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Maplewood #3
Sugar & Shadows
Not yet published
Expected 31 Aug 26Rule #1: Never work with your enemy.
Rule #2: Definitely don’t sleep with him either
Rule #3: Never get emotionally invested in your quirky small hometown.
Unfortunately, I’ve broken all three rules…
When a career-ending scandal sends me back to Maplewood, Vermont, I need to lay low and figure out my next steps. Instead, I find my hometown in crisis. The local economy is struggling, the beloved Maple Festival has been stolen by a rival town, and I’m forced to work side by side with Mayor Gabriel Harding, my childhood rival and the town’s optimistic hometown hero.
Helping Gabe save Maplewood should be simple. I’m a political strategist. He’s a small-town mayor. Together, we’re supposed to save Maplewood.
The problem? Gabe refuses to see me as the villain I think I am. Every time I push him away, he fights harder for me, for this town, and for the future neither of us imagined. Somewhere between arguing over town budgets, getting snowed in together, and one ill-advised one-night-stand, our enemies-to-lovers rivalry turns into an unexpected pregnancy.
Apparently, saving a small town requires public humiliation, emotional vulnerability, forced proximity … and an alarming amount of maple syrup.
As I fight to bring the Maple Festival back to town, I uncover a dangerous corporate conspiracy, become the target of powerful enemies, and discover someone wants Maplewood to fail.
Now we’re fighting for our town, our future and the family we never saw coming.
Because falling for my enemy was never part of the plan.
Neither was becoming a family.
Rule #2: Definitely don’t sleep with him either
Rule #3: Never get emotionally invested in your quirky small hometown.
Unfortunately, I’ve broken all three rules…
When a career-ending scandal sends me back to Maplewood, Vermont, I need to lay low and figure out my next steps. Instead, I find my hometown in crisis. The local economy is struggling, the beloved Maple Festival has been stolen by a rival town, and I’m forced to work side by side with Mayor Gabriel Harding, my childhood rival and the town’s optimistic hometown hero.
Helping Gabe save Maplewood should be simple. I’m a political strategist. He’s a small-town mayor. Together, we’re supposed to save Maplewood.
The problem? Gabe refuses to see me as the villain I think I am. Every time I push him away, he fights harder for me, for this town, and for the future neither of us imagined. Somewhere between arguing over town budgets, getting snowed in together, and one ill-advised one-night-stand, our enemies-to-lovers rivalry turns into an unexpected pregnancy.
Apparently, saving a small town requires public humiliation, emotional vulnerability, forced proximity … and an alarming amount of maple syrup.
As I fight to bring the Maple Festival back to town, I uncover a dangerous corporate conspiracy, become the target of powerful enemies, and discover someone wants Maplewood to fail.
Now we’re fighting for our town, our future and the family we never saw coming.
Because falling for my enemy was never part of the plan.
Neither was becoming a family.
Kindle Edition
Expected publication September 14, 2026
About the author
Daphne Elliot
33 books1,709 followersIn High School, Daphne Elliot was voted “most likely to become a romance novelist.” After spending the last decade as a corporate lawyer, she has finally embraced her destiny. Her small town steamy novels are filled with flirty banter, sexy hijinks, and lots and lots of heart.
Daphne is a coffee-drinking, hot-sauce loving introvert who spends all her free time in her garden. She lives on a small farm in New England with her husband, two kids, two dogs, twelve backyard chickens and a hive of Italian honeybees.
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Daphne is a coffee-drinking, hot-sauce loving introvert who spends all her free time in her garden. She lives on a small farm in New England with her husband, two kids, two dogs, twelve backyard chickens and a hive of Italian honeybees.
VISIT MY AMAZON PAGE:
https://www.amazon.com/Daphne-Elliot/...
FOLLOW ME ON INSTAGRAM:
https://www.instagram.com/daphneellio...
FOLLOW ME ON FACEBOOK:
https://www.facebook.com/DaphneElliot...
SUBSCRIBE TO MY NEWSLETTER:
http://daphneelliot.com/join-newsletter/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
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August 21, 2026₊˚⊹ ᰔ pre-read:
⤿ i got an arc of sugar & shadows and you're telling me it's enemies to lovers, forced proximity, ONE BED, accidental pregnancy, AND grumpy x grumpy??? so basically two people with the combined warmth of a walk-in freezer are going to be forced into close quarters, somehow reproduce, and then presumably glare at each other until one of them admits they're in love. absolutely excellent.
⌗ started: aug. 21st, 2026. ✦
⤿ i got an arc of sugar & shadows and you're telling me it's enemies to lovers, forced proximity, ONE BED, accidental pregnancy, AND grumpy x grumpy??? so basically two people with the combined warmth of a walk-in freezer are going to be forced into close quarters, somehow reproduce, and then presumably glare at each other until one of them admits they're in love. absolutely excellent.
⌗ started: aug. 21st, 2026. ✦
August 20, 2026
Thank you to Daphne Elliot for this eARC in exchange for my honest opinions!!
Sabrina is coming home after a personal and professional crisis. Gabe is the town mayor and her high school rival. He’s also experiencing a bit of a personal and professional crisis as well. They find themselves having to work together to save their town’s tourism and end up creating a family!
This was a fun book and I really enjoyed their enemies to lovers relationship. I also found both Sabrina and Gabe to be incredibly self reflective which allowed them both to evolve for the better (their baby!). I liked how Gabe was respectful of Sabrina but also very enthusiastic about being a parent!
This book also moves along the murder mystery plot which I’m excited to see where that goes.
Sabrina is coming home after a personal and professional crisis. Gabe is the town mayor and her high school rival. He’s also experiencing a bit of a personal and professional crisis as well. They find themselves having to work together to save their town’s tourism and end up creating a family!
This was a fun book and I really enjoyed their enemies to lovers relationship. I also found both Sabrina and Gabe to be incredibly self reflective which allowed them both to evolve for the better (their baby!). I liked how Gabe was respectful of Sabrina but also very enthusiastic about being a parent!
This book also moves along the murder mystery plot which I’m excited to see where that goes.
August 21, 2026
5⭐️
Oh this series just keep getting better and better and I’m loving it!!
I was waiting for this book since the moment I finished Maple and Moonlight because the little glimpse we had at the end between Sabrina and Gabe was everything!!! 😩🛐
Those two were definitely enemies to lovers, I mean. Gabe said Sabrina was a thorn on his side and Sabrina said Gabe was the bane of her existence, so of course, the moment those two were snowed in and had a little of hate sex was so explosive🥵🙈 they had me blushing because those two new what they wanted, and they also thought that one time was the last time, ha the joke was on them because that only time was enough to let a little something in Sabrina that would arrive in a little more than seven months 🙊
And I have to say, the way Sabrina told Gabe about their baby was hilarious and I loved it 😩 and we have to acknowledge the fact that she was also trying to save their hometown while also trying to solve a murder 👀
Of course I loved them so much! Sabrina is such a baddie and I LOVE HER! She’s fierce, she’s sassy, she’s independent and she won’t hesitate to destroy anyone that cross her or anyone she loves 🙂↕️ she’s loyal to the bone and she’ll do anything to protect her love ones, and even when she tried to deny it she’s so ok love with Gabe 🙊🛐 and Gabe, oh god, I love that they actually despite each other, because he knew deep down he had feelings for her, and my heart swooned when he told someone that he had feelings for a woman who he had no chances with, and then he even told her she was way out of his league 😩🛐 he’s so loyal too, too fierce to protect Sabrina, and when he knew about their baby he was so excited about it 🥹❤️ I love the fact that his struggles were so well portrait, he was so burned out but Sabrina was there to help him, and I love how he found the strength and his passion again, and his purpose, and he also found his family with Sabrina 🥹❤️
A shoutout to all the TAP girls, I loved them all!! And I really hope that all get their stories, or at least some of them 🙂↕️ and speaking about that, ahem, that end with Logan’s news?! 😩👀 excuse me miss Daphne, you can’t leave me like this!! I need some answers pretty please 😩🛐
Oh this series just keep getting better and better and I’m loving it!!
I was waiting for this book since the moment I finished Maple and Moonlight because the little glimpse we had at the end between Sabrina and Gabe was everything!!! 😩🛐
Those two were definitely enemies to lovers, I mean. Gabe said Sabrina was a thorn on his side and Sabrina said Gabe was the bane of her existence, so of course, the moment those two were snowed in and had a little of hate sex was so explosive🥵🙈 they had me blushing because those two new what they wanted, and they also thought that one time was the last time, ha the joke was on them because that only time was enough to let a little something in Sabrina that would arrive in a little more than seven months 🙊
And I have to say, the way Sabrina told Gabe about their baby was hilarious and I loved it 😩 and we have to acknowledge the fact that she was also trying to save their hometown while also trying to solve a murder 👀
Of course I loved them so much! Sabrina is such a baddie and I LOVE HER! She’s fierce, she’s sassy, she’s independent and she won’t hesitate to destroy anyone that cross her or anyone she loves 🙂↕️ she’s loyal to the bone and she’ll do anything to protect her love ones, and even when she tried to deny it she’s so ok love with Gabe 🙊🛐 and Gabe, oh god, I love that they actually despite each other, because he knew deep down he had feelings for her, and my heart swooned when he told someone that he had feelings for a woman who he had no chances with, and then he even told her she was way out of his league 😩🛐 he’s so loyal too, too fierce to protect Sabrina, and when he knew about their baby he was so excited about it 🥹❤️ I love the fact that his struggles were so well portrait, he was so burned out but Sabrina was there to help him, and I love how he found the strength and his passion again, and his purpose, and he also found his family with Sabrina 🥹❤️
A shoutout to all the TAP girls, I loved them all!! And I really hope that all get their stories, or at least some of them 🙂↕️ and speaking about that, ahem, that end with Logan’s news?! 😩👀 excuse me miss Daphne, you can’t leave me like this!! I need some answers pretty please 😩🛐
Review of advance copy received from Author
Downloaded to my kindle as soon as I got the email, and flew through this book in a few hours.
I wouldn’t really class G & S as ‘enemies’ but ‘rivals’ seem like a more appropriate term. They had beef with each other during their childhood at school. Juvenile things. They both wanted to do better than the other. I get why she didn’t like him growing up. Their first time seeing each other in years was interesting. Both set up on a blind date by their mothers. I was surprised that Gabe didn’t recognise her but when she said her name he remembered her. They bounced off each other very well, joking and, constantly making digs at each other. They are so competitive and petty. Sabrina and Gabe had great chemistry, you could feel the tension. They join forces and the forced proximity allows them to get to know each other. They both had built one another up to be a certain type of person, but they surprised themselves.
I would have liked it to have been a slow burn to them sleeping together. It would have been nice for more depth
I liked Sabrina, she was confident, and strong. She’s honest and direct. I appreciate someone who just says it how it is. The person not afraid to be assertive. Sure, the school grudge situation was annoying after such a long time and petty, but it was coming from a place where she was constantly putting herself down.
I can relate to the pressure that Gabe felt, always being the persons shoulder you can cry on, but not prioritising himself. It’s definitely a lot easier said than done. I glad though, that he starts to grow a backbone and actually put himself first, sometimes you’ll just be the ‘bad guy’ in someone’s story and you can’t help that. It’s life.
I think Sabrina being such a confident person in Gabe’s life, it like pushes him to take care of his needs, and live a life he’ll be happy with.
The mystery side plot had me on the edge. I was consumed, and trust Sabrina to figure it out. Sabrina’s just out here channelling her inner Erin Brockovich.
THAT CLIFFHANGER????? Already excited for the next book in the series.
Thank you to Daphne Elliot for offering this advanced readers copy for a voluntary, honest review.
I wouldn’t really class G & S as ‘enemies’ but ‘rivals’ seem like a more appropriate term. They had beef with each other during their childhood at school. Juvenile things. They both wanted to do better than the other. I get why she didn’t like him growing up. Their first time seeing each other in years was interesting. Both set up on a blind date by their mothers. I was surprised that Gabe didn’t recognise her but when she said her name he remembered her. They bounced off each other very well, joking and, constantly making digs at each other. They are so competitive and petty. Sabrina and Gabe had great chemistry, you could feel the tension. They join forces and the forced proximity allows them to get to know each other. They both had built one another up to be a certain type of person, but they surprised themselves.
I would have liked it to have been a slow burn to them sleeping together. It would have been nice for more depth
I liked Sabrina, she was confident, and strong. She’s honest and direct. I appreciate someone who just says it how it is. The person not afraid to be assertive. Sure, the school grudge situation was annoying after such a long time and petty, but it was coming from a place where she was constantly putting herself down.
I can relate to the pressure that Gabe felt, always being the persons shoulder you can cry on, but not prioritising himself. It’s definitely a lot easier said than done. I glad though, that he starts to grow a backbone and actually put himself first, sometimes you’ll just be the ‘bad guy’ in someone’s story and you can’t help that. It’s life.
I think Sabrina being such a confident person in Gabe’s life, it like pushes him to take care of his needs, and live a life he’ll be happy with.
The mystery side plot had me on the edge. I was consumed, and trust Sabrina to figure it out. Sabrina’s just out here channelling her inner Erin Brockovich.
THAT CLIFFHANGER????? Already excited for the next book in the series.
Thank you to Daphne Elliot for offering this advanced readers copy for a voluntary, honest review.
Review of advance copy
I loved this book SO much! Sabrina was such a badass, and I loved her attitude and fierceness even when I could see how much everything that happened in DC had affected her. Her job as a DC fixer gave me major Olivia Pope vibes, which made me laugh considering Fitz and Olivia were always talking about Vermont. She also kind of reminded me of Leslie Knope, with her efforts to save the festival and the town. I loved that!
I loved the dynamic between Gabe and Sabrina so much. I loved their nemesis relationship and how they genuinely couldn't stand each other in the beginning, and Sabrina throwing a taco at him was absolutely hilarious. And then Gabe finding out about the baby and immediately becoming so protective with his whole “carrying my child” energy was super HOT. I loved how Gabe would do absolutely anything for everyone, even when it was to his own detriment, and I was so glad to see him finally learn to stand up for himself.
The whole quest to save Maplewood and the Maple Festival was SO good, and I loved the suspense, mystery, and touch of romantic suspense (my favorite!). TAP was amazing, and I seriously loved all of the side characters. Harper, the 17-year-old tech/social media genius, Meg giving me major Penelope Garcia vibes with her hacking, and Marigold being the best old lady badass ever.
Accidental pregnancy isn't always my favorite trope, but this felt so different and was done SO well. I loved the small town feel, the found family, the mystery, the romance, and Sabrina finding her way back to herself.
This was just SO good! Daphne always does an amazing job with everything she writes, and I can't wait for the next installment! We get a glimpse of who is next and I am so excited!
Thank you to The Author Agency and Daphne Elliot for the eARC of this book.
I loved the dynamic between Gabe and Sabrina so much. I loved their nemesis relationship and how they genuinely couldn't stand each other in the beginning, and Sabrina throwing a taco at him was absolutely hilarious. And then Gabe finding out about the baby and immediately becoming so protective with his whole “carrying my child” energy was super HOT. I loved how Gabe would do absolutely anything for everyone, even when it was to his own detriment, and I was so glad to see him finally learn to stand up for himself.
The whole quest to save Maplewood and the Maple Festival was SO good, and I loved the suspense, mystery, and touch of romantic suspense (my favorite!). TAP was amazing, and I seriously loved all of the side characters. Harper, the 17-year-old tech/social media genius, Meg giving me major Penelope Garcia vibes with her hacking, and Marigold being the best old lady badass ever.
Accidental pregnancy isn't always my favorite trope, but this felt so different and was done SO well. I loved the small town feel, the found family, the mystery, the romance, and Sabrina finding her way back to herself.
This was just SO good! Daphne always does an amazing job with everything she writes, and I can't wait for the next installment! We get a glimpse of who is next and I am so excited!
Thank you to The Author Agency and Daphne Elliot for the eARC of this book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Sugar & Shadows by Daphne Elliot is a captivating, high-stakes romantic suspense novel that blends small-town charm with intense enemies-to-lovers dynamics.
The story follows Sabrina, a fierce and badass political strategist with major Olivia Pope and Leslie Knope vibes, who returns home to Maplewood, Vermont, to lay low after a career-ending scandal in DC. Instead of a quiet retreat, she finds her hometown in crisis—the local economy is struggling, a rival town has stolen the beloved Maple Festival, and a corporate conspiracy threatens everything. To make matters worse, she is forced to work side by side with Mayor Gabriel Harding, her optimistic childhood rival.
What begins as a prickly nemesis relationship—complete with hilarious moments like Sabrina throwing a taco at Gabe—quickly spirals out of control after an ill-advised one-night stand leads to an unexpected pregnancy. As Gabe steps up with intense, protective energy, proving he will do anything for Sabrina, the town, and their unborn child, their rivalry transforms into a deep, genuine bond. Eschewing a frustrating third-act breakup, the narrative focuses instead on effective communication, emotional vulnerability, and teamwork as they fight back against powerful corporate enemies.
Packed with delicious tropes like forced proximity, a he-falls-first dynamic, and accidental pregnancy, the novel also shines through its stellar secondary cast. Characters like Harper the tech genius, Meg the hacker, and Marigold the badass old lady add layers of humor and loyalty, while the underlying mystery keeps readers hooked from start to finish. Delivered with Daphne Elliot’s signature flair for suspense and heart, this delightful page-turner leaves readers eagerly anticipating the next installment in the series.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The story follows Sabrina, a fierce and badass political strategist with major Olivia Pope and Leslie Knope vibes, who returns home to Maplewood, Vermont, to lay low after a career-ending scandal in DC. Instead of a quiet retreat, she finds her hometown in crisis—the local economy is struggling, a rival town has stolen the beloved Maple Festival, and a corporate conspiracy threatens everything. To make matters worse, she is forced to work side by side with Mayor Gabriel Harding, her optimistic childhood rival.
What begins as a prickly nemesis relationship—complete with hilarious moments like Sabrina throwing a taco at Gabe—quickly spirals out of control after an ill-advised one-night stand leads to an unexpected pregnancy. As Gabe steps up with intense, protective energy, proving he will do anything for Sabrina, the town, and their unborn child, their rivalry transforms into a deep, genuine bond. Eschewing a frustrating third-act breakup, the narrative focuses instead on effective communication, emotional vulnerability, and teamwork as they fight back against powerful corporate enemies.
Packed with delicious tropes like forced proximity, a he-falls-first dynamic, and accidental pregnancy, the novel also shines through its stellar secondary cast. Characters like Harper the tech genius, Meg the hacker, and Marigold the badass old lady add layers of humor and loyalty, while the underlying mystery keeps readers hooked from start to finish. Delivered with Daphne Elliot’s signature flair for suspense and heart, this delightful page-turner leaves readers eagerly anticipating the next installment in the series.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy
What a fantastic enemies-to-lovers story!
Sabrina has just moved back to her hometown after being blacklisted in DC after fighting for the good guys, rather than big corporations where her mom sets her up on a blind date. Turns out her date is her archenemy, Gabe, who she competed with all through school and is still a bit of a people pleaser. The town's in trouble as their annual festival was yanked from them and now need Sabrina's help to get it back. Along the way, she sees a different side of Gabe and one night leaves a little surprise. Together, with a group of women who have their ears to the ground in town, they find a way to bring attention to the town in other, positive ways, and search out what was going on behind the scenes to lose the festival. So what happens when the town has to vote to hold something else completely and they're a bit stuck in the past?
Gabe and Sabrina get their happy ending in this standalone book in a series.
This book was amazing! The TAP group was fantastic and I sort of want to join their war room and see all that they can do. I do have to wonder what Sabrina ended up doing for work as this was all pro-bono work to help the town initially and I can't see her sitting still for long, with or without a baby by her side. I would have loved to have seen more of the two of them as parents, but I bet we will see more of that in the next book or books in the series. I also can't wait to see what the older generation has to say about the new changes and what that brings to the town!
I received and advance review copy from The Author Agency, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Sabrina has just moved back to her hometown after being blacklisted in DC after fighting for the good guys, rather than big corporations where her mom sets her up on a blind date. Turns out her date is her archenemy, Gabe, who she competed with all through school and is still a bit of a people pleaser. The town's in trouble as their annual festival was yanked from them and now need Sabrina's help to get it back. Along the way, she sees a different side of Gabe and one night leaves a little surprise. Together, with a group of women who have their ears to the ground in town, they find a way to bring attention to the town in other, positive ways, and search out what was going on behind the scenes to lose the festival. So what happens when the town has to vote to hold something else completely and they're a bit stuck in the past?
Gabe and Sabrina get their happy ending in this standalone book in a series.
This book was amazing! The TAP group was fantastic and I sort of want to join their war room and see all that they can do. I do have to wonder what Sabrina ended up doing for work as this was all pro-bono work to help the town initially and I can't see her sitting still for long, with or without a baby by her side. I would have loved to have seen more of the two of them as parents, but I bet we will see more of that in the next book or books in the series. I also can't wait to see what the older generation has to say about the new changes and what that brings to the town!
I received and advance review copy from The Author Agency, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
3.5 ⭐️ Sabrina Monroe is a fixer from Washington D.C. who has had a downfall in her career. She comes crawling back to her small hometown in Vermont to figure out what to do next in her life. She’s confronted with her childhood nemesis and town mayor Gabe. They have to team up to save the town from the economic downturn it’s taken, and there is a thin line between love and hate.
The book was pretty good, but unfortunately fell a bit short for me. We really didn’t get much about the relationship between Sabrina and Gabe, the majority of the book was about the town and the work they were doing to save it. The details Daphne Elliot when into was very in depth, and seemed legit. However that stuff was lost on me, and it didn’t hold my interest. Having a plot in a book is great, but this one was plot heavy and slim on the romance.
I appreciated that Sabrina was good at her job and had the skills needed to help the town, and I loved the women she gathered around her to work with. I just wish there had been a bit less focus on the in depth talk of their work to revive the town and bolster the economy. If that stuff interests you then this book will be right up your alley. There has been an overarching story since the first book in the series, and we made some progress towards the resolution of that crime. I plan on reading the next book as I’m curious to see how it all plays out.
I want to thank The Author Agency and Daphne Elliot for the advanced copy of this book. I voluntarily chose to leave a review.
No third act breakup
4/5 on the Spicy Scale
The book was pretty good, but unfortunately fell a bit short for me. We really didn’t get much about the relationship between Sabrina and Gabe, the majority of the book was about the town and the work they were doing to save it. The details Daphne Elliot when into was very in depth, and seemed legit. However that stuff was lost on me, and it didn’t hold my interest. Having a plot in a book is great, but this one was plot heavy and slim on the romance.
I appreciated that Sabrina was good at her job and had the skills needed to help the town, and I loved the women she gathered around her to work with. I just wish there had been a bit less focus on the in depth talk of their work to revive the town and bolster the economy. If that stuff interests you then this book will be right up your alley. There has been an overarching story since the first book in the series, and we made some progress towards the resolution of that crime. I plan on reading the next book as I’m curious to see how it all plays out.
I want to thank The Author Agency and Daphne Elliot for the advanced copy of this book. I voluntarily chose to leave a review.
No third act breakup
4/5 on the Spicy Scale
Read
August 20, 2026⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I received an ARC of *Sugar and Shadows* by Daphne Elliott, and overall, I really enjoyed this one! I’m still fairly new to Daphne Elliott’s books, but this is around the fourth book I’ve read by her, and I was excited to get the chance to read this one early.
First, I absolutely loved the dedication and its message about women refusing to make themselves smaller for other people. That immediately caught my attention going into the story, especially as I got to know Sabrina.
There were also a lot of tropes in this that I really enjoyed. Sabrina returning to her small town, the rivalry between her and Gabe that develops into a friendship and eventually something more, and the surprise pregnancy all worked really well together. I enjoyed Gabe and Sabrina’s chemistry, and I liked watching their relationship change as they got to know each other beyond the assumptions and history between them.
The beginning did drag a little for me, and it took me some time to fully get into the story. Once it picked up, though, I became much more invested in Gabe and Sabrina and where their story was going.
Overall, *Sugar and Shadows* was a really good read. I enjoyed the storyline, the chemistry between Gabe and Sabrina, and the combination of tropes. It wasn’t an immediate hook for me, but once the story found its rhythm, I really enjoyed it.
Thank you to Daphne Elliott for the ARC! 💕
I received an ARC of *Sugar and Shadows* by Daphne Elliott, and overall, I really enjoyed this one! I’m still fairly new to Daphne Elliott’s books, but this is around the fourth book I’ve read by her, and I was excited to get the chance to read this one early.
First, I absolutely loved the dedication and its message about women refusing to make themselves smaller for other people. That immediately caught my attention going into the story, especially as I got to know Sabrina.
There were also a lot of tropes in this that I really enjoyed. Sabrina returning to her small town, the rivalry between her and Gabe that develops into a friendship and eventually something more, and the surprise pregnancy all worked really well together. I enjoyed Gabe and Sabrina’s chemistry, and I liked watching their relationship change as they got to know each other beyond the assumptions and history between them.
The beginning did drag a little for me, and it took me some time to fully get into the story. Once it picked up, though, I became much more invested in Gabe and Sabrina and where their story was going.
Overall, *Sugar and Shadows* was a really good read. I enjoyed the storyline, the chemistry between Gabe and Sabrina, and the combination of tropes. It wasn’t an immediate hook for me, but once the story found its rhythm, I really enjoyed it.
Thank you to Daphne Elliott for the ARC! 💕
Review of advance copy received from Author
My Favorite couple so far!!
I already love the town, the storyline, and the mystery of who is behind the ongoing threats to the town.
On top of that, the sizzling chemistry between these two and their banter kept me very entertained!
This series is very addicting, and I adore the inhabitants of Maplewood.
In the past 2 stories, Gabe has been a voice of reason and a Mayor devoted to his town - his calm personality and peace making abilities keep most people happy. But the criminal activities and the loss of the Festival has some unhappy with his work.
Sabrina grew up in Maplewood, and had a competitive association in high school with Gabe.
After a career crushing scandal sends her back home, this pair picks right up with the sass and animosity. Only, her skill set is critical for the rescue and longevity of the town's economy and future.
Except that they aren't the same as they were, and the sparks of frustration shift into a steamy connection. I loved her powerful energies and black cat attitude. Her shift into a true advocate for her friends and the town was great to follow, and her friend Meg is hysterical.
Reading in order is the best to avoid spoilers and enjoy the storyline. This is funny, suspenseful, steamy, addictive, and easy to connect with the characters, and I recommend this author and this series.
Fortunate to receive an ARC from the author (thank you)
I happily leave my thoughts.
I already love the town, the storyline, and the mystery of who is behind the ongoing threats to the town.
On top of that, the sizzling chemistry between these two and their banter kept me very entertained!
This series is very addicting, and I adore the inhabitants of Maplewood.
In the past 2 stories, Gabe has been a voice of reason and a Mayor devoted to his town - his calm personality and peace making abilities keep most people happy. But the criminal activities and the loss of the Festival has some unhappy with his work.
Sabrina grew up in Maplewood, and had a competitive association in high school with Gabe.
After a career crushing scandal sends her back home, this pair picks right up with the sass and animosity. Only, her skill set is critical for the rescue and longevity of the town's economy and future.
Except that they aren't the same as they were, and the sparks of frustration shift into a steamy connection. I loved her powerful energies and black cat attitude. Her shift into a true advocate for her friends and the town was great to follow, and her friend Meg is hysterical.
Reading in order is the best to avoid spoilers and enjoy the storyline. This is funny, suspenseful, steamy, addictive, and easy to connect with the characters, and I recommend this author and this series.
Fortunate to receive an ARC from the author (thank you)
I happily leave my thoughts.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Okay so Imma say this once this series is Fire!!!
We've got the Maplewood series where the interconnected family members are seen in the previous books, but one important factor is the underlying plot that takes us to this small town in Virginia and sucked us in for a wild ride.
Aphne takes the time to weave an amazing storyline into these giddy and amazing romance stories, a murder of a town member, the killer?.... A friend? Ummm well let me tell you this one takes us for a spin.
Ending in the biggest cliff hanger for a side character.
This one takes us on to the life of Gabe the mayor of Maplewood, Vermont.
Day to day operations as mayor take him to get stuck and depressed.
But what happens when meddling mothers set you on a blind date with no other than your life nemesis. A breath of air is pulled into his life and then a series of events that cause them to be close end up making the best story for him.
I've devoured all the books in the series and as a side character he absolutely piqued my interest to know more about him.
Then we have the certified baddie that is Sabrina who is a hell cat from the past. I loved her character and how a strong willed FMC was portrayed as well as all the scheming, plotting, banter and friendship.
Enemies to Lovers
Accidental Pregnancy
Small Town
Acts of Service
He Falls Hard
Found Family
Forced Proximity
One Bed
Grumpy x Grumpy
We've got the Maplewood series where the interconnected family members are seen in the previous books, but one important factor is the underlying plot that takes us to this small town in Virginia and sucked us in for a wild ride.
Aphne takes the time to weave an amazing storyline into these giddy and amazing romance stories, a murder of a town member, the killer?.... A friend? Ummm well let me tell you this one takes us for a spin.
Ending in the biggest cliff hanger for a side character.
This one takes us on to the life of Gabe the mayor of Maplewood, Vermont.
Day to day operations as mayor take him to get stuck and depressed.
But what happens when meddling mothers set you on a blind date with no other than your life nemesis. A breath of air is pulled into his life and then a series of events that cause them to be close end up making the best story for him.
I've devoured all the books in the series and as a side character he absolutely piqued my interest to know more about him.
Then we have the certified baddie that is Sabrina who is a hell cat from the past. I loved her character and how a strong willed FMC was portrayed as well as all the scheming, plotting, banter and friendship.
Enemies to Lovers
Accidental Pregnancy
Small Town
Acts of Service
He Falls Hard
Found Family
Forced Proximity
One Bed
Grumpy x Grumpy
Review of advance copy received from Author
Every time I read the next book of Daphne Elliot, it ends up being my new favorite of hers! The epilogues of her books always get me SO excited for the next book, when we get to see a glimpse of the next couple, and in the end of book two in this series we are introduced to the ultimate enemies, Sabrina and Gabe.
They were childhood rivals, and when they reunite as adults, it is clear there is more to them than just the hate they pretend to feel. They created a working relationship, turned into an angry one night stand, which leads to their accidental pregnancy.
I loved their relationship once they accepted their feelings. It is always a good time when he falls first and harder! They are both protective and possessive of each other, and I love when they show their true possessive side to each other. I also enjoy how they are able to communicate effectively without having a third act breakup.
The suspense continues on into this book, and we are starting to get more answers about the issues going on in the town. I cannot wait to discover more and to read the next book in the series! Again, we get a glimpse of the next couple in this epilogue, and I already know it's going to be great!
They were childhood rivals, and when they reunite as adults, it is clear there is more to them than just the hate they pretend to feel. They created a working relationship, turned into an angry one night stand, which leads to their accidental pregnancy.
I loved their relationship once they accepted their feelings. It is always a good time when he falls first and harder! They are both protective and possessive of each other, and I love when they show their true possessive side to each other. I also enjoy how they are able to communicate effectively without having a third act breakup.
The suspense continues on into this book, and we are starting to get more answers about the issues going on in the town. I cannot wait to discover more and to read the next book in the series! Again, we get a glimpse of the next couple in this epilogue, and I already know it's going to be great!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Maplewood Series: Gabe and Sabrina
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Enemies to one-night stand to friends and then immediately back to lovers…
These two made me cackle!
Gabe and Sabrina have such a fun dynamic. I loved their banter and the way they kept trying to convince themselves they couldn’t stand each other while clearly being completely gone for one another.
“Have I told you how hot you are when you’re plotting?”
Honestly, Gabe gets it…
I really enjoyed the small-town setting, the Maple Festival drama, and watching these two go from rivals to working together to becoming an unexpected family. There’s also a little suspense with the conspiracy surrounding Maplewood, which added another layer to the story. The characters surrounding them were awesome, from the looks of it, it could make a great continuing storyline as they continue to foil everyone plottiing against the town…
I’d totally read that…
But the best part for me was these two together. The chemistry, the banter, the ridiculous situations…
I was smiling through so much of this.
A fun enemies-to-lovers romance with small-town charm, plenty of laughs, steam, a little suspense, and an unexpected (or may be slightly expected) HEA.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Enemies to one-night stand to friends and then immediately back to lovers…
These two made me cackle!
Gabe and Sabrina have such a fun dynamic. I loved their banter and the way they kept trying to convince themselves they couldn’t stand each other while clearly being completely gone for one another.
“Have I told you how hot you are when you’re plotting?”
Honestly, Gabe gets it…
I really enjoyed the small-town setting, the Maple Festival drama, and watching these two go from rivals to working together to becoming an unexpected family. There’s also a little suspense with the conspiracy surrounding Maplewood, which added another layer to the story. The characters surrounding them were awesome, from the looks of it, it could make a great continuing storyline as they continue to foil everyone plottiing against the town…
I’d totally read that…
But the best part for me was these two together. The chemistry, the banter, the ridiculous situations…
I was smiling through so much of this.
A fun enemies-to-lovers romance with small-town charm, plenty of laughs, steam, a little suspense, and an unexpected (or may be slightly expected) HEA.
August 21, 2026
Thank you to The Author Agency and Daphne Elliot for this eArc in exchange for my honest review.
WOW…. This book was everything and more. Mayor Gabe and Sabrina delivered on the enemies to lovers. The back and forth between them and the banter and the fighting and let’s not forget the spice. Gabe my man has that dog in him I will say. Sabrina my girl, she’s the best and even with everything she went through my girl stood ten does down.
Sabrina gave me Olivia Pope from Scandal vibes with her DC fixer background and that team she put together. The TAP team was full force and I lived for the women empowerment. Marigold and Harper and Nina and even Sabrina’s mother held it down and they did an excellent job.
The accidental pregnancy and way it was revealed was done so well and hilarious at the same time. The way Gabe and Sabrina interacted with that scene is top tier.
The small town vibes with the murder subplot, I can’t wait for the next book. And Daphne leaving us with the little hint that’s not so subtle about Logan. Like you can’t just drop a bomb like that and expect us to not want more.
In all this book was amazing. Mayor Gabe and Sabrina did their thing and I can’t wait for others to read this book.
WOW…. This book was everything and more. Mayor Gabe and Sabrina delivered on the enemies to lovers. The back and forth between them and the banter and the fighting and let’s not forget the spice. Gabe my man has that dog in him I will say. Sabrina my girl, she’s the best and even with everything she went through my girl stood ten does down.
Sabrina gave me Olivia Pope from Scandal vibes with her DC fixer background and that team she put together. The TAP team was full force and I lived for the women empowerment. Marigold and Harper and Nina and even Sabrina’s mother held it down and they did an excellent job.
The accidental pregnancy and way it was revealed was done so well and hilarious at the same time. The way Gabe and Sabrina interacted with that scene is top tier.
The small town vibes with the murder subplot, I can’t wait for the next book. And Daphne leaving us with the little hint that’s not so subtle about Logan. Like you can’t just drop a bomb like that and expect us to not want more.
In all this book was amazing. Mayor Gabe and Sabrina did their thing and I can’t wait for others to read this book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This hits my inbox and i IMMEDIATELY stopped everything I was doing to read it and yes I read the full book in 1 day and avoided all adult responsibilities... this is a no judgemental zone.
Anyway, id call this a more rivals to livers then enemies because thats exactly what they where and a lot of it seemed more misunderstanding than actual rivalry the tension between these two was instantaneous she quite literally threw a taco at him and you know what I feel her (i support woman's rights and most importantly wrongs) i absolutely adored the chemistry and the way Gabe was all in from the get go and she was still fighting him😂they meshed so well and I adored it. The sub plot was also very intriguing and iv lowkey been waiting for this drama to hit im already counting dien for book 4 and 3 isnt officially released 😂i adore this series and everything daphnie Elliot writes
"Apparently, after a person gives birth, they’re expected to just take the baby home and keep it alive all on their own. Rude." As a mum I wholeheartedly agree its rude
Anyway, id call this a more rivals to livers then enemies because thats exactly what they where and a lot of it seemed more misunderstanding than actual rivalry the tension between these two was instantaneous she quite literally threw a taco at him and you know what I feel her (i support woman's rights and most importantly wrongs) i absolutely adored the chemistry and the way Gabe was all in from the get go and she was still fighting him😂they meshed so well and I adored it. The sub plot was also very intriguing and iv lowkey been waiting for this drama to hit im already counting dien for book 4 and 3 isnt officially released 😂i adore this series and everything daphnie Elliot writes
"Apparently, after a person gives birth, they’re expected to just take the baby home and keep it alive all on their own. Rude." As a mum I wholeheartedly agree its rude
August 22, 2026
I loved jumping back into this series!
Those two were definitely enemies to lovers, I mean Gabe said Sabrina was a thorn in his side and Sabrina said Gabe was the bane of her existence, so of course, the moment those two were snowed in and had a little of hate sex, it was explosive 🔥
The way Sabrina told Gabe about their baby was hilarious ,we have to acknowledge the fact that she was also trying to save their hometown while also trying to solve a murder, what a woman!!
🧡 Small Town
🍁 Enemies to Lovers
🧡 Accidental Pregnancy
🍁 Acts Of Service
𝕊𝕠𝕞𝕖 𝕠𝕗 𝕞𝕪 𝕗𝕒𝕧𝕠𝕦𝕣𝕚𝕥𝕖 𝕢𝕦𝕠𝕥𝕖𝕤
“You spend the whole day giving me dirty looks and insulting my intelligence, and now you’re moaning as you take my c*ck.”
“Are you going to stand there staring or are you going to f*ck me?”
“If my girl wants to be f*cked hard, then that’s what she gets.”
“It’s taking all my self-control not to climb you like a tree right now,”
“Sorry. I’m a one and done girl. But you did good.”
“You’re not done, Monroe.”
Those two were definitely enemies to lovers, I mean Gabe said Sabrina was a thorn in his side and Sabrina said Gabe was the bane of her existence, so of course, the moment those two were snowed in and had a little of hate sex, it was explosive 🔥
The way Sabrina told Gabe about their baby was hilarious ,we have to acknowledge the fact that she was also trying to save their hometown while also trying to solve a murder, what a woman!!
🧡 Small Town
🍁 Enemies to Lovers
🧡 Accidental Pregnancy
🍁 Acts Of Service
𝕊𝕠𝕞𝕖 𝕠𝕗 𝕞𝕪 𝕗𝕒𝕧𝕠𝕦𝕣𝕚𝕥𝕖 𝕢𝕦𝕠𝕥𝕖𝕤
“You spend the whole day giving me dirty looks and insulting my intelligence, and now you’re moaning as you take my c*ck.”
“Are you going to stand there staring or are you going to f*ck me?”
“If my girl wants to be f*cked hard, then that’s what she gets.”
“It’s taking all my self-control not to climb you like a tree right now,”
“Sorry. I’m a one and done girl. But you did good.”
“You’re not done, Monroe.”
August 22, 2026
🍂 SUGAR & SHADOWS — ARC REVIEW
Sugar & Shadows is an easy, entertaining read with plenty of hook points—suspense, romance and some top-tier banter. But while it’s fun on the surface, I found myself wishing the story had a little more depth.
Sabrina Monroe is EVERYTHING. 🖤 She’s easily one of the best black-cat FMCs I’ve read in a while—strong, unapologetic, mean, vicious and completely on-brand as a political strategist. She’s a force of nature and by far the most entertaining part of this book.
The MMC, unfortunately, didn’t quite match her energy. I wanted full golden retriever vibes, but he landed somewhere in between, making him feel less developed in comparison.
I also wish we’d gotten more of the found-family feels, especially since the previous characters are barely mentioned.
Overall, a CAN READ for me. Fun, quick and banter-heavy, but I wanted more emotional depth and character development.
Come for Sabrina. Stay for the banter. 🖤✨
Love: ❤️❤️❤️.5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️.5
Sugar & Shadows is an easy, entertaining read with plenty of hook points—suspense, romance and some top-tier banter. But while it’s fun on the surface, I found myself wishing the story had a little more depth.
Sabrina Monroe is EVERYTHING. 🖤 She’s easily one of the best black-cat FMCs I’ve read in a while—strong, unapologetic, mean, vicious and completely on-brand as a political strategist. She’s a force of nature and by far the most entertaining part of this book.
The MMC, unfortunately, didn’t quite match her energy. I wanted full golden retriever vibes, but he landed somewhere in between, making him feel less developed in comparison.
I also wish we’d gotten more of the found-family feels, especially since the previous characters are barely mentioned.
Overall, a CAN READ for me. Fun, quick and banter-heavy, but I wanted more emotional depth and character development.
Come for Sabrina. Stay for the banter. 🖤✨
Love: ❤️❤️❤️.5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️.5
Review of advance copy received from Author
I adore this series and Sugar & Shadows delivered everything I wanted and more. From the sweet small town vibes Maplewood projects, to it's quirky residents, to the accidental pregnancy trope; book three hit the mark for me. And I loved how the mysteries of the town have continued to carry on and unravel further.
Gabe and Sabrina delivered with the tension and true arch nemesis to lovers plot! The spice is angry and hot, and we really get to know another side to the sweet mayor. My favorite part of this book is how the relationships develop in this book between Sabrina and the other women in Maplewood. This is a great read and left me so excited for what comes next with everyone's favorite man bun wearing vet!
🌶️🌶️
Tropes:
🍁Accidental Pregnancy
🤎Small Town Romance
🍁Found Family
🤎Enemies to Lovers
🍁Childhood Rivals
Thank you to the author and to The Author Agency for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Gabe and Sabrina delivered with the tension and true arch nemesis to lovers plot! The spice is angry and hot, and we really get to know another side to the sweet mayor. My favorite part of this book is how the relationships develop in this book between Sabrina and the other women in Maplewood. This is a great read and left me so excited for what comes next with everyone's favorite man bun wearing vet!
🌶️🌶️
Tropes:
🍁Accidental Pregnancy
🤎Small Town Romance
🍁Found Family
🤎Enemies to Lovers
🍁Childhood Rivals
Thank you to the author and to The Author Agency for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy
Sabrina Monroe sabe cómo manejar una crisis. Después de años trabajando en Washington como una solucionadora, regresar a Maplewood debería ser solo una pausa para descubrir qué hará con su vida después de perder su credibilidad. Lo que no esperaba era que su madre organizara una cita a ciegas con Gabe Harding, el hombre que convirtió su infancia en una competencia constante y que ahora resulta ser el alcalde.
Gabe siempre ha sido el chico perfecto de Maplewood. Buen hijo, buen abogado y el alcalde que intenta mantener a flote una comunidad que está pasando por uno de sus peores momentos. Lo último que necesita es tener a Sabrina de vuelta, especialmente cuando ella no tiene miedo de decirle lo que piensa de él.
______
Me encantó. Amé a Sabrina.
Sabía que ... era inocente.
Gracias Daphne por el ARC.
Gabe siempre ha sido el chico perfecto de Maplewood. Buen hijo, buen abogado y el alcalde que intenta mantener a flote una comunidad que está pasando por uno de sus peores momentos. Lo último que necesita es tener a Sabrina de vuelta, especialmente cuando ella no tiene miedo de decirle lo que piensa de él.
______
Me encantó. Amé a Sabrina.
Sabía que ... era inocente.
Gracias Daphne por el ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Just when I think I love a character from this series I love another this has been a great series I can’t wait for book four. I love how the suspense started in book 1 and is bringing us more clues and evidence with a secret weapon. Sabrina worked in DC. S he was the person you didn’t want to cross. Her knowledge intel and team are the villains. Can she turn it around to help her arch nemesis since grade school. She needs to save her hometown. She blew up her life in DC coming back home to a crisis. She works with her Emily everyday. How much longer can they hold out. Their foreplay is bickering banter. When she comes home she’s seeing a different side no one else mayor Gabe let’s see. Can she help?
Found family
Black cat x golden retriever
He’s down bad
Accidental pregnancy
Strong fmc
One bed/one night
Enemies to lovers
Found family
Black cat x golden retriever
He’s down bad
Accidental pregnancy
Strong fmc
One bed/one night
Enemies to lovers
Review of advance copy received from Author
I love this small town. Full of gossip, hard work, and community. The enemies to lovers is the best I’ve read in a long time. Their banter and snide comments and jabs are hilarious and noteworthy. A long standing grudge comes to an end due to an unexpected pregnancy and a force so strong that brings them together on rebuilding the town.
Loop in the murder that has been a background and still has not been solved brings the mystery even more in depth and anxious to solve it.
I loved the side characters that came along side Sabrina to build a committee to help rebuild the economy of this small town and how their personalities and perspectives of what can bring out the best of Maplewood was the best parts of the story.
I will forever love visiting Maplewood and coming along side their quirky townsfolk.
Loop in the murder that has been a background and still has not been solved brings the mystery even more in depth and anxious to solve it.
I loved the side characters that came along side Sabrina to build a committee to help rebuild the economy of this small town and how their personalities and perspectives of what can bring out the best of Maplewood was the best parts of the story.
I will forever love visiting Maplewood and coming along side their quirky townsfolk.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I love a good enemies-to-lovers romance, especially with likeable characters like Sabrina & Gabe! They've had it out for each other since high school, which makes their coming together all that much more explosive. Gabe's the mayor of the town, and Sabrina's just returning after a decade in D.C. They pick up where they left off--neither wanting the other to best them. Sabrina's a little immature but still someone you want to root for, and Gabe's total book boyfriend material. I enjoyed seeing them working together and eventually lifting the other up. There's a murder subplot that I felt a little lost on not having read the second book in the series. I should have read them in order. Now to go back and read that one!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Oh yes! I was absolutely thrilled to receive this ARC; I’ve been following the series since the very first book! For those who have started reading, you know there's a constant suspense woven throughout the entire series. It began with book one and continues to build. While the characters experience love,
I adore how deeply this book drew me in. Not just through the characters, but also with the endearing bear named Besty, and the town’s passion for syrup and their determination to keep their community thriving.
I found myself laughing, feeling anxious, and falling even more in love with this charming town.
Thank you for this amazing opportunity to read the eARC, and I am happy to provide my honest review in return.
I adore how deeply this book drew me in. Not just through the characters, but also with the endearing bear named Besty, and the town’s passion for syrup and their determination to keep their community thriving.
I found myself laughing, feeling anxious, and falling even more in love with this charming town.
Thank you for this amazing opportunity to read the eARC, and I am happy to provide my honest review in return.
Review of advance copy received from Author
this. freaking. book.
Daphne’s best book so far, hands down. Their BANTER alone made me sucked into the book immediately.
Sabrina is the black cat fmc of my DREAMS. Sassy. Strong. Confident. A true baddie. I LOVE a work forward woman who knows exactly what she wants. And that is Sabrina to a tee. I am obsessed with her wit and comebacks.
Gabe is so sweet and loving and GOOD. Supporting Sabrina and taking care of her even when she wasn’t sure about them. This book is very interconnected with the others in the series, and you get to see peaks of previous (and future *wink wink*) characters throughout the book.
I FLEW through this whole book. And now I’m ready for the next!
thank you so much for this ARC!
Daphne’s best book so far, hands down. Their BANTER alone made me sucked into the book immediately.
Sabrina is the black cat fmc of my DREAMS. Sassy. Strong. Confident. A true baddie. I LOVE a work forward woman who knows exactly what she wants. And that is Sabrina to a tee. I am obsessed with her wit and comebacks.
Gabe is so sweet and loving and GOOD. Supporting Sabrina and taking care of her even when she wasn’t sure about them. This book is very interconnected with the others in the series, and you get to see peaks of previous (and future *wink wink*) characters throughout the book.
I FLEW through this whole book. And now I’m ready for the next!
thank you so much for this ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Enemies to Lovers
Small Town Romance
Acts of Service
Accidental Pregnancy
Grumpy x Grumpy
Dual POV - 1st person
Book #3 Maplewood series
I cannot put in to words how much I love this series and Daphne Elliot's writing. Each book somehow just gets better and better.
The story is equal parts heartwarming and captivating mixed in with some spice. The banter between the two main characters had me giggling, and when the enemies became lovers whew sparks flew and I ate that up like it was a five course meal.
I am looking forward to hearing this one in audio format when it comes out.
Overall, a fantastically written story from start to finish.
Thank you Daphne Elliot for the eARC.
Small Town Romance
Acts of Service
Accidental Pregnancy
Grumpy x Grumpy
Dual POV - 1st person
Book #3 Maplewood series
I cannot put in to words how much I love this series and Daphne Elliot's writing. Each book somehow just gets better and better.
The story is equal parts heartwarming and captivating mixed in with some spice. The banter between the two main characters had me giggling, and when the enemies became lovers whew sparks flew and I ate that up like it was a five course meal.
I am looking forward to hearing this one in audio format when it comes out.
Overall, a fantastically written story from start to finish.
Thank you Daphne Elliot for the eARC.
Review of advance copy
As the third book in the Maplewood series it definitely lives up to the hype. This series is much fun! And I absolutely loved this one!
The dynamic between Gabe and Sabrina was perfect! Nemesis to lovers turns out to be incredibly hot! I love Sabrina’s character she is fierce! She is carrying her own issues trying to deal in her own way but she is such a badass! And Gabe is so sweet. He is definitely a people pleaser! I love how he likes to give crap to Sabrina. The banter between these two is top tier. The accidental pregnancy is a perfect addition to the story line. It allows both MC’S to put their lives in perspective and go after what they want/deserve.
I love how Daphne mixes romance, spice, banter, mystery & suspense. And she does it perfectly! This is easily a 5⭐️ read!
The dynamic between Gabe and Sabrina was perfect! Nemesis to lovers turns out to be incredibly hot! I love Sabrina’s character she is fierce! She is carrying her own issues trying to deal in her own way but she is such a badass! And Gabe is so sweet. He is definitely a people pleaser! I love how he likes to give crap to Sabrina. The banter between these two is top tier. The accidental pregnancy is a perfect addition to the story line. It allows both MC’S to put their lives in perspective and go after what they want/deserve.
I love how Daphne mixes romance, spice, banter, mystery & suspense. And she does it perfectly! This is easily a 5⭐️ read!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is such a great enemies to lovers romance! I loved Sabrina and Gabe together - their banter is spectacular and I was so glad this wasn’t a case of some secret pining, they really had a mutual dislike at the beginning. Watching these two fall in love over their mutual admiration of competency (it’s sexier than it sounds!) - chef’s kiss!!
I also loved the girl gang aspect of this - how Sabrina brought together a diverse group of women to help save the town. I love how all of Daphne’s books feature strong female friendships and this book has one of the best examples of it!
I can’t wait for more in this series - that ending left me so excited for what’s next!
I also loved the girl gang aspect of this - how Sabrina brought together a diverse group of women to help save the town. I love how all of Daphne’s books feature strong female friendships and this book has one of the best examples of it!
I can’t wait for more in this series - that ending left me so excited for what’s next!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐚𝐧 𝐚𝐝𝐯𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐝 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐫 𝐜𝐨𝐩𝐲
When Sabrina comes back to Maplewood
to her home she
immediately set up with the town mayor, Gabe! Her childhood nemesis!! They hate each other!!
But maplewood & mayor gabe needs help with the struggling town, and his place as mayor and all the ongoings in the small town.
Finding a committee of strong women, she sets out to help the struggle place.
This is a fun small town romance, with a very strong FMC and she's not a fairy to throw a punch! But the commitments of their efforts to save a small town is endearing.
When Sabrina comes back to Maplewood
to her home she
immediately set up with the town mayor, Gabe! Her childhood nemesis!! They hate each other!!
But maplewood & mayor gabe needs help with the struggling town, and his place as mayor and all the ongoings in the small town.
Finding a committee of strong women, she sets out to help the struggle place.
This is a fun small town romance, with a very strong FMC and she's not a fairy to throw a punch! But the commitments of their efforts to save a small town is endearing.
August 22, 2026
I received an ARC Copy and I give this one 3.5 stars.
This is Sabrina and Gabe's story and I just love an enemies to lovers, accidental pregnancy.
I recommend reading this series in order to better understand the town story and current predicament. Maplewood has been dealing with bad rep and loosing tourists and town income due to the murder that happened.
I LOVE Sabrina give a strong, independent FMC and I am sat. Gabe is the town Major and is having to work with Sabrina to save the town and avoid being recalled from the position.
This is Sabrina and Gabe's story and I just love an enemies to lovers, accidental pregnancy.
I recommend reading this series in order to better understand the town story and current predicament. Maplewood has been dealing with bad rep and loosing tourists and town income due to the murder that happened.
I LOVE Sabrina give a strong, independent FMC and I am sat. Gabe is the town Major and is having to work with Sabrina to save the town and avoid being recalled from the position.
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
Rivals to lovers small town romance. This book 3 of the series. Gabe the mayor is in trouble because the town is in crisis they lost the annual festival and the town don’t feel like he is competent to lead anymore. Comes in Sabrina the person who had a high powered carrier that crashed and burn to move back with her mother. Their citizens who believe that she is the answer to fixing the town crisis. The relationship is slow going until they get stranded in a snow storm. The story has suspense and the characters are great but this was not a favorite for me as the first two were.
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