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Hemlock Grove Romance #4
Brewing Up Forever
Not yet published
Expected 24 Nov 26She was only supposed to stay in Hemlock Grove for eight weeks. Long enough to plan the Winter Market. Not long enough for her son to fall in love with the town’s favorite coffee shop owner.
Wren Parker knows how to build the perfect event.
Timelines, vendor maps, contracts, budgets — those she can handle. What she cannot handle is a small-town committee that runs on caffeine, good intentions, and the firm belief that “it’ll all work out.” But the Hemlock Grove Winter Market is the kind of job that could open the right doors, and eight weeks in a quiet mountain town might be exactly what she and her two-year-old son need.
Temporary. Simple. Professional.
Until Asher Cole offers them the apartment above Rusty Bean.
Asher has never met a stranger. As the owner of Rusty Bean Coffee Shop & Roaster, older brother of Blair Cole, and unofficial problem-solver of Hemlock Grove, he knows everyone’s order, everyone’s business, and exactly how to make people feel like they belong. He is charming, funny, impossible to rush, and entirely too comfortable assuming Hemlock Grove will win Wren over eventually.
Wren is determined not to let that happen.
They clash over schedules, vendor layouts, committee chaos, and Asher’s infuriating habit of making every problem seem solvable with coffee and a smile. But forced proximity has a way of turning arguments into almost-kisses, and living above Rusty Bean makes it harder to ignore the man waiting downstairs every morning.
Especially when Wren’s little boy decides Asher is his new favorite person.
Asher never planned on falling for a woman with one foot out the door, and Wren never planned on watching her son find comfort in a man she is trying not to need. But Hemlock Grove has a way of pulling people in, and soon Wren starts wanting things she told herself were community, belonging, love, and a future that feels like home.
Then her son’s father finds out.
The same man who always had an excuse when it was his weekend suddenly wants a say in where they belong. And as the Winter Market approaches, Wren has to decide whether the safest choice is going back to the life she knows…
Or trusting the one she never saw coming.
Brewing Up Forever is perfect for readers who
Small town holiday romance
Single mom romance
Enemies to lovers banter
Forced proximity
Workplace romance
Coffee shop romance
Cozy winter market vibes
Found family
Adorable kid moments
Funny, charming heroes
Protective heroes who show up
A heroine finding home where she least expects it
Soft open-door romance with deep emotional tension
Readers will
“She was only supposed to stay eight weeks.”
“Her son fell for him first.”
“He gave them a place to stay and became the reason they wanted to.”
“Frenemies above the coffee shop.”
“Holiday market chaos with small-town heart.”
“A funny, swoony coffee shop owner readers have been waiting four books to love.”
Wren Parker knows how to build the perfect event.
Timelines, vendor maps, contracts, budgets — those she can handle. What she cannot handle is a small-town committee that runs on caffeine, good intentions, and the firm belief that “it’ll all work out.” But the Hemlock Grove Winter Market is the kind of job that could open the right doors, and eight weeks in a quiet mountain town might be exactly what she and her two-year-old son need.
Temporary. Simple. Professional.
Until Asher Cole offers them the apartment above Rusty Bean.
Asher has never met a stranger. As the owner of Rusty Bean Coffee Shop & Roaster, older brother of Blair Cole, and unofficial problem-solver of Hemlock Grove, he knows everyone’s order, everyone’s business, and exactly how to make people feel like they belong. He is charming, funny, impossible to rush, and entirely too comfortable assuming Hemlock Grove will win Wren over eventually.
Wren is determined not to let that happen.
They clash over schedules, vendor layouts, committee chaos, and Asher’s infuriating habit of making every problem seem solvable with coffee and a smile. But forced proximity has a way of turning arguments into almost-kisses, and living above Rusty Bean makes it harder to ignore the man waiting downstairs every morning.
Especially when Wren’s little boy decides Asher is his new favorite person.
Asher never planned on falling for a woman with one foot out the door, and Wren never planned on watching her son find comfort in a man she is trying not to need. But Hemlock Grove has a way of pulling people in, and soon Wren starts wanting things she told herself were community, belonging, love, and a future that feels like home.
Then her son’s father finds out.
The same man who always had an excuse when it was his weekend suddenly wants a say in where they belong. And as the Winter Market approaches, Wren has to decide whether the safest choice is going back to the life she knows…
Or trusting the one she never saw coming.
Brewing Up Forever is perfect for readers who
Small town holiday romance
Single mom romance
Enemies to lovers banter
Forced proximity
Workplace romance
Coffee shop romance
Cozy winter market vibes
Found family
Adorable kid moments
Funny, charming heroes
Protective heroes who show up
A heroine finding home where she least expects it
Soft open-door romance with deep emotional tension
Readers will
“She was only supposed to stay eight weeks.”
“Her son fell for him first.”
“He gave them a place to stay and became the reason they wanted to.”
“Frenemies above the coffee shop.”
“Holiday market chaos with small-town heart.”
“A funny, swoony coffee shop owner readers have been waiting four books to love.”
408 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication November 24, 2026
About the author
Lia Bradford
4 books57 followersLia Bradford writes feel-good contemporary romance set in small towns and sun-soaked tropical escapes, filled with sharp banter, emotional depth, and the kind of chemistry that lingers long after the last page.
Her stories blend humor, heart, and soft open-door intimacy, written with emotional richness and non-explicit language. She writes connection-forward love stories — the kind where longing builds slowly, tension simmers, and falling in love feels both inevitable and earned, always leading to a deeply satisfying happily-ever-after.
When she’s not writing, Lia can usually be found judging new towns by their coffee, traveling to tropical escapes whenever she can, and spending long afternoons in the pool with her family. She writes between a full life in Ohio and daydreams of someday trading snow boots for sandy beaches.
Her stories blend humor, heart, and soft open-door intimacy, written with emotional richness and non-explicit language. She writes connection-forward love stories — the kind where longing builds slowly, tension simmers, and falling in love feels both inevitable and earned, always leading to a deeply satisfying happily-ever-after.
When she’s not writing, Lia can usually be found judging new towns by their coffee, traveling to tropical escapes whenever she can, and spending long afternoons in the pool with her family. She writes between a full life in Ohio and daydreams of someday trading snow boots for sandy beaches.
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
Holiday Magic! I was immediately pulled in and invested in Asher and Wren’s story. And I will never forget Beau, Wren’s adorable, Dino loving 3 year old! I laughed out loud at the banter. I swooned at the romance and even had to fan myself a few times at the closed door heat. And I even teared up a little and I admittedly am not a crier. The emotions shared are so real. Author Lia Bradford is brilliant at bringing out the real feels.
Our FMC is good she has suffered a loss and is back on her feet. She has forged an amazing life for herself and her son. Our MMC is good he has created a business bigger than he ever dreamed, has amazing family and friends in a community he loves. Both are good, great even. But both know something is missing and are not sure how to get that one last piece of the puzzle. The journey to figuring out if and how together might work is real and wonderful!
I was honored to have been allowed to read an early copy of Brewing Up Forever and I can honestly say it is one of my top reads for 2026.
This is a closed door, contemporary, small town romance. Brewing Up Forever is book 4 in a series it can be read in order or as a stand-alone.
Our FMC is good she has suffered a loss and is back on her feet. She has forged an amazing life for herself and her son. Our MMC is good he has created a business bigger than he ever dreamed, has amazing family and friends in a community he loves. Both are good, great even. But both know something is missing and are not sure how to get that one last piece of the puzzle. The journey to figuring out if and how together might work is real and wonderful!
I was honored to have been allowed to read an early copy of Brewing Up Forever and I can honestly say it is one of my top reads for 2026.
This is a closed door, contemporary, small town romance. Brewing Up Forever is book 4 in a series it can be read in order or as a stand-alone.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Lia Bradford is the queen of small town romance and this only being her fourth book is just amazing. I can’t say enough good things about Asher and Wrens story . It has all the feels.
Small Town Romance
Work related Romance
Single Mom
He falls first
Holiday Romance
I absolutely love this entire series, the way she describes the town, scenery and characters makes me want to move to a small town in Ohio and I’m from Michigan, if you know anything about my state you know we are rivals with Ohio. Little Beau is just the cutest 3 year old ever and he will steal your heart . With an endearing cast and a beautiful heartwarming story Brewing up Forever will have you laughing, crying and asking for more ❤️
Small Town Romance
Work related Romance
Single Mom
He falls first
Holiday Romance
I absolutely love this entire series, the way she describes the town, scenery and characters makes me want to move to a small town in Ohio and I’m from Michigan, if you know anything about my state you know we are rivals with Ohio. Little Beau is just the cutest 3 year old ever and he will steal your heart . With an endearing cast and a beautiful heartwarming story Brewing up Forever will have you laughing, crying and asking for more ❤️
Review of advance copy received from Author
Brewing Up Forever by Lia Bradford is easily one of my favorite books in the Hemlock Grove Romance series! This is my third time reading for Lia Bradford as part of her ARC team, and somehow, I just keep falling in love with this little town and its people even more.
One of the things that initially drew me to this story was its setting. Having read all three previous books, I was already deeply attached to Hemlock Grove and the characters who call it home. I’m also a complete sucker for small-town romances with found family at their core, so adding a single mom and an adorable dino loving kid to the mix? You can imagine how quickly I became invested!
I loved this book so much because it was such an easy and enjoyable read. Wren, Asher, and little Beau were all so lovable and relatable, and I really appreciated how well-written the characters were. Their backgrounds added so much depth to the story and made me even more invested in their individual journeys.
The romance was another highlight for me. It never felt rushed, which I especially appreciated given Wren’s heartbreaking past and the loss of her husband. Rather than jumping straight into a new relationship, Wren and Asher took things one day at a time. They built a friendship first, allowing their connection to grow naturally before taking that next step. I loved watching their relationship develop at its own pace because it made everything feel so much more genuine and meaningful.
And can we talk about Asher and Beau? Because I absolutely adored them! Beau is a three-year-old, dinosaur-loving little boy who has been missing a father figure in his life, and seeing how Asher treated him honestly melted my heart. Kids are often the best judges of character, and the fact that Beau warmed up to Asher so quickly and even called him his best friend says so much about the kind of man Asher is.
What made their story even more special was that this wasn’t just about two people falling in love. It was about building a family together. Beau was never treated as an afterthought or someone who simply came along with the relationship. He was always part of the equation, and his happiness and well-being were just as important as their own. Watching Wren and Asher navigate their growing relationship while keeping Beau’s needs at the forefront made me love them even more.
And, of course, the small-town charm! This is something Lia has consistently done so well throughout the series. I love how the people of Hemlock Grove feel like one big family, with everyone having their own place in the community. Every character adds something special to the story, and honestly, so many of them feel like they could easily carry their own books. Lia, if you’re reading this, consider this my very enthusiastic request for more Hemlock Grove stories! Hahaha
Overall, I absolutely loved Brewing Up Forever! It gave me the small-town romance, found family, slow-blooming love, and heartwarming family moments that I always look for in a story. I’m already looking forward to returning to Hemlock Grove and seeing what Lia has in store for us next.
As always, I’m incredibly grateful to Lia Bradford and, this time, Booksirens for giving me the opportunity to read this book in advance, just as I have with the previous books in the series. It’s always a pleasure to revisit Hemlock Grove, and I’m so happy to have been part of this journey. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
One of the things that initially drew me to this story was its setting. Having read all three previous books, I was already deeply attached to Hemlock Grove and the characters who call it home. I’m also a complete sucker for small-town romances with found family at their core, so adding a single mom and an adorable dino loving kid to the mix? You can imagine how quickly I became invested!
I loved this book so much because it was such an easy and enjoyable read. Wren, Asher, and little Beau were all so lovable and relatable, and I really appreciated how well-written the characters were. Their backgrounds added so much depth to the story and made me even more invested in their individual journeys.
The romance was another highlight for me. It never felt rushed, which I especially appreciated given Wren’s heartbreaking past and the loss of her husband. Rather than jumping straight into a new relationship, Wren and Asher took things one day at a time. They built a friendship first, allowing their connection to grow naturally before taking that next step. I loved watching their relationship develop at its own pace because it made everything feel so much more genuine and meaningful.
And can we talk about Asher and Beau? Because I absolutely adored them! Beau is a three-year-old, dinosaur-loving little boy who has been missing a father figure in his life, and seeing how Asher treated him honestly melted my heart. Kids are often the best judges of character, and the fact that Beau warmed up to Asher so quickly and even called him his best friend says so much about the kind of man Asher is.
What made their story even more special was that this wasn’t just about two people falling in love. It was about building a family together. Beau was never treated as an afterthought or someone who simply came along with the relationship. He was always part of the equation, and his happiness and well-being were just as important as their own. Watching Wren and Asher navigate their growing relationship while keeping Beau’s needs at the forefront made me love them even more.
And, of course, the small-town charm! This is something Lia has consistently done so well throughout the series. I love how the people of Hemlock Grove feel like one big family, with everyone having their own place in the community. Every character adds something special to the story, and honestly, so many of them feel like they could easily carry their own books. Lia, if you’re reading this, consider this my very enthusiastic request for more Hemlock Grove stories! Hahaha
Overall, I absolutely loved Brewing Up Forever! It gave me the small-town romance, found family, slow-blooming love, and heartwarming family moments that I always look for in a story. I’m already looking forward to returning to Hemlock Grove and seeing what Lia has in store for us next.
As always, I’m incredibly grateful to Lia Bradford and, this time, Booksirens for giving me the opportunity to read this book in advance, just as I have with the previous books in the series. It’s always a pleasure to revisit Hemlock Grove, and I’m so happy to have been part of this journey. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Hemlock Grove: Asher & Wren
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I loved Asher and Wren’s story, especially the second-chance-at-love theme, the found family, and the feeling of finding a place to finally call home. it was a delightful small-town romance with all the cozy vibes!
Asher was such a charming, funny hero, and I loved how he made Wren and her little boy feel welcome without asking for anything in return. Of course, her son falling for him first was absolutely adorable! The chemistry, banter, coffee shop setting, and of course, Winter Market chaos all added to the charm.
Wren’s journey as she navigated life after loss and tried to work out what she really wanted for herself and her son was lovely. There was a little angst as she faced some difficult decisions, but overall, this was a low-angst, heartwarming read with a wonderful community and some delightful secondary characters.
A sweet, cozy romance about taking a chance on love, finding your people, and discovering that home might be somewhere you never expected. Another lovely addition to the Hemlock Grove series!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I loved Asher and Wren’s story, especially the second-chance-at-love theme, the found family, and the feeling of finding a place to finally call home. it was a delightful small-town romance with all the cozy vibes!
Asher was such a charming, funny hero, and I loved how he made Wren and her little boy feel welcome without asking for anything in return. Of course, her son falling for him first was absolutely adorable! The chemistry, banter, coffee shop setting, and of course, Winter Market chaos all added to the charm.
Wren’s journey as she navigated life after loss and tried to work out what she really wanted for herself and her son was lovely. There was a little angst as she faced some difficult decisions, but overall, this was a low-angst, heartwarming read with a wonderful community and some delightful secondary characters.
A sweet, cozy romance about taking a chance on love, finding your people, and discovering that home might be somewhere you never expected. Another lovely addition to the Hemlock Grove series!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Brewing Up Forever is such a sweet small town, single mom, Cinnamon roll MMC, holiday read. I ate this story up and every interaction with 3 year old Beau, was pure sunshine and happiness! Wren is in town with her son to coordinate the winter market. Her plan is for 8 weeks of work and then to go back home, but Asher is even more irresistible in real life! The coffee shop owner who they've had phone conversations planning the festival, has also leased the upstairs apartment to his cafe. From the moment Wren and her son arrive in town, he is kind and considerate to Beau, and the chemistry between him and wren is undeniable.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and publisher for an arc in exchange for an honest review. Wren had heartbreak to overcome, but she had such an amazing support system and gained even more with Asher's family and town. This was extremely low angst, very mature relationships, and full of fun and love throughout the entire novel all during the build up to the holidays.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and publisher for an arc in exchange for an honest review. Wren had heartbreak to overcome, but she had such an amazing support system and gained even more with Asher's family and town. This was extremely low angst, very mature relationships, and full of fun and love throughout the entire novel all during the build up to the holidays.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to Lia Bradford for introducing me to Hemlock Grove! I feel so lucky to be a part of your eARC team! While I did read this book first, it did not stop me from buying the previous three books so I could keep coming back to Hemlock Grove.
In this book we meet Wren (aka Christmas Boss), Asher (aka Coffee Boss) and Beau, who is the most adorable and funny three year old. I love that Hemlock Grove is making a Christmas market, and that Wren is the one in town who is going to organize it all. Wren is a strong character; having lost her husband right before she gave birth to Beau and building her own business while taking care of everyone and everything. She isn't used to someone seeing what needs to be done and doing it like Asher does. But Asher is the town problem-solver and when Wren and Beau come to town he has a new focus.
I was drawn into this story from the beginning, and loved every minute with these characters in this town. Well Done Lia! You are wonderful! I recommend this book to anyone that loves a cozy small town romance.
In this book we meet Wren (aka Christmas Boss), Asher (aka Coffee Boss) and Beau, who is the most adorable and funny three year old. I love that Hemlock Grove is making a Christmas market, and that Wren is the one in town who is going to organize it all. Wren is a strong character; having lost her husband right before she gave birth to Beau and building her own business while taking care of everyone and everything. She isn't used to someone seeing what needs to be done and doing it like Asher does. But Asher is the town problem-solver and when Wren and Beau come to town he has a new focus.
I was drawn into this story from the beginning, and loved every minute with these characters in this town. Well Done Lia! You are wonderful! I recommend this book to anyone that loves a cozy small town romance.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Lia is my favorite small town romance author she has a way of building tension with her characters that makes you want to yell at your kindle and say just kiss already! Asher is my favorite he shows up knows what do to do even before Wren knows she needs it. And Beau and his dinosaurs Steve and Kevin will have your heart in the beginning of this book. Wren has such a great support system for her and I love how everyone just accepted her into Hemlock Grove I wish this place was real because I’d absolutely move there! Just for Asher and his buns sorry everyone had to throw that one in there lol. I highly recommend this one for anyone who loves fade to black and found family romance you definitely won’t regret diving into this series!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This small town romance was so sweet! I loved the characters and how they are as people. The emotional maturity of the FMC and MMC is top tier. Wren and Asher’s story is so emotionally beautiful. It’s definitely reminded me that because life is unpredictable and unfair at times doesn’t mean we can’t find happiness after unexpected losses. Asher Cole is definitely on my list of favorite MMCs. If you haven’t read a Lia Bradford book yet I’d highly recommend you reading one, you won’t regret it. I can’t wait for you guys to be able to read this book. I’ll definitely treasure this book forever. The Characters and the atmosphere of the town is just all around incredible. Thank you Lia Bradford for this amazing arc read it was a pleasure reading!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Oh. My. HEART! 🥹❤️
This book was EVERYTHING I love about a good romance! The kind of love story that grabs your heart, makes you smile like a fool, gives you butterflies, and hits you right in ALL the feels! 😭💕
The chemistry, the emotions, the swoon-worthy moments… I was completely invested from beginning to end! I laughed, I melted, and my heart was just so full. 🥰
And can we talk about this SERIES?! Hands down, one of the BEST! Every book just makes me fall in love a little more. I am so not ready to say goodbye to these characters!
If you love a beautiful love story that makes your heart do little flips, THIS IS YOUR SIGN TO READ IT! 💋📖
All the stars. All the butterflies. ALL THE FEELS! ❤️✨
This book was EVERYTHING I love about a good romance! The kind of love story that grabs your heart, makes you smile like a fool, gives you butterflies, and hits you right in ALL the feels! 😭💕
The chemistry, the emotions, the swoon-worthy moments… I was completely invested from beginning to end! I laughed, I melted, and my heart was just so full. 🥰
And can we talk about this SERIES?! Hands down, one of the BEST! Every book just makes me fall in love a little more. I am so not ready to say goodbye to these characters!
If you love a beautiful love story that makes your heart do little flips, THIS IS YOUR SIGN TO READ IT! 💋📖
All the stars. All the butterflies. ALL THE FEELS! ❤️✨
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book has hallmarks holiday movie vibes!! This author does a great job of capturing the readers attention and getting them emotionally invested.
The Fmc is wren, she is a widowed single mom. She has a 3 year old son, Beau. She is getting her life back together after suffering a major loss. She is extremely cautious when it comes to moving on.
The Mmc is Asher, he is a business owner. His coffee shop is more successful than he could have ever imagined. He seems to know what Wren and Beau need before they do.
This book has small town romance with single mom and working relationships thrown into the mix. What could go wrong or …… maybe right?
The Fmc is wren, she is a widowed single mom. She has a 3 year old son, Beau. She is getting her life back together after suffering a major loss. She is extremely cautious when it comes to moving on.
The Mmc is Asher, he is a business owner. His coffee shop is more successful than he could have ever imagined. He seems to know what Wren and Beau need before they do.
This book has small town romance with single mom and working relationships thrown into the mix. What could go wrong or …… maybe right?
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is a Christmas love story in a small town with very relatable and lovable characters 🎄🎅❄️ Although at times it feels a little too much talk about Christmas market planning, the whole story is cute, interesting and emotional.
There’s something about a found family when a child is involved, it kind of tied up the whole story. I really loved the way Asher treated the whole situation and how he interacted with little Beau. He’s my favorite character... he’s not only charming and funny but he made Beau feel safe and loved and never tried to replace his real father 🥰
Thank you for the ARC.
There’s something about a found family when a child is involved, it kind of tied up the whole story. I really loved the way Asher treated the whole situation and how he interacted with little Beau. He’s my favorite character... he’s not only charming and funny but he made Beau feel safe and loved and never tried to replace his real father 🥰
Thank you for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Sweet holiday romance in the Hemlock Grove Universe. Asher runs the coffee shop and rents his over store apartment to Wren and Beau. Wren is organizing the towns first Christmas Market, while putting Wren's company on the map. They work side by side to bring the event together and grow close. It turns into a Christmas story with all the feels and a HEA. It keeps you turning pages and gets you into the Holiday spirit.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Prepare for Asher, Wren and Beau to steal your heart. This is the sweetest small town romance. Not only is it winter and all the winter market magic but it is finding love after loss and a little boys love of dinosaurs! This little family grows from the second they all meet and it is the greatest joy watching it happen. I honestly have loved every single Hemlock Grove book but this one tops them all! Great writing that gives you all the feels.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Back to Hemlock Grove to the beautiful love story of Asher & Wren.
Such a warm feel good romance with lots of emotion & understanding.
This is a slow burn but full of fun and love and lots of dinosaur facts!
I really enjoyed reading this one, a great one to curl up on the couch with a cuppa and a blanket on a wintery day.
Such a warm feel good romance with lots of emotion & understanding.
This is a slow burn but full of fun and love and lots of dinosaur facts!
I really enjoyed reading this one, a great one to curl up on the couch with a cuppa and a blanket on a wintery day.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Lia Bradford has done it again!
She has made me absolutely fall in love with Hemlock Grove and all of its couples. This little town gives me major Stars Hollow vibes from Gilmore Girls. It's cozy, familiar and full of heart. I'm absolutely here for it!
I love that Asher gets his woman finally!
She has made me absolutely fall in love with Hemlock Grove and all of its couples. This little town gives me major Stars Hollow vibes from Gilmore Girls. It's cozy, familiar and full of heart. I'm absolutely here for it!
I love that Asher gets his woman finally!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Yall this is one of the absolute best books I've ever read!! Its full of love joy laughter and humor!! 5 out of 5 stars!! I binge read it yesterday on my day off!! I absolutely could not put it down!!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Such a cute Christmas story. If you love small town romance and very relatable characters you will love this book!
Review of advance copy received from Author
The perfect festive read for anyone who wants the magic of a cosy heart warming Christmas movie but in a book.
A little Christmas magic, a lot of heart and a love story that has you smiling, even a giggle or two.
A little Christmas magic, a lot of heart and a love story that has you smiling, even a giggle or two.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Hemlock Grove Series Book 4
Thank you Lia for this beautiful ARC!
In the fourth installment of the Hemlock Grove series, we meet Asher, the owner of the coffee shop Rusty Bean. Mayor Frank approaches Asher to discuss housing for Wren, an event planner who recently lost her husband. Frank tells Asher that Wren needs a place to stay, and although Asher's apartment above the coffee shop has been mostly empty, he quickly offers it to her, wanting to help.
Wren, along with her son Beau, is set to move into the apartment in just 11 days. Asher, intrigued by her voice but having never seen her, finds himself distracted at work after Googling her picture. When Wren calls him, she’s surprised to learn the apartment is available, which takes a burden off her shoulders. The banter between Asher and Wren is playful and charming, showcasing their growing connection.
Asher prepares the apartment for Wren and Beau, even getting a green dinosaur toy for Beau, who affectionately names it "Steve." Their interactions are heartwarming, with Beau declaring Asher as “the coffee boss” and Wren the “Christmas boss.” As they spend more time together, their chemistry is palpable, creating a delightful dynamic.
The following days show Asher and Wren navigating their new relationship and responsibilities. Asher's thoughtful gestures, like childproofing the apartment and inviting Wren's mom to dinner, emphasize his growing affection for them. The interactions with Beau, who expresses his fondness for Asher, are particularly sweet.
The narrative captures the essence of their blossoming romance, including a near-kiss moment that leaves both characters yearning for more. As they deal with challenges surrounding the Hemlock Grove market, Wren impressively manages setbacks and proves herself as a capable planner.
The climax is filled with emotion as both Asher and Wren confront their feelings. Their relationship deepens, with Wren realizing she can’t picture her future without Asher. The beautiful winter market, family gatherings, and the impending holiday create a rich backdrop for their love story.
The conclusion is satisfying, showing Wren deciding to accept a job that will keep her in Hemlock Grove, solidifying her future with Asher and Beau. The epilogue beautifully wraps up their “happily ever after,” leaving readers feeling warm and fulfilled.
I absolutely fell in love with Asher, Wren, and Beau, who truly stole the show. Hemlock Grove was enchanting throughout, especially with the Christmas setting. While it's sad to see the series end, I'm excited about what Lia will write next. I loved revisiting the characters from the earlier books and seeing their journeys continue.
Thank you Lia for this beautiful ARC!
In the fourth installment of the Hemlock Grove series, we meet Asher, the owner of the coffee shop Rusty Bean. Mayor Frank approaches Asher to discuss housing for Wren, an event planner who recently lost her husband. Frank tells Asher that Wren needs a place to stay, and although Asher's apartment above the coffee shop has been mostly empty, he quickly offers it to her, wanting to help.
Wren, along with her son Beau, is set to move into the apartment in just 11 days. Asher, intrigued by her voice but having never seen her, finds himself distracted at work after Googling her picture. When Wren calls him, she’s surprised to learn the apartment is available, which takes a burden off her shoulders. The banter between Asher and Wren is playful and charming, showcasing their growing connection.
Asher prepares the apartment for Wren and Beau, even getting a green dinosaur toy for Beau, who affectionately names it "Steve." Their interactions are heartwarming, with Beau declaring Asher as “the coffee boss” and Wren the “Christmas boss.” As they spend more time together, their chemistry is palpable, creating a delightful dynamic.
The following days show Asher and Wren navigating their new relationship and responsibilities. Asher's thoughtful gestures, like childproofing the apartment and inviting Wren's mom to dinner, emphasize his growing affection for them. The interactions with Beau, who expresses his fondness for Asher, are particularly sweet.
The narrative captures the essence of their blossoming romance, including a near-kiss moment that leaves both characters yearning for more. As they deal with challenges surrounding the Hemlock Grove market, Wren impressively manages setbacks and proves herself as a capable planner.
The climax is filled with emotion as both Asher and Wren confront their feelings. Their relationship deepens, with Wren realizing she can’t picture her future without Asher. The beautiful winter market, family gatherings, and the impending holiday create a rich backdrop for their love story.
The conclusion is satisfying, showing Wren deciding to accept a job that will keep her in Hemlock Grove, solidifying her future with Asher and Beau. The epilogue beautifully wraps up their “happily ever after,” leaving readers feeling warm and fulfilled.
I absolutely fell in love with Asher, Wren, and Beau, who truly stole the show. Hemlock Grove was enchanting throughout, especially with the Christmas setting. While it's sad to see the series end, I'm excited about what Lia will write next. I loved revisiting the characters from the earlier books and seeing their journeys continue.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 28, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
There are very few books that can make me smile from the very beginning and keep that warmth going all the way through, but Brewing Up Forever by Lia Bradford is undeniably one of them.
From the second chapter onwards, I had a permanent smile on my face. This book is the absolute definition of cozy, heartwarming, and deeply moving. It completely immersed me in the main character’s emotions—especially her experience navigating motherhood with a toddler, with all of its struggles, heavy responsibilities, and tender moments.
And then there's Asher! I fell completely in love with him, purely based on his incredible fatherly nature. The banter throughout the book is so witty and fun, whether between the two main characters or among the group of girls.
Beyond the romance, this story touched my heart in ways I didn't expect:
* Emotional depth: I found myself crying real tears—both from the heavy, raw feelings captured on the page and from pure tears of happiness and warm joy. The scene where little Beau asks completely honest, innocent questions about big decisions had me reaching for the tissues.
* A beautiful life lesson: The story serves as a gentle reminder of how to show up for the people we care about. When someone shares a worry, instead of rushing to say "it will be fine" or "it will work out," sometimes we just need to listen, refrain from immediate reactions, and simply be present.
* Parenting wisdom: There is so much incredible parenting advice woven into the narrative that I honestly felt like distributing copies to my family just so everyone could experience and understand it!
If you are looking for an emotionally resonant, cozy read that will make you smile, laugh, and cry in the best way possible, I cannot recommend Brewing Up Forever enough!
There are very few books that can make me smile from the very beginning and keep that warmth going all the way through, but Brewing Up Forever by Lia Bradford is undeniably one of them.
From the second chapter onwards, I had a permanent smile on my face. This book is the absolute definition of cozy, heartwarming, and deeply moving. It completely immersed me in the main character’s emotions—especially her experience navigating motherhood with a toddler, with all of its struggles, heavy responsibilities, and tender moments.
And then there's Asher! I fell completely in love with him, purely based on his incredible fatherly nature. The banter throughout the book is so witty and fun, whether between the two main characters or among the group of girls.
Beyond the romance, this story touched my heart in ways I didn't expect:
* Emotional depth: I found myself crying real tears—both from the heavy, raw feelings captured on the page and from pure tears of happiness and warm joy. The scene where little Beau asks completely honest, innocent questions about big decisions had me reaching for the tissues.
* A beautiful life lesson: The story serves as a gentle reminder of how to show up for the people we care about. When someone shares a worry, instead of rushing to say "it will be fine" or "it will work out," sometimes we just need to listen, refrain from immediate reactions, and simply be present.
* Parenting wisdom: There is so much incredible parenting advice woven into the narrative that I honestly felt like distributing copies to my family just so everyone could experience and understand it!
If you are looking for an emotionally resonant, cozy read that will make you smile, laugh, and cry in the best way possible, I cannot recommend Brewing Up Forever enough!
October 26, 2026
❄️Winter festival
❄️Instant attraction
❄️1st person dual POV
❄️Forced proximity
❄️Single mom
DNF at 14%.
I can see the appeal if you are looking for a romance that is firmly rooted in reality. There is a lot of words and dialogue without action and it feels long. So far most of it has revolved around the literal logistics of organizing a winter festival and to me that just does not propel the story along in an enticing way.
Also, one of the main characters is the 3 year old son who (at least in the first 14%) has a lot to say. I always find young kid dialogue generally cringy, but if you are the type of reader that finds it endearing, then this may be for you.
I did see the author is from Ohio and named the towns bookstore The Book Loft. Perhaps a coincidence but there is a very well known bookstore in Columbus Ohio with that exact name and that felt kinda lame to use the same name as such a well known place instead of coming up with an original name. There were a few other references that felt influenced from other shows/reality too and that just left a bad taste in my mouth. I read to escape.
I understand 14% seems pretty early, but this book is more than 400 pages long (I couldn’t find an exact number but I found between 408-485 physical pages and kindle edition lists as 1408 kindle pages which is long for a small towny, contemporary romance!) so I still think I gave it a chance to suck me in, but it did not.
Thank you for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
❄️Instant attraction
❄️1st person dual POV
❄️Forced proximity
❄️Single mom
DNF at 14%.
I can see the appeal if you are looking for a romance that is firmly rooted in reality. There is a lot of words and dialogue without action and it feels long. So far most of it has revolved around the literal logistics of organizing a winter festival and to me that just does not propel the story along in an enticing way.
Also, one of the main characters is the 3 year old son who (at least in the first 14%) has a lot to say. I always find young kid dialogue generally cringy, but if you are the type of reader that finds it endearing, then this may be for you.
I did see the author is from Ohio and named the towns bookstore The Book Loft. Perhaps a coincidence but there is a very well known bookstore in Columbus Ohio with that exact name and that felt kinda lame to use the same name as such a well known place instead of coming up with an original name. There were a few other references that felt influenced from other shows/reality too and that just left a bad taste in my mouth. I read to escape.
I understand 14% seems pretty early, but this book is more than 400 pages long (I couldn’t find an exact number but I found between 408-485 physical pages and kindle edition lists as 1408 kindle pages which is long for a small towny, contemporary romance!) so I still think I gave it a chance to suck me in, but it did not.
Thank you for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Review of advance copy received from Author
☕🎄 Brewing Up Forever by Lia Bradford 🎄☕
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Oh, how I LOVED this book!! 🥹❤️
I absolutely adored watching Wren and Asher’s relationship develop. One of my favorite things was how HEALTHY their relationship felt! Two adults having mature conversations, communicating, navigating life together, and actually working through things instead of creating unnecessary drama. It was so refreshing! ❤️
I also loved how their families embraced each other. Everything just felt so natural and genuine. And the pacing? PERFECTION! The story progressed beautifully without anything feeling dragged out or unnecessarily complicated.
And can we PLEASE talk about the Christmas market?! 🎄✨ The setting was so beautifully written that I genuinely felt like I was walking through the market myself! I could practically picture the lights, the cozy atmosphere, and all the Christmas magic. It has me wanting to find some Christmas markets to visit this holiday season!
This was just an all-around wonderful storyline with lovable characters, healthy relationships, family, and ALL the cozy holiday feels.
Such a heartwarming, feel-good read that left me smiling! ❤️🎄☕
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Oh, how I LOVED this book!! 🥹❤️
I absolutely adored watching Wren and Asher’s relationship develop. One of my favorite things was how HEALTHY their relationship felt! Two adults having mature conversations, communicating, navigating life together, and actually working through things instead of creating unnecessary drama. It was so refreshing! ❤️
I also loved how their families embraced each other. Everything just felt so natural and genuine. And the pacing? PERFECTION! The story progressed beautifully without anything feeling dragged out or unnecessarily complicated.
And can we PLEASE talk about the Christmas market?! 🎄✨ The setting was so beautifully written that I genuinely felt like I was walking through the market myself! I could practically picture the lights, the cozy atmosphere, and all the Christmas magic. It has me wanting to find some Christmas markets to visit this holiday season!
This was just an all-around wonderful storyline with lovable characters, healthy relationships, family, and ALL the cozy holiday feels.
Such a heartwarming, feel-good read that left me smiling! ❤️🎄☕
Review of advance copy
Wren es madre soltera y desde que perdió a su esposo, pensó que jamás se volvería a enamorar. Nunca pensó que su trabajo como organizadora de eventos la llevaría hasta Hemlock Grove, donde conocería a Asher, el dueño de una acogedora cafetería que poco a poco comienza a ganarse su confianza y la de su pequeño hijo. Lo que debía ser una estancia de ocho semanas para sacar adelante un importante proyecto termina convirtiéndose en la oportunidad para descubrir que quizá el amor no desaparece con la pérdida. Pero Wren tendrá que decidir si está lista para abrir su corazón de nuevo sin sentir que está dejando atrás al hombre que siempre amará.
______-
Si les gusta las películas estilo Hallmark, este libro les encantara.
Gracias NetGalley por el ARC.
______-
Si les gusta las películas estilo Hallmark, este libro les encantara.
Gracias NetGalley por el ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I absolutely loved this book! It really has everything you would want in a romance. It has the small town Christmas magic vibes. I loved Wren and Asher’s banter and slow burn chemistry and her little boy I couldn’t help but fall in love with! This book had me smiling on page 3… It had me laughing out loud and crying happy tears multiple times. It was giving Hallmark vibes the whole way through. This book has quickly become one of the few books I’ll ALWAYS recommend and the best romance Iv read all year. It’s a part of the Hemlock Grove series but is definitely a standalone. I have not read any of the other Hemlock Grove books in the series, but now I’m going to! I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 27, 2026
I absolutely loved this book! I love how they were at the beginning bickering about the planning of the market and as time went on by things started to develop. I love Beau! He was so cute and I just wanted to squeeze and hug the little guy. This definitely gives insight on truly how it can feel and the thought process of continuing to live and grow and love. Lia did such a wonderful job not sugarcoating real life but still giving it the magical joy of reading!!! Definitely worth reading and will forever live in my heart and soul.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This book felt like I was reading and participating in a business meeting about organizing a winter festival. I didn’t dislike any particular character but I felt like I was just reading dialogue. The 3 year old Beau also had too much dialogue, it was 25% his book.
It’s a slow burn but then I realized it was a zero spice book so I’m not sure if “slow burn” even works here??
It’s a slow burn but then I realized it was a zero spice book so I’m not sure if “slow burn” even works here??
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