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Slow Brew
Love isn’t like in the movies.
People don’t break down in Hallmark towns.
They don’t get rescued by the local baker.
And even if they did…
He wouldn’t have a steady smile or the world’s greenest eyes.
He definitely wouldn’t be the hottest man they’d ever seen.
He’d never ask them to stay.
There’s no chance they’d say yes.
Because things like that don’t happen in real life.
Until they do.
**Slow Brew is a closed-door MM rom-com packed with slow-burn tension and cozy small-town vibes. Fans of workplace romance, age gap, and single guardian tropes won’t want to miss this short and sweet story about one man’s journey to find his true identity and a place to belong.
People don’t break down in Hallmark towns.
They don’t get rescued by the local baker.
And even if they did…
He wouldn’t have a steady smile or the world’s greenest eyes.
He definitely wouldn’t be the hottest man they’d ever seen.
He’d never ask them to stay.
There’s no chance they’d say yes.
Because things like that don’t happen in real life.
Until they do.
**Slow Brew is a closed-door MM rom-com packed with slow-burn tension and cozy small-town vibes. Fans of workplace romance, age gap, and single guardian tropes won’t want to miss this short and sweet story about one man’s journey to find his true identity and a place to belong.
188 pages, ebook
First published August 3, 2026
About the author
D.G. Holloway
3 books39 followersD.G. Holloway was born in Melton Mowbray, England, and now lives in Charlotte, North Carolina, with her two boys.
A lifelong romance reader, she writes emotional love stories that explore mental health, celebrate love in all its forms, and make readers work for that hard-earned happily-ever-after.
When she’s not writing, she’s probably reading or testing new baking recipes with varying levels of success.
Follow her on Instagram @authordgholloway for behind-the-scenes content, writing updates, and news on upcoming releases.
A lifelong romance reader, she writes emotional love stories that explore mental health, celebrate love in all its forms, and make readers work for that hard-earned happily-ever-after.
When she’s not writing, she’s probably reading or testing new baking recipes with varying levels of success.
Follow her on Instagram @authordgholloway for behind-the-scenes content, writing updates, and news on upcoming releases.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
August 2, 2026
Ark copy review. I would love to thank the Author D.G. Holloway for this arc.
Something is hanging between us, something charged and delicate and impossible to ignore. I want to lean into it. Explore it. Devour it.
This was such a wonderful small town found family Romcom romance story. when your running and trying to find your place a place that feels like home might just be in a small town with the handsome guy working in the cafe. I loved how the Author also wrote Finley with he’s anxiety, running thoughts and adhd I found it very relatable. This story was so sweet like and all the small town characters were so fun and loveable. Well almost all of them lol. This is one of those story’s you read when you generally wanna feel happy and feel good and fuzzy inside. Even when I put this book down I was still thinking about it. Plus the epilogue was utter perfection and something I wasn’t expecting but loved.
Something is hanging between us, something charged and delicate and impossible to ignore. I want to lean into it. Explore it. Devour it.
This was such a wonderful small town found family Romcom romance story. when your running and trying to find your place a place that feels like home might just be in a small town with the handsome guy working in the cafe. I loved how the Author also wrote Finley with he’s anxiety, running thoughts and adhd I found it very relatable. This story was so sweet like and all the small town characters were so fun and loveable. Well almost all of them lol. This is one of those story’s you read when you generally wanna feel happy and feel good and fuzzy inside. Even when I put this book down I was still thinking about it. Plus the epilogue was utter perfection and something I wasn’t expecting but loved.
August 11, 2026
Slow Brew by D.G. Holloway might be the cutest cozy, slow-burn book I’ve read in 2026. While my usual genre preference is an MM sports romance with a good amount of spice, I was so enthralled with Slow Brew for the emotional investment I felt toward Finley and Owen’s story/ character development that the mild spice was more than appropriate. If you’re looking for a closed-door MM rom-com that also includes anxiety & ADHD rep, grab yourself a cup of coffee and sip on the perfect roast that is Slow Brew.
The mental health awareness and visibility in Slow Brew is incredible. As a person living with both anxiety and ADHD, it can be difficult at times to explain to someone who isn’t neurodivergent the feelings/emotions we’re experiencing and/or the reasoning for certain actions . Finley’s character perfectly encapsulates what it’s like to live with anxiety and ADHD - the thought processes, the difficulties of emotionally regulating, the feelings of being misunderstood or not quite fitting in with those around you.
Finley’s character was so reassuring for me - a comforting reminder that there are others who can relate to the same struggles I go through. What I loved even more than the mental health visibility were the ways Owen provided support to Finley. Owen could always tell when Finley was getting too in his head about things, and each time Owen gave Finley exactly what he needed in those moments - a grounding presence. A simple, reassuring gesture in the form of a gentle handhold or hand on the small of his back just to let Finley know he wasn’t alone. The patience and genuine care and concern Owen had for Finley made the book all the more cozy and endearing.
Owen’s character might be the closest example I can think of to a near-perfect human being. The care he shows for his loved ones and his community, his willingness to advocate for what’s right and speak out to support his people - Owen is the epitome of selflessness. I fell even more in love with his character as his past relationship details were revealed, heartstrings being yanked and leaving me emotionally stricken with empathy. Owen is so deserving of love, and I’m glad Finley could be the one to help repair his mending heart and give hope to the future Owen always wanted.
I know I keep using the word cozy, but I can’t think of a better word to describe the dynamic between Owen, Finley, and Annabelle. From the very beginning, there was an automatic sense of comfort and a feeling of safety between the three of them. They all got along so well and seemed like a little family - no one from the outside looking in would suspect otherwise. The bond between them formed instantly and only grew stronger as the book progressed. It felt like a warm hug to the heart whenever I would read scenes involving the three of them.
Slow Brew was such a good read. The perfect book to curl up on the couch with a nice fuzzy blanket. This was my first time reading a book by D.G. Holloway, and I have to say I’m a big fan. Looking forward to future releases (and I definitely wouldn’t mind more Fin and Owen content - even though Slow Brew was wrapped up beautifully ☺️). Thank you so much for the ARC!
The mental health awareness and visibility in Slow Brew is incredible. As a person living with both anxiety and ADHD, it can be difficult at times to explain to someone who isn’t neurodivergent the feelings/emotions we’re experiencing and/or the reasoning for certain actions . Finley’s character perfectly encapsulates what it’s like to live with anxiety and ADHD - the thought processes, the difficulties of emotionally regulating, the feelings of being misunderstood or not quite fitting in with those around you.
Finley’s character was so reassuring for me - a comforting reminder that there are others who can relate to the same struggles I go through. What I loved even more than the mental health visibility were the ways Owen provided support to Finley. Owen could always tell when Finley was getting too in his head about things, and each time Owen gave Finley exactly what he needed in those moments - a grounding presence. A simple, reassuring gesture in the form of a gentle handhold or hand on the small of his back just to let Finley know he wasn’t alone. The patience and genuine care and concern Owen had for Finley made the book all the more cozy and endearing.
Owen’s character might be the closest example I can think of to a near-perfect human being. The care he shows for his loved ones and his community, his willingness to advocate for what’s right and speak out to support his people - Owen is the epitome of selflessness. I fell even more in love with his character as his past relationship details were revealed, heartstrings being yanked and leaving me emotionally stricken with empathy. Owen is so deserving of love, and I’m glad Finley could be the one to help repair his mending heart and give hope to the future Owen always wanted.
I know I keep using the word cozy, but I can’t think of a better word to describe the dynamic between Owen, Finley, and Annabelle. From the very beginning, there was an automatic sense of comfort and a feeling of safety between the three of them. They all got along so well and seemed like a little family - no one from the outside looking in would suspect otherwise. The bond between them formed instantly and only grew stronger as the book progressed. It felt like a warm hug to the heart whenever I would read scenes involving the three of them.
Slow Brew was such a good read. The perfect book to curl up on the couch with a nice fuzzy blanket. This was my first time reading a book by D.G. Holloway, and I have to say I’m a big fan. Looking forward to future releases (and I definitely wouldn’t mind more Fin and Owen content - even though Slow Brew was wrapped up beautifully ☺️). Thank you so much for the ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Slow Brew is an absolutely charming romantic comedy with a happily ever after the main characters could never have dreamed possible.
Finley is 24, gay, and running… he is not sure what from or where to, but he hit the road in his beat up old car and is headed to an uncertain future. When the car breaks down, he has no idea where to turn.
Owen is 39 and runs a small-town cafe while helping to raise his niece. He hasn’t been in a relationship since a disastrous one with a local girl in high school, and seems content to live his life without a partner.
When Finley sees Owen through the windows of the cafe, he is immediately smitten by the strong bearded man he sees. When that same man brings him into the cafe, recognizes that Finley is hungry, and gives him coffee and pastry, Finley finds himself freaking out and running again, only to be rescued by Owen (and his four-year-old niece Anabelle) a few short hours later.
Owen offers Finley a place to stay for a night, then that turns into an offer to work at the cafe, and then…
Will Finley ever stop running? Will he come to understand what he is running toward? Will he ever take the risk to admit that he has fallen for Owen? Will Owen have the nerve to tell someone 15 years younger that he has feelings for him?
I laughed too hard at the one-liners that came from Finley’s point of view; the humour in the story is part of what makes you care about Finley. Owen’s great love — both for Annabelle, his sister, and Finley — makes this a sweet and tender tale. The supporting characters, including townspeople, new friends, and especially the delightful Annabelle, bring the world of this small town story to life. There is no spice in this book, only romance, and that’s just fine.
D.G. Holloway has several books out, and I recently read and reviewed Salvaged Heart, which is a very different type of story. The fact that this author can write two such very different books that are both equally amazing for totally different reasons is an accomplishment. I have one more of her books to read before I’m totally caught up, but I cannot wait to see what she writes next. She has a fan in me!
Slow Brew is a 4/5 stars for me. My rating system requires a rewiring of my brain for a 5/5… but let me say clearly that this is a GREAT story you won’t regret reading.
Finley is 24, gay, and running… he is not sure what from or where to, but he hit the road in his beat up old car and is headed to an uncertain future. When the car breaks down, he has no idea where to turn.
Owen is 39 and runs a small-town cafe while helping to raise his niece. He hasn’t been in a relationship since a disastrous one with a local girl in high school, and seems content to live his life without a partner.
When Finley sees Owen through the windows of the cafe, he is immediately smitten by the strong bearded man he sees. When that same man brings him into the cafe, recognizes that Finley is hungry, and gives him coffee and pastry, Finley finds himself freaking out and running again, only to be rescued by Owen (and his four-year-old niece Anabelle) a few short hours later.
Owen offers Finley a place to stay for a night, then that turns into an offer to work at the cafe, and then…
Will Finley ever stop running? Will he come to understand what he is running toward? Will he ever take the risk to admit that he has fallen for Owen? Will Owen have the nerve to tell someone 15 years younger that he has feelings for him?
I laughed too hard at the one-liners that came from Finley’s point of view; the humour in the story is part of what makes you care about Finley. Owen’s great love — both for Annabelle, his sister, and Finley — makes this a sweet and tender tale. The supporting characters, including townspeople, new friends, and especially the delightful Annabelle, bring the world of this small town story to life. There is no spice in this book, only romance, and that’s just fine.
D.G. Holloway has several books out, and I recently read and reviewed Salvaged Heart, which is a very different type of story. The fact that this author can write two such very different books that are both equally amazing for totally different reasons is an accomplishment. I have one more of her books to read before I’m totally caught up, but I cannot wait to see what she writes next. She has a fan in me!
Slow Brew is a 4/5 stars for me. My rating system requires a rewiring of my brain for a 5/5… but let me say clearly that this is a GREAT story you won’t regret reading.
August 5, 2026
This book was such a feel good read. I love the way that the story was written and was laughing out loud with some of the stuff Fin would say. I loved it, I just wish we also got Owen’s point of view as well cause I feel like it would have been interesting to see what he experienced. Overall it was really nice rom-com.
August 4, 2026
This was such a sweet book! 3.5 stars for me
I do wish it was a dual POV. I understand why it’s not in a way, but at the same time, it’s a romance book, so we know the other protagonist is going to be interested in the MC. It was a nice touch to change POV for the epilogue though, though that felt more like an additional scene you’d normally get by signing up to an authors newsletter.
In the end the ‘if this was a romance book’ joke was over done, as it came up way too many times for me.
While it did feel like a natural end to the story, it would have been nice for the epilogue to have been a scene set a while down the line when the whole family live together after Owen has become more comfortable with his identity, showing Delilah thriving, and Annabelle living her best life surrounded by the people who love her most.
But over all I really enjoyed this book, it was very visual, and it feels perfect for adaption.
I do wish it was a dual POV. I understand why it’s not in a way, but at the same time, it’s a romance book, so we know the other protagonist is going to be interested in the MC. It was a nice touch to change POV for the epilogue though, though that felt more like an additional scene you’d normally get by signing up to an authors newsletter.
In the end the ‘if this was a romance book’ joke was over done, as it came up way too many times for me.
While it did feel like a natural end to the story, it would have been nice for the epilogue to have been a scene set a while down the line when the whole family live together after Owen has become more comfortable with his identity, showing Delilah thriving, and Annabelle living her best life surrounded by the people who love her most.
But over all I really enjoyed this book, it was very visual, and it feels perfect for adaption.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
You know, I've read quite a few rom-coms this year, and I think this one may just be my favorite of them all. From the very first sentence, on the very first page, I was immediately hooked and transported to this small town, where Finley was admiring Owen's arms through the window of a cute and quaint cafe.
Their very first meeting was a bit awkward in the beginning, and sure, Finley ended up running away with a Danish in his mouth like some kind of animal, (his words not mine,) but you know what? It worked out, mostly in part to his car not wanting to work anymore, and due to Owen just so happening to be on that road that Finley got stranded on. And from there, as they say, the rest is history.
I don't want to give out spoilers because I really think this story should be enjoyed with a completely fresh perspective and with you going in wanting to be surprised by the elements of the story. Having said that, I will gush about how excellent this writing is. The author's way with words is incredible, I literally could not put this book down, once I started I read it in one sitting, it was THAT captivating. And that's just the writing as a whole, now when we start to talk about the characters is where that writing starts shining even more, because these characters are absolutely amazing!! Yeah, the MC's were great, and I adore both of them, but the side characters made this book what it is. Without those essential side characters, (once you read this, you'll know exactly whom I'm referring to), I don't think this story would've flowed as well. I also don't think these characters would've actually communicated with each other either if it wasn't for some really lovely female side characters telling them to do so.
The romance was a slow build, they were strangers when they met but they didn't stay strangers for long. They formed a connection, a bond, and a routine, that from there is where the feelings formed. I really enjoyed reading about these two and something I have to commend the author in, is how they wrote about Owen's Asexuality. I didn't know going into this there was going to be an Asexual MC, and when I came across that revelation, I felt seen. I think a lot of people coincide sex with romance, that you can't have a romance book, or even a real relationship without sex, but this book, and this author, proved that isn't true. That really meant a lot to me to see that kind of representation being Ace myself, it was really beautiful and just immensely powerful too.
I could go on and on about how much I loved this but I think I went on for long enough, so I'm going to end this review with a paragraph that struck me rather profoundly, it was a really beautiful scene, and this moment was exceptionally profound to the characters, (and to me).
"I don't know if sex will ever be on the table for me. What I do know is that I want to hold your hand and have you in my arms after a long day. I want to steal kisses whenever I can and fall asleep with you curled against me. I want to know your heart intimately. But I don't know if I'll ever be able to give you anything more."
Their very first meeting was a bit awkward in the beginning, and sure, Finley ended up running away with a Danish in his mouth like some kind of animal, (his words not mine,) but you know what? It worked out, mostly in part to his car not wanting to work anymore, and due to Owen just so happening to be on that road that Finley got stranded on. And from there, as they say, the rest is history.
I don't want to give out spoilers because I really think this story should be enjoyed with a completely fresh perspective and with you going in wanting to be surprised by the elements of the story. Having said that, I will gush about how excellent this writing is. The author's way with words is incredible, I literally could not put this book down, once I started I read it in one sitting, it was THAT captivating. And that's just the writing as a whole, now when we start to talk about the characters is where that writing starts shining even more, because these characters are absolutely amazing!! Yeah, the MC's were great, and I adore both of them, but the side characters made this book what it is. Without those essential side characters, (once you read this, you'll know exactly whom I'm referring to), I don't think this story would've flowed as well. I also don't think these characters would've actually communicated with each other either if it wasn't for some really lovely female side characters telling them to do so.
The romance was a slow build, they were strangers when they met but they didn't stay strangers for long. They formed a connection, a bond, and a routine, that from there is where the feelings formed. I really enjoyed reading about these two and something I have to commend the author in, is how they wrote about Owen's Asexuality. I didn't know going into this there was going to be an Asexual MC, and when I came across that revelation, I felt seen. I think a lot of people coincide sex with romance, that you can't have a romance book, or even a real relationship without sex, but this book, and this author, proved that isn't true. That really meant a lot to me to see that kind of representation being Ace myself, it was really beautiful and just immensely powerful too.
I could go on and on about how much I loved this but I think I went on for long enough, so I'm going to end this review with a paragraph that struck me rather profoundly, it was a really beautiful scene, and this moment was exceptionally profound to the characters, (and to me).
"I don't know if sex will ever be on the table for me. What I do know is that I want to hold your hand and have you in my arms after a long day. I want to steal kisses whenever I can and fall asleep with you curled against me. I want to know your heart intimately. But I don't know if I'll ever be able to give you anything more."
Review of advance copy received from Author
For me, had this been a full-length novel with dual POV throughout it definitely would have been a 5 star 🌟
I read and loved Salvaged Heart by the same author so was very excited to see another side to her writing with a rom-com. I was not disappointed. Slow Brew gives us
Small town ✅️
Age Gap ✅️
Cute kid ✅️
Cafe owner ✅️
Runaway ✅️
Adhd rep ✅️
Asexual rep ✅️
Mental health rep ✅️
Found Family ✅️
I went into Slow Brew after a run of angsty books and this really was the perfect palate cleanser. I found myself laughing from the first page and I have never highlighted so many quotes in a book in my life.
"If this were one of my spicy romance novels, I’d be able to pinpoint the scent—bergamot and citrus, pine and whatever the hell oud is. Unfortunately, I don’t have the nose of a bloodhound. It just smells like man. Pure, delicious, mouth-watering man."
If you read a lot of MM romance then that is going to resonate and make you giggle!
The book is told from Fin's POV in 1st person so we get unfiltered access to his adhd mind. It is both a hilarious and heartbreaking place to be, sometimes in the space of one train of thought. He's never been appreciated or loved simply for being who he is. He meets and quickly falls for Owen who is an older, calming presence. A born caretaker who offers Fin a home and a job.
As it is a novella, the timeline passes quickly and feels faster than the average slow-burn. There is zero spice because Owen is asexual and not in a "I just haven't met the right person to connect with" way that this is often portrayed. I absolutely applaud the author for this. It is refreshing to see two MCs that just love each other for who and what they are and choose to build a life together.
The epilogue is a repeat of the first chapter but from Owen's POV. This wrapped the story up beautifully seeing that the pull had been as instant for him as it had for Fin.
If you need something quick and light-hearted with no angst this is the PERFECT read. I absolutely would have loved this as a full-length novel but also appreciate it for what it is.
I read and loved Salvaged Heart by the same author so was very excited to see another side to her writing with a rom-com. I was not disappointed. Slow Brew gives us
Small town ✅️
Age Gap ✅️
Cute kid ✅️
Cafe owner ✅️
Runaway ✅️
Adhd rep ✅️
Asexual rep ✅️
Mental health rep ✅️
Found Family ✅️
I went into Slow Brew after a run of angsty books and this really was the perfect palate cleanser. I found myself laughing from the first page and I have never highlighted so many quotes in a book in my life.
"If this were one of my spicy romance novels, I’d be able to pinpoint the scent—bergamot and citrus, pine and whatever the hell oud is. Unfortunately, I don’t have the nose of a bloodhound. It just smells like man. Pure, delicious, mouth-watering man."
If you read a lot of MM romance then that is going to resonate and make you giggle!
The book is told from Fin's POV in 1st person so we get unfiltered access to his adhd mind. It is both a hilarious and heartbreaking place to be, sometimes in the space of one train of thought. He's never been appreciated or loved simply for being who he is. He meets and quickly falls for Owen who is an older, calming presence. A born caretaker who offers Fin a home and a job.
As it is a novella, the timeline passes quickly and feels faster than the average slow-burn. There is zero spice because Owen is asexual and not in a "I just haven't met the right person to connect with" way that this is often portrayed. I absolutely applaud the author for this. It is refreshing to see two MCs that just love each other for who and what they are and choose to build a life together.
The epilogue is a repeat of the first chapter but from Owen's POV. This wrapped the story up beautifully seeing that the pull had been as instant for him as it had for Fin.
If you need something quick and light-hearted with no angst this is the PERFECT read. I absolutely would have loved this as a full-length novel but also appreciate it for what it is.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC REVIEW
This book is going to make you smile from the very beginning to the end 💕
Fin has packed up the few belongings that fit into a backpack, jumped into his car, and started driving with no destination in mind.
After days on the road, with only five dollars left in his pocket, he ends up outside Owen’s coffee shop.
Owen is the kindest human in existence. He gives Fin a coffee and something to eat, and later, when he finds him stranded beside the road with a broken-down car, he offers him a job and a place to stay.
This man literally gives up his own bed so Fin can sleep comfortably while he takes the couch. 🥹
Owen is a caretaker through and through. He’s also the temporary guardian of his niece, Annabelle, who is the cutest little helper ❤️
This book also has excellent ace representation through Owen. I loved that his asexuality isn’t treated as something that magically changes once he meets Fin. It remains an important part of who he is, and the story respects that.
The romance is incredibly sweet, filled with swoony moments, endless rambling thoughts inside Fin’s head, and so much tenderness. At its core, though, this story is about belonging , finding your person and finally having someone to come home to.
So expect forehead kisses, lots of sweet kisses, and all the warm fuzzy feelings… but no spice (this book doesn’t need it).
Read this if you like:
✨ Age gap (24/39)
✨ Caring as a love language
✨ “You’re never too much” vibes
✨ Found family and making friends after feeling unlovable
✨ Slow, gentle romance
✨ Ace representation
✨ Coffee shop setting ☕️
My only wish is that it had been a little longer. I would have loved to dive deeper into Fin’s relationships with his parents and his ex. Fin struggles with a lot of self-deprecating thoughts, and while we get glimpses of where they come from, I wanted those parts of his past to be explored in more depth.
This book is going to make you smile from the very beginning to the end 💕
Fin has packed up the few belongings that fit into a backpack, jumped into his car, and started driving with no destination in mind.
After days on the road, with only five dollars left in his pocket, he ends up outside Owen’s coffee shop.
Owen is the kindest human in existence. He gives Fin a coffee and something to eat, and later, when he finds him stranded beside the road with a broken-down car, he offers him a job and a place to stay.
This man literally gives up his own bed so Fin can sleep comfortably while he takes the couch. 🥹
Owen is a caretaker through and through. He’s also the temporary guardian of his niece, Annabelle, who is the cutest little helper ❤️
This book also has excellent ace representation through Owen. I loved that his asexuality isn’t treated as something that magically changes once he meets Fin. It remains an important part of who he is, and the story respects that.
The romance is incredibly sweet, filled with swoony moments, endless rambling thoughts inside Fin’s head, and so much tenderness. At its core, though, this story is about belonging , finding your person and finally having someone to come home to.
So expect forehead kisses, lots of sweet kisses, and all the warm fuzzy feelings… but no spice (this book doesn’t need it).
Read this if you like:
✨ Age gap (24/39)
✨ Caring as a love language
✨ “You’re never too much” vibes
✨ Found family and making friends after feeling unlovable
✨ Slow, gentle romance
✨ Ace representation
✨ Coffee shop setting ☕️
My only wish is that it had been a little longer. I would have loved to dive deeper into Fin’s relationships with his parents and his ex. Fin struggles with a lot of self-deprecating thoughts, and while we get glimpses of where they come from, I wanted those parts of his past to be explored in more depth.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is the perfect book to read with a good mocha (and maybe a pastry or a muffin because the descriptions of baked goods in here will make you hungry.) Finley flees his old life in Washington State and drives until Charlene (his car) literally won’t go any farther. In Windy Pines, NC, Finley sees Owen through the window of Delilah’s (the coffee shop Owen runs) and has his romcom, love at first sight moment. From there, Finley and Owen’s story unfolds.
Slow Brew was laugh-out-loud funny, from Owen’s terrible dad jokes (“cereal killer”) to Finley’s hilarious if slightly over the top internal commentary (“I can see the headline now: ‘Half-Eaten Twink Carcass Found on Interstate. Locals Blame Poor Life Choices.’”) Annabelle, Owen’s niece, is such a sweet character and adds so much joy and a bit of whimsy to the story (although some of the things she does make me think she is probably closer to 7 years old than 4).
The relationships are what I love most about this book. I love that, by the end, Owen’s idea of family has expanded beyond the nuclear family to include relatives and chosen family, but also to include himself and the kinds of relationships he is interested in. The ace rep in this book is so beautifully done. Owen is biromantic ace and articulates the romantic ace experience so beautifully. It was wonderful to read a book with a mixed relationship (ace/allo) where both characters could speak openly about what they want and need in the relationship in such a positive, loving way. The friendships (Finley and Grace, especially) and the sibling relationship in this book are also really wonderful.
If you enjoy sweet MM romances with found family and a good sense of humor, don’t miss this one!
Thank you to the author for the ARC (this is my honest, unbiased review,) as you can tell I really enjoyed it!
Slow Brew was laugh-out-loud funny, from Owen’s terrible dad jokes (“cereal killer”) to Finley’s hilarious if slightly over the top internal commentary (“I can see the headline now: ‘Half-Eaten Twink Carcass Found on Interstate. Locals Blame Poor Life Choices.’”) Annabelle, Owen’s niece, is such a sweet character and adds so much joy and a bit of whimsy to the story (although some of the things she does make me think she is probably closer to 7 years old than 4).
The relationships are what I love most about this book. I love that, by the end, Owen’s idea of family has expanded beyond the nuclear family to include relatives and chosen family, but also to include himself and the kinds of relationships he is interested in. The ace rep in this book is so beautifully done. Owen is biromantic ace and articulates the romantic ace experience so beautifully. It was wonderful to read a book with a mixed relationship (ace/allo) where both characters could speak openly about what they want and need in the relationship in such a positive, loving way. The friendships (Finley and Grace, especially) and the sibling relationship in this book are also really wonderful.
If you enjoy sweet MM romances with found family and a good sense of humor, don’t miss this one!
Thank you to the author for the ARC (this is my honest, unbiased review,) as you can tell I really enjoyed it!
Review of advance copy received from Author
If small town hallmark movie romcoms are your cup of tea, then Slow Brew is the novella for you.
I absolutely adore them as my guilty pleasure and this novella was near perfection.
From page one, Finley, a 24-year-old, blue haired twink, with a penchant for self-deprecating humor, wild amounts of anxiety and heart on his sleeve mentality stole my damn heart. Never have I ever wanted to be best friends with a character so much as Finley. I don't usually laugh out while reading, but Finley's inner monologues had me in stitches. I completely understood where he was coming and motivations.
Meeting Owen, the 39-year-old tattooed baker/Cafe single "father", through Finley's makes the reader desperately fall in love as well. These men are very much opposites, but completely perfect for each other. Finley finds himself something he has always wanted, a found family where he truly belongs, with Owen and his niece Annabelle (who decided from first meeting that Finley was going to be her favorite person ever).
Everything about this story is pure romcom perfection, from Finley's interactions with Annabelle, to his tragically bad flirting with Owen and his near disastrous cafe experiences. Just like every Hallmark movie, that tugs relentlessly at my overly sentimental heart strings I was in tears by the end. Especially that darn epilogue. - what a perfect ending.
This is not a spicy book. There is in fact no spicy scenes, instead this is something much sweeter. The wonderful and heartwarming story of two men who didn't think love was something they could ever have but found it staring at them through a cafe window, in a small town, in the middle of nowhere.
4.5 stars (maybe 5) Not something I would typically read but so glad I did.
I absolutely adore them as my guilty pleasure and this novella was near perfection.
From page one, Finley, a 24-year-old, blue haired twink, with a penchant for self-deprecating humor, wild amounts of anxiety and heart on his sleeve mentality stole my damn heart. Never have I ever wanted to be best friends with a character so much as Finley. I don't usually laugh out while reading, but Finley's inner monologues had me in stitches. I completely understood where he was coming and motivations.
Meeting Owen, the 39-year-old tattooed baker/Cafe single "father", through Finley's makes the reader desperately fall in love as well. These men are very much opposites, but completely perfect for each other. Finley finds himself something he has always wanted, a found family where he truly belongs, with Owen and his niece Annabelle (who decided from first meeting that Finley was going to be her favorite person ever).
Everything about this story is pure romcom perfection, from Finley's interactions with Annabelle, to his tragically bad flirting with Owen and his near disastrous cafe experiences. Just like every Hallmark movie, that tugs relentlessly at my overly sentimental heart strings I was in tears by the end. Especially that darn epilogue. - what a perfect ending.
This is not a spicy book. There is in fact no spicy scenes, instead this is something much sweeter. The wonderful and heartwarming story of two men who didn't think love was something they could ever have but found it staring at them through a cafe window, in a small town, in the middle of nowhere.
4.5 stars (maybe 5) Not something I would typically read but so glad I did.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Owen has the sweetest, softest, sexiest daddy vibes, and I am here for it.
Slow Brew by D.G. Holloway is a gentle, earnest, moderate angst, slow-burn little MM romance with zero spice (though my mind is already spinning some hot fanfic possibilities) between anxious ADHDer, Fin, and asexual (possibly demisexual) town daddy, Owen.
The whole cast of characters - from precocious Annabelle to sassy Grace and even ol' Mrs. Patterson slinging side eye at El's BS - bring the tiny town of Windy Pines, North Carolina to life. There's a solid Schitt's Creek vibe (complete with a fold-in-the-cheese reference!) which makes both the setting and the relationships feel intimate and familiar.
Unsurprisingly, these ding-dongs would have suffered a heck of a lot less if they'd just used their words, but this story is so much bigger than just the two of them... it's about the power of chosen family and finding a place you belong even when you don't feel worthy of that belonging.
Fin's inner dialog made me laugh many times, while the occasional bratty-vs-daddy banter between Fin and Owen brought a blush to my cheeks. Themes of depression, anxiety, rejection, and abandonment are handled with care.
The story is full of fun, specific little details (Captain Crunch, cutting off the fingertips of gloves, Great British Baking Show) that make the world feel real, and I wanted to wrap myself in its cozy warmth.
Slow Brew reads with the same solid warmth that I imagine a hug from Owen must feel like. And I want more.
Huge thanks to the author for the advanced reader copy so I could do a review.
Slow Brew by D.G. Holloway is a gentle, earnest, moderate angst, slow-burn little MM romance with zero spice (though my mind is already spinning some hot fanfic possibilities) between anxious ADHDer, Fin, and asexual (possibly demisexual) town daddy, Owen.
The whole cast of characters - from precocious Annabelle to sassy Grace and even ol' Mrs. Patterson slinging side eye at El's BS - bring the tiny town of Windy Pines, North Carolina to life. There's a solid Schitt's Creek vibe (complete with a fold-in-the-cheese reference!) which makes both the setting and the relationships feel intimate and familiar.
Unsurprisingly, these ding-dongs would have suffered a heck of a lot less if they'd just used their words, but this story is so much bigger than just the two of them... it's about the power of chosen family and finding a place you belong even when you don't feel worthy of that belonging.
Fin's inner dialog made me laugh many times, while the occasional bratty-vs-daddy banter between Fin and Owen brought a blush to my cheeks. Themes of depression, anxiety, rejection, and abandonment are handled with care.
The story is full of fun, specific little details (Captain Crunch, cutting off the fingertips of gloves, Great British Baking Show) that make the world feel real, and I wanted to wrap myself in its cozy warmth.
Slow Brew reads with the same solid warmth that I imagine a hug from Owen must feel like. And I want more.
Huge thanks to the author for the advanced reader copy so I could do a review.
Review of advance copy
Simmering All Along
This story is less of a slow burn than a steady simmer. Stranger in town Finley first meets Owen when Owen gives him a cup of coffee and pastry at the bakery where Owen is working. Finley gets flustered, so does his typical thing and flees… only to have his car die, and be rescued by Owen – who now has his niece Annabelle in tow. At this point, Finley has no money and no option other than to accept Owen’s offer of a place to sleep.
Finley’s strongly attracted to Owen, but has a bad track record with being attracted to men who want only sex. Owen is different. Owen doesn’t seem to want sex – or, really, anything other than to help Finley get back on his feet. So… Finley starts helping out at the bakery, earning his room and board and some money. The locals accept him, and applaud Owen for finally getting some help; except for one. That one is Elodie. Elodie dated Owen in high school, and their relationship didn’t end well.
Over time, Finley’s attraction to Owen only grows. His new friend, Grace, encourages him to flirt with Owen, and let him know he was interested. This goes badly, too, and Finley almost flees again. Fortunately, Owen and Finley have a serious conversation about what each is willing – and able – to bring to a relationship.
There are several lovely themes here about loyalty to family, as well as found family. Annabelle helps Finley and Owen get, and stay, connected, just by being a child who needs her family. Finley’s neurodivergence, and Owen’s lack of physical desire, are just part of them – and integral to the family they create.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This story is less of a slow burn than a steady simmer. Stranger in town Finley first meets Owen when Owen gives him a cup of coffee and pastry at the bakery where Owen is working. Finley gets flustered, so does his typical thing and flees… only to have his car die, and be rescued by Owen – who now has his niece Annabelle in tow. At this point, Finley has no money and no option other than to accept Owen’s offer of a place to sleep.
Finley’s strongly attracted to Owen, but has a bad track record with being attracted to men who want only sex. Owen is different. Owen doesn’t seem to want sex – or, really, anything other than to help Finley get back on his feet. So… Finley starts helping out at the bakery, earning his room and board and some money. The locals accept him, and applaud Owen for finally getting some help; except for one. That one is Elodie. Elodie dated Owen in high school, and their relationship didn’t end well.
Over time, Finley’s attraction to Owen only grows. His new friend, Grace, encourages him to flirt with Owen, and let him know he was interested. This goes badly, too, and Finley almost flees again. Fortunately, Owen and Finley have a serious conversation about what each is willing – and able – to bring to a relationship.
There are several lovely themes here about loyalty to family, as well as found family. Annabelle helps Finley and Owen get, and stay, connected, just by being a child who needs her family. Finley’s neurodivergence, and Owen’s lack of physical desire, are just part of them – and integral to the family they create.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 9, 2026
Disclosure: I received a complimentary eARC of
Slow Brew
by D.G. Holloway in exchange for an honest review.
Slow Brew by D.G. Holloway is a short, sweet, and closed-door MM rom-com that proves love isn't just like the movies. It follows Fin, whose hilarious, stuttering blabbering upon first laying eyes on the town’s impossibly gorgeous, green-eyed local baker, Owen, sets the stage for a delightful small-town romance. As a single guardian navigating life, Owen brings a grounded warmth to the story, alongside his fantastic niece Annabelle. And Grace, the ultimate new friend with a brilliantly working gaydar.
Packed with slow-burn tension and cozy small-town vibes, this workplace and age-gap romance explores Fin’s journey to find his true identity and a place to truly belong. From Fin's hilarious mental spirals and fast-paced speech fueled by ADHD and anxiety, to the sensitive and wonderful exploration of Owen’s asexuality, every element of this narrative hits all the right notes.
D.G. Holloway has crafted an absolute masterpiece of cozy contemporary romance. The representation of Fin’s neurodivergence—portrayed organically through his attention span, rushing thoughts, and theories built without full facts—feels deeply authentic. Combined with sharp humor, a low-angst atmosphere, and lovable supporting characters, the execution is seamless from start to finish.
Slow Brew is an absolute delight. If you love witty banter, cozy small-town settings, neurodivergent rep, and heartwarming love stories, this is an absolute must-read.
Slow Brew by D.G. Holloway is a short, sweet, and closed-door MM rom-com that proves love isn't just like the movies. It follows Fin, whose hilarious, stuttering blabbering upon first laying eyes on the town’s impossibly gorgeous, green-eyed local baker, Owen, sets the stage for a delightful small-town romance. As a single guardian navigating life, Owen brings a grounded warmth to the story, alongside his fantastic niece Annabelle. And Grace, the ultimate new friend with a brilliantly working gaydar.
Packed with slow-burn tension and cozy small-town vibes, this workplace and age-gap romance explores Fin’s journey to find his true identity and a place to truly belong. From Fin's hilarious mental spirals and fast-paced speech fueled by ADHD and anxiety, to the sensitive and wonderful exploration of Owen’s asexuality, every element of this narrative hits all the right notes.
D.G. Holloway has crafted an absolute masterpiece of cozy contemporary romance. The representation of Fin’s neurodivergence—portrayed organically through his attention span, rushing thoughts, and theories built without full facts—feels deeply authentic. Combined with sharp humor, a low-angst atmosphere, and lovable supporting characters, the execution is seamless from start to finish.
Slow Brew is an absolute delight. If you love witty banter, cozy small-town settings, neurodivergent rep, and heartwarming love stories, this is an absolute must-read.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book was such a breath of fresh air. Not only was it incredibly cute and sweet, but it was also laugh-out-loud funny. I found myself smiling from beginning to end. The author balances Finley's genuinely hilarious inner monologue with tender moments that had my eyes a little misty.
The representation is so thoughtfully done. Finley's ADHD and anxiety never feel like a caricature, which I've seen in some other books. You can tell the author put a lot of care into portraying the way he navigates the world authentically. I especially loved how Owen's asexuality was handled. This isn't an "allosexual for the right person" story. Owen is very clear that sex is not something he's interested in, in fact, he's sex-averse and carries trauma from trying to force himself to fit what a "typical" relationship was supposed to look like. Finley accepts that wholeheartedly, and Owen's asexuality never feels like something to overcome or compromise on. It simply is.
Annabelle absolutely stole my heart. Her relationship with Owen is adorable and guaranteed to leave you with all the warm fuzzies. I also adored Finley's newfound bestie, Grace. She's equal parts Southern belle and no-nonsense, never afraid to tell it like it is while also being the biggest cheerleader for these two.
This was a one-sitting read for me. The pages practically turned themselves. If you're looking for a cozy, comforting romance full of heart, humor, and lovable characters, I can't recommend this one enough. It's the perfect fall comfort read.
The representation is so thoughtfully done. Finley's ADHD and anxiety never feel like a caricature, which I've seen in some other books. You can tell the author put a lot of care into portraying the way he navigates the world authentically. I especially loved how Owen's asexuality was handled. This isn't an "allosexual for the right person" story. Owen is very clear that sex is not something he's interested in, in fact, he's sex-averse and carries trauma from trying to force himself to fit what a "typical" relationship was supposed to look like. Finley accepts that wholeheartedly, and Owen's asexuality never feels like something to overcome or compromise on. It simply is.
Annabelle absolutely stole my heart. Her relationship with Owen is adorable and guaranteed to leave you with all the warm fuzzies. I also adored Finley's newfound bestie, Grace. She's equal parts Southern belle and no-nonsense, never afraid to tell it like it is while also being the biggest cheerleader for these two.
This was a one-sitting read for me. The pages practically turned themselves. If you're looking for a cozy, comforting romance full of heart, humor, and lovable characters, I can't recommend this one enough. It's the perfect fall comfort read.
August 7, 2026
It has been quite some time since I have read versus listened to a book and this was genuinely so enjoyable. I found myself trying to squeeze in a few pages any chance I got and that's what makes me really sad that it's not a five star
It could have been so easily one of my favorites of the year but for some reason this book stops at 160 some pages and then we get this teaser epilogue of the other characters POV from the beginning scenes and it made me even more upset that we didn't get both Owen and Finley's POVs through the whole thing.
Don't get me wrong, this is a great story and I loved the characters and the setting. I LOVED that there was asexual representation I'm so sad that it wasn't longer.
This easily could have been a 300 page book and I would have devoured it. I would have loved to get more of their story after they start dating as well as more on how Annabelle's mom plays a role.
My other weird qualm is that I am not around children and so I don't know how kids act but Annabelle is supposedly four but she really read to me like she was like seven or eight and I just probably don't know what kids are like at certain ages but having her being a little hostess who is speaking in fully coherent sentences at 4 years old felt far-fetched to me. Take that comment with an absolute buttload of sand because I don't have kids and am not around them and any regular capacity. But it just felt odd for her age.
It could have been so easily one of my favorites of the year but for some reason this book stops at 160 some pages and then we get this teaser epilogue of the other characters POV from the beginning scenes and it made me even more upset that we didn't get both Owen and Finley's POVs through the whole thing.
Don't get me wrong, this is a great story and I loved the characters and the setting. I LOVED that there was asexual representation I'm so sad that it wasn't longer.
This easily could have been a 300 page book and I would have devoured it. I would have loved to get more of their story after they start dating as well as more on how Annabelle's mom plays a role.
My other weird qualm is that I am not around children and so I don't know how kids act but Annabelle is supposedly four but she really read to me like she was like seven or eight and I just probably don't know what kids are like at certain ages but having her being a little hostess who is speaking in fully coherent sentences at 4 years old felt far-fetched to me. Take that comment with an absolute buttload of sand because I don't have kids and am not around them and any regular capacity. But it just felt odd for her age.
Review of advance copy received from Author
So I picked up this book based on the cover alone because it was ridiculously cute...and honestly, that's all the convincing I needed. 😂 Add in a single dad romance? Immediate yes.
This is a first-person POV, and we follow Finley, who is genuinely one of the funniest main characters. His inner monologue had me laughing out loud more than once because this man is awkward but absolutely adorable. He's basically on a journey to figure out who he is and where he belongs, which eventually lands him in this adorable little small town. Might I add, he is in this small town because he really has no other options outside of going back home.
And then...he meets good ol Owen.
Owen is Finley's dream man. From the moment Finley lays eyes on him, you already know where his mind is going, and he has a whole conversation with himself or us really about it.
The romance is incredibly sweet and leans heavily into rom-com. I knew going in that this was a closed-door romance, so I wasn't expecting spice. And honestly? There basically isn't any. We really see the intimacy as Owen is on the Ace spectrum.
Annabelle completely stole my heart in this book. She was precious, and I loved how the story handled mental health and PPD. It would've been easy to paint her mom as the villain, but instead we got a much more compassionate look at someone going through a crisis who was able to get back on her feet. It was heartfelt and really made the ending even sweeter.
The town deserves its own shoutout because those nosy neighbors were working overtime. This little coffee shop was a staple in the community. Watching everyone slowly pull Finley into the community while he discovered his true calling was probably my favorite part of the book. He'd spent so much time feeling like he didn't really fit anywhere, so seeing him finally find his place was very sweet.
This was also such a quick read and ended up being the perfect palate cleanser. If you're stuck between heavier books, dark romances, or emotional reads, this is exactly the kind of story that reminds you romance can simply be cute and wholesome. Sometimes that's exactly what you need.
The happy ending felt well earned; the miscommunication was refreshingly short-lived (thank you for not dragging that out ), but by the end I honestly just wanted more Owen and Finley.
This is a first-person POV, and we follow Finley, who is genuinely one of the funniest main characters. His inner monologue had me laughing out loud more than once because this man is awkward but absolutely adorable. He's basically on a journey to figure out who he is and where he belongs, which eventually lands him in this adorable little small town. Might I add, he is in this small town because he really has no other options outside of going back home.
And then...he meets good ol Owen.
Owen is Finley's dream man. From the moment Finley lays eyes on him, you already know where his mind is going, and he has a whole conversation with himself or us really about it.
The romance is incredibly sweet and leans heavily into rom-com. I knew going in that this was a closed-door romance, so I wasn't expecting spice. And honestly? There basically isn't any. We really see the intimacy as Owen is on the Ace spectrum.
Annabelle completely stole my heart in this book. She was precious, and I loved how the story handled mental health and PPD. It would've been easy to paint her mom as the villain, but instead we got a much more compassionate look at someone going through a crisis who was able to get back on her feet. It was heartfelt and really made the ending even sweeter.
The town deserves its own shoutout because those nosy neighbors were working overtime. This little coffee shop was a staple in the community. Watching everyone slowly pull Finley into the community while he discovered his true calling was probably my favorite part of the book. He'd spent so much time feeling like he didn't really fit anywhere, so seeing him finally find his place was very sweet.
This was also such a quick read and ended up being the perfect palate cleanser. If you're stuck between heavier books, dark romances, or emotional reads, this is exactly the kind of story that reminds you romance can simply be cute and wholesome. Sometimes that's exactly what you need.
The happy ending felt well earned; the miscommunication was refreshingly short-lived (thank you for not dragging that out ), but by the end I honestly just wanted more Owen and Finley.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was one of the cutest rom com books I have read this year. If you are looking for a sweet Star's Hollow vibe, along with a couple of cinnamon roll MMC's (although one is slightly bratty) and one precious toddler - I implore you to pick up Slow Brew!!
The story is told from Finley POV, he is just trying to find his place in the world. When he finds himself in Windy Pines and stumbles across a quaint little bakery and the most beautiful man he has ever seen. The first encounter with the "hot bearded baker" was painfully awkward causing Fin to flee only to be picked up on the side of the road by none other than the hot bearded baker, Owen and his spunky niece, Annabelle.
Realizing that Fin is down on his luck and just needs to be given a chance Owen offers him a place to stay and a job. Fin realizes pretty quickly he is falling for Owen, but is not sure that Owen feels the same way - burned by a past relationship Fin is hesitant to pursue anything but really just wants to be in Owen's life in any capacity and to feel a sense of belonging.
This story is a feel good love story that explores subjects of mental health, asexuality, found family and a journey to self acceptance. I highly recommend Slow Brew, you will be kicking your heels and smiling at the story of Fin and Owen.
The story is told from Finley POV, he is just trying to find his place in the world. When he finds himself in Windy Pines and stumbles across a quaint little bakery and the most beautiful man he has ever seen. The first encounter with the "hot bearded baker" was painfully awkward causing Fin to flee only to be picked up on the side of the road by none other than the hot bearded baker, Owen and his spunky niece, Annabelle.
Realizing that Fin is down on his luck and just needs to be given a chance Owen offers him a place to stay and a job. Fin realizes pretty quickly he is falling for Owen, but is not sure that Owen feels the same way - burned by a past relationship Fin is hesitant to pursue anything but really just wants to be in Owen's life in any capacity and to feel a sense of belonging.
This story is a feel good love story that explores subjects of mental health, asexuality, found family and a journey to self acceptance. I highly recommend Slow Brew, you will be kicking your heels and smiling at the story of Fin and Owen.
August 6, 2026
Slow Brew was a cute rom-com read. It gave me all the cosy small-town vibes, lovable characters, and left me with the biggest smile on my face.
Finley was such a relatable character. His anxiety, ADHD, and constant overthinking felt so genuine, and I loved watching him slowly find a place where he truly belonged. Owen, the hot bearded baker, was an absolute sweetheart, and seeing these two slowly let their walls down and fall for each other was so wholesome.
Annabelle completely stole every scene she was in. She had both Owen and Finley wrapped around her little finger, and I loved the little family they started to build together. The found family aspect was definitely one of my favourite parts of the book.
There were a couple of moments where I wanted the boys to just communicate already, but thankfully they got there in the end. The romance was sweet, the small-town cast was so much fun, and the epilogue was the perfect way to finish their story.
If you're looking for a cosy, feel-good romance that's guaranteed to leave you smiling, I'd definitely recommend picking this one up.
Tropes/Highlights:
☕ Small-town romance
🥐 Baker MMC
🩵 Found family
🥹 Anxiety & ADHD representation
🤍 Asexual representation
🌿 Slow burn
👧 Adorable toddler
✨ HEA
Finley was such a relatable character. His anxiety, ADHD, and constant overthinking felt so genuine, and I loved watching him slowly find a place where he truly belonged. Owen, the hot bearded baker, was an absolute sweetheart, and seeing these two slowly let their walls down and fall for each other was so wholesome.
Annabelle completely stole every scene she was in. She had both Owen and Finley wrapped around her little finger, and I loved the little family they started to build together. The found family aspect was definitely one of my favourite parts of the book.
There were a couple of moments where I wanted the boys to just communicate already, but thankfully they got there in the end. The romance was sweet, the small-town cast was so much fun, and the epilogue was the perfect way to finish their story.
If you're looking for a cosy, feel-good romance that's guaranteed to leave you smiling, I'd definitely recommend picking this one up.
Tropes/Highlights:
☕ Small-town romance
🥐 Baker MMC
🩵 Found family
🥹 Anxiety & ADHD representation
🤍 Asexual representation
🌿 Slow burn
👧 Adorable toddler
✨ HEA
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐️ Book Review: Slow Brew by D.G. Holloway ⭐️
A cozy, MM Romance, to give you all the feel goods you could want. Written from the viewpoint of the sweet cinnamon roll, and certified brat, Finley, this story hits home for a lot of LGBTQIA+, including myself. The dynamic between Finley and Owen, the local small town cafe co-owner, is heart warming. This story made me feel seen, as someone who is fairly selfless and would give the shirt off their back, or their last dollar to help someone in need. Slow Brew does an amazing job of creating a realistic storyline that is filled with hardship, but also personal resilience and grit. I sank right into this story and it was beyond easily devoured in a sitting, or two, making it a GREAT fall read for anyone looking for some cozy, small town, mushy vibes!
Thank you for the opportunity to be an advanced reader & thank you for letting us into Fin and Owen’s hearts 🖤
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Favorite Quotes:
“Jesus Christ, this man and his singular syllable commands.” - Finley
“I don’t know who the fuck bi-Jove is, but I did not, in face, have it.” Finley
A cozy, MM Romance, to give you all the feel goods you could want. Written from the viewpoint of the sweet cinnamon roll, and certified brat, Finley, this story hits home for a lot of LGBTQIA+, including myself. The dynamic between Finley and Owen, the local small town cafe co-owner, is heart warming. This story made me feel seen, as someone who is fairly selfless and would give the shirt off their back, or their last dollar to help someone in need. Slow Brew does an amazing job of creating a realistic storyline that is filled with hardship, but also personal resilience and grit. I sank right into this story and it was beyond easily devoured in a sitting, or two, making it a GREAT fall read for anyone looking for some cozy, small town, mushy vibes!
Thank you for the opportunity to be an advanced reader & thank you for letting us into Fin and Owen’s hearts 🖤
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Favorite Quotes:
“Jesus Christ, this man and his singular syllable commands.” - Finley
“I don’t know who the fuck bi-Jove is, but I did not, in face, have it.” Finley
Read
July 19, 2026"We’ve moved toward one another—two magnets, completely unaware of the invisible force drawing us together."
Finley's been moving from town to town, searching for a place to call his home and he stumbled upon a bakery in a small town. What caught his eye is the baker, Owen, who offered him food, a room and work.
What a fun quick read!
We are following Fin who randomly saw Owen through the cafe window and just instantly knew he met his soul mate. I love that sparks between. Though, I was really uncomfortable a bit with the whole power dynamic thing, but honestly I do think the author handled it well through Owen where he was very patient, kind and gentle with Finley.
The relationship progressed slow, which I love and also unheard of because this is a short book. I also love that although both of them had traumas and self-sabotaging themselves, they still worked on communicating with each other.
I love the small town vibes, and the quaint cafe they worked on, and the addition of Annabelle.
This is my first book read of this author, and I might keep an eye out for more future works.
Finley's been moving from town to town, searching for a place to call his home and he stumbled upon a bakery in a small town. What caught his eye is the baker, Owen, who offered him food, a room and work.
What a fun quick read!
We are following Fin who randomly saw Owen through the cafe window and just instantly knew he met his soul mate. I love that sparks between. Though, I was really uncomfortable a bit with the whole power dynamic thing, but honestly I do think the author handled it well through Owen where he was very patient, kind and gentle with Finley.
The relationship progressed slow, which I love and also unheard of because this is a short book. I also love that although both of them had traumas and self-sabotaging themselves, they still worked on communicating with each other.
I love the small town vibes, and the quaint cafe they worked on, and the addition of Annabelle.
This is my first book read of this author, and I might keep an eye out for more future works.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Hilarious and deeply romantic story of that one moment that changes everything and of finding exactly what you’ve been searching for.
This was magic. I’ve rarely read something that had me laughing harder, thoroughly entertained, while resonating with such earnest emotion. The pull between the two characters was inevitable. The whole story felt like a piece slowly sliding into place after being set into motion.
Both Finley and Owen were relatable, layered, and lovable characters. And their journey felt intensely intimate. Every moving piece in this story from the town, to the coffee shop, to the quirky neighbors, to the scene stealing 4 year old were utterly captivating.
It was one stretched out moment of falling in love bookended by the moment the universe said “there he is, you can fall now”.
I’ll re-read this over and over again. It was warm, and cozy, and sweet, and deep, and made me hold back tears, and made me believe in love. It was perfect.
What you’ll get:
•Coffee Shop Meet Cute
•Wayward Twink
•Steady Baker/Shop Owner
•Age Gap (15 years)
•Bi-Romantic Ace MC
•Single Guardian
•Boss/Employee
•Forced Proximity
•Small Town
•Anxiety & ADHD Rep
•Found Family/Home
This was magic. I’ve rarely read something that had me laughing harder, thoroughly entertained, while resonating with such earnest emotion. The pull between the two characters was inevitable. The whole story felt like a piece slowly sliding into place after being set into motion.
Both Finley and Owen were relatable, layered, and lovable characters. And their journey felt intensely intimate. Every moving piece in this story from the town, to the coffee shop, to the quirky neighbors, to the scene stealing 4 year old were utterly captivating.
It was one stretched out moment of falling in love bookended by the moment the universe said “there he is, you can fall now”.
I’ll re-read this over and over again. It was warm, and cozy, and sweet, and deep, and made me hold back tears, and made me believe in love. It was perfect.
What you’ll get:
•Coffee Shop Meet Cute
•Wayward Twink
•Steady Baker/Shop Owner
•Age Gap (15 years)
•Bi-Romantic Ace MC
•Single Guardian
•Boss/Employee
•Forced Proximity
•Small Town
•Anxiety & ADHD Rep
•Found Family/Home
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is an honest ARC review!!
Slow brew is a super sweet and short small town romance fillled with tender moments and lovely characters !!
Finely my baby was running away and end up finding his perfect home in Owen.
Owen uggghh the gentle daddy who was waiting for his person to build a home and a family with.
This story is short but manage to deal with a lot of themes such as depression or family abandoment with care and not minimazing this issues.
I love how bratty Fin was, his personality shines in this book. And Owen gentleness and care with Annabelle and Fin was too cute ughhh.
Also Grace was perfect! The best friend that Finley needed and the unconditional support that he deserved. For me it is SO important that the mmcs have friends that supports them!!!
The asexual representation was so well written and with so much care!!!!
The only issue I have with this book is that I needed more!! I want more of Owen and Fin as a couple pleaseeeee.
If you want a short romace with sweet characters, found family, cute moments and the gentlest love this is for you!!!
Than you so much for the ARC opportunity!!
Slow brew is a super sweet and short small town romance fillled with tender moments and lovely characters !!
Finely my baby was running away and end up finding his perfect home in Owen.
Owen uggghh the gentle daddy who was waiting for his person to build a home and a family with.
This story is short but manage to deal with a lot of themes such as depression or family abandoment with care and not minimazing this issues.
I love how bratty Fin was, his personality shines in this book. And Owen gentleness and care with Annabelle and Fin was too cute ughhh.
Also Grace was perfect! The best friend that Finley needed and the unconditional support that he deserved. For me it is SO important that the mmcs have friends that supports them!!!
The asexual representation was so well written and with so much care!!!!
The only issue I have with this book is that I needed more!! I want more of Owen and Fin as a couple pleaseeeee.
If you want a short romace with sweet characters, found family, cute moments and the gentlest love this is for you!!!
Than you so much for the ARC opportunity!!
August 9, 2026
At this point, I think it’s safe to say D.G. Holloway can do no wrong in my eyes. 🥹🤎 I’ve read all three of her books now, and somehow I’m just as obsessed with Slow Brew as I was with the others.
Finley and Owen completely stole my heart. Their relationship felt so soft, genuine, and comforting, and I loved watching their connection slowly grow into something more. The age gap, the small-town setting, the family that Fin always wanted and needed, the cozy bakery vibes?! Literally everything I wanted. Not to mention, that sweet niece of Uncle “owie” was so easy to love.
But what I really love about D.G. Holloway’s books is the way she writes characters you can’t help but care about. They feel real, imperfect, and so easy to root for. And the representation in this one was handled so beautifully without ever feeling like it was the only thing defining the characters.
Slow Brew was sweet, cozy, emotional, and basically felt like a warm hug in book form. 🥹
At this point, D.G. Holloway is officially an auto-read author for me. 🤎
absolutely recommend!
Finley and Owen completely stole my heart. Their relationship felt so soft, genuine, and comforting, and I loved watching their connection slowly grow into something more. The age gap, the small-town setting, the family that Fin always wanted and needed, the cozy bakery vibes?! Literally everything I wanted. Not to mention, that sweet niece of Uncle “owie” was so easy to love.
But what I really love about D.G. Holloway’s books is the way she writes characters you can’t help but care about. They feel real, imperfect, and so easy to root for. And the representation in this one was handled so beautifully without ever feeling like it was the only thing defining the characters.
Slow Brew was sweet, cozy, emotional, and basically felt like a warm hug in book form. 🥹
At this point, D.G. Holloway is officially an auto-read author for me. 🤎
absolutely recommend!
August 11, 2026
This one hit soft and slow, exactly like the title promises.
Finley is running from a life that never made room for him, and Owen is a genuinely gentle man just trying to hold his family together while raising his niece and keeping his sister's cafe afloat.
When these two collide, it's not fireworks, it's warmth. Owen sees Finley in a way nobody else ever bothered to, and Finley becomes the first person Owen's let himself want in years.
What got me was how much this book is about being unseen. Both of these guys have been let down by the people who were supposed to show up for them, and watching them slowly build something safe together, a home, a job, a person who actually notices when you're struggling, made my heart so full.
It's not an angst-fest, it's cozy and tender with just enough emotional weight to make the sweetness land harder.
If you love found family, small towns, age gap, and a love interest who is criminally soft for the man he's falling for, this is your book. Slow burn done right.
Finley is running from a life that never made room for him, and Owen is a genuinely gentle man just trying to hold his family together while raising his niece and keeping his sister's cafe afloat.
When these two collide, it's not fireworks, it's warmth. Owen sees Finley in a way nobody else ever bothered to, and Finley becomes the first person Owen's let himself want in years.
What got me was how much this book is about being unseen. Both of these guys have been let down by the people who were supposed to show up for them, and watching them slowly build something safe together, a home, a job, a person who actually notices when you're struggling, made my heart so full.
It's not an angst-fest, it's cozy and tender with just enough emotional weight to make the sweetness land harder.
If you love found family, small towns, age gap, and a love interest who is criminally soft for the man he's falling for, this is your book. Slow burn done right.
Review of advance copy received from Author
As a barista, I was always going to be excited about a coffee shop romance—but *Slow Brew* ended up being even sweeter than I expected.
I absolutely loved Owen and Finley. Their "will they, won't they" dynamic kept me invested the whole way through, and I couldn't help rooting for them. The supporting cast was just as enjoyable and made the whole story feel warm and inviting.
One of my favorite parts was how authentic the coffee shop felt. As someone who works as a barista, I could tell there was real care put into the way the café operated and how both the employees and customers interacted. Those little details made the setting come alive for me.
Overall, this was a cozy, heartwarming MM romance that left me smiling, and I'd absolutely recommend it to anyone looking for a comforting romance with lovable characters.
4.5 stars!
Thank you to D. G. Holloway for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I absolutely loved Owen and Finley. Their "will they, won't they" dynamic kept me invested the whole way through, and I couldn't help rooting for them. The supporting cast was just as enjoyable and made the whole story feel warm and inviting.
One of my favorite parts was how authentic the coffee shop felt. As someone who works as a barista, I could tell there was real care put into the way the café operated and how both the employees and customers interacted. Those little details made the setting come alive for me.
Overall, this was a cozy, heartwarming MM romance that left me smiling, and I'd absolutely recommend it to anyone looking for a comforting romance with lovable characters.
4.5 stars!
Thank you to D. G. Holloway for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
For a book called Slow Brew, there was nothing slow about my reading experience. I slayed this book like a cereal killer. 🥣
Zero spice… except for the spice running through Finley’s brain. 😂 But 💯 romance & heart!
I loved watching Finley and Owen find their way to each other. Finley’s chaotic energy was the perfect match for Owen’s calm, dependable nature, and I couldn’t get enough of them. The cozy bakery and coffee shop setting had me craving chocolate chip muffins, and I really appreciated the anxiety and ADHD representation.
And the Schitt’s Creek “fold in the cheese” reference? I literally laughed out loud. 😂
My only complaint? It was too short. I wasn’t ready to say goodbye to Fin and Owie, and I would’ve happily spent another hundred pages with them.
Now excuse me while I go find a chocolate chip muffin. 🧁
Thank you, D.G. Holloway, for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ (4.5/5)
#Bookstagram #ARCReview #MMRomance #SlowBrew #CozyReads
Zero spice… except for the spice running through Finley’s brain. 😂 But 💯 romance & heart!
I loved watching Finley and Owen find their way to each other. Finley’s chaotic energy was the perfect match for Owen’s calm, dependable nature, and I couldn’t get enough of them. The cozy bakery and coffee shop setting had me craving chocolate chip muffins, and I really appreciated the anxiety and ADHD representation.
And the Schitt’s Creek “fold in the cheese” reference? I literally laughed out loud. 😂
My only complaint? It was too short. I wasn’t ready to say goodbye to Fin and Owie, and I would’ve happily spent another hundred pages with them.
Now excuse me while I go find a chocolate chip muffin. 🧁
Thank you, D.G. Holloway, for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ (4.5/5)
#Bookstagram #ARCReview #MMRomance #SlowBrew #CozyReads
August 3, 2026
This book was just so damn sweet!! As a fellow ADHDer, Finley’s inner monologue was a hard relate! The scattered thoughts, the overthinking, the way rejection hits harder than it should. Very well written & not a stereotype which is much appreciated!
Owen has such a calm, grounding presence which is the perfect balance for Fin. Their connection felt soft and real and I loved watching it grow through small moments instead of big dramatic ones. The asexual rep was handled with so much care too. It felt honest & gentle & fit the whole tone of the book perfectly.
The small town vibe + coffee shop setting made everything feel warm & comforting. It’s not a spicy book but it doesn’t need to be. It’s sweet, funny & full of heart. I finished it feeling lighter and really happy.
If I could convince you to read this book with a single, zero context quote:
HALF-EATEN TWINK CARCASS
FOUND ON INTERSTATE.
LOCALS BLAME POOR LIFE CHOICES.
Owen has such a calm, grounding presence which is the perfect balance for Fin. Their connection felt soft and real and I loved watching it grow through small moments instead of big dramatic ones. The asexual rep was handled with so much care too. It felt honest & gentle & fit the whole tone of the book perfectly.
The small town vibe + coffee shop setting made everything feel warm & comforting. It’s not a spicy book but it doesn’t need to be. It’s sweet, funny & full of heart. I finished it feeling lighter and really happy.
If I could convince you to read this book with a single, zero context quote:
HALF-EATEN TWINK CARCASS
FOUND ON INTERSTATE.
LOCALS BLAME POOR LIFE CHOICES.
August 3, 2026
Thank you to D.G. Holloway for letting me read and review an ARC of Slow Brew! I had such a fun time reading your book. Happy book birthday! :)
I think you'll like this if you enjoy:
- cozy queer romance
- slow burn romances
- themes of belonging, identity, and self acceptance
I do wish the book was longer and that we got to know the characters even more, but it was a nice easy read. I enjoyed the character work and the slow burn romance. The characters were believable and relatable. Excited to see what D.G. writes next.
Plot: "Love isn’t like in the movies. People don’t break down in Hallmark towns. They don’t get rescued by the local baker. And even if they did… He wouldn’t have a steady smile or the world’s greenest eyes. He definitely wouldn’t be the hottest man they’d ever seen.
He’d never ask them to stay. There’s no chance they’d say yes. Because things like that don’t happen in real life. Until they do."
I think you'll like this if you enjoy:
- cozy queer romance
- slow burn romances
- themes of belonging, identity, and self acceptance
I do wish the book was longer and that we got to know the characters even more, but it was a nice easy read. I enjoyed the character work and the slow burn romance. The characters were believable and relatable. Excited to see what D.G. writes next.
Plot: "Love isn’t like in the movies. People don’t break down in Hallmark towns. They don’t get rescued by the local baker. And even if they did… He wouldn’t have a steady smile or the world’s greenest eyes. He definitely wouldn’t be the hottest man they’d ever seen.
He’d never ask them to stay. There’s no chance they’d say yes. Because things like that don’t happen in real life. Until they do."
August 3, 2026
When Finley's car breaks down in a small town, a kind café owner named Owen offers him a cup of coffee, a place to stay, and, eventually, something neither of them expected—a chance to find where they truly belong.
This was SUCH a cute story!
It's a quick, cozy M/M rom-com filled with humor, heart, and found family. Owen is one of the sweetest, most caring MMCs I've read in a long time, while Finley is simply looking for what he's never really had: a place to call home.
I absolutely loved them together, and Owen's four-year-old niece, Annabelle, completely stole every scene she was in.
The discussions around ADHD, identity, and healing from past experiences were handled thoughtfully, and Finley's inner monologue had me laughing out loud more than once.
If you love cozy, low-angst romances with small-town charm, wonderful characters, and plenty of heart, this is the perfect one-day read.
I received a review copy, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This was SUCH a cute story!
It's a quick, cozy M/M rom-com filled with humor, heart, and found family. Owen is one of the sweetest, most caring MMCs I've read in a long time, while Finley is simply looking for what he's never really had: a place to call home.
I absolutely loved them together, and Owen's four-year-old niece, Annabelle, completely stole every scene she was in.
The discussions around ADHD, identity, and healing from past experiences were handled thoughtfully, and Finley's inner monologue had me laughing out loud more than once.
If you love cozy, low-angst romances with small-town charm, wonderful characters, and plenty of heart, this is the perfect one-day read.
I received a review copy, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was such a sweet, easy read. I was a fan of Finley and the way his brain worked, and his inner thoughts were honestly one of my favourite parts of the book. Owen was the perfect balance to all of Finley’s chaos, and together they were just really sweet. I also loved that this was a closed door romance and even though I love high spice in my book, this proved you don’t need spice for a story to have plenty of heart.
The only reason this wasn’t a full five stars for me was that I wanted more. It was such a quick read that I would’ve happily spent another 100 pages with Finley and Owen. A few parts were a little predictable, and I also felt like the romance developed a bit too quickly at times. That said, it was still a really enjoyable, funny rom-com that left me with a smile on my face.
The only reason this wasn’t a full five stars for me was that I wanted more. It was such a quick read that I would’ve happily spent another 100 pages with Finley and Owen. A few parts were a little predictable, and I also felt like the romance developed a bit too quickly at times. That said, it was still a really enjoyable, funny rom-com that left me with a smile on my face.
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