistible sense of community.
What really made this book shine for me was the emotional payoff. The push-pull between trust and vulnerability is handled so well, and when the truth comes out, it lands with exactly the right mix of ache and hope. Jace is the ultimate stubborn, secretly devoted mountain man, and watching these two fight their way toward something real was incredibly satisfying.
If you love steamy small-town romcoms with grumpy/sunshine sparks, forced proximity, found family, and a romance that feels both swoony and deeply heartfelt, this one is a must-read. I flew through it with a huge smile on my face and closed the book already wanting to return to Ashwood Falls. A total comfort read with serious binge-worthy charm—highly recommend!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Ashwood Falls feels warm, vivid, and wonderfully lived-in—the kind of place you want to visit and never leave. Between the baking, the mountain-town charm, the found-family energy, and the perfectly timed chaos, this story wraps around you like a cozy blanket while still bringing plenty of tension and steam. Every side character adds heart, humor, and that irresistible sense of community.
What really made this book shine for me was the emotional payoff. The push-pull between trust and vulnerability is handled so well, and when the truth comes out, it lands with exactly the right mix of ache and hope. Jace is the ultimate stubborn, secretly devoted mountain man, and watching these two fight their way toward something real was incredibly satisfying.
If you love steamy small-town romcoms with grumpy/sunshine sparks, forced proximity, found family, and a romance that feels both swoony and deeply heartfelt, this one is a must-read. I flew through it with a huge smile on my face and closed the book already wanting to return to Ashwood Falls. A total comfort read with serious binge-worthy charm—highly recommend!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 5, 2026
Every time Annie Carlisle takes me back to Ashwood Falls, I know I’m in for a cozy, comforting read, and Love at First Loaf was no exception.
This book had everything I love in a small-town romance: a wonderful community, a grumpy hero, a heroine finding her footing again, and enough charm to keep me smiling the entire way through. I was completely invested in Gabby and Jace’s story and found myself cheering them on from the start. Their dynamic was equal parts sweet, awkward, and adorable.
Can we also talk about Morris the moose? Because he once again stole my heart. Honestly, he’s becoming one of my favorite recurring characters in this series.
Annie Carlisle’s writing style is so easy to sink into. The setting feels lived-in, the characters feel genuine, and the town itself is one of those fictional places I wish I could visit. The story gave me all the cozy vibes I look for when I pick up a small-town romance.
My only complaint is that I always want more time in Ashwood Falls. The community is such a big part of what makes these books special, and I never quite feel ready to say goodbye.
If you’re a fan of cozy romances, grumpy/sunshine pairings, found family, and charming Alaskan settings, definitely add this one to your TBR.
I received an advance copy of this book and am leaving my honest review voluntarily.
This book had everything I love in a small-town romance: a wonderful community, a grumpy hero, a heroine finding her footing again, and enough charm to keep me smiling the entire way through. I was completely invested in Gabby and Jace’s story and found myself cheering them on from the start. Their dynamic was equal parts sweet, awkward, and adorable.
Can we also talk about Morris the moose? Because he once again stole my heart. Honestly, he’s becoming one of my favorite recurring characters in this series.
Annie Carlisle’s writing style is so easy to sink into. The setting feels lived-in, the characters feel genuine, and the town itself is one of those fictional places I wish I could visit. The story gave me all the cozy vibes I look for when I pick up a small-town romance.
My only complaint is that I always want more time in Ashwood Falls. The community is such a big part of what makes these books special, and I never quite feel ready to say goodbye.
If you’re a fan of cozy romances, grumpy/sunshine pairings, found family, and charming Alaskan settings, definitely add this one to your TBR.
I received an advance copy of this book and am leaving my honest review voluntarily.
May 5, 2026
I went into this book hoping for a sweet small town cozy romance, and in that it delivered. The story delivered the stoic silence of men who aren’t good with words but love with intention and the frantic energy of a woman moving a million miles an hour like she’s trying to outrun her racing heart and mind. I loved the characters owning their messy problem areas while not completely changing like magic at the end; that feels honest in a way I really enjoy. I loved how the author describes loving someone as an action, a choice and something that can be so very loud in the quietest of actions. I did however struggle with repetition. There was a theme of some lovely and poignant thing then it’s sort of repeated a few times in the same part of the book, in a way that doesn’t feel like it adds to the story. That’s my only real criticism but by no means a deterrent to reading more from this author in the future.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 7, 2026
Another book in the Ashwood Falls series. Each can be read as a stand alone. This one included. I started with book 1 so I found it was nice to see their familiar faces pop in from time to time in this one. Gabby is running from her ex and what better place than Alaska. Jace is a born and bred Alaskan that was raised by his grandfather after he lost his folk when their bush plane crashed. Both very likable characters. Both have baggage they have the live with and try and get past. Their journey includes a traitorous malamute and an entitled moose that everyone knows as “Morris”. All this and the usual townsfolk make this book feel like coming home. Grab a blanket, a beverage of choice, get comfy in your favorite chair and settle in for a good reading rom com. There’s some repetition in there internal dialogues that was not necessary but the overall story and HEA over ride this little nit picky item. I really enjoy this series and this authors writings. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 17, 2026
Love At First Loaf is the 4th book in the Ashwood Falls series and I think may just be my favourite Annie Carlisle book yet.
This book still has Annie’s humour but it was in everything that wasn’t said where the beauty lies.
I was invested in this book from the very first chapter and getting to see Morris again. I loved the slow burn and growing understanding between Gabby and Jace without the need for verbal communication. I also loved reading about Hank and Edna and how learning more about this relationship it helped Jace and Gabby to not make the same mistakes. It was also good seeing familiar characters, however this can also be read as a standalone. Although it will definitely make you want to go back and read the other ones in the series. The only thing I think I would have liked was a bit more of the back story of what happened with Marco and Valentina.
I loved the hint about Jax getting a story and can’t wait for it.
This will suit anybody that loves small town romance and finding oneself again.
I received an advanced copy and am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 1, 2026
Another great story by Annie Carlisle that has humor, a moose named Morris (who loves to eat wood porches), and a dog named Jasper. After her divorce from her husband who cheated with her best friend and who took everything he could from her to include her bakery, Gabby packs up what she wants to keep in a storage unit and goes to Alaska after learning she inherited a bakery. To receive her inheritance, she must live and run the bakery for 60 days. Jace is her neighbor who is very quiet but subtly takes care of her and her cabin as well as supplies her salmon. He tries to stay away as everyone he loves leaves him, so he doesn’t want to fall in love with her, but the heart knows, right. Gabbie also has a fear of falling in love and having to choose staying and making a success in this small town or moving to Portland which was her original plans. What will she choose and will they both be able to deal with the choice they make.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy
A love story entwined with life lessons and emotions. Gabby came to Ashwood Falls on a 60 day timeline when she inherited a cabin and a bakery from aunt Edna who she never even knew about after being cheated on by her ex husband and best friend. I would not actually describe Jace as grumpy, he's just a bit handicapped when it comes to to verbal communication, instead he expresses himself by doing things, crafting beautiful furniture for her bakery. She learns through her aunt's journal that love is about actions not necessarily words or feelings. The community is more close knit than family with a grapevine of note. Then there's Moose and Jasper, a temperamental oven originally called Lucifer to add to the chaos. I thoroughly enjoyed the creative writing, scenic descriptions and the awesome not perfect characters.
I received an advanced review copy and leave this review voluntary Thank you BookSirens
I received an advanced review copy and leave this review voluntary Thank you BookSirens
April 24, 2026
Loved this book.
Jace and Gabby and we can’t forget Jasper. Gabbys husband betrays her they divorce and she leaves to move, at least temporarily, to Alaska. Her aunt left her a bakery. And since Gabby is a baker this might be a good match. She has 60 days to decide.
The oven though could be a problem. It’s an old wood oven one side works the other side very temperamental. She does after much trial and many failures manage to make something that should not be possible. It works people come and stand in line. Then here comes the ex, why do they always think all they have to do is come and say oh hey I’m sorry I slept with your best friend it was a mistake I want you to come back. Jasper the dog who never growls at anyone and likes everyone and Morris the moose who eats porches decide they do not like the ex and growl and block his car until he finally leaves. Gabby continues to make her salmon pastries.
Jace and Gabby and we can’t forget Jasper. Gabbys husband betrays her they divorce and she leaves to move, at least temporarily, to Alaska. Her aunt left her a bakery. And since Gabby is a baker this might be a good match. She has 60 days to decide.
The oven though could be a problem. It’s an old wood oven one side works the other side very temperamental. She does after much trial and many failures manage to make something that should not be possible. It works people come and stand in line. Then here comes the ex, why do they always think all they have to do is come and say oh hey I’m sorry I slept with your best friend it was a mistake I want you to come back. Jasper the dog who never growls at anyone and likes everyone and Morris the moose who eats porches decide they do not like the ex and growl and block his car until he finally leaves. Gabby continues to make her salmon pastries.
April 29, 2026
Love At First Loaf is the fourth (#4) book in the Ashwood Falls series by Annie Carlisle and like it's predecessors, doesn't disappoint.
We meet Gabby when she is on a plane to remote Alaska to inherit a bakery. She has 60 days to decide whether she wants to keep it or sell and move on. She plns on moving on - after she caught her husband cheating on her with her best friend, moving on is the only thing keeping her going.
Life has other plans including a temperamental oven from the stone age, a giant moose, and a malamute with a mind of his own. The malamute's owner is also quite the distraction and Gabby has no idea what to do next with him showing up and being all kinds of handsome and helpful.
I loved the quiet gentleness and parallels between Gabby and her mysterious aunt / benefactor.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
We meet Gabby when she is on a plane to remote Alaska to inherit a bakery. She has 60 days to decide whether she wants to keep it or sell and move on. She plns on moving on - after she caught her husband cheating on her with her best friend, moving on is the only thing keeping her going.
Life has other plans including a temperamental oven from the stone age, a giant moose, and a malamute with a mind of his own. The malamute's owner is also quite the distraction and Gabby has no idea what to do next with him showing up and being all kinds of handsome and helpful.
I loved the quiet gentleness and parallels between Gabby and her mysterious aunt / benefactor.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 10, 2026
Betrayed by her ex-husband and ‘best friend’, Gabby finds out the she inherited a bakery from her great aunt, so she makes her escape.
Out of her element, she first ‘meets’ Jace when she’s confronted with a Moose.
This had so many zany interactions… I mean, who negotiates with a stove..? The secondary characters and their hijinks make this a fun read. Who doesn’t like small-town bets, intrusiveness and support… And a moose with comedic timing and a preference for eating buildings.
I loved her great-aunt’s journal entries. Such a sweet love story that pretty much parallels Gabby and Jace’s life in the present timeline. So much ‘will they, won’t they’ tension, and back-and-forth… It was an epically slow-burn.
A not-quite third-act breakup, but more a case of running scared… so much miscommunication, but it still ended in a cozy and charming HEA.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Out of her element, she first ‘meets’ Jace when she’s confronted with a Moose.
This had so many zany interactions… I mean, who negotiates with a stove..? The secondary characters and their hijinks make this a fun read. Who doesn’t like small-town bets, intrusiveness and support… And a moose with comedic timing and a preference for eating buildings.
I loved her great-aunt’s journal entries. Such a sweet love story that pretty much parallels Gabby and Jace’s life in the present timeline. So much ‘will they, won’t they’ tension, and back-and-forth… It was an epically slow-burn.
A not-quite third-act breakup, but more a case of running scared… so much miscommunication, but it still ended in a cozy and charming HEA.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I don’t know if it was the story, or just me, but this was a real tear-jerker! So emotional! Gabby went to Alaska to take up an inheritance but also to get away from the shock and pain of her divorce. Her self-confidence took a huge blow. She tells herself (and others) that she is temporary with a 60-day expiration date, even as she starts to integrate into the community and Jace builds a place in her life. Jace immediately is attracted to Gabby and offers his presence as support but when Gabby needs to hear where he stands, he falls back on silence as his protection from loss and his way of life. Gabby’s fears (and way of talking to things) really touched me, as did her need for Jace to choose her and SPEAK! Loved this story. Went through a LOT of tissues!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 13, 2026
This is a story about two people who are trying very hard not to fall in love. They just can't seem to get out of their own heads. They have both been emotionally hurt by people and circumstances in their lives and have them second guessing their futures. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. I really wasn't sure if these two would actually commit or not. The attraction was real and burned hot, yet neither seems to be able to get past their fears to take a chance. Surrounded by an entire town that can't seem to be able to keep out of their business. A moose that rules the town and eats every railing it can, a stove that has a mind of it's own and a nickname of Lucifer, plus a dog that loves Gabby more than it's owner you might have the makings of a true love story. Good reading, I hope you enjoy the chaos too!!!
May 21, 2026
This is the 4th book in the Ashwood Falls series, and I have loved all the previous books.
This is the story of Jace and Gabby . She is the new transplant in town after leaving her life behind, and inheriting property and a bakery in town with a 60 day clause attach to it. Jace is her neighbor, and sort of keeper of the property, a loner, who prefers rules and silence, but knows the way of the oven. With the help of Morris - the town's moose- and his malamute, these two will have to learn to deal with each other in his silence (and his fishing), in the hidden story of Hank and Edna, the oven's attitude, and their sexual tension. Their story is a slow burn that feels just like bread and their relationship, slow to rise, baked to perfection, and so delicious at the end.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This is the story of Jace and Gabby . She is the new transplant in town after leaving her life behind, and inheriting property and a bakery in town with a 60 day clause attach to it. Jace is her neighbor, and sort of keeper of the property, a loner, who prefers rules and silence, but knows the way of the oven. With the help of Morris - the town's moose- and his malamute, these two will have to learn to deal with each other in his silence (and his fishing), in the hidden story of Hank and Edna, the oven's attitude, and their sexual tension. Their story is a slow burn that feels just like bread and their relationship, slow to rise, baked to perfection, and so delicious at the end.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy
I have enjoyed all in this series, and this is another fun edition to add to this small town saga. It's not critical to read in order, but it certainly helps.
Gabby is an easy character to enjoy, and I appreciate how she approached her situation. Jace's help and quiet attention certainly makes her transition easier.
This is a rom-com, with several instances that had me chuckling (especially when Morris does his Morris things), but it is also a very emotional love story that grabbed my heartstrings!
Please begin this series (wherever you can) and enjoy these characters. After you finish the Ashwood Falls series, visit this author's back catalog for more stories to enjoy. Worth your time, IMO.
I received my ARC from Booksirens, and voluntarily leave my review.
Gabby is an easy character to enjoy, and I appreciate how she approached her situation. Jace's help and quiet attention certainly makes her transition easier.
This is a rom-com, with several instances that had me chuckling (especially when Morris does his Morris things), but it is also a very emotional love story that grabbed my heartstrings!
Please begin this series (wherever you can) and enjoy these characters. After you finish the Ashwood Falls series, visit this author's back catalog for more stories to enjoy. Worth your time, IMO.
I received my ARC from Booksirens, and voluntarily leave my review.
May 18, 2026
Strangely, I found this a difficult book to read from this author. Both lead characters had quirks I found mentally frustrating. They handled their difficult times in hiding in silence while over-thinking and then contradicting themselves. This slowed me down a bit as I began checking my understanding by reading and rereading.
That being said, Jace was an excellent woodworker who could read the grains and how they needed to tell their story. Gaby, a good pastry baker, was thrown for a loop when forced to only use local products in a competition. Fortunately her expected loss became her ultimate win thereafter.
I received a copy from BookSirens and this is my honest and voluntary review.
That being said, Jace was an excellent woodworker who could read the grains and how they needed to tell their story. Gaby, a good pastry baker, was thrown for a loop when forced to only use local products in a competition. Fortunately her expected loss became her ultimate win thereafter.
I received a copy from BookSirens and this is my honest and voluntary review.
May 21, 2026
Love traveling back to Ashwood Falls. This book was a little slower paced than the rest of the series. Some repetition that I had to go back to re-read. Gabby is facing the ending of a marriage, the betrayal of a close friend and losing her bakery. When a letter arrives that she inherited a cabin and a bakery from an unknown great aunt in Alaska. Accepting the 60 day residency clause before she could sell the property. She discovers the person that her great aunt was and the life and love she kept secret for decades. Jace Maddox made a promise to his grandfather to look after Edna’s property and when Gabby shows up she is his top priority.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 26, 2026
‘Love at First Loaf’ was delightful. It involved a baker, a sixty-day clause in an inheritance in Alaska, a wayward moose, an interesting neighbor in construction and making furniture, getting to know the community, checking out the appliances, humor, coping with the community rumor mill, delivering salmon daily, experimenting with assorted baked goods, making the grade, having a visit from a blast from the past, making an announcement, a misunderstanding, sorting out the details, and falling in love. Moreover, Gabby and Jace, the protagonists, were sweet together. They worked hard to achieve their HEA. Additionally, I appreciated the author’s vivid descriptions that created an upbeat and humorous tone. Overall, I liked the amusing narrative.
May 17, 2026
I always enjoy reading a story set in Alaska. I've only visited once in real life, but somehow reading about emotions and events taking place in a state so different from where I live just strikes me as extra delightful. Gabby arrives in Alaska without her luggage to lay claim to a cabin and bakery that she inherited from a great aunt she never knew that comes with a 60 day residency requirement. Besides the resident moose, she now lives next door to Jace, a very reserved neighbor whose dog, Jasper falls for Gabby immediately. I love it when a dog is a good judge of character and spends most of the story trying to get the message to its owner, and Jasper is quite skilled at this ("like he's been waiting for this exact woman and this exact moment his entire doggy existence"). Ms. Carlisle crafted a charming story around Gabby and Jace's very tentative attempts at friendship and eventually romance. I had to suspend some disbelief regarding some loose ends (baking questions, food safety issues, geography, and some other plot points left unexplained) in the end it was an engaging novel about two intriguing people who finally reach get out of their own heads to achieve their happily ever after.
I was given an ARC and volunteered to write a review.
I was given an ARC and volunteered to write a review.
May 16, 2026
Gabby finds herself with a cheating ex husband and now an ex friend, A;sp in Ashwood Falls with a newly inherited cabin and bakery from an Aunt Edna. It has a 60 day timeline to decide if this what she wants.
Jace as grumpy, and communication is not his strongest point. To show that he cares is by his actions. Like making wonderful furniture for her bakery. It is when Gabby finds her aunt's journal , she see words are just words action speaks louder.
Oh I loved this wonderful characters who you will fall love fall in love with. Chemistry, humour, deeds, and romance. Perfect.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Jace as grumpy, and communication is not his strongest point. To show that he cares is by his actions. Like making wonderful furniture for her bakery. It is when Gabby finds her aunt's journal , she see words are just words action speaks louder.
Oh I loved this wonderful characters who you will fall love fall in love with. Chemistry, humour, deeds, and romance. Perfect.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 14, 2026
Gabby goes to Alaska where her aunt left her a bakery and a cabin. She needs to be successful in order to keep the inheritance. Jace has been taking care of the grounds until she comes. I loved both Gabby and Jace. She is so outgoing and communicates her thoughts where Jack communicates with his presence. I enjoyed watching them learn to interpret each other's thoughts. The small-town rallies around Gabby, especially Morris the Moose and Jace's dog. I really liked the comparison of Gabby's baking and Jace's furniture making. Great story and characters.
May 29, 2026
This is book 4 in Carlisle's Ashwood Falls series. A great addition to this series that can be read as a standalone. A grumpy/sunshine romance read with main characters Gabby and Jace. Carlisle delivers a well written, captivating romance with the best balance of sweet, heat and humor as well as all the emotions this book drew out. A great read and I loved the teaser of what's to come! Can't wait for more!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 27, 2026
Relaxing and emotional at the same time but too much wisdom talking it could have been better if it was more between the main characters. I needed more of her trying to solve the logistics of her kitchen and her love and vice versa his working while expressing his feelings in the workshop and telling her his pain, suffering and his feelings toward loss and her. Also needed to see his expressing of scaring from the plane sound it passed as a neglectable scene could have been a masterpiece
May 3, 2026
“Love at First Loaf” by Annie Carlisle
-A gentle, slow-burn romance set in a charming Alaska town, full of heart and humor. I received a free copy and am voluntarily sharing my honest thoughts.
Gabby and Jace’s relationship grows through quiet actions, with lovable side characters like a mischievous moose and a loyal dog.
Emotional, cozy, and deeply satisfying, it’s a story about healing, community, and building a new life.
-A gentle, slow-burn romance set in a charming Alaska town, full of heart and humor. I received a free copy and am voluntarily sharing my honest thoughts.
Gabby and Jace’s relationship grows through quiet actions, with lovable side characters like a mischievous moose and a loyal dog.
Emotional, cozy, and deeply satisfying, it’s a story about healing, community, and building a new life.
May 10, 2026
Gabby and Jace are so likeable. He is the silent type who just shows up when you need him, and she understands his need to just be there but not speak much.
I loved how their story evolved with the addition of the moose and the temperamental oven who keeps getting its name changed - it was Lucifer but is now Jasper .
What a lovely cozy romance .
I received a copy from Booksirens and leave my review voluntarily
I loved how their story evolved with the addition of the moose and the temperamental oven who keeps getting its name changed - it was Lucifer but is now Jasper .
What a lovely cozy romance .
I received a copy from Booksirens and leave my review voluntarily
May 22, 2026
Jace and Gabby wonderful characters, I felt for Gabby when her husband and her divorce she moves to Alaska. Her aunt gave her a bakery, Jace and Jasper the dog are wonderful and good for her, They both have emotional issues, But they have such a wonderful attraction, Loved it. My first in the series and I'm going to go read the rest,
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 23, 2026
Gabby and Jace meet when she get a bakery from her Aunt. She comes there after she caught her husband and her bf together. Life has other plans for Gabby once she gets to her new place, including a temperamental oven, a giant moose, and a malamute with a mind of his own. The malamute's owner is also quite the distraction and she has no idea what to do with him showing up and being all handsome and helpful. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
May 25, 2026
Gabby inherited a cabin and bakery in Ashwood Falls from her great aunt. She needed a diversion after her ex husband and best friend had a relationship behind her back. Her plan was to sell both and start anew, but she had to live there awhile. Her closest neighbor Jace said little, brought her salmon and watched over things. Enjoyed their entertaining story. Morris and Jasper added to the fun. Received a free copy from the author.
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