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Made with Love: A Sweet Magical Romance
Falling in love was never part of the plan. But magic has a way of complicating even the simplest ingredients, and the heart rarely follows a recipe.
Rebecca Sawyer has always dismissed the rumors that there's something magical about her bakery-that her pies can spark romance or mend broken hearts—as nothing more than small-town gossip. But when her baking begins to produce results she can't explain, Becca is forced to confront a truth she's spent years the magic in her family is real, and it's tied directly to her heart.
Determined to keep her business-and her emotions-under control, Becca focuses on what she can baking, routine, and staying guarded. That plan unravels when she finds herself drawn to Lucas Reed, a charming outsider whose stay in Maplewood is only temporary. Convincing herself there's no real risk in letting him get close, Becca allows herself to enjoy what she assumes can never become anything more. But as her feelings for Lucas deepen, so does the magic in her kitchen.
When his hidden business plans collide with her struggling bakery, Becca must decide whether to protect the life she's built or finally let herself indulge in something real.
Made with Love sits somewhere between the warmth of Gilmore Girls, the magic of Simply Irresistible, and the cozy charm found in the romances of authors like B.K. Borison, Laurie Gilmore and Ashley Poston. It's a sweet, magical love story about grief, healing, and the courage it takes to open your heart again.
Rebecca Sawyer has always dismissed the rumors that there's something magical about her bakery-that her pies can spark romance or mend broken hearts—as nothing more than small-town gossip. But when her baking begins to produce results she can't explain, Becca is forced to confront a truth she's spent years the magic in her family is real, and it's tied directly to her heart.
Determined to keep her business-and her emotions-under control, Becca focuses on what she can baking, routine, and staying guarded. That plan unravels when she finds herself drawn to Lucas Reed, a charming outsider whose stay in Maplewood is only temporary. Convincing herself there's no real risk in letting him get close, Becca allows herself to enjoy what she assumes can never become anything more. But as her feelings for Lucas deepen, so does the magic in her kitchen.
When his hidden business plans collide with her struggling bakery, Becca must decide whether to protect the life she's built or finally let herself indulge in something real.
Made with Love sits somewhere between the warmth of Gilmore Girls, the magic of Simply Irresistible, and the cozy charm found in the romances of authors like B.K. Borison, Laurie Gilmore and Ashley Poston. It's a sweet, magical love story about grief, healing, and the courage it takes to open your heart again.
375 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 13, 2026
About the author
Laura DiTieri
3 books13 followersLaura DiTieri writes character-driven fiction rooted in hope, family, and resilience. A lifelong reader who overcame early struggles with dyslexia, dyscalculia, and synesthesia, she went on to earn a double major in Early Childhood and Childhood Education with a minor in English, and later a master’s degree in Special Education. Her years of teaching deepened her belief in the power of words to connect people across generations. She lives with her husband, who subsequently has to hear about the many characters constantly dancing around in her head; their two energetic sons, who are somehow even chattier than she is; and their beloved dog. Most often, she can be found with a book and a cup of tea, dreaming of the day she’ll finish it before it gets cold.
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
“Fear has a funny way of making us expect the worst from things that were never trying to hurt us. They give me honey, and I take care of them. We look out for each other.”
Are you looking for something to get you in the fall mood?
This enjoyable story is what you need to get the fall vibes going. Grab a cup of tea, a sweet treat and your favorite cozy blanket and sit back and enjoy.
Becca loves to bake and it seems that her baking has a “little” magic.
Lucas who has come to Maplewood for business has a hard time fitting in and feeling welcome. A cute, sweet, cozy that will give you fall vibes, delicious treats that had me wanting to taste them and a love story.
I received an ARC prior to publication and decided to voluntarily review it.
Are you looking for something to get you in the fall mood?
This enjoyable story is what you need to get the fall vibes going. Grab a cup of tea, a sweet treat and your favorite cozy blanket and sit back and enjoy.
Becca loves to bake and it seems that her baking has a “little” magic.
Lucas who has come to Maplewood for business has a hard time fitting in and feeling welcome. A cute, sweet, cozy that will give you fall vibes, delicious treats that had me wanting to taste them and a love story.
I received an ARC prior to publication and decided to voluntarily review it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Made with love and absolutely perfect for fall! ✨🍂
This witchy baking love story had me hooked from the start with its cozy atmosphere, delicious-sounding treats, and a slow-burn romance that made me want to savor every single page.
Becca is the heart of this story, and I loved the idea that her baking has a little magic of its own - sparking love and bringing people and their relationships together. Then there’s Lucas, who comes to Maplewood for a business deal. But being an outsider in a small town isn’t always easy, especially when change can make people nervous.
Becca’s initial fear of Lucas before knowing the full story made things even more complicated, and it was hard watching Lucas struggle to feel welcomed in a place that was slowly beginning to feel like home.
Of course, what’s a love story without a little heartache? A few misunderstandings definitely hurt some hearts, but watching everything unfold made those emotional moments hit even harder.
This was such a sweet, cozy read that felt like wrapping up in a blanket with something warm and delicious straight from the oven. Perfect for a fall reading mood!
Thank you so much for the ARC!
This witchy baking love story had me hooked from the start with its cozy atmosphere, delicious-sounding treats, and a slow-burn romance that made me want to savor every single page.
Becca is the heart of this story, and I loved the idea that her baking has a little magic of its own - sparking love and bringing people and their relationships together. Then there’s Lucas, who comes to Maplewood for a business deal. But being an outsider in a small town isn’t always easy, especially when change can make people nervous.
Becca’s initial fear of Lucas before knowing the full story made things even more complicated, and it was hard watching Lucas struggle to feel welcomed in a place that was slowly beginning to feel like home.
Of course, what’s a love story without a little heartache? A few misunderstandings definitely hurt some hearts, but watching everything unfold made those emotional moments hit even harder.
This was such a sweet, cozy read that felt like wrapping up in a blanket with something warm and delicious straight from the oven. Perfect for a fall reading mood!
Thank you so much for the ARC!
October 23, 2026
A heartwarming story about finding belonging, navigating life after loss, and looking for beauty in darkness, Made With Love is the perfect book for readers who love a cozy fall romance with a hint of magic.
The story takes place in the adorable town of Maplewood, as their renowned Harvest Festival approaches. Maplewood has all the ingredients a small town requires including friendly town gossip, cheesy store names, and people that genuinely care about one another. Who wouldn’t want to live here? Most importantly, Maplewood is home to a bakery which is rumored to have magical baked goods that “spark romance.”
Becca is the owner of the Made with Love bakery and does not believe her baking is magical, even though magic runs in her family. Her main priorities are keeping her bakery open and taking care of her mom, but they begin to shift when a tall, handsome stranger in a suit appears at her bakery door.
Lucas is taking a break from the city as he’s staying in Maplewood for a conference. He had a lot of different jobs before settling into sales, but he never found a place where he felt he belonged. However, as he spends more time with Becca, he begins to see that Maplewood is a perfect fit for him.
A meaningful aspect of the story is the way it explores grief and the lasting impact it has on you after losing someone you love. Even though Becca’s father passed away ten years earlier, his absence continues to affect her and her mother’s lives. I appreciate that the story acknowledges how loss does not simply disappear with time. I also love how Becca’s mother compares grief to ankle weights saying, “when you first put them on, the weight feels unbearable…but the longer you wear them…your legs get stronger.” This is a great metaphor as she continues to say, “Sure, every now and then you move a certain way and the weight reminds you – but mostly, you live with it. You learn to move with it.” As someone who has had to learn how to live with grief, I am able to relate to both Becca and her mother as they found ways to honor Becca’s father’s memory.
The small-town setting adds so much charm to the story as we get to see the close-knit community in Maplewood. Whether it’s the innocent town gossip spread by Patty or Mr. Murphy fixing things out of the kindness of his heart, I think the town is the true magic in this book.
Overall, Made With Love is a perfect read for anyone looking for a cozy fall romance with a touch of magic and meaningful emotional discussions. Its small-town setting, memorable characters, and exploration of grief give a nice balance between lighthearted moments and deeper themes. This book serves as a reminder that you can find beauty within the dark moments of your life, and sometimes, finding a sense of belonging is not about discovering a place where you fit in, but about finding the people who make you feel at home.
*I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The story takes place in the adorable town of Maplewood, as their renowned Harvest Festival approaches. Maplewood has all the ingredients a small town requires including friendly town gossip, cheesy store names, and people that genuinely care about one another. Who wouldn’t want to live here? Most importantly, Maplewood is home to a bakery which is rumored to have magical baked goods that “spark romance.”
Becca is the owner of the Made with Love bakery and does not believe her baking is magical, even though magic runs in her family. Her main priorities are keeping her bakery open and taking care of her mom, but they begin to shift when a tall, handsome stranger in a suit appears at her bakery door.
Lucas is taking a break from the city as he’s staying in Maplewood for a conference. He had a lot of different jobs before settling into sales, but he never found a place where he felt he belonged. However, as he spends more time with Becca, he begins to see that Maplewood is a perfect fit for him.
A meaningful aspect of the story is the way it explores grief and the lasting impact it has on you after losing someone you love. Even though Becca’s father passed away ten years earlier, his absence continues to affect her and her mother’s lives. I appreciate that the story acknowledges how loss does not simply disappear with time. I also love how Becca’s mother compares grief to ankle weights saying, “when you first put them on, the weight feels unbearable…but the longer you wear them…your legs get stronger.” This is a great metaphor as she continues to say, “Sure, every now and then you move a certain way and the weight reminds you – but mostly, you live with it. You learn to move with it.” As someone who has had to learn how to live with grief, I am able to relate to both Becca and her mother as they found ways to honor Becca’s father’s memory.
The small-town setting adds so much charm to the story as we get to see the close-knit community in Maplewood. Whether it’s the innocent town gossip spread by Patty or Mr. Murphy fixing things out of the kindness of his heart, I think the town is the true magic in this book.
Overall, Made With Love is a perfect read for anyone looking for a cozy fall romance with a touch of magic and meaningful emotional discussions. Its small-town setting, memorable characters, and exploration of grief give a nice balance between lighthearted moments and deeper themes. This book serves as a reminder that you can find beauty within the dark moments of your life, and sometimes, finding a sense of belonging is not about discovering a place where you fit in, but about finding the people who make you feel at home.
*I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 19, 2026
Made with Love is a wonderful fall read with total Stars Hollow vibes and a magical mother-daughter pairing. It was easy to get pulled into this fun town and all of its quirky characters. I would totally visit Maplewood if it were real!
Becca comes from a long line of magical gifts - her mother uses nature to heal, her grandmother could sometimes see what was going to happen. But the town thinks Becca's magic is her baking, despite Becca's claims that it is just tasty, no magic added! While trying to keep her bakery afloat and prepare for the town's annual festival, Becca meets Lucas who is visiting town for business. He is only supposed to be in town for the week - but a lot can happen in that time.
This is a sweet, spice-free romance and I love when we get the couple of chapters with Lucas's POV - oh the yearning ❤️🔥 Even though the romance is sweet and there is a lot of humor (oh the puns!), Becca and Lucas both have their own emotional baggage that weighs on them and you feel for both of them as they work through their grief and how it has impacted their lives. Overall, I really enjoyed these characters and the whole vibe of Maplewood. This read is like a warm hug - cozy, sweet, and you leave feeling good.
Becca comes from a long line of magical gifts - her mother uses nature to heal, her grandmother could sometimes see what was going to happen. But the town thinks Becca's magic is her baking, despite Becca's claims that it is just tasty, no magic added! While trying to keep her bakery afloat and prepare for the town's annual festival, Becca meets Lucas who is visiting town for business. He is only supposed to be in town for the week - but a lot can happen in that time.
This is a sweet, spice-free romance and I love when we get the couple of chapters with Lucas's POV - oh the yearning ❤️🔥 Even though the romance is sweet and there is a lot of humor (oh the puns!), Becca and Lucas both have their own emotional baggage that weighs on them and you feel for both of them as they work through their grief and how it has impacted their lives. Overall, I really enjoyed these characters and the whole vibe of Maplewood. This read is like a warm hug - cozy, sweet, and you leave feeling good.
November 1, 2026
"Made with Love: A Sweet Magical Romance" by Laura DiTieri is everything you could ask for in a Fall Romance—and more! The story is set in Maplewood, a picturesque small town, full of a fun, sweet, and interesting cast of characters and lots of businesses with “punny” names. The Bakery treats, the hot coffee, and a Fall Festival, get the reader in the mood for the season. The romance between small town baker, Becca, and out-of-towner, Lucas is a familiar one, but with a twist. In fact, this book has many of the elements of other seasonal romance stories, but with a magical twist and a lot of depth both within and between the characters. I especially love the relationship between Becca and her mom and the way it develops throughout the story and helps Becca recognize and embrace her gifts. Laura DiTieri has written a story that feels familiar and cozy, but with elements that make it unique and memorable. As the characters come to terms with grief from the past, they learn who they are now, and can move forward with -and in- love. And that is everyday magic!
October 17, 2026
Made With Love is the PERFECT fall read!! It’s such a fun combination of Gilmore Girls and Practical Magic. All the different foods will have you craving something sweet, so make sure you have a treat nearby while you’re reading! It’s more than just a romance, too. It touches on some beautiful and heavier themes in a way that adds depth without taking away from the cozy feeling of the story, and I really loved that. I also loved that the bakery was peanut-free, it was such a thoughtful detail! I really want to visit Maplewood in real life, and isn’t that what the best books do? They make you wish you could step right into their world. There are so many fun, sweet, and cozy moments throughout this book. If you’re looking for the perfect fall romance, don’t miss out on this one!
October 18, 2026
Review courtesy of the Author and BookSirens
I had the amazing opportunity to read Made with Love and let me tell you, this was a perfect cozy fall read!
I could not put this story down and finished it basically in 1 day!
Becca comes from a family that always had that extra spark, but she tries to deny that her baking is anything more than skill. She dismisses the whispers that her pies aid in love and help resolve conflicts.
When Lucas comes to town to finalise a business deal, he is instantly charmed by Becca and the small town she calls home.
But they both need to overcome their past and fear of hurt that lingers in their hearts.
This is a lovely story that will make your heart warm!
I had the amazing opportunity to read Made with Love and let me tell you, this was a perfect cozy fall read!
I could not put this story down and finished it basically in 1 day!
Becca comes from a family that always had that extra spark, but she tries to deny that her baking is anything more than skill. She dismisses the whispers that her pies aid in love and help resolve conflicts.
When Lucas comes to town to finalise a business deal, he is instantly charmed by Becca and the small town she calls home.
But they both need to overcome their past and fear of hurt that lingers in their hearts.
This is a lovely story that will make your heart warm!
October 5, 2026
🥧 Made with Love by Laura Ditieri 🍂
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
They say that the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, Made with Love by Laura Ditieri makes that statement almost literal. This is a cozy, cute small town romance with Gilmore Girls vibe and a touch of magic! This is such a perfect fall read! My only pet peeve, the chapters are incredibly LONG! But despite that this is still an easy 4 ⭐️ read for me!
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
They say that the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, Made with Love by Laura Ditieri makes that statement almost literal. This is a cozy, cute small town romance with Gilmore Girls vibe and a touch of magic! This is such a perfect fall read! My only pet peeve, the chapters are incredibly LONG! But despite that this is still an easy 4 ⭐️ read for me!
Review of advance copy
I went into Made with Love expecting a cute, easy romance and that is exactly what I got. It’s a simple story, but there’s something genuinely enjoyable about it.
The baking was probably my favourite part. I liked how much of the story revolved around food without it feeling completely disconnected from the characters, especially with Becca and her relationship with her mother. The magical element was also interesting, although I would say it was more of a subtle addition to the story than a major part of the plot.
Becca and Lucas were cute, and I enjoyed watching Lucas become attached to Maplewood and the people there. It was predictable but still nice.
There are several places where the same emotion or idea is explained multiple times when the scene itself had already made the point.
Still, I enjoyed the overall experience. It wasn't a perfect read for me, but it was an enjoyable one.
(I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.)
Review of advance copy received from Author
Made With Love is a fun, wonderfully written, and surprisingly touching story. It’s the perfect fall read as the cool weather starts rolling in. The author does a great job balancing clever storytelling, humor, and entertaining characters with a heartfelt storyline that gives the book real emotional depth.
I appreciated how well everything came together as the story moved forward; keeping the reader guessing with some surprises along the way. Made with Love has a ton of charm without losing its emotional core, making it a truly enjoyable read, even if romance isn’t usually your genre.
If you’re looking for something entertaining, well-written, and full of heart to jump into this fall, I’d highly recommend picking up Made With Love. It’s a delightful read with memorable characters, plenty of humor, and a storyline that stays with you.
I appreciated how well everything came together as the story moved forward; keeping the reader guessing with some surprises along the way. Made with Love has a ton of charm without losing its emotional core, making it a truly enjoyable read, even if romance isn’t usually your genre.
If you’re looking for something entertaining, well-written, and full of heart to jump into this fall, I’d highly recommend picking up Made With Love. It’s a delightful read with memorable characters, plenty of humor, and a storyline that stays with you.
October 21, 2026
Made with love is a perfect cozy romance book for fall!
This is a witchy baking love story that had me smitten from the beginning with its cozy vibes drool worthy sounding treats, and a slow-burn romance that makes you want to keep turning pages.
So curl up and snuggle in with your favorite beverage and grab your go to sweet treat and be prepared to devour this book
5⭐️
This is a witchy baking love story that had me smitten from the beginning with its cozy vibes drool worthy sounding treats, and a slow-burn romance that makes you want to keep turning pages.
So curl up and snuggle in with your favorite beverage and grab your go to sweet treat and be prepared to devour this book
5⭐️
October 20, 2026
If you are looking for a cozy fall read to enjoy this year, look no further! This was such a great mash up of Simply Irresistible meets Hallmark. The town is cozy, the characters are light hearted, the romance is sweet, and there is a touch of magic in the pages of the story. It was a fun quick read with some good humor. It is available on KU! Happy reading!
October 21, 2026
Such a lovely fall read! I quickly fell in love with this book and the characters. With the ever slow burning love to the new power concept and how magical baking works. Like a few other reviews this book reminded me so much of Gilmore girls in all the best ways.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you so much!!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you so much!!
November 2, 2026
If you are looking for a cozy sweet witchy romance this is for you. We meet Rebecca and Lucas. Rebecca is the owner of a bakery with a little magic on the side. Lucas is new to town and is having trouble fitting in. What happens next read to find out.
October 17, 2026
perfectly channeling that nostalgic Gilmore Girls energy with a pinch of practical magic. It is a powerful, deeply genuine story about grief, healing, and having the courage to lower your guard. If you want a comforting, beautifully written romance to wrap yourself up in, you need to read this!
October 28, 2026
Very sweet and cozy story, made for reading with a PSL and cinnamon roll. Hallmark vibes, but make it fall.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 18, 2026
A fun fall read! It reminds me of a cute ’90s rom-com with a touch of magic!
October 14, 2026
This was so sweet and wholesome. Clean romance, only kissing. There is magic sprinkled in with sugar! This is just so darling and I am so glad I got the chance to read it.
This is an arc and my review is my own.
This is an arc and my review is my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
RTC
October 25, 2026
This was so cliche and cheesy it wasn’t even enjoyable. This reads like a bad hallmark Christmas movie special.
This had an opportunity to be a unique little story, but ultimately falls unpredictably flat. I think if the characters were stronger and it was less predictable and cliche it had a shot. Alas, we’ll never know.
Based on other Goodreads reviews I’m definitely not in the same bot as we’ve try one else. Maybe this one just wasn’t for me or my expectations were too high. A fall stars hollow feel but more cliche.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This had an opportunity to be a unique little story, but ultimately falls unpredictably flat. I think if the characters were stronger and it was less predictable and cliche it had a shot. Alas, we’ll never know.
Based on other Goodreads reviews I’m definitely not in the same bot as we’ve try one else. Maybe this one just wasn’t for me or my expectations were too high. A fall stars hollow feel but more cliche.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 18, 2026
This was a cute book for fall. A magical, small-town romance for all those Hallmark movie watchers. Only this time, the guy is from out of town lol
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews