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Christmas at the First Sip Coffee Shop: A feel-good, small town, festive romance
Mince pies. Gingerbread snowmen. Choose your favourite Christmas treat, grab a blanket and settle in with this heartwarming cosy romance.
Lucy Wilson built the First Sip coffee shop from nothing. She loves every mismatched chair, every cosy corner, every friendly face that comes through the door.
She doesn’t love Dylan Benjamin. Charming, cocky and far too sure he can fix everything. He’s the last person Lucy would ask for help.
But when her landlord decides to sell the building, it’s Dylan who steps in and saves her beloved coffee shop. Now he is part owner of First Sip and in her space every single day.
Then the consequences of the night neither of them will talk about come to light and keeping her distance gets a lot harder. Because Lucy is starting to see the man behind the cocky smile.
It's Christmas in Castle Cove. The tree’s going up on the High Street, the choir’s singing and First Sip is filled with gingerbread lattes, mince pies and unexpected second chances.
Dylan has proposed twice. Lucy has said no twice.
But with Christmas Eve approaching, she’s running out of reasons to say no again.
A warm, funny, feel-good Christmas romance set in a Cornish seaside town, with a guaranteed happy ending. Perfect for fans of Jenny Colgan, Cressy McLaughlin, Donna Ashcroft, Heidi Swain and Sarah Morgan.
Small-town Christmas
Enemies to lovers
Accidental pregnancy
Forced proximity
Grumpy x sunshine
Readers love Emma Bennet’s Christmas at the First Sip Coffee Shop:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘Pure escapism . . . If you want a lovely festive read then this one definitely hits the spot.’
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘This was the sweetest and coziest Christmas read I have read so far this year . . . [Castle Cove is] the cutest little town with shops I would love to visit!’
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘A warm and feel-good read. I loved the cosy coffee-shop setting, the small-town atmosphere and all the festive touches throughout the story. It’s the kind of book that makes you want to curl up under a blanket with a hot chocolate while Christmas music plays in the background . . . Between the coffee shop, gingerbread lattes, mince pies and festive atmosphere, Emma Bennet created such a lovely little world in Castle Cove.’
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘Christmas at the First Sip Coffee Shop was such a sweet and cozy holiday romance! 🎄☕️’
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘Pulls you in from the very first chapter and refuses to let go . . . this is an absolute must-read.’
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘This was the perfect holiday romance.’
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘It will definitely put you in the Christmas spirit.’
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘I loved the seaside setting, atmosphere and the festivities.’
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘I just loved this cosy book so much!’
Lucy Wilson built the First Sip coffee shop from nothing. She loves every mismatched chair, every cosy corner, every friendly face that comes through the door.
She doesn’t love Dylan Benjamin. Charming, cocky and far too sure he can fix everything. He’s the last person Lucy would ask for help.
But when her landlord decides to sell the building, it’s Dylan who steps in and saves her beloved coffee shop. Now he is part owner of First Sip and in her space every single day.
Then the consequences of the night neither of them will talk about come to light and keeping her distance gets a lot harder. Because Lucy is starting to see the man behind the cocky smile.
It's Christmas in Castle Cove. The tree’s going up on the High Street, the choir’s singing and First Sip is filled with gingerbread lattes, mince pies and unexpected second chances.
Dylan has proposed twice. Lucy has said no twice.
But with Christmas Eve approaching, she’s running out of reasons to say no again.
A warm, funny, feel-good Christmas romance set in a Cornish seaside town, with a guaranteed happy ending. Perfect for fans of Jenny Colgan, Cressy McLaughlin, Donna Ashcroft, Heidi Swain and Sarah Morgan.
Small-town Christmas
Enemies to lovers
Accidental pregnancy
Forced proximity
Grumpy x sunshine
Readers love Emma Bennet’s Christmas at the First Sip Coffee Shop:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘Pure escapism . . . If you want a lovely festive read then this one definitely hits the spot.’
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘This was the sweetest and coziest Christmas read I have read so far this year . . . [Castle Cove is] the cutest little town with shops I would love to visit!’
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘A warm and feel-good read. I loved the cosy coffee-shop setting, the small-town atmosphere and all the festive touches throughout the story. It’s the kind of book that makes you want to curl up under a blanket with a hot chocolate while Christmas music plays in the background . . . Between the coffee shop, gingerbread lattes, mince pies and festive atmosphere, Emma Bennet created such a lovely little world in Castle Cove.’
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘Christmas at the First Sip Coffee Shop was such a sweet and cozy holiday romance! 🎄☕️’
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘Pulls you in from the very first chapter and refuses to let go . . . this is an absolute must-read.’
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘This was the perfect holiday romance.’
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘It will definitely put you in the Christmas spirit.’
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘I loved the seaside setting, atmosphere and the festivities.’
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘I just loved this cosy book so much!’
252 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication October 12, 2026
About the author
Emma Bennet
33 books184 followersEmma grew up and lived in London, before falling in love and moving to Wales to marry her own hero. Emma now lives with her husband, 4 children, and many animals a few miles outside of a small Welsh market town. She can often be found in rivers attempting to control two overexcited chocolate labradors.
Seven charming romances are currently available from the Amazon bestselling authoress:
Number 1 Australian kindle bestseller, 'His Secret Daughter', is the heart-rending story of Iris, a woman falling in love with the father of her child. The only problem is she never told him they had a daughter.
The beautiful landscape around her home gave Emma the inspiration for 'The Green Hills of Home', a tale of love and duty in which country girl Gwen struggles to save her family home and avoid her feelings for her handsome, suave new boss. Is he quite all he seems?
'Snowed in for her Wedding Day' is a novella picking up Gwen's story as her wedding day approaches, but with terrible weather, and an absent groom, will she have the happy ending she so deserves?
'Just Desserts' is a novella about confused chef Leah, who's falling for her handsome French co-worker Jean-Claude, but meant to be marrying to Dan in just a few weeks! Who will she choose?
'Her Perfect Hero' was released in July 2015 as 'I Need a Hero', it's a lovely comic romantic read for anyone who's ever searched for Mr Right (and failed to find him!). Despair of Bronte, a romance writer, incapable of spotting when the perfect man is right next door! Full of horses, country houses and dentists, just beware of the foul-tempered cat Mr Darcy!
'Starstruck', proves that falling in love with a rock star is harder than you'd think! When newly divorced Kate finds school friend, now super famous rock star Joseph Wild, on her doorstep, her whole quiet, ordinary life is thrown into disarray. Is the attraction between them enough to make up for all the hurdles they have to cross if they want to be together?
Latest release, 'Her Sister's Baby' is a beautiful and emotional story about grief, the promises we make and finding love in the most unexpected of places.
Emma likes (in no particular order): cake, books, Cary Grant films, prosecco, chocolate, guinea pigs, knitting, quilting and happily ever afters!
Seven charming romances are currently available from the Amazon bestselling authoress:
Number 1 Australian kindle bestseller, 'His Secret Daughter', is the heart-rending story of Iris, a woman falling in love with the father of her child. The only problem is she never told him they had a daughter.
The beautiful landscape around her home gave Emma the inspiration for 'The Green Hills of Home', a tale of love and duty in which country girl Gwen struggles to save her family home and avoid her feelings for her handsome, suave new boss. Is he quite all he seems?
'Snowed in for her Wedding Day' is a novella picking up Gwen's story as her wedding day approaches, but with terrible weather, and an absent groom, will she have the happy ending she so deserves?
'Just Desserts' is a novella about confused chef Leah, who's falling for her handsome French co-worker Jean-Claude, but meant to be marrying to Dan in just a few weeks! Who will she choose?
'Her Perfect Hero' was released in July 2015 as 'I Need a Hero', it's a lovely comic romantic read for anyone who's ever searched for Mr Right (and failed to find him!). Despair of Bronte, a romance writer, incapable of spotting when the perfect man is right next door! Full of horses, country houses and dentists, just beware of the foul-tempered cat Mr Darcy!
'Starstruck', proves that falling in love with a rock star is harder than you'd think! When newly divorced Kate finds school friend, now super famous rock star Joseph Wild, on her doorstep, her whole quiet, ordinary life is thrown into disarray. Is the attraction between them enough to make up for all the hurdles they have to cross if they want to be together?
Latest release, 'Her Sister's Baby' is a beautiful and emotional story about grief, the promises we make and finding love in the most unexpected of places.
Emma likes (in no particular order): cake, books, Cary Grant films, prosecco, chocolate, guinea pigs, knitting, quilting and happily ever afters!
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
4 🌟
This was such a sweet Christmas time romance. The characters were wonderfully written and felt extremely real. The addition of classic Christmas time traditions was the cherry on top.
This is an accidental pregnancy trope. Which typically isn't my favorite, but I trusted the author since I loved Book one and I'm glad I did. To be clear, it isn't necessary to read book one, but there is character crossover so maybe give it a quick read.
From annoyance, to mild concern, to the bedroom, followed by morning of regret, our couple have known each other for years and may feel some type of way about each other.
Lucy, a small town coffee shop owner, finds him an annoying womanizer that she just joined as a notch in his belt. She is very much a do-it-myself kind of person. She does admit when she needs help, but she'll do her best by herself first.
Dylan, an ethical hacker [still debating if that's actually a thing, but technically he is in cybersecurity], a chivalrous, blue eyed, level headed, and patient man who just might be misunderstood.
I loved his effort and subtle way of helping Lucy. Sometimes it seems as if he is a bit over the top with his help, but it's easy to see how much he cares and is trying to be there for her and their baby.
I loved how sweet their chemistry is. The way they listen to each other even when not conversing with each other. Little tidbits like having their favorite candy because they heard them mention it to someone. Or how they take their coffee and not even knowing when they heard it, but just naturally keeping that knowledge. They listen with their heart.
It did feel rushed at times. Like her bringing Dylan to her parents and then suddenly it's the next scene when they have departed. Beyond that it was a very enjoyable read.
Thanks to Joffe Books/Chocolate Lit, Emma Bennet, and NetGalley for sending for me an Arc to review.
This was such a sweet Christmas time romance. The characters were wonderfully written and felt extremely real. The addition of classic Christmas time traditions was the cherry on top.
This is an accidental pregnancy trope. Which typically isn't my favorite, but I trusted the author since I loved Book one and I'm glad I did. To be clear, it isn't necessary to read book one, but there is character crossover so maybe give it a quick read.
From annoyance, to mild concern, to the bedroom, followed by morning of regret, our couple have known each other for years and may feel some type of way about each other.
Lucy, a small town coffee shop owner, finds him an annoying womanizer that she just joined as a notch in his belt. She is very much a do-it-myself kind of person. She does admit when she needs help, but she'll do her best by herself first.
Dylan, an ethical hacker [still debating if that's actually a thing, but technically he is in cybersecurity], a chivalrous, blue eyed, level headed, and patient man who just might be misunderstood.
I loved his effort and subtle way of helping Lucy. Sometimes it seems as if he is a bit over the top with his help, but it's easy to see how much he cares and is trying to be there for her and their baby.
I loved how sweet their chemistry is. The way they listen to each other even when not conversing with each other. Little tidbits like having their favorite candy because they heard them mention it to someone. Or how they take their coffee and not even knowing when they heard it, but just naturally keeping that knowledge. They listen with their heart.
It did feel rushed at times. Like her bringing Dylan to her parents and then suddenly it's the next scene when they have departed. Beyond that it was a very enjoyable read.
Thanks to Joffe Books/Chocolate Lit, Emma Bennet, and NetGalley for sending for me an Arc to review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Lucy has rejected Dylan’s marriage proposal twice, is pregnant from the one night they absolutely do not discuss normally, and still somehow acts like the main issue here is that she finds him annoying. Ma’am. At this point the coffee shop is not the most complicated thing you own.
And yes, in a shocking display of preparedness, I actually read book one in the Castle Cove series. I know. Character growth. A New Start at the Happily Ever After Bookshop already established that Castle Cove is basically a seaside town where every business owner has unresolved feelings and every available man seems to have been handcrafted for one specific woman.
Lucy owns First Sip, lives above it, loves the place like it is a person, and then gets told the building is being sold. Which means she could lose the shop AND her home. Very festive. Nothing says Christmas like possible homelessness with cinnamon on top.
Naturally, Dylan is standing there when she finds out. Of course he is. The man Lucy least wants help from immediately offers to help her buy the building and then makes it clear he is not just going to hand her money and disappear. Which is inconvenient because Lucy has already decided Dylan is charming, cocky, unserious, and generally not someone she wants woven into her life any more than he already is.
The problem is, Dylan keeps behaving like a better man than the one she has filed away in her head. He shows up. He takes care of her. He listens. He lets her see the parts of him that do not match the playboy reputation. And Lucy keeps having to quietly revise her opinion while pretending she is not revising anything at all.
Also, calling this enemies to lovers is generous. These people are not enemies. They are two adults who slept together, produced a major life complication, have already had TWO proposals, and are now forced to work together while still trying to act like this is mostly about personality differences. It is not. The ship left the harbor several emotional disasters ago.
What worked best for me was watching Lucy slowly realize that accepting Dylan’s help is not the same thing as losing control of her life. She built First Sip herself. She made the home, the business, the community, all of it. Letting someone stand beside her feels much scarier than doing everything alone because now she actually has something to lose emotionally.
And Castle Cove is still aggressively cozy about all of this. Christmas tree on the High Street, choir singing, gingerbread lattes, mince pies, little shops, everybody knowing everybody. This town has absolutely no respect for personal boundaries when romance is involved. You will heal, fall in love, and participate in community events whether you like it or not.
I did want Lucy to stop resisting Dylan a little sooner because after a while I was like, babe, he has shown you who he is several times now. We can retire the old file. But the resistance made sense with how protective she is of the life she built, and I liked them once they finally stopped circling the obvious. "Christmas at the First Sip Coffee Shop" ended up at 3.5 stars for me. Sweet, festive, easy to sink into, and significantly improved whenever Lucy and Dylan actually talked like people who had already created an entire human together.
Merry Mayhem Prize: For Requiring Two Rejected Proposals, One Accidental Pregnancy, a Threatened Coffee Shop, and Several Christmas Activities Before Lucy Finally Admits Dylan Might Not Be the Problem
Thank you to Joffe Books and NetGalley for the ARC, and for returning me to Castle Cove, where every cozy business apparently comes with one romantic crisis, one emotionally available man waiting nearby, and at least three baked goods watching it all happen.
And yes, in a shocking display of preparedness, I actually read book one in the Castle Cove series. I know. Character growth. A New Start at the Happily Ever After Bookshop already established that Castle Cove is basically a seaside town where every business owner has unresolved feelings and every available man seems to have been handcrafted for one specific woman.
Lucy owns First Sip, lives above it, loves the place like it is a person, and then gets told the building is being sold. Which means she could lose the shop AND her home. Very festive. Nothing says Christmas like possible homelessness with cinnamon on top.
Naturally, Dylan is standing there when she finds out. Of course he is. The man Lucy least wants help from immediately offers to help her buy the building and then makes it clear he is not just going to hand her money and disappear. Which is inconvenient because Lucy has already decided Dylan is charming, cocky, unserious, and generally not someone she wants woven into her life any more than he already is.
The problem is, Dylan keeps behaving like a better man than the one she has filed away in her head. He shows up. He takes care of her. He listens. He lets her see the parts of him that do not match the playboy reputation. And Lucy keeps having to quietly revise her opinion while pretending she is not revising anything at all.
Also, calling this enemies to lovers is generous. These people are not enemies. They are two adults who slept together, produced a major life complication, have already had TWO proposals, and are now forced to work together while still trying to act like this is mostly about personality differences. It is not. The ship left the harbor several emotional disasters ago.
What worked best for me was watching Lucy slowly realize that accepting Dylan’s help is not the same thing as losing control of her life. She built First Sip herself. She made the home, the business, the community, all of it. Letting someone stand beside her feels much scarier than doing everything alone because now she actually has something to lose emotionally.
And Castle Cove is still aggressively cozy about all of this. Christmas tree on the High Street, choir singing, gingerbread lattes, mince pies, little shops, everybody knowing everybody. This town has absolutely no respect for personal boundaries when romance is involved. You will heal, fall in love, and participate in community events whether you like it or not.
I did want Lucy to stop resisting Dylan a little sooner because after a while I was like, babe, he has shown you who he is several times now. We can retire the old file. But the resistance made sense with how protective she is of the life she built, and I liked them once they finally stopped circling the obvious. "Christmas at the First Sip Coffee Shop" ended up at 3.5 stars for me. Sweet, festive, easy to sink into, and significantly improved whenever Lucy and Dylan actually talked like people who had already created an entire human together.
Merry Mayhem Prize: For Requiring Two Rejected Proposals, One Accidental Pregnancy, a Threatened Coffee Shop, and Several Christmas Activities Before Lucy Finally Admits Dylan Might Not Be the Problem
Thank you to Joffe Books and NetGalley for the ARC, and for returning me to Castle Cove, where every cozy business apparently comes with one romantic crisis, one emotionally available man waiting nearby, and at least three baked goods watching it all happen.
September 28, 2026
I really wanted to love Christmas at the First Sip Coffee Shop, but unfortunately it was just okay for me.
Lucy Wilson built the First Sip coffee shop in Castle Cove from the ground up, and it’s everything she loves—until her landlord decides to sell the building, putting both her business and her home at risk. Enter Dylan Benjamin, the charming, cocky man who drives Lucy crazy. He offers to help her buy the building, but insists on being involved rather than simply becoming a silent partner. Forced to work together, Lucy starts to see a different side of Dylan, especially as the secret surrounding the night they’ve both avoided talking about finally comes to light. Add in two rejected proposals, an accidental pregnancy, and Christmas approaching in Castle Cove, and there’s plenty going on.
There were definitely elements of a cozy romance that I enjoyed. The coffee shop setting, small-town atmosphere, and Christmas touches were all really cute, and there were parts of the story that I genuinely loved. However, I found myself wishing there was more Christmas throughout the book. For a book with Christmas in the title, the holiday aspect felt more limited than I expected.
The pacing was probably my biggest issue. There were quite a few slow moments where I struggled to stay engaged, and the pacing felt a little off throughout. Some parts were really good and had me completely invested, but then the story would slow down again and become harder to get through.
Overall, I think this had the makings of a really cute, cozy Christmas romance, but it just didn’t quite hit the mark for me. A few parts really worked, but overall it was a 3-star read.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was so glad I could jump straight into this second book after reading the first in the series, as all the characters were familiar to me, and I read it in an afternoon, cosy on my sofa, thinking of Christmas!
This book focuses on Lucy, the owner of the First Sip Coffee Shop, located right next to the bookshop featured in the first book.
We get into the nitty-gritty of the romantic twist pretty fast, as Lucy finds herself in a situation with Dylan, best friend of her best friend's husband, right at the start of the story.
I loved how it all came together in this enemies-to-friends-to-lovers story, where things go a little back to front, but as we get to know the characters, we also get to experience some wonderful festive moments as Lucy helps Dylan enjoy Christmas, since he has never had a chance to before.
This can be read as a standalone; however, I had picked up on some angst/chemistry between Lucy and Dylan in the first book, so the story felt even more complete for me!
This book focuses on Lucy, the owner of the First Sip Coffee Shop, located right next to the bookshop featured in the first book.
We get into the nitty-gritty of the romantic twist pretty fast, as Lucy finds herself in a situation with Dylan, best friend of her best friend's husband, right at the start of the story.
I loved how it all came together in this enemies-to-friends-to-lovers story, where things go a little back to front, but as we get to know the characters, we also get to experience some wonderful festive moments as Lucy helps Dylan enjoy Christmas, since he has never had a chance to before.
This can be read as a standalone; however, I had picked up on some angst/chemistry between Lucy and Dylan in the first book, so the story felt even more complete for me!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
What a gorgeous festive read. It has all the feels and i was there for every single page. I read about 70% in one sitting, I was addicted.
I loved the characters Lucy and Dylan, they were just the perfect pair for lead characters.
I could picture being in Castle Cove, it sounds so idyllic.
It's a first for me reading one of Emma's books and it definitely wont be my last.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I loved the characters Lucy and Dylan, they were just the perfect pair for lead characters.
I could picture being in Castle Cove, it sounds so idyllic.
It's a first for me reading one of Emma's books and it definitely wont be my last.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
3.5 Stars
A festive, feel-good read that will surely please a host of holiday readers. There were some charming moments, fun holiday vibes, and a sweet romance. I just wasn't a fan of some of the tropes, so it didn't quite land for me. Thanks to Netgalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
A festive, feel-good read that will surely please a host of holiday readers. There were some charming moments, fun holiday vibes, and a sweet romance. I just wasn't a fan of some of the tropes, so it didn't quite land for me. Thanks to Netgalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I received an advance review copy from Joffe Books and NetGalley, and I am voluntarily leaving my honest thoughts.
Returning to Castle Cove—a seaside town where every business owner seems to have unresolved feelings and an emotionally available man waiting in the wings—was such a cozy, festive treat! Christmas at the First Sip Coffee Shop is a sweet, easy-to-sink-into holiday read that drops you right into the middle of a delightful emotional mess.
The story follows Lucy, owner of the beloved First Sip coffee shop, who lives above her store and loves it with everything she has. Right before Christmas, she faces every small-business owner's worst nightmare: her building is being sold, putting both her home and livelihood on the line. Enter Dylan, the charming, cocky man Lucy least wants help from. Not only has she already rejected two of his marriage proposals, but she is also currently pregnant from a one-night stand they both pretend isn't the elephant in the room. When Dylan steps up to help her buy the building, Lucy is forced to spend time with the man she has filed away as an unserious playboy—only to realize he keeps proving her wrong at every turn.
What makes this story shine is Lucy’s internal growth. Watching her slowly realize that accepting Dylan’s support isn't the same as surrendering her independence is deeply relatable. She built her life, home, and business from scratch, so letting someone in feels far scarier than carrying the weight alone. Dylan is a fantastic love interest—attentive, steady, and determined to show her the real man beneath his reputation. Their dynamic is less "enemies-to-lovers" and more two headstrong adults navigating two rejected proposals, an accidental pregnancy, and forced proximity while trying to pretend it’s all just "personality differences."
Castle Cove itself is aggressively cozy, packed with High Street Christmas trees, choir music, gingerbread lattes, and a nosy, heartwarming community that insists on healing you whether you like it or not. While Lucy’s stubborn resistance to Dylan stretched a bit long when his actions spoke for themselves, the emotional payoff once they finally communicate makes it completely worth the wait.
If you are looking for a festive, heartwarming holiday read with a swoon-worthy hero, a fiercely independent heroine, and plenty of cozy coastal charm, this is a lovely seasonal pick! 🎄☕✨
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
🎄 Blurb-
Lucy Wilson built the First Sip coffee shop from nothing. She loves every mismatched chair, every cosy corner, every friendly face that comes through the door.
The one thing she doesn’t love is Dylan Benjamin. Charming, cocky and far too sure he can fix everything. He’s the last person Lucy would ask for help.
Then her landlord decides to sell the building. Her business and her home will be gone by spring. And Dylan is standing right there when she reads the letter.
He offers to help her buy it. And he refuses to be a silent partner.
Forced to work together, Lucy sees a different side to the man who drives her mad. Especially when the secret behind the night they never talk about comes out.
It's Christmas in Castle Cove. The tree’s going up on the High Street, the choir’s singing and First Sip is filled with gingerbread lattes, mince pies and unexpected second chances.
Dylan has proposed twice. Lucy has said no twice.
But with Christmas Eve approaching, she’s running out of reasons to say no again.
☕ Review -
This was such a cute and cosy festive read. I have read and enjoyed other books by the author before and have enjoyed them. I loved the small town place setting, it sounded cute and cosy and there was a great cast of characters. I loved Lucy and Dylan's chemistry and I wanted them to have their happy ending. I read the book in one sitting as I couldn't put it down and I wanted to know what happened. I highly recommend it and I look forward to reading more by the author.
❤️Thank you to Choclit and the author Emma Bennet for my arc ebook copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Lucy Wilson built the First Sip coffee shop from nothing. She loves every mismatched chair, every cosy corner, every friendly face that comes through the door.
The one thing she doesn’t love is Dylan Benjamin. Charming, cocky and far too sure he can fix everything. He’s the last person Lucy would ask for help.
Then her landlord decides to sell the building. Her business and her home will be gone by spring. And Dylan is standing right there when she reads the letter.
He offers to help her buy it. And he refuses to be a silent partner.
Forced to work together, Lucy sees a different side to the man who drives her mad. Especially when the secret behind the night they never talk about comes out.
It's Christmas in Castle Cove. The tree’s going up on the High Street, the choir’s singing and First Sip is filled with gingerbread lattes, mince pies and unexpected second chances.
Dylan has proposed twice. Lucy has said no twice.
But with Christmas Eve approaching, she’s running out of reasons to say no again.
☕ Review -
This was such a cute and cosy festive read. I have read and enjoyed other books by the author before and have enjoyed them. I loved the small town place setting, it sounded cute and cosy and there was a great cast of characters. I loved Lucy and Dylan's chemistry and I wanted them to have their happy ending. I read the book in one sitting as I couldn't put it down and I wanted to know what happened. I highly recommend it and I look forward to reading more by the author.
❤️Thank you to Choclit and the author Emma Bennet for my arc ebook copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
🚨 SPOILER ALERT: READ AT YOUR OWN RISK!
I am giving Christmas at the First Sip Coffee Shop by Emma Bennet an absolute 5-star review! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
A charming, cozy coastal Christmas romance packed with snappy frenemies-to-lovers bantering, "he fell first" devotion, coffee shop magic, and a trope twist so well executed it will win over even the biggest sceptics! ☕🎄🏡✨
ARC Disclosure: A big thank you to the author, Emma Bennet, for providing an advance digital review copy (eARC) of this book! All thoughts, fanatical reactions, and honest reflections shared in this review are entirely my own.
The Review
So this is Book 2 in the Castle Cove series of standalones, and I loved it even more! Dylan and Lucy are an amazing pair. Their (fr)enemies-to-lovers situation going into business together—because of course the moment she discovers her shop and house above it are going to be sold, he's right there, and of course he comes back later on to offer to team up and buy the place because "it's a good investment"... yeah right, Dylan, we see through you... and we love it and you!
The "he falls first" trope here is so well done that when the accidental pregnancy comes, it doesn't bother me one bit (as it usually does).
I absolutely loved them. And getting the chance to know more about Carrie and Michael from Book 1 is a plus I was waiting for!
The Good
Dylan's transparent "good investment" excuses masking his total devotion, Lucy's fierce independence, the seamless execution of the accidental pregnancy trope, and catching up with Carrie and Michael in Castle Cove!
The Not So Good
Having to say goodbye to Castle Cove again until the next standalone comes along!
I am giving Christmas at the First Sip Coffee Shop by Emma Bennet an absolute 5-star review! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
A charming, cozy coastal Christmas romance packed with snappy frenemies-to-lovers bantering, "he fell first" devotion, coffee shop magic, and a trope twist so well executed it will win over even the biggest sceptics! ☕🎄🏡✨
ARC Disclosure: A big thank you to the author, Emma Bennet, for providing an advance digital review copy (eARC) of this book! All thoughts, fanatical reactions, and honest reflections shared in this review are entirely my own.
The Review
So this is Book 2 in the Castle Cove series of standalones, and I loved it even more! Dylan and Lucy are an amazing pair. Their (fr)enemies-to-lovers situation going into business together—because of course the moment she discovers her shop and house above it are going to be sold, he's right there, and of course he comes back later on to offer to team up and buy the place because "it's a good investment"... yeah right, Dylan, we see through you... and we love it and you!
The "he falls first" trope here is so well done that when the accidental pregnancy comes, it doesn't bother me one bit (as it usually does).
I absolutely loved them. And getting the chance to know more about Carrie and Michael from Book 1 is a plus I was waiting for!
The Good
Dylan's transparent "good investment" excuses masking his total devotion, Lucy's fierce independence, the seamless execution of the accidental pregnancy trope, and catching up with Carrie and Michael in Castle Cove!
The Not So Good
Having to say goodbye to Castle Cove again until the next standalone comes along!
October 2, 2026
Advanced reader copy for NetGalley.
All thoughts and opinions are my own and are not swayed by it being a ARC.
I tried really hard to enjoy this book, but unfortunately it just wasn’t for me and I almost DNF it at the half way point. The pacing was off with this in my opinion, I couldn’t connect to the characters as I couldn’t get behind the change in ‘disliking’ to spending the night together, it felt really forced and not natural.
That being said it it did have cute moments in the story and was the definition of a cozy read. After the first few chapters I was just confused with the pacing and the choice to make events happen before others. I personally think the story would have worked better if they became partners in order to save the coffee shop and then spent the night together. Lucy would have got to know him while working with him and began to see him in a different light, making everything more believable and allow tension to build up. Though one of the tropes for this is enemies to lovers, which happens to be in of my favourites, this in my opinion was not that at all because we weren’t given enough time to see Lucy ‘hate’ Dylan and then grow to like him.
Just because I didn’t find myself loving this story, doesn’t mean that others wouldn’t. It’s an easy read and has lots of elements for others to like.
All thoughts and opinions are my own and are not swayed by it being a ARC.
I tried really hard to enjoy this book, but unfortunately it just wasn’t for me and I almost DNF it at the half way point. The pacing was off with this in my opinion, I couldn’t connect to the characters as I couldn’t get behind the change in ‘disliking’ to spending the night together, it felt really forced and not natural.
That being said it it did have cute moments in the story and was the definition of a cozy read. After the first few chapters I was just confused with the pacing and the choice to make events happen before others. I personally think the story would have worked better if they became partners in order to save the coffee shop and then spent the night together. Lucy would have got to know him while working with him and began to see him in a different light, making everything more believable and allow tension to build up. Though one of the tropes for this is enemies to lovers, which happens to be in of my favourites, this in my opinion was not that at all because we weren’t given enough time to see Lucy ‘hate’ Dylan and then grow to like him.
Just because I didn’t find myself loving this story, doesn’t mean that others wouldn’t. It’s an easy read and has lots of elements for others to like.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Such a sweet holiday infused read that will make you want to make memories too!
Lucy and Dylan have always driven each other crazy but a night together after a town holiday festival planning session changes everything. From the moment Dylan knows about Lucy's pregnancy, he shows up--and not just for the baby, but Lucy as a person and for her coffee shop.
I loved how Dylan proved his qualities and personality through acts of service and consistent kindness and patience. Finding out he cooks was a sweet addition to his already charming personality. Dylan's willingness to do whatever it takes for his kid and to give them what he didn't have growing up endeared him to me from the start.
I was often frustrated at Lucy --- She judged Dylan despite never actually knowing or spending time with him and then spent so much time assuming he cared only about the baby despite his consistency in his affection and actions towards her. When she FINALLY realized her mistake, Dylan almost let her off too easy, but he'd yearned so hard that I couldn't blame him
It was fun seeing Carrie and Michael's life and their growing family and see Carrie and Lucy's friendship grow through their pregnancy journey together.
Lucy and Dylan have always driven each other crazy but a night together after a town holiday festival planning session changes everything. From the moment Dylan knows about Lucy's pregnancy, he shows up--and not just for the baby, but Lucy as a person and for her coffee shop.
I loved how Dylan proved his qualities and personality through acts of service and consistent kindness and patience. Finding out he cooks was a sweet addition to his already charming personality. Dylan's willingness to do whatever it takes for his kid and to give them what he didn't have growing up endeared him to me from the start.
I was often frustrated at Lucy --- She judged Dylan despite never actually knowing or spending time with him and then spent so much time assuming he cared only about the baby despite his consistency in his affection and actions towards her. When she FINALLY realized her mistake, Dylan almost let her off too easy, but he'd yearned so hard that I couldn't blame him
It was fun seeing Carrie and Michael's life and their growing family and see Carrie and Lucy's friendship grow through their pregnancy journey together.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Even though autumn has only just begun, this book hit the spot so nicely! It’s a sweet, simple Christmas read that served as a fantastic palate cleanser. The premise starts with an FMC who cannot stand the MMC, but after an unexpected one-night stand, she finds herself pregnant.
What I really appreciated was how it avoided that typical romance trope where everything goes smoothly, only for a sudden miscommunication or mishap to break them apart right before the end. Instead, they bicker from the very beginning, and she struggles with trusting anything good that comes from him. I loved that we get to uncover his whole backstory as the plot unfolds, leading up to the moment he finally confesses all his feelings for her. The story actually kicks off in the summer, but the bulk of the action takes place throughout November and December. The pacing felt spot-on and their banter was absolutely top-tier! The only minor drawback for me was that it’s written in the third person, which isn't usually my favorite style to read. Still, the writing is straightforward, charming, and leaves you with such a cozy, cute vibe overall.
What I really appreciated was how it avoided that typical romance trope where everything goes smoothly, only for a sudden miscommunication or mishap to break them apart right before the end. Instead, they bicker from the very beginning, and she struggles with trusting anything good that comes from him. I loved that we get to uncover his whole backstory as the plot unfolds, leading up to the moment he finally confesses all his feelings for her. The story actually kicks off in the summer, but the bulk of the action takes place throughout November and December. The pacing felt spot-on and their banter was absolutely top-tier! The only minor drawback for me was that it’s written in the third person, which isn't usually my favorite style to read. Still, the writing is straightforward, charming, and leaves you with such a cozy, cute vibe overall.
September 19, 2026
I enjoyed book 1 in this series so was delighted to see book 2 was coming out and even more so that it was a Christmas book!
This was a lovely, quick and easy read- I read it in a day- that kept my interest and felt very festive.
Lucy needs a business partner when her landlord wants to sell up, and Dylan offers to invest. Unfortunately she really doesn’t like him, but this is her only option to save both her business and her home.
It took me a few chapters to get into the story- I wasn’t really very clear on why Lucy had such an issue with Dylan- but once things progressed and let’s say new information came to light (!) it was so nice to watch them become such good friends. They take care of each other and Dylan opens up to her in a way he never has with anyone else. I loved all their Christmas activities too which felt super cosy!
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for this ARC.
This was a lovely, quick and easy read- I read it in a day- that kept my interest and felt very festive.
Lucy needs a business partner when her landlord wants to sell up, and Dylan offers to invest. Unfortunately she really doesn’t like him, but this is her only option to save both her business and her home.
It took me a few chapters to get into the story- I wasn’t really very clear on why Lucy had such an issue with Dylan- but once things progressed and let’s say new information came to light (!) it was so nice to watch them become such good friends. They take care of each other and Dylan opens up to her in a way he never has with anyone else. I loved all their Christmas activities too which felt super cosy!
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for this ARC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
If you haven't read A New Start at the Happily Ever Bookshop, you will want to read that first just so it doesn't give away anything. But don't worry, the first book in the Castle Cove series is just as cozy and wonderful as the second book.
Getting into book 2, you immediately jump into Lucy's one night stand that ends in a surprise pregnancy. Dylan is a shameless flirt but is also going to be the father of her baby. Even worse, he seems to be invading every aspect of her life. When Lucy's landlord suddenly decides he is going to be selling the building where her coffee shop and apartment are located, Dylan offers to become her business partner and help buy the building. Although she wants to say no, she realizes she is going to loose everything if she does. Now she just needs to figure out how to deal with the man who seems to slowly invade her life.
This book is a must read if you enjoy a cozy Christmas story.
Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity for the ARC.
Getting into book 2, you immediately jump into Lucy's one night stand that ends in a surprise pregnancy. Dylan is a shameless flirt but is also going to be the father of her baby. Even worse, he seems to be invading every aspect of her life. When Lucy's landlord suddenly decides he is going to be selling the building where her coffee shop and apartment are located, Dylan offers to become her business partner and help buy the building. Although she wants to say no, she realizes she is going to loose everything if she does. Now she just needs to figure out how to deal with the man who seems to slowly invade her life.
This book is a must read if you enjoy a cozy Christmas story.
Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I received an ARC from NetGalley and I'm willingly leaving a review
Starting at 10% in, I was really annoyed with Lucy's attitude towards Dylan - she's also a bit delusional on occasion - and it carried up until the end of the book, because respect is not readily in her dictionary. At 14%, Dylan ask to see the coffee shop's books; shouldn't he have checked that before engaging as a partner??? I love the small-town gossip, such as when Dylan went to Boots' for Lucy. A few repeats but nothing to worry about. The irony about the password was really funny. I loved Dylan immensely; Lucy, not so much. I was glad to see people from the first book again.
Pregnancy length are mostly dictated by the last period because women usually don't know when they ovulate - which is much more precise - so it's an half-truth.
Starting at 10% in, I was really annoyed with Lucy's attitude towards Dylan - she's also a bit delusional on occasion - and it carried up until the end of the book, because respect is not readily in her dictionary. At 14%, Dylan ask to see the coffee shop's books; shouldn't he have checked that before engaging as a partner??? I love the small-town gossip, such as when Dylan went to Boots' for Lucy. A few repeats but nothing to worry about. The irony about the password was really funny. I loved Dylan immensely; Lucy, not so much. I was glad to see people from the first book again.
Pregnancy length are mostly dictated by the last period because women usually don't know when they ovulate - which is much more precise - so it's an half-truth.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This was the sweetest and coziest Christmas read I have read so far this year, and I am so excited to dive more into the holidays and her books! She has created the cutest little town with shops I would love to visit! Coffee shop and romance book store? Yes, please! The found family that she created also was so wonderful to read.
In Lucy's eyes, her and Dylan did not hit it off right away due to Dylan's playboy ways, but he was definitely misunderstood. Once they met, it was always her, and I loved seeing them grow closer and her behind to trust him. Once they admitted their true feelings, they were able to be together happily and grow their little family.
This was such a sweet and cozy holiday read!
In Lucy's eyes, her and Dylan did not hit it off right away due to Dylan's playboy ways, but he was definitely misunderstood. Once they met, it was always her, and I loved seeing them grow closer and her behind to trust him. Once they admitted their true feelings, they were able to be together happily and grow their little family.
This was such a sweet and cozy holiday read!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Woof, this was rough for me. I could not stand the FMC, I have never in my life felt bad over the way a woman feels the need to be terrible to a man.. until this book. I appreciate what the author was trying to do with her previous relationship trauma but unfortunately it just didnt resonate with me in a way that felt relatable in her treatment of the MMC. Instead of getting into cozy Christmas vibes, I literally just wanted to throttle Lucy and tell her to stop being so insufferable. Now Dylan, what a beautiful MMC. He saved this entire story. The patience this man had and the lengths he went to for Lucy and their baby. Like chefs kiss. You could love this story so absolutely check it out!
Anyway. Thanks netgalley for the ARC
Anyway. Thanks netgalley for the ARC
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Christmas at the First Sip Coffee Shop was such a sweet and cozy holiday romance! 🎄☕️ I loved the charming coffee shop setting, the small-town atmosphere, and all the festive touches throughout the story. Lucy and Dylan had such a fun dynamic, especially as they’re forced to work together while navigating their complicated history and an unexpected pregnancy. I really enjoyed watching them slowly break down their walls, learn to trust each other, and find their way to love. Add Christmas treats, gingerbread lattes, and a wonderful sense of community, and this was such a comforting festive read!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Joffe Books | Choc Lit for the eARC!
#ChristmasattheFirstSipCoffeeShop #NetGalley
Pub. date: Oct 12 2026
Many thanks to NetGalley and Joffe Books | Choc Lit for the eARC!
#ChristmasattheFirstSipCoffeeShop #NetGalley
Pub. date: Oct 12 2026
October 10, 2026
I want to start this review by saying thank you to Zoe at Zooloosbooktours for having me on this tour. I really enjoyed this book.
This was the perfect little romance read to fill my cup☁️. I will say that the accidental pregnancy trope normally has me cringing but Bennet wrote it SO well that I ate it UP!
I found Lucy to be a fab female main character; she was likeable and just ‘normal’ which was a breath of fresh air. Dylan was one of those characters that I felt so strongly that I should hate, but couldn’t help but adore. I think it was even more wonderful to see a more ‘caring’ and ‘nurturing’ side of him coming out as the narrative progressed.
I just love how this book felt like a cosy cup of coffee 💗
October 3, 2026
A return trip to Castle Cove was everything I wanted it to be and more!
The story starts with Lucy and Dylan, two people who love arguing with each other, end up spending an ill advised night together. Flash forward a couple of months and Lucy discovers that her beloved coffee shop is under threat… enter Dylan with an offer she can’t refuse, even though she desperately wants to!
The chemistry between Lucy and Dylan is palpable from the start and Dylan is so sweet throughout. It was good to see the return of characters from Book One as well.
Another great instalment for this series!
I was given an advanced copy of this book by the author in exchange for an honest review.
The story starts with Lucy and Dylan, two people who love arguing with each other, end up spending an ill advised night together. Flash forward a couple of months and Lucy discovers that her beloved coffee shop is under threat… enter Dylan with an offer she can’t refuse, even though she desperately wants to!
The chemistry between Lucy and Dylan is palpable from the start and Dylan is so sweet throughout. It was good to see the return of characters from Book One as well.
Another great instalment for this series!
I was given an advanced copy of this book by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
❄️☕ A little Christmas between the pages… ✨📖
Christmas at the First Sip Coffee Shop by Emma Bennet
⭐️ 3.75/5
Cutesy, comfy, and cozy! This was a lighthearted read that felt like curling up with a warm drink and a soft blanket while the Christmas lights twinkle. 🎄
I enjoyed the festive coffee shop atmosphere and sweet romance. An easy, feel-good escape when you’re in the mood for a little holiday cheer. 💙
Thank you to NetGalley, Emma Bennet, and Joffe Books / Choc Lit for the advance review copy. All opinions are my own.
#ChristmasAtTheFirstSipCoffeeShop #EmmaBennet #NetGalley #ChocLit #JoffeBooks #ChristmasReads #CozyReads #AllBooked
Christmas at the First Sip Coffee Shop by Emma Bennet
⭐️ 3.75/5
Cutesy, comfy, and cozy! This was a lighthearted read that felt like curling up with a warm drink and a soft blanket while the Christmas lights twinkle. 🎄
I enjoyed the festive coffee shop atmosphere and sweet romance. An easy, feel-good escape when you’re in the mood for a little holiday cheer. 💙
Thank you to NetGalley, Emma Bennet, and Joffe Books / Choc Lit for the advance review copy. All opinions are my own.
#ChristmasAtTheFirstSipCoffeeShop #EmmaBennet #NetGalley #ChocLit #JoffeBooks #ChristmasReads #CozyReads #AllBooked
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I loved this sweet Christmas romance that embraces a couple drawn to each other but reluctant to give into the attraction, well she is. Dylan is adorable and so kind. Lucy struggles to trust after being hurt badly. Together, they are adorable. I love the gentleness of this book and the story of growing together, plus the warmth of friendship and community. It will definitely put you in the Christmas spirit but so much more. Seldom do I finish a book with an actual smile on my face but, I truly found comfort in this lovely story.
October 12, 2026
Christmas at the First Sip Coffee Shop was an enjoyable book to read. I need to go back and read the first in the series so I can get a better feel for the characters. I am a nut for easy sweet romance and to be in the Christmas vibe made it even better.
The storyline was one that had a lot of ups and downs and it all fit together to get me to keep reading.
Thank you NetGalley, Emma Bennet and Joffe Books for the copy of the book Christmas at the First Sip Coffee Shop. This is my personal review.
The storyline was one that had a lot of ups and downs and it all fit together to get me to keep reading.
Thank you NetGalley, Emma Bennet and Joffe Books for the copy of the book Christmas at the First Sip Coffee Shop. This is my personal review.
October 5, 2026
It was cute! I probably should have read the other book of the series first to get a bit more of the backstory between Lucy & Dylan, but still enjoyed it (especially since I love the accidental pregnancy trope, hot take). Anyway, cute book to read during a weekend ✨
Thank you NetGalley for the advanced copy.
Thank you NetGalley for the advanced copy.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I downloaded the first book to read before this one. I love this little town and these characters were so sweet. You could see the commitment from Dylan right from the start and he was so sweet to just want to be close to Lucy. The book had so many charming details like their nightly walks and him trying to bake for her that you just couldn’t help but fall in love with them.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I loved this story about how a one night stand and unplanned pregnancy turns into friendship and grows. Sweet story.
September 19, 2026
This was a great feel good Christmas romance book. Back in Castle Cove for this cozy festive read. Lucy has been doing her best with her amazing business First Sip Coffee Shop but is displaced when her landlord advises he is looking to sell giving her first choice.
Without much other choice she teams up with her “acquaintance” Dylan who respectfully does way more than just invest. He is supportive and thoughtful and absolutely perfect for Lucy even if she wants to deny the chemistry.
This is a great read to cuddle up with as the Christmas holidays come around.
Without much other choice she teams up with her “acquaintance” Dylan who respectfully does way more than just invest. He is supportive and thoughtful and absolutely perfect for Lucy even if she wants to deny the chemistry.
This is a great read to cuddle up with as the Christmas holidays come around.
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