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Autumn Creek #1
By Your Cider
She’s stuck working and (accidentally) living with a charming cider maker.
Harlow Spencer has a plan. Move to Ottawa, Canada, work in a dreamy small town nearby, and settle into a comfortable life with her boyfriend. It’s perfect. Until she finds him cheating.
So Harlow sets off for Autumn Creek, despite knowing she’ll never belong in a small town like this. But her two-month contract is the only stability she has left. Without a place to stay, Harlow lands in a spare room on an apple farm. Only now, she’s living under the roof of an infuriatingly attractive man who gets along with everyone but her.
Jude Bramley isn’t expecting the woman who moved into his house without saying hello to be his new coworker. He certainly doesn’t trust her to plan the Harvest Festival with him either. But to save his struggling town, they’ll need to work together.
As fall unfolds, Jude shows Harlow the town he loves through his eyes. Surrounded by apple orchards and autumn leaves, their bickering turns into sizzling tension. But with the festival to focus on and their time together burning out, they must fight their attraction.
Or at least, they should.
By Your Cider is a pumpkin spicy, small town, forced proximity romance about a city girl who accidentally moves in with her new co-worker. It's a must read book this fall! Welcome to Autumn Creek
Harlow Spencer has a plan. Move to Ottawa, Canada, work in a dreamy small town nearby, and settle into a comfortable life with her boyfriend. It’s perfect. Until she finds him cheating.
So Harlow sets off for Autumn Creek, despite knowing she’ll never belong in a small town like this. But her two-month contract is the only stability she has left. Without a place to stay, Harlow lands in a spare room on an apple farm. Only now, she’s living under the roof of an infuriatingly attractive man who gets along with everyone but her.
Jude Bramley isn’t expecting the woman who moved into his house without saying hello to be his new coworker. He certainly doesn’t trust her to plan the Harvest Festival with him either. But to save his struggling town, they’ll need to work together.
As fall unfolds, Jude shows Harlow the town he loves through his eyes. Surrounded by apple orchards and autumn leaves, their bickering turns into sizzling tension. But with the festival to focus on and their time together burning out, they must fight their attraction.
Or at least, they should.
By Your Cider is a pumpkin spicy, small town, forced proximity romance about a city girl who accidentally moves in with her new co-worker. It's a must read book this fall! Welcome to Autumn Creek
354 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 1, 2026
About the author
Elser Moira
1 book16 followersElser Moira writes romance hot enough to heat up cozy, cold weather settings. Originally from Australia, she also lived in the UK before landing in Canada’s capital city. She’s an online content creator who spends her days exploring cafes and places that people insist are boring. When she’s not working or writing, you’ll find her reading or trying to perfect her latte art, with two cats by her side.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
September 2, 2026
**ARC copy by the author**
That was the perfect book to put me right in the mood for fall and all the fall festivities. As an Ottawa local, I loved how this highlighted so many things about the country side of Ottawa, and how perfect it is that time of the year. For fans of Gilmore Girls, small towns, found family and Laurie Gilmore books, this one is for you! It was sweet, funny and a really quick lighthearted read. I cannot wait to read more about Autumn Creek!
That was the perfect book to put me right in the mood for fall and all the fall festivities. As an Ottawa local, I loved how this highlighted so many things about the country side of Ottawa, and how perfect it is that time of the year. For fans of Gilmore Girls, small towns, found family and Laurie Gilmore books, this one is for you! It was sweet, funny and a really quick lighthearted read. I cannot wait to read more about Autumn Creek!
September 18, 2026
The perfect fall book to get me ready for the season!!
I loved it and I can’t wait to go apple picking and drink cider. It felt like Fall while reading it. I loved it!
I loved it and I can’t wait to go apple picking and drink cider. It felt like Fall while reading it. I loved it!
August 31, 2026
Very cutesy fall romance!! Made me desperately crave a cold glass of apple cider. A quick read to get you into the autumn mood <3
hard-dnf-s
October 1, 2026hard dnfing on october 1st @ 84 pages. didn't really feel like there was any chemistry and he fact that the mmc was so untrusting of our fmc for being 'scatterbrained' when no where in these pages is her being scatterbrained shown was frustrating.
October 19, 2026
such a cute small town fall romance 🍂🍂🫶🏻 thought this duo was absolutely adorable. they were so cute and clearly locked in down bad fastttttt! okay owner of a cidery i love that and i loved the name of the coffee shop lol sweater weather, adorable.
i had the pleasure of meeting the author at our store and she was super sweet, so glad i was able to get my hands on a personalized signed copy of it with the cutest fan art and stickers 😊
i had the pleasure of meeting the author at our store and she was super sweet, so glad i was able to get my hands on a personalized signed copy of it with the cutest fan art and stickers 😊
October 17, 2026
Reading a book that reminds you of Stars Hollow but also local small towns like Pakenham and Almonte SINCE the book is set in Ottawa area was SO COOL!
I love the fall and I loved this book. Harlow had a rough start but finds her way in the cute small town of Autumn Creek, and with the help of Jude. Their romance started off a little sour like a crabapple but turns sweet, like a red delicious or a honey crisp.
This was a cozy read that had me feeling warm and lighthearted.
I love the fall and I loved this book. Harlow had a rough start but finds her way in the cute small town of Autumn Creek, and with the help of Jude. Their romance started off a little sour like a crabapple but turns sweet, like a red delicious or a honey crisp.
This was a cozy read that had me feeling warm and lighthearted.
September 6, 2026
🍎📙BY YOUR CIDER REVIEW 📙🍎
5/5 🌟
By Your Cider by Elser Moira is a romance novel set in Autumn Creek, a cozy small town in Ontario. Harlow moves to Canada from the UK to live with her boyfriend, only to find out that he’s been cheating on her. Suddenly, she finds herself having to move over in Autumn Creek, staying in a small, cozy apartment on a farm.
The very next day, Harlow starts her new job, where she’s tasked with organizing the town’s annual Harvest Festival alongside Jude. And I’ll leave it at that because you’ll have to read the book to find out what happens next! 🍎
I truly loved the characters in this book. The character growth was incredibly well written, especially Harlow’s journey throughout the story. Her longing to find a community, feel like she belongs, and finally have a place to call home was such an important part of her story, and I loved watching it unfold. 🥹🤎
And the romance?! The flirting and the spice were absolutely incredible. 🤭🌶️ Jude was such a great MMC, and I genuinely felt like he was exactly what Harlow needed. They complemented each other so well, and I loved watching their relationship develop.
Thank you so much to the author for sending me an ARC of her debut novel! 🍎 I’m incredibly grateful that I got to be one of the selected readers and experience Harlow and Jude’s story before release. Autumn Creek was such a cozy place to escape to, and I can’t wait to see what comes next! 🍂🤎
5/5 🌟
By Your Cider by Elser Moira is a romance novel set in Autumn Creek, a cozy small town in Ontario. Harlow moves to Canada from the UK to live with her boyfriend, only to find out that he’s been cheating on her. Suddenly, she finds herself having to move over in Autumn Creek, staying in a small, cozy apartment on a farm.
The very next day, Harlow starts her new job, where she’s tasked with organizing the town’s annual Harvest Festival alongside Jude. And I’ll leave it at that because you’ll have to read the book to find out what happens next! 🍎
I truly loved the characters in this book. The character growth was incredibly well written, especially Harlow’s journey throughout the story. Her longing to find a community, feel like she belongs, and finally have a place to call home was such an important part of her story, and I loved watching it unfold. 🥹🤎
And the romance?! The flirting and the spice were absolutely incredible. 🤭🌶️ Jude was such a great MMC, and I genuinely felt like he was exactly what Harlow needed. They complemented each other so well, and I loved watching their relationship develop.
Thank you so much to the author for sending me an ARC of her debut novel! 🍎 I’m incredibly grateful that I got to be one of the selected readers and experience Harlow and Jude’s story before release. Autumn Creek was such a cozy place to escape to, and I can’t wait to see what comes next! 🍂🤎
September 1, 2026
🎀 ARC REVIEW ✨
Thank you so much to the lovely Elser Moira for choosing me to be one of her arc reviewers for this new release (available September 1st)
RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This was the perfect read for my transition into the cozy/fall reading season! I fell in love with Autumn Creek and as a girly that is growing up in a small town in Ontario, I felt like this author did an amazing job depicting those small town vibes and what fall is truly like in Ontario. The only thing that hindered my rating a bit to give it a 4/5 was firstly being that the love interests first interaction kind of came off "insta-lovey" to me and then secondly just that the overall read didn't give me 5 star feels.
BESIDES THAT. I loved this. Their banter was hilarious. & it couldn't have been more perfectly fall coded.
Thank you so much to the lovely Elser Moira for choosing me to be one of her arc reviewers for this new release (available September 1st)
RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This was the perfect read for my transition into the cozy/fall reading season! I fell in love with Autumn Creek and as a girly that is growing up in a small town in Ontario, I felt like this author did an amazing job depicting those small town vibes and what fall is truly like in Ontario. The only thing that hindered my rating a bit to give it a 4/5 was firstly being that the love interests first interaction kind of came off "insta-lovey" to me and then secondly just that the overall read didn't give me 5 star feels.
BESIDES THAT. I loved this. Their banter was hilarious. & it couldn't have been more perfectly fall coded.
August 22, 2026
After reading this book I am officially ready for fall.
Specifically in a small town with lots of cookies, chai teas, and apple cider.
Jude and Harlow were so cute together- their banter was amazing and Jude’s yearning… a work of art.
Was it predictable, yes. Was it amazing, also yes.
This book is a quick and easy read to get you into the fall spirit!
Specifically in a small town with lots of cookies, chai teas, and apple cider.
Jude and Harlow were so cute together- their banter was amazing and Jude’s yearning… a work of art.
Was it predictable, yes. Was it amazing, also yes.
This book is a quick and easy read to get you into the fall spirit!
October 20, 2026
This book had no business being this cute! I loved it so so much!
Read
October 28, 2026not 1 interesting thing happened in this book
September 25, 2026
3.5 ⭐️
This was such a cute, cozy small town autumn romance! I just wish there was more development between the two characters. I loved the small town, Canadian setting. Reading this made me crave going to a pumpkin patch and getting a nice hot apple cider
This was such a cute, cozy small town autumn romance! I just wish there was more development between the two characters. I loved the small town, Canadian setting. Reading this made me crave going to a pumpkin patch and getting a nice hot apple cider
October 23, 2026
This was a really cute fall book. I enjoyed it and loved that we got to meet the author. We decided to make it a book club choice for October, which ended up being perfect.
I would definitely read Colt’s story for book 2🫶🏻🍂🧡
I would definitely read Colt’s story for book 2🫶🏻🍂🧡
October 25, 2026
The main star of this book was the food and drink descriptions which kept me in a good Fall mood.
Very Hallmark style otherwise, and very repetitive insecurities from the main character of literally just “I will never belong I will always be an outsider” over and over. An okay read if you want to think about drinking cider and pumpkin spiced lattes every day.
Very Hallmark style otherwise, and very repetitive insecurities from the main character of literally just “I will never belong I will always be an outsider” over and over. An okay read if you want to think about drinking cider and pumpkin spiced lattes every day.
October 26, 2026
As a girl born and raised in the Ottawa Valley, this hit all the right notes! The book felt like if a hallmark movie was made about my town (we literally have a place called Maple Ridge). Loved the cozy vibes, and cannot wait to eventually return to autumn creek!
October 11, 2026
This lost me around 75%. I honestly skimmed the rest of it.
October 25, 2026
Cute little fall romance 🧡
October 28, 2026
Had a great time reading this !! 🥰
September 14, 2026
I really had high hopes for this one but in the end it wasn't for me. I just found the main character's interactions awkward and rushed. It almost had too many romance book tropes that were never fully developed. I felt like this was supposed to be an enemies to lovers story at first but then became more forced proximity?
The actual writing was good and I liked Harlow's story and how she became more confident with herself and found a place she felt she belonged. The romance part just fell a little flat for me.
The actual writing was good and I liked Harlow's story and how she became more confident with herself and found a place she felt she belonged. The romance part just fell a little flat for me.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to the author for providing an ARC in exchange for my honest review!
I was immediately drawn to this book for its cozy fall atmosphere and Ottawa-area setting. As someone who loves fall and rarely gets to see Ottawa represented in romance, there was something really special about recognizing the setting and getting to experience a local story. The small-town atmosphere is charming, with cute and creative names for the different places and businesses that help give the town its own personality.
I also really appreciated having a heroine who wasn't skinny-washed and who felt relatable in many ways.
The overall premise has so many fun romance elements: a fresh start, small-town life, forced proximity, two people who have to learn to work together despite initially rubbing each other the wrong way, and a community they're both becoming invested in for different reasons.
My favourite part was watching the hero introduce her to the town he loves so much. I'm a sucker for the trope of one character showing another a beloved place through their eyes, and his attachment to his community was one of the strongest parts of the story for me. I loved the contrast between his desire to protect the town he grew up loving and her arrival as an outsider with fresh ideas about how to help it thrive. The social media and marketing element also gives the small-town storyline a fun, modern angle.
I did find some of the storytelling a little disjointed at times, particularly around transitions and the development of certain conflicts and relationships. There were moments where I would have loved a little more time and context to let the characters' feelings, chemistry, and disagreements develop more organically. Some of the romantic and emotional beats were lovely ideas that I personally would have enjoyed even more with a slower build.
Overall though, there is a lot to appreciate here for readers looking for cozy fall vibes, a charming Canadian setting, forced proximity, dislike-to-lovers energy, community spirit, and a romance wrapped up in the feeling of finding a place where you might belong 🍂
I was immediately drawn to this book for its cozy fall atmosphere and Ottawa-area setting. As someone who loves fall and rarely gets to see Ottawa represented in romance, there was something really special about recognizing the setting and getting to experience a local story. The small-town atmosphere is charming, with cute and creative names for the different places and businesses that help give the town its own personality.
I also really appreciated having a heroine who wasn't skinny-washed and who felt relatable in many ways.
The overall premise has so many fun romance elements: a fresh start, small-town life, forced proximity, two people who have to learn to work together despite initially rubbing each other the wrong way, and a community they're both becoming invested in for different reasons.
My favourite part was watching the hero introduce her to the town he loves so much. I'm a sucker for the trope of one character showing another a beloved place through their eyes, and his attachment to his community was one of the strongest parts of the story for me. I loved the contrast between his desire to protect the town he grew up loving and her arrival as an outsider with fresh ideas about how to help it thrive. The social media and marketing element also gives the small-town storyline a fun, modern angle.
I did find some of the storytelling a little disjointed at times, particularly around transitions and the development of certain conflicts and relationships. There were moments where I would have loved a little more time and context to let the characters' feelings, chemistry, and disagreements develop more organically. Some of the romantic and emotional beats were lovely ideas that I personally would have enjoyed even more with a slower build.
Overall though, there is a lot to appreciate here for readers looking for cozy fall vibes, a charming Canadian setting, forced proximity, dislike-to-lovers energy, community spirit, and a romance wrapped up in the feeling of finding a place where you might belong 🍂
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was such a fun, cozy fall romance, and honestly, it was exactly the kind of book I wanted to read this time of year. One of my favourite things about By Your Cider was the setting. Autumn Creek, the apple farm, the cider, the changing leaves, and the Harvest Festival all created such a strong sense of place. The whole book has that warm, small-town autumn feeling that makes you want to curl up somewhere comfortable with a hot drink and just stay in the story for a while. Harlow is such a loveable character. After everything that brings her to Autumn Creek, it was nice watching her find her footing and slowly become more comfortable with herself and her new surroundings. Her journey felt like more than simply finding a new romantic interest. There was also a sense of starting over, figuring out what she actually wants and finally seeing her feel she belonged. Then there’s Jude. I loved the dynamic between these two. Their interactions had that perfect combination of frustration, teasing, and chemistry that made their relationship fun to follow. I especially enjoyed watching the banter and tension between them gradually turn into something softer and more meaningful. Their romance gave the story plenty of heart without losing the fun. I also appreciated how much the book leaned into the seasonal elements. The apple orchard and cider-making weren’t just background details. They helped give the story its personality. Everything about it felt very intentionally autumnal, which made it an especially enjoyable read for this time of year. All in all, this was a charming small-town romance with great fall vibes, a fun couple, and a setting that I genuinely enjoyed spending time in and never wanted to leave.
September 7, 2026
This was such a good contemporary autumn read and exactly the vibes I was looking for to start September! Give me all the apple orchards, falling leaves, small towns, and grumpy farmers!
Harlow has never really felt at home anywhere. Growing up traveling made it difficult for her to put down roots, and even when she arrives in Autumn Creek and starts getting those “maybe I could actually belong here” vibes, she's hesitant to accept them. It made her feel more real. She wants stability but isn't quite sure she knows how to have it, so she throws herself into helping the town and is determined to make the Harvest Festival the best it can be.
And then there's Jude. I liked this small-town farmer immediately. He's protective of Autumn Creek and understandably suspicious of “city girl” Harlow, but he can't deny the attraction between them. Their forced proximity makes for some fun tension and bickering as they slowly start to see past their first impressions of each other.
The Harvest Festival was such a cute addition to the story and brought in some great found-family vibes. I especially loved Harlow's friendships with the women in town, especially Kasey.
There is some spice sprinkled throughout, starting around the halfway point, but it definitely wasn't the main draw for me. It was a good amount for the story and didn't overwhelm all the cozy autumn vibes I was here for.
Overall, this was a fun, cozy small-town romance that delivered exactly the fall atmosphere I wanted. I'm definitely interested in continuing the series and seeing what Autumn Creek has in store next!
Harlow has never really felt at home anywhere. Growing up traveling made it difficult for her to put down roots, and even when she arrives in Autumn Creek and starts getting those “maybe I could actually belong here” vibes, she's hesitant to accept them. It made her feel more real. She wants stability but isn't quite sure she knows how to have it, so she throws herself into helping the town and is determined to make the Harvest Festival the best it can be.
And then there's Jude. I liked this small-town farmer immediately. He's protective of Autumn Creek and understandably suspicious of “city girl” Harlow, but he can't deny the attraction between them. Their forced proximity makes for some fun tension and bickering as they slowly start to see past their first impressions of each other.
The Harvest Festival was such a cute addition to the story and brought in some great found-family vibes. I especially loved Harlow's friendships with the women in town, especially Kasey.
There is some spice sprinkled throughout, starting around the halfway point, but it definitely wasn't the main draw for me. It was a good amount for the story and didn't overwhelm all the cozy autumn vibes I was here for.
Overall, this was a fun, cozy small-town romance that delivered exactly the fall atmosphere I wanted. I'm definitely interested in continuing the series and seeing what Autumn Creek has in store next!
September 15, 2026
Thank you to the author for the free eARC! I enjoyed your debut novel and can't wait to read more from you - especially if it takes place in Autumn Creek! As an autumn girlie, I want to live there so badly 🥹
🧡 Dislike to lovers
🍁 Found family
🍂 He likes to take care of her
🍎 Spicy small town romance
🧡 Forced proximity
This story takes places in Autumn Creek, an hour away from Ottawa (my hometown!! 🇨🇦). Soooo excited to see my hometown get shout out! This book is full of Gilmore Girls vibes with the town Harvest Festival. Everyone knows each other and helps each other out. When people ask me which fictional world I want to live in, Autumn Creek is my new answer.
Also there's a bookstore and coffee shop called Sweater Weather Books and Brews - like how adorable is that?! I'd love to join the book club there and drink hot cider or a caramel cardamom latte!
This book is a solid 4.5 ⭐️ for me! I enjoyed reading about all of the characters. I just wish that there was a bit more chemistry between the two main characters. I would have liked to see more rivalry and banter in the beginning.
I really enjoyed these quotes, when Harlow decided to stop isolating herself and leaving every time she felt lonely and struggle to feel like she belong to a place and community. This book is relatable for the people who has moved around a lot throughout their lives, and had to start over at a new school or job often.
"I should stop tearing down the walls of the life I'm just starting to build, before I even try to talk to people."
"I don't have to throw everything away. I can face my uncomfortable emotions. I want to stay here and help, no matter what happens."
🧡 Dislike to lovers
🍁 Found family
🍂 He likes to take care of her
🍎 Spicy small town romance
🧡 Forced proximity
This story takes places in Autumn Creek, an hour away from Ottawa (my hometown!! 🇨🇦). Soooo excited to see my hometown get shout out! This book is full of Gilmore Girls vibes with the town Harvest Festival. Everyone knows each other and helps each other out. When people ask me which fictional world I want to live in, Autumn Creek is my new answer.
Also there's a bookstore and coffee shop called Sweater Weather Books and Brews - like how adorable is that?! I'd love to join the book club there and drink hot cider or a caramel cardamom latte!
This book is a solid 4.5 ⭐️ for me! I enjoyed reading about all of the characters. I just wish that there was a bit more chemistry between the two main characters. I would have liked to see more rivalry and banter in the beginning.
I really enjoyed these quotes, when Harlow decided to stop isolating herself and leaving every time she felt lonely and struggle to feel like she belong to a place and community. This book is relatable for the people who has moved around a lot throughout their lives, and had to start over at a new school or job often.
"I should stop tearing down the walls of the life I'm just starting to build, before I even try to talk to people."
"I don't have to throw everything away. I can face my uncomfortable emotions. I want to stay here and help, no matter what happens."
September 2, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 rounded up to a 5
🎃🍎🍂 Pumpkin spice and everything nice. This was an absolute delight to read!
If there’s one thing our FMC, Harlow’s always felt she’s been searching for, it’s a place to call home. But nomadic parents and a city lifestyle have left her unsettled in every place she’s lived. So when a job opportunity comes up in the small town of Autumn Creek, Harlow is both weary that this move will be any different and hopeful for a fresh start and some stability. However, things don’t go exactly as planned when she arrives in Canada…
From quirky side characters whose personalities jump off the page to delicious Fall treats that will have your mouth watering, and a sexy and protective MMC (Jude), this quintessentially Canadian book has everything and more I look for in a cozy Fall romance! 🍁🧡
As someone who has lived in a small town their entire life, I love reading books that showcase its charm, and it was so fun to experience Autumn Creek through Harlow’s eyes. This book gave me all the warm fuzzies, and I also really related to Harlow’s job in marketing (specifically around social media) as she worked on bringing this small town to life through a Fall Festival.
If you’re looking for the perfect book to get you in a Fall state of mind, this is it! I can’t wait for the next book in this series, coming Fall 2027, which will focus on Jude’s brother, Colt, and to see how this world will expand to highlight more aspects of the town.
Thank you to the author, Elser Moira for the e-ARC in exchange for an honest review! 🫶🏻
🎃🍎🍂 Pumpkin spice and everything nice. This was an absolute delight to read!
If there’s one thing our FMC, Harlow’s always felt she’s been searching for, it’s a place to call home. But nomadic parents and a city lifestyle have left her unsettled in every place she’s lived. So when a job opportunity comes up in the small town of Autumn Creek, Harlow is both weary that this move will be any different and hopeful for a fresh start and some stability. However, things don’t go exactly as planned when she arrives in Canada…
From quirky side characters whose personalities jump off the page to delicious Fall treats that will have your mouth watering, and a sexy and protective MMC (Jude), this quintessentially Canadian book has everything and more I look for in a cozy Fall romance! 🍁🧡
As someone who has lived in a small town their entire life, I love reading books that showcase its charm, and it was so fun to experience Autumn Creek through Harlow’s eyes. This book gave me all the warm fuzzies, and I also really related to Harlow’s job in marketing (specifically around social media) as she worked on bringing this small town to life through a Fall Festival.
If you’re looking for the perfect book to get you in a Fall state of mind, this is it! I can’t wait for the next book in this series, coming Fall 2027, which will focus on Jude’s brother, Colt, and to see how this world will expand to highlight more aspects of the town.
Thank you to the author, Elser Moira for the e-ARC in exchange for an honest review! 🫶🏻
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐️ 3.75/5 | ARC Review ⭐️
The moment I read the dedication, I knew I was going to enjoy this book.
As a fellow Ontario girl and lover of all things fall, "By Your Cider" felt like it was written for readers like me. I absolutely loved the Canadian setting and the way Autumn Creek came to life on the page. Between the harvest festival and small-town charm, this book had me fully ready for fall. It was cozy, atmospheric, and the perfect easy read for anyone counting down the days until sweater weather.
One of my favourite aspects of the book was reading about how Harlow slowly connect with the community and find a place for herself there.
For me, some parts of the plot moved a little too quickly. The initial ex-boyfrield storyline felt rushed, and a few convenient plot developments happened so fast that I had trouble fully settling into them. I also tend to prefer a slower-burn romance, so I would have loved a bit more time for the relationship and tension to develop before things progressed.
That said, this was still such a fun and cozy read. If you're looking for a romance filled with small-town charm, fall vibes, and plenty of seasonal magic, By Your Cider is a great book to add to your autumn TBR.
🍎🍂 Tropes & Things You'll Find: Set on an apple farm, Spicy small-town romance, Dislike to love, He falls first, Forced proximity
Thank you to Elser Moira for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The moment I read the dedication, I knew I was going to enjoy this book.
As a fellow Ontario girl and lover of all things fall, "By Your Cider" felt like it was written for readers like me. I absolutely loved the Canadian setting and the way Autumn Creek came to life on the page. Between the harvest festival and small-town charm, this book had me fully ready for fall. It was cozy, atmospheric, and the perfect easy read for anyone counting down the days until sweater weather.
One of my favourite aspects of the book was reading about how Harlow slowly connect with the community and find a place for herself there.
For me, some parts of the plot moved a little too quickly. The initial ex-boyfrield storyline felt rushed, and a few convenient plot developments happened so fast that I had trouble fully settling into them. I also tend to prefer a slower-burn romance, so I would have loved a bit more time for the relationship and tension to develop before things progressed.
That said, this was still such a fun and cozy read. If you're looking for a romance filled with small-town charm, fall vibes, and plenty of seasonal magic, By Your Cider is a great book to add to your autumn TBR.
🍎🍂 Tropes & Things You'll Find: Set on an apple farm, Spicy small-town romance, Dislike to love, He falls first, Forced proximity
Thank you to Elser Moira for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 28, 2026
Knowing that the author loves to travel around small towns and promote small shops, it really felt like this book was researched with so much love and intention. The way she described the food had me genuinely hungry while reading lol 🤭
It was so refreshing to read a fall romance that actually made me feel like I was in the middle of October🍂 The descriptions were phenomenal and really brought the setting and atmosphere to life. I honestly wish Autumn Creek was a real place because I would absolutely want to visit! 🥹
It was also so nice reading about a place that reminded me of where I grew up. I grew up in a small town just outside of Ottawa, so there was something about the small-town setting, the familiar feeling, and the community that made this book feel like home❤️ It made the story feel that much more special to me.
I loved Jude and Harlow SO much. I genuinely could not put this book down. Again, like I say in all of my reviews, the only reason I had to put it down was because of work😫😂
I’ve read and enjoyed small-town romances before, but as someone who is primarily a fantasy + dark romance reader, I don’t always reach for them. This book completely surprised me and reminded me just how much I can enjoy stepping outside of my usual genres. 🫶🏼
I cannot WAIT for book 2!! I already know I’m going to be counting down the days😭❤️
Don’t mind me just patiently waiting for pumpkin season now🍂🤍
It was so refreshing to read a fall romance that actually made me feel like I was in the middle of October🍂 The descriptions were phenomenal and really brought the setting and atmosphere to life. I honestly wish Autumn Creek was a real place because I would absolutely want to visit! 🥹
It was also so nice reading about a place that reminded me of where I grew up. I grew up in a small town just outside of Ottawa, so there was something about the small-town setting, the familiar feeling, and the community that made this book feel like home❤️ It made the story feel that much more special to me.
I loved Jude and Harlow SO much. I genuinely could not put this book down. Again, like I say in all of my reviews, the only reason I had to put it down was because of work😫😂
I’ve read and enjoyed small-town romances before, but as someone who is primarily a fantasy + dark romance reader, I don’t always reach for them. This book completely surprised me and reminded me just how much I can enjoy stepping outside of my usual genres. 🫶🏼
I cannot WAIT for book 2!! I already know I’m going to be counting down the days😭❤️
Don’t mind me just patiently waiting for pumpkin season now🍂🤍
September 2, 2026
First of all, a huge shoutout of thanks to the author for the ARC of this book! What a great opportunity!
This book was SO GOOD! It has everything you could possibly want from a fall romance. It’s small town, there’s a fall festival, and it has all the fun quirky side characters you could ask for!
The FMC is a big city girl who has never had a home to land, calling her parents nomadic and just assuming that life would be for her too, until she gets to Autumn Creek and accidentally winds up in Jude’s house.
The small town vibes really pull you in, making you adore the characters that are there, and leaving room for more throughout the series with empty shops on Main Street. It also made me more invested to be concerned about the fate of Autumn Creek.
The yearning and the “is this flirting or friendly???” that happens through the book is hilarious and painful at the same time. I desperately needed them to get together while still enjoying the chaos that came from them resisting.
Several of the locals even shipped them before they got together, and Harlow (the FMC)’s grandma was also insisting they were dating. It was so good!!
This book was SO GOOD! It has everything you could possibly want from a fall romance. It’s small town, there’s a fall festival, and it has all the fun quirky side characters you could ask for!
The FMC is a big city girl who has never had a home to land, calling her parents nomadic and just assuming that life would be for her too, until she gets to Autumn Creek and accidentally winds up in Jude’s house.
The small town vibes really pull you in, making you adore the characters that are there, and leaving room for more throughout the series with empty shops on Main Street. It also made me more invested to be concerned about the fate of Autumn Creek.
The yearning and the “is this flirting or friendly???” that happens through the book is hilarious and painful at the same time. I desperately needed them to get together while still enjoying the chaos that came from them resisting.
Several of the locals even shipped them before they got together, and Harlow (the FMC)’s grandma was also insisting they were dating. It was so good!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
In her debut novel, Elser Moira has revealed herself as the autumnal version of Carley Fortune - rich descriptive settings in beloved Canadian locations, with strong female characters and, of course, steamy romance.
As an Ottawa resident, I loved reading about my city and the surrounding towns I love to explore. While I wish Autumn Creek were a real place I could visit, it was clearly modelled after the many cute villages in the Ottawa region. This was the perfect book to lose myself in as the hot Ottawa summer finally started to give way to chilly breezes and the first PSLs of the season.
I loved the enemies to friends to lovers plot and loved their banter, though I think Jude's feelings turning from dislike to lust was a little rushed and felt a bit unrealistic. I also would have liked to see more of the fallout from Harlow's first relationship ending; everything happened really quickly for what was a major plot point for setting up the story.
Overall, I loved the opportunity to read a cute, cozy romance set in my city during my favourite season.
As an Ottawa resident, I loved reading about my city and the surrounding towns I love to explore. While I wish Autumn Creek were a real place I could visit, it was clearly modelled after the many cute villages in the Ottawa region. This was the perfect book to lose myself in as the hot Ottawa summer finally started to give way to chilly breezes and the first PSLs of the season.
I loved the enemies to friends to lovers plot and loved their banter, though I think Jude's feelings turning from dislike to lust was a little rushed and felt a bit unrealistic. I also would have liked to see more of the fallout from Harlow's first relationship ending; everything happened really quickly for what was a major plot point for setting up the story.
Overall, I loved the opportunity to read a cute, cozy romance set in my city during my favourite season.
September 11, 2026
This was such a sweet, cozy, and spicy fall romance! I absolutely loved getting swept away to Autumn Creek and spending time among the apple orchards, small-town charm, and all the fall festival fun.
Harlow and Jude had the perfect dislike-to-love chemistry. Their bickering, forced proximity, and undeniable attraction made for such a fun read, and I loved watching those walls slowly come down between them. Jude’s protective side definitely didn’t hurt either!
I also really enjoyed Harlow as a curvy FMC and watching her find her place in a town she was convinced she’d never belong in. There was plenty of sweetness, some delicious spice, and that warm, feel-good small-town atmosphere that makes you want to grab a cozy blanket, a cider, and settle in for the season.
If you’re looking for a seasonal Canadian small-town romance with forced proximity, a protective MMC, plenty of chemistry, and some pumpkin spice of the spicy variety, add this one to your fall TBR!
Welcome to Autumn Creek… I’ll definitely be back.
Thank you to the author for the ARC. This review is only my opinion.
Harlow and Jude had the perfect dislike-to-love chemistry. Their bickering, forced proximity, and undeniable attraction made for such a fun read, and I loved watching those walls slowly come down between them. Jude’s protective side definitely didn’t hurt either!
I also really enjoyed Harlow as a curvy FMC and watching her find her place in a town she was convinced she’d never belong in. There was plenty of sweetness, some delicious spice, and that warm, feel-good small-town atmosphere that makes you want to grab a cozy blanket, a cider, and settle in for the season.
If you’re looking for a seasonal Canadian small-town romance with forced proximity, a protective MMC, plenty of chemistry, and some pumpkin spice of the spicy variety, add this one to your fall TBR!
Welcome to Autumn Creek… I’ll definitely be back.
Thank you to the author for the ARC. This review is only my opinion.
October 13, 2026
This was my first fall romance book or romance book in general ! I love how it is beautifully written. The fact that I am not a bookworm and I easily get bored, this book never failed to keep me going and continue reading one page after the other! I was locked in! It’s such a cozy book and I highly recommend it to anyone who wants to read a romantic book that is decently written. I also love how the writer described each and every incident that makes you as a reader imagine it exactly in your head as if you are watching a tv show, sometimes I think of the book when I am at school or work with eagerness to read what will happen next! This book makes you connect with the characters and how they think! I enjoyed reading the part of when she was discovering her body and sharing it with someone that she trusts and how the writer was transparent about those details! I’m truly looking forward to read the book about Colt that will be released in 2027! And I hope I’ll get it signed by the writer like I did with this one!
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