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.
4.5⭐️ This was exactly what i needed! Short, sweet and so Helen & Erik from Sweet Magnolias coded. This novella felt exactly as the author intended - like a warm hug in the form of a cinnamon roll.
I enjoyed the easiness of this read with minimal drama. Liam was suffering due to returning home after a tragedy and that led him to be somewhat hardened and not see what the farm truly means to the small town of Maple Grove and even to him. I enjoyed how Layla and him came to be; they both ended up taking a chance on each other! Oh, I so want to try Layla’s lemonade!
Immersive Read 📚+🎧: This was the cutest no spice summer romance novella! Liam & Layla are opposites. One is sweet & summery and the other one is grumpy & reserved. They both need each other and don’t know it. The jokes, comradery, & banter between Liam, Layla, & Danni (Layla’s BFF) is funny & Superb! You can’t have lemonade without Honey well in this case you can’t have Layla without Liam🤗
P.S.: I really liked this story. It was refreshing with a great plot/storyline! Definitely one you should read!
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.
This was such a cute summer read. It reminded me so much of a Hallmark movie featuring a Black cast. It felt authentically Black and relatable.
This book follows Layla as she enters a lemonade competition. She regularly visits Walker Honey Farm to buy honey, where she meets Liam, the son of the owners. Liam is a former Marine who returned to his hometown of Maple Grove to take over his family’s farm after his father decided to retire. While his parents are away on an extended vacation, Liam is left to manage the farm on his own.
Layla and Liam are complete opposites. Layla is bubbly, outgoing, deeply rooted in her faith, and works as an educator. Liam, on the other hand, is reserved, cautious, and guarded. He wasn’t very nice to Layla at first, but he gradually began to warm up to her.
I really liked Danni—she was something else! I’d love to read a book about her.
My biggest issue was that I didn’t really feel the chemistry or spark between Layla and Liam. It seemed like Layla was much more interested in Liam than he was in her. Maybe that was because Liam was so cautious and guarded, but I still found myself wanting more romantic tension.
Yes, there was romance, but it wasn’t as romantic as I had hoped. I understand the author wanted to write a clean, nonsexual romance, and I appreciate that. However, I was hoping for more excitement, chemistry, and those “fireworks” moments while still keeping the story clean and free of explicit content.
Nina Stewart is a wonderful storyteller, and I really enjoyed the overall story. I just wanted a little more excitement in the romance.
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.
This was a charming small-town romance that I thoroughly enjoyed. It was a quick read, but despite its shorter length, I felt connected to the characters almost immediately. The author provided just enough insight into their pasts to make them feel relatable and real, and I found myself rooting for them to end up together very early in the story.
One of my favorite aspects of this book was the focus on the emotional connection between the characters. As a clean romance, it allowed the relationship itself to take center stage without intimate scenes overshadowing the plot. This gave readers the opportunity to fully appreciate the characters' chemistry, growth, and developing bond.
The pacing was fast, making it an easy and enjoyable read that I finished quickly. Nina Stewart created a heartwarming romance that kept me invested from beginning to end.
This was my first book by Nina Stewart, and it definitely won't be my last. If you're looking for a sweet, clean romance with lovable characters and a strong emotional connection, I would highly recommend!
This was a sweet, wholesome small-town romance that felt like the perfect summer read.
The story follows Layla preparing for a local lemonade competition in her hometown, where farmers markets and small businesses are at the heart of the community. Along the way, she meets the new owner of the local honey farm. While she’s instantly intrigued by him, he’s much more reserved…!the classic grumpy meets sunshine dynamic lol.
What I enjoyed most was the cozy atmosphere. The farmers market setting, the lemonade competition, and the honey farm all gave the story a charming, feel-good vibe.
That said, I found myself wanting a little more depth in a few areas. The male lead being a former Marine was an interesting part of his character, but I wish that aspect had been explored further. I also expected the lemonade competition to play a much bigger role in the story. I would have loved to see more of the competition itself and the journey leading up to it.
Overall, this was a quick, sweet romance that delivered exactly what I was looking for in a light summer read.
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!
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.
A really cute summer themed story that is easy to read. The characters were likable even the farm animals as the author gives them a little bit of personality too. Enjoyed this look into Liam and Layla's start of a relationship and the beginnings of the characters getting to know one another and create a bond of trust despite Liam's supposed grumpiness and mysteriousness thats founded by something deeper. Another sweet novel from Nina Stewart, just as enjoyable as the previous ones. If you like a quick clean romance and simple black love stories, its for you. Received a ARC copy for this review, thanks Nina! Happy writing for whichever characters are next.
Reading this book truly feels like a nice country summer morning, where the sun is rising, the world is trying to awake, and the quietness is still present. The ease of the writing demonstrates the ability to narrate the storytelling in a loving nature. Layla’s desire to obtain her prized ingredient lead to changing the trajectory of unexpected heir (Liam) to a farm. Layla’s patience and understanding was just what Liam needed to figure out his next move. Slowly but surely perfecting the right ingredients evolved into finding the right person and a great summer ending.
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.
This is such a sweet summer romance! Reading it honestly left me wanting to pour myself a cold glass of fresh lemonade with a touch of honey. I absolutely loved the gentle pacing of the story. It beautifully highlights how sometimes, finding your next step in life includes finding that special someone who makes the silence feel peaceful rather than empty. It’s a heartwarming, cozy read that is absolutely perfect for a sunny afternoon. Highly recommended!
This book reminded me of a breezy summer day. The farm life just added more to the feeling. Spoil alert 🚨 I’m so glad Liam did not sale the farm. That farm been in the family for generations. Sometimes as a woman we do not go after men we think are attractive. We think he should come after us, but not my girl Lenna. She saw Liam and kept going back to see that smile. (I will not spoil the rest) As of the fair competition, (spoil alert 🚨I know Lenna had it in the bag. Honey makes everything taste good.
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.
Very sweet, southern, small town romance. Layla and Liam definitely give grown healing love; however, I felt like I needed more depth with them. Especially Layla. She’s fragile from a past relationship but there isn’t much information on why. We get background on why Liam acts the way he does and I wished it was reciprocated.
The overall plot was very cute. Quick read if you’re looking for a summertime, easy going romance with no spice.
Let me start by saying that the author DID state that this was a small-town romance novel with NO spice so it definitely gave Hallmark summer movie vibes.
But the storyline lost me somewhere in the middle and I didn’t reconnect with it until Chapter 8. I also found that increasing the speed of the audio helped to keep me tuned in til the end.
If there was ever a movie version made, I’d watch it.
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.