Honey, Lemon & YouWhen summer returns to Maple Grove, so does the farmers market, the scent of warm cinnamon rolls, and Layla Bennett’s famous honey lemonade.
For Layla, the market has always been more than a place to sell pastries. It’s where she rebuilt her life after heartbreak, one Saturday morning at a time.
But when the local beekeeper retires unexpectedly, Layla finds herself forced to work with his son, Liam Walker, a quiet former Marine who has little interest in the town, the market, or letting people get too close.
Still, Liam’s honey might be the secret to helping Layla win Maple Grove’s county-wide lemonade competition.
As the two spend more time together beneath striped tents, buzzing bee hives, and warm summer sunsets, their reluctant partnership slowly turns into something softer than either of them expected.
But small towns have long memories, and Liam carries wounds he hasn’t learned how to leave behind.
Now, Layla must decide if falling for someone guarded and temporary is worth the risk… or if some sweet things are better left unfinished.
Honey, Lemon & You is a warm summer love story about second chances, healing, and discovering that sometimes the sweetest things take time to grow.
Honey, Lemon, and You by Nina Stewart was such a sweet and cozy summer romance!
Honey, Lemon, and You by Nina Stewart was such a sweet and cozy summer romance!
Set in the charming town of Maples Grove, this story follows Layla, a schoolteacher with dreams of winning the city’s lemonade competition, and Liam, a Marine who returns home to run his family’s honey farm while his parents are away. When Layla needs the Walker Honeybee Farm’s famous honey for her prize-winning lemonade recipe, their lives become intertwined in the sweetest way.
I absolutely loved the small-town atmosphere. Between the farmers market, fresh flowers, cinnamon rolls, lemonade stands, and the close-knit community, this book felt like a warm summer afternoon in the Carolinas. The chemistry between Layla and Liam developed naturally, and I enjoyed watching them navigate their growing feelings while balancing family responsibilities and personal dreams.
The farm setting was one of my favorite parts of the story. The honeybee farm, bustling farmers market, and picturesque countryside created the perfect backdrop for this romance. Nina Stewart does a wonderful job of making Maples Grove feel like a place you’d want to visit.
The reason this wasn’t a full five-star read for me is that I wanted a little more depth in a few areas of the story and a bit more emotional tension between the main characters. Even so, the romance was heartwarming, the characters were likable, and the overall reading experience left me smiling.
If you enjoy small-town romances, returning-home stories, farmers market vibes, and sweet romances filled with community, family, and second chances at love, I definitely recommend Honey, Lemon, and You.
Overall, this was a delightful summer read that pairs perfectly with a glass of fresh lemonade.
Set in the charming town of Maples Grove, this story follows Layla, a schoolteacher with dreams of winning the city’s lemonade competition, and Liam, a Marine who returns home to run his family’s honey farm while his parents are away. When Layla needs the Walker Honeybee Farm’s famous honey for her prize-winning lemonade recipe, their lives become intertwined in the sweetest way.
I absolutely loved the small-town atmosphere. Between the farmers market, fresh flowers, cinnamon rolls, lemonade stands, and the close-knit community, this book felt like a warm summer afternoon in the Carolinas. The chemistry between Layla and Liam developed naturally, and I enjoyed watching them navigate their growing feelings while balancing family responsibilities and personal dreams.
The farm setting was one of my favorite parts of the story. The honeybee farm, bustling farmers market, and picturesque countryside created the perfect backdrop for this romance. Nina Stewart does a wonderful job of making Maples Grove feel like a place you’d want to visit.
The reason this wasn’t a full five-star read for me is that I wanted a little more depth in a few areas of the story and a bit more emotional tension between the main characters. Even so, the romance was heartwarming, the characters were likable, and the overall reading experience left me smiling.
If you enjoy small-town romances, returning-home stories, farmers market vibes, and sweet romances filled with community, family, and second chances at love, I definitely recommend Honey, Lemon, and You.
Honey, Lemon & You follows the story of Layla and Liam, both of whom were putting their lives back together after a couple of painful moments in their past. Layla - baker and lemonade maker - had been recovering from heartbreak, while Liam - former Marine - had his own issues, one of which was taking over the family farm. Neither of them had thoughts of dating anyone on their mind.
But those are the best stories, right? The ones where small glances and conversations start evolving into something that neither party signed on for. Not to mention the fact that even the animals - yes, I said animals - are quietly rooting for you.
This story is warm and sweet, reminiscent of a summer's day in the south. It's a gentle reminder to slow down and appreciate the small things. The things that you are born into but take for granted because you are so accustomed to having them. It's a reminder of what - and who - really matters.
Nina Stewart is one of my favorite author's. This latest book: Honey, Lemon & You might be my new favorite. It gives off spring love so wonderfully, I can almost smell the cinnamon rolls and lemonade. I loved everything about this book. That new feeling of falling in love. The little things you notice about someone. You get it al in this book!
Layla and Liam make you want a small town summer romance.
Layla moving forward in life with her lemonade stand and cinnamon rolls business
Liam a marine trying to find his way again after coming back home.
Both looking for home and finding it in each other.
My favorite quote from the book: "don’t decide something is impossible before you let yourself find out.
If you're ready to watch two people fall in love and have an entire movie play in your head, then this is the book. The cute farmers market, amazing friends, and healing all wrapped up in this heartfelt romance and second chances. This is easily a 5 star read. You will definitely be craving a cinnamon roll and some lemonade by the end of the book.
I had the pleasure of getting the ARC copy of this book from the author. It was the perfect summer romance novella to read right before you start your next book. You could see the small town romance happening right in front of you as you read each page. This is a book with no spice that is not boring or dry. It's a page turner that doesn't keep you wanting more. Or make you feel like you're missing anything. Not only do you get the love story between Layla and Liam, but you also get to know the other people in the town. Layla is so bright and warm. She brightens up any room that she is in. Which is why everyone loves her. Deep down Liam is like an onion that you have to peel back the layers to get to know the warm and sweet man that he is. Also can't forget about Dani the best friend that anyone can ask for. She is the friend that is always going to have your back no matter what; while putting a smile on your face.
This was a truly and enjoyable book and I can't wait to see what Nina Stewart has coming next.
I received an advanced copy of this novella Honey, Lemon & You Reading this book evokes memories of what summer is supposed to be. I enjoyed reading this small town romance love story Liam is a Marine that has lost one of his comrades and it weighs heavily on him Layla is a woman that has been betrayed and has clawed her way back to a semblance of peace Every female needs a Danni who is Layla’s best friend in her life. I could actually picture the farmers market and the church it’s reminiscent of how I grew up in the South. I loved the author actually focused on their friendship and made that the foundation of their relationship instead of sex. I wish I was able to taste the Lemonade and the Cinnamon rolls I really hope Danni gets a book I wouldn’t mind seeing HEA This was my first read of this author but I’m going to read her catalog and I’m excited
This story was as sweet as honey lemonade! I enjoyed every page, all the sweet sugar-ry - small town - rom-com vibes. The development of both FMC and MMC’s connection was well paced, with pauses in the right moments. If you are looking for an “easy like Sunday mornin’” - clean rom-com, this is the book for you. It took me a few days to read but I can see this being read in a day or two. Short, sweet and straight to the point, the story events moved fast but the author was able to keep us engaged with building in tense moments leaving us asking “ohh what’s going to happen next?” And talk about vivid imagery, I could feel the summer air, hear the chorus of bees in the hive, sense the peace of the farm and smell the lemonade and cinnamon rolls in the kitchen. I’ll definitely be reading this one again and buying a couple copies for friends!
This sweet novella was enjoying a perfect cup of coffee (or glass of lemonade) on your front porch type of story. Liam returns to his hometown and his family farm after leaving the Marines following a tragic incident. Layla is still trying to move on after her ex not only betrayed her but stole from her. Neither of them are looking for love. Those are the best stories and set ups, right? She needs the honey from his family farm to perfect her lemonade and enter the local competition. He is thinking of selling because running the family farm simply wasn’t in his plans. Watching and reading these two find their way to each other was the perfect way to spend an afternoon. I hope there’s a next book in this series because I can’t wait to read it!
Nina has done it again and did not disappoint! So grateful to have been an ARC reader since Sweet Potato Kisses. This novel is based in a small town called Maple Grove, with summer and cozy vibes. I absolutely enjoyed this book and all the summer, sweet vibes it gave. Layla is moving on from an ex; bakes and makes lemonade. Liam is a former Marine and returns home. The city ends up hosting a lemonade contest which gives Layla the opportunity to enter the competition. She wants her lemonade to be different and realizes the ingredient she needs for her recipe is honey… from Liam’s family’s honey farm. And so it begins! If you love small-town, cozy Summer, sweet romance (no spice), then this book is definitely for you! The characters, the setting… I didn’t want this book to end.
A sweet, clean small-town summer romance with all the cozy hometown vibes. Liam, a former Marine struggling to adjust to life back home, and Layla, who is working to move forward from her past while running her lemonade business, were both searching for a place to truly call home. I loved how naturally their relationship developed, especially since neither of them was looking for love.
The supportive friendships, charming farmers market setting, and strong sense of community made this story shine. It’s a heartwarming romance filled with healing, second chances, and plenty of small town charm. You’ll definitely be craving a sweet treat by the end!
I had an advance copy of this book and read it after finishing another book that was really heavy. It was exactly the palette cleanser that I needed.
I do not like to give spoilers but this was such a sweet story. It shows characters that are flawed in a very human and realistic way. Two people overcoming the trauma of their past, two people who are struggling to move forward, two people that find their healing in each other. I absolutely loved the characters and the chemistry. The plot and pacing was good.
If you're looking for a quick read that is low on drama and full of love you should definitely read this sweet story.
Absolutely amazing love story. I love how Liam and Layla chose to let their guard down and be open with one another that is heartfelt. Connecting over the something they deemed small but seeing it from each others perspective creating a connection they never thought they would have.
Liam returning from the Marines struggling with guilt and trying to navigate life’s decisions.
Layla’s heart being guarded because of ex breaking her trust made her weary of trusting again.
Both wanted peace that came with ease and not forced. The honey lemonade was the eye opener that sometimes the unexpected is very simple.
Definitely will be reading this one again and again.
I received this book as an ARC copy from the author. This is such a cute story. I loved Layla and Liam. The story flowed effortlessly. There was no repetition or predictability. The chemistry between Layla and Liam left off the pages. All if the stories I have read by Author Nina Stewart have been amazing. They draw you in and and make you fall in love. Her stories remind me of Hallmark movies. This story reminds you to slow down and really live life. Enjoy it and don't run. If you love a good hometown romance than this is the book for you.
Honey, Lemon and You leaves you feeling warm and cozy. This story takes place in a small town so of course when you live in a small town like Maple Grove, the bees aren’t the only thing buzzing. The moment Liam and Layla finally realized they were the exact amount of honey they needed in each other’s lives, made my heart smile. I absolutely loved Danni, she definitely needs her own story. Nina Steward does it again. Looking forward to reading everything she delivers. (ARC Reader) 🐝🍯🍋💛
This author always delivers delightful stories, and this one was no exception. Liam and Layla’s chemistry was on from the get-go. Danni was the perfect no-drama, got-your-back bestie. However, some of the other characters’ development felt rushed. While I understand that a novella is not going to fully develop everybody, some were really disjointed and nonsensical. There were also several inconsistencies in the storytelling where I was like “wait a minute…get the editor! Despite these minor flaws, it was an enjoyable “sweet treat” read before I get into my next heavy read.
I love anything Nina Stewart writes and I've read all of her books. Honey, Lemon & You is a sweet summer romance. The chemistry between Layla and Liam was perfection, it happened naturally with no force proximity. He even had to ask, what are we doing? 🖤 That's how sweet it was.
You can read this book in one sitting, like I did. Take it on vacation while relaxing on the ⛱️ or sit in your backyard or balcony and take in all the sweet goodness. Happy reading! 🍋 🍯 🐝
I love Hallmark movies. This author writes as though we are transported to those small towns. Just like a good Hallmark movie, I always leave with my nervous system regulated and an overwhelming belief that real love can be cozy, soft and sweet. Nina is my go-to author whenever I want to feel soft, intentional love. Beautifully written story. I know y’all will love this one.
Smooth as Honey! A sweet summer treat. What a great way to enter the season. The story was so well told. There were many layers to both characters and everything went together so well. I enjoyed every minute getting to know the characters and watch their story unfold. I’ve yet to be disappointed by a Nina Stewart book. This was gold.
This book was so cute I loved it like I loved all the other books this author had written two people both dealing with they own issues but needing something from one another more than they realize LOVE do they finally get together or you just be left hoping pick up and find out I promise you going to love this book
I got this as an ARC. Cute summer romance that you can read in one sitting. I love the dual perspectives and the character development of both Layla and Liam. Definitely a grumpy sunshine trope that I’m here for! I thought more drama was going to happen when the ex showed up, but they kept it pushing. I would have loved an epilogue to see more of their relationship in the future.
This is everything sweet and cozy! This books gives the slow intentional build between Layla and Liam. The authors choice of development and word play really made me feel like I was on the farm! Layla is the best and she got her happy ending and let love find her again, and Liam let his mind rest and slow down and he found exactly what he needed! Great Job Ms. Nina Stewart once again!
This was a such a good read to start the summer. The relationship between Liam and Layla bloomed fabulously and I loved the plot from start to finish. Nina knows how to appeal to her audience and give us romance stories that don’t have spice and I don’t feel like I am missing it either. If you’re reading this grab you a comfy seat and your favorite drink and read it in a sitting or two.
Such a sweet read! This book brings the summer breeze and feels. You witness two people, strangers navigate life after two different heartbreaking experiences. They’re both guarded in their own way. You get to see if Liam and Layla will open their hearts and mind to love/one another. Will they let the other one be their peace and home? Quick and fluffy read!
Nina you did it again! Super cute book that made me smile. This book can easily be a hallmark movie, it is small town, sweet, and romantic. Looking forward to reading any and every thing else you write!
Cute small town romance! Layla is a school teacher to fit grader who also loves to sell her lemonade and cinnamon rolls on the weekends. In walks Liam who is taking ownership of his parents farm and bees. Beautiful grumpy sunshine soon spice book!!
ARC review: This story was such a sweet summer romance that kept me smiling from the beginning. It was nice to experience Layla as such a calm, caring spirit. She was exactly the kind of person to give Liam the smile that he needed all along. Danni added the perfect touch of humor
Thank you to the author for ARC Review. This story has summer written all over it. Set in a small town, we meet Layla a teacher who moved to Maple Grove for a new life. Liam, a former marine, is back to take over his family's bee farm. They both are running from their past but find what they are yearning in each other. This story was a palate cleanser with no spice. I enjoyed how Liam softened for Layla and didn't delve into making a major decision that would've affected his future.