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Moonbright, Maine #3
The Café Between Pumpkin and Pie
In Moonbright, Maine, there's a pumpkin on every porch, fresh brewed apple cider in every cup--and the sweetest sorcery in the air...
Before, after, and even during the excitement of the annual Halloween parade, gathering at the Corner Café is a beloved Moonbright tradition. Costumed revelers of all kinds come for the famous whoopie pies, the heartfelt hospitality, and the chance to hear the town's spookiest stories and local legends whispered to the younger generation...
The most magically romantic legend of all promises that a Moonbright woman will marry the man she sees reflected in a mirror on Halloween. For three such singles, the crunch of fall leaves and the fragrance of fresh-baked pie sets the perfect stage for this most tantalizing trick--and most delightful treat--the genuine enchantment of true love.
Before, after, and even during the excitement of the annual Halloween parade, gathering at the Corner Café is a beloved Moonbright tradition. Costumed revelers of all kinds come for the famous whoopie pies, the heartfelt hospitality, and the chance to hear the town's spookiest stories and local legends whispered to the younger generation...
The most magically romantic legend of all promises that a Moonbright woman will marry the man she sees reflected in a mirror on Halloween. For three such singles, the crunch of fall leaves and the fragrance of fresh-baked pie sets the perfect stage for this most tantalizing trick--and most delightful treat--the genuine enchantment of true love.
357 pages, Paperback
First published August 31, 2021
232 people are currently reading
5820 people want to read
About the author
Marina Adair
39 books1,940 followersMarina Adair is a New York Times author whose fun, flirty contemporary romances have sold over a million copies. She has hit #1 overall in Amazon Kindle Paid and her St. Helena Vineyard series was optioned and made into the original Hallmark Channel Vineyard movies: Autumn in the Vineyard, Summer in the Vineyard, and Valentines in the Vineyard. Raised in the San Francisco Bay Area. She holds a MFA from San Jose University and currently lives in Northern California with her husband, daughter, and two neurotic cats. Please visit her online at MarinaAdair.com and sign up for her newsletter at www.MarinaAdair.com/newsletter.
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October 21, 2025
"Think of me often then. Your laughter does it for me."
― Kate Angell, The Café Between Pumpkin and Pie
I love Hannah and Jake! Review to follow.
When I wrote that above, I was referring to the first story in the book because there’s several stories, and you can read them all at once, or read them at your leisure.
I fell in love with the cover to this And l group of stories, and I also fell in love with the fact that it takes place in the great state of Maine, where I have never lived, but I’ve spent a heck of a lot of time vacationing from the time I was a little child.
This book defines the word whimsical. Let me explain what the plot is all about and you’ll understand.
In this particular, a little town in Maine, there is history and folklore that says the young women during the Halloween ball can see the image of who they are meant to spend their lives with often reflected in the strangest places.
This goes way way back in history and I’ll tell you something. It’s not just folklore . The book, contains several romantic stories of couples who became couples in part because of the sparkling not so mythical folklore.
I think this author has invented something new! Can you imagine if this could really happen? There would be no divorce! See , the young women can see visions, of who they’re meant to be with. Now , I ask you would you take that, ladies? certainly would. I mean the possibilities are endless here.
I should also say that I’m really not the biggest fan of romance so even though I am recommending this, the reason I’m rating it 3.5 rather than a five has nothing to do whatsoever with the quality of the story. I just don’t read much romance but I can’t see someone who is a fan of the romantic novel not liking this.
I mean it’s like a loving little hummingbird , it kind of sings to you and you just want to know what happens and how the couples get together.
I suppose it’s fitting that this takes place in Maine because I find Maine to be a touch of magic. I maintain a deep admiration for the people of Maine who wear the sea as their second skin.
I can’t tell you how much I dreamed of living in a cottage in Maine on the seashore, listening to the gentle whispers of the ocean.
But enough about me! I think if you like romance, you would like this, but then again, I’m not really into romantic novels anymore and I still enjoy this. Obviously, it’s full of magical realism, it’s a music box of magical realism! So that’s another hint whether you will like this
This is also a great palate cleaner after reading many dark books.
― Kate Angell, The Café Between Pumpkin and Pie
I love Hannah and Jake! Review to follow.
When I wrote that above, I was referring to the first story in the book because there’s several stories, and you can read them all at once, or read them at your leisure.
I fell in love with the cover to this And l group of stories, and I also fell in love with the fact that it takes place in the great state of Maine, where I have never lived, but I’ve spent a heck of a lot of time vacationing from the time I was a little child.
This book defines the word whimsical. Let me explain what the plot is all about and you’ll understand.
In this particular, a little town in Maine, there is history and folklore that says the young women during the Halloween ball can see the image of who they are meant to spend their lives with often reflected in the strangest places.
This goes way way back in history and I’ll tell you something. It’s not just folklore . The book, contains several romantic stories of couples who became couples in part because of the sparkling not so mythical folklore.
I think this author has invented something new! Can you imagine if this could really happen? There would be no divorce! See , the young women can see visions, of who they’re meant to be with. Now , I ask you would you take that, ladies? certainly would. I mean the possibilities are endless here.
I should also say that I’m really not the biggest fan of romance so even though I am recommending this, the reason I’m rating it 3.5 rather than a five has nothing to do whatsoever with the quality of the story. I just don’t read much romance but I can’t see someone who is a fan of the romantic novel not liking this.
I mean it’s like a loving little hummingbird , it kind of sings to you and you just want to know what happens and how the couples get together.
I suppose it’s fitting that this takes place in Maine because I find Maine to be a touch of magic. I maintain a deep admiration for the people of Maine who wear the sea as their second skin.
I can’t tell you how much I dreamed of living in a cottage in Maine on the seashore, listening to the gentle whispers of the ocean.
But enough about me! I think if you like romance, you would like this, but then again, I’m not really into romantic novels anymore and I still enjoy this. Obviously, it’s full of magical realism, it’s a music box of magical realism! So that’s another hint whether you will like this
This is also a great palate cleaner after reading many dark books.
September 20, 2021
This is the third book in the Moonbright, Maine series.
This novella collection has 3 romances taking place in Moonbright,Maine around Halloween.
It's an absolutely delightfully get you in the mood for Fall and romance kind of book.
Humor a little sass and lots of delicious autumn desserts with recipes thrown in.
The perfect book for reading while snuggled up with your honey!
Pub Date 31 Aug 2021
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.
This novella collection has 3 romances taking place in Moonbright,Maine around Halloween.
It's an absolutely delightfully get you in the mood for Fall and romance kind of book.
Humor a little sass and lots of delicious autumn desserts with recipes thrown in.
The perfect book for reading while snuggled up with your honey!
Pub Date 31 Aug 2021
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.
August 28, 2021
The Café between Pumpkin and Pie is made up of three novellas centred around Halloween in Moonbright, Maine. All three authors, Marina Adair, Kate Angell and Stacy Finz were new to me.
The reader follows three couples and all are absorbing tales. If pressed for a favourite I would choose Love Over Easy by Kate Angell as I liked the connection between Jake and Hannah. The stories are also linked by the Corner Café mentioned in the book's title. Love Rising by Stacy Finz and Romance on Tap by Marina Adair were also great stories. Love Rising is a second chance romance with a first love and Romance on Tap contains sweetness and humour. These novellas are a great way to discover new-to-you cozy romance authors and love the seasonal/festival theme they have. Very highly recommended.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Kensington Books via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
The reader follows three couples and all are absorbing tales. If pressed for a favourite I would choose Love Over Easy by Kate Angell as I liked the connection between Jake and Hannah. The stories are also linked by the Corner Café mentioned in the book's title. Love Rising by Stacy Finz and Romance on Tap by Marina Adair were also great stories. Love Rising is a second chance romance with a first love and Romance on Tap contains sweetness and humour. These novellas are a great way to discover new-to-you cozy romance authors and love the seasonal/festival theme they have. Very highly recommended.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Kensington Books via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
November 16, 2022
It's really difficult to continue a story that has a young woman debating her panties in the 2nd paragraph. To b precise "She'd debated the pink ruffled panties...." This is after the place where she'd stuffed her hair into a bonnet and then tied it beneath her chin....I can't get over the mind picture of someone tying hair under their chin.
And then, there's the grown-up dangerous man who tells a 4-year old he rides a '70 Ducati Monza....ok, like the 4-yr old is going to understand that...
I quite reading after that.
And then, there's the grown-up dangerous man who tells a 4-year old he rides a '70 Ducati Monza....ok, like the 4-yr old is going to understand that...
I quite reading after that.
August 7, 2021
I sometimes take chance with anthology because it's a way to introduce myself to new authors. I have read two of these authors in this one, except for the last one. So here goes...
Love Over Easy by Kate Angell: 4 stars
"Bo Peep, you're losing your sheep"
That first line totally did me in 😄. This is a cute story.
Jake Kaylor returns to Moonbright, Maine, right on the time of their annual Hallloween parade, and see Hannah Allan in her Bo Peep costume while she is "herding" her nephews (who act as her "sheeps"). They end up walking the parade together and of course be the source of new gossip in town. Jake and Hannah feels the pull towards one another as they are talking about likes, dislikes, favorites, and life.
I LOVED these conversations so much. Because they are learning about each other and they connect, even if they are opposites. My only complaint is that the timeline is VERY quick. I don't mind the "love legend" but I still prefer it to happen more than mere days.
Love Rising by Stacy Finz: 3 stars
When her grandmother died, Sydney can't wait to sell her grandmother's house and move back to San Francisco. A successful professional baker, on a brink to opening her second store, Sydney never really consider Moonbright her home. She aims the bustling live of the city. Unfortunately, she realizes that her grandmother is making plan without telling her. A plan that involves installing a new kitchen to the house AND a blast from the past. Her old crush, Nick Rossi, who is currently owning Rossi Construction.
It's a teenage "enemies" to adult lovers sort of story. Apparently back in their junior year, Nick has done Sydney wrong. Sydney still has a grudge but I guess attraction speaks stronger *laugh*. I liked it enough. Sydney is a bit too dismissive at first - but then Nick hurt her back in junior year. Plus she isn't exactly imagining to stay in Moonbright after her grandmother passed, so having feeling to Nick is a bit of a dilemma.
Romance on a Tap: 2.5 stars
This is the shortest of the bunch and it has one of my least favorite plots in a romance. Going to be spoiler-y here... I'm always a bit frustrated when the female MC decides to drop an opportunity of a good job out of town, to stay for a man, especially if the story happens in SHORT TIMESPAN! And this is what happened in this novella. I don't care if it sounds romantic, I just find it stupid.
The ARC is provided by the publisher via Netgalley for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
Love Over Easy by Kate Angell: 4 stars
"Bo Peep, you're losing your sheep"
That first line totally did me in 😄. This is a cute story.
Jake Kaylor returns to Moonbright, Maine, right on the time of their annual Hallloween parade, and see Hannah Allan in her Bo Peep costume while she is "herding" her nephews (who act as her "sheeps"). They end up walking the parade together and of course be the source of new gossip in town. Jake and Hannah feels the pull towards one another as they are talking about likes, dislikes, favorites, and life.
I LOVED these conversations so much. Because they are learning about each other and they connect, even if they are opposites. My only complaint is that the timeline is VERY quick. I don't mind the "love legend" but I still prefer it to happen more than mere days.
Love Rising by Stacy Finz: 3 stars
When her grandmother died, Sydney can't wait to sell her grandmother's house and move back to San Francisco. A successful professional baker, on a brink to opening her second store, Sydney never really consider Moonbright her home. She aims the bustling live of the city. Unfortunately, she realizes that her grandmother is making plan without telling her. A plan that involves installing a new kitchen to the house AND a blast from the past. Her old crush, Nick Rossi, who is currently owning Rossi Construction.
It's a teenage "enemies" to adult lovers sort of story. Apparently back in their junior year, Nick has done Sydney wrong. Sydney still has a grudge but I guess attraction speaks stronger *laugh*. I liked it enough. Sydney is a bit too dismissive at first - but then Nick hurt her back in junior year. Plus she isn't exactly imagining to stay in Moonbright after her grandmother passed, so having feeling to Nick is a bit of a dilemma.
Romance on a Tap: 2.5 stars
This is the shortest of the bunch and it has one of my least favorite plots in a romance. Going to be spoiler-y here... I'm always a bit frustrated when the female MC decides to drop an opportunity of a good job out of town, to stay for a man, especially if the story happens in SHORT TIMESPAN! And this is what happened in this novella. I don't care if it sounds romantic, I just find it stupid.
The ARC is provided by the publisher via Netgalley for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
October 24, 2023
I want to go live in Moonbright...sigh 💗 I have enjoyed this series so much as it has the perfect Fall vibes, loveable characters and fun stories.
I'm not much of a romance reader but there is just something special about Moonbright. Grab a copy and fall in love too. 💗
I'm not much of a romance reader but there is just something special about Moonbright. Grab a copy and fall in love too. 💗
October 1, 2021
This book was kind of an interesting and a perfect way to start Fall reading. It's a simple romance that is a little bit sexier than Hallmark movies, but nothing like the Harlequin romance novels with Fabio and his hair blowing in the wind gracing the cover and with text like his engorged member throbs at seeing her in a crimson cape.
But it is a romance novel with a different twist. The plot is about a legend the women in this small town in Maine say anytime before midnight Halloween. The girls look in to any reflection and the man they see will be the one they marry. There were three parts with three different stories told by three different authors. I liked it. Unlike Hallmark movies, you will get side love stories, but it's not detailed. This way, each couple gets their own main story and the story has both the male and female narrative. I thought it was a cool concept.
However, it's predictable and cheesy. The first story, I didn't like. The male character was too much Bender that the shy girl will change. He was the player, non committal, motorcycle, lone wolf type. And within 72 hours, he proposes marriage. Yeah...ummmm...okay. Let's see how it is in a year when the successful chase now complete has run it's course. He also always wore his aviators inside, outside, light, dark, whatever. And he's yelling at his competition telling him she's not his woman, but saying she's my woman when they haven't even talked; oh and that was 36 hours after they met. The second story was more like Hallmark with two opposing forces falling in love. A little bit more realistic to an extent. The third story, I guessed was the twin brother and far more interesting. Way more sexual sentences. I actually couldn't put this down. However, it did end quickly. Too quickly.
I also loved the recipes in the end and I'm definitely trying the Blueberry Butter Cake recipe. This book will not be for everyone and I almost gave it two stars until the last story. So, it's up to you on your choice to read it or not. I'm glad I did, but not really sure I recommend.
But it is a romance novel with a different twist. The plot is about a legend the women in this small town in Maine say anytime before midnight Halloween. The girls look in to any reflection and the man they see will be the one they marry. There were three parts with three different stories told by three different authors. I liked it. Unlike Hallmark movies, you will get side love stories, but it's not detailed. This way, each couple gets their own main story and the story has both the male and female narrative. I thought it was a cool concept.
However, it's predictable and cheesy. The first story, I didn't like. The male character was too much Bender that the shy girl will change. He was the player, non committal, motorcycle, lone wolf type. And within 72 hours, he proposes marriage. Yeah...ummmm...okay. Let's see how it is in a year when the successful chase now complete has run it's course. He also always wore his aviators inside, outside, light, dark, whatever. And he's yelling at his competition telling him she's not his woman, but saying she's my woman when they haven't even talked; oh and that was 36 hours after they met. The second story was more like Hallmark with two opposing forces falling in love. A little bit more realistic to an extent. The third story, I guessed was the twin brother and far more interesting. Way more sexual sentences. I actually couldn't put this down. However, it did end quickly. Too quickly.
I also loved the recipes in the end and I'm definitely trying the Blueberry Butter Cake recipe. This book will not be for everyone and I almost gave it two stars until the last story. So, it's up to you on your choice to read it or not. I'm glad I did, but not really sure I recommend.
November 8, 2021
Every year (or at least for the last three…) I’ve looked forward to the newest Moonbright, Maine anthology. Even though it usually comes out around my birthday, I wait until closer to Halloween to read the three short stories, since it’s now part of the things I enjoy during the Autumn season. I mean, romance and magic, what a powerful combination in a book and in life.
I was a bit disappointed this year. While each story was good, the first was the best and the next two each got a little bit weaker. The first story, Love Over Easy by Kate Angell was excellent. There was so much cuteness (dressing up as Little Bo Beep with her three nephews as sheep) and sexiness (Beep’s stockings with blue bows) that was seamlessly combined throughout the entire story. We also get a really hot, bad boy, a loving grandma, and some sisterly rivalry. Love Over Easy is what I’ve come to expect when I get transported back to Moonbright, Maine.
Love Rising by Stacy Finz is the second story and while it was well written and we get a sexy handyman who will do whatever chores we want around the house without us nagging him, I became quickly bored of Sydney’s attitude. She came back to settle her grandma’s estate, and then wanted to head back to the big city to open a more cozy bakery. Sydney was continually cranky with Nick, although he couldn’t care less since he had the money already and was going to finish the job no matter what.
The last story, Romance on Tap by Marina Adair definitely felt the weakest to me in all three of the anthologies that I’ve read. I really liked the concept and enjoyed that the actual start of the story happened many years prior, but it just felt really rushed to me. Maybe each author had a page restraint that they needed to stick to, but I wanted more details. There were so many aspects of the characters that could have been explored, and not just Mila and Ford/Hudson, but her friends, that I felt was a real missed opportunity.
Will this keep me from picking up next year’s anthology? No, but I do hope they are stronger stories, especially since they have a year to think about and write them!
I was a bit disappointed this year. While each story was good, the first was the best and the next two each got a little bit weaker. The first story, Love Over Easy by Kate Angell was excellent. There was so much cuteness (dressing up as Little Bo Beep with her three nephews as sheep) and sexiness (Beep’s stockings with blue bows) that was seamlessly combined throughout the entire story. We also get a really hot, bad boy, a loving grandma, and some sisterly rivalry. Love Over Easy is what I’ve come to expect when I get transported back to Moonbright, Maine.
Love Rising by Stacy Finz is the second story and while it was well written and we get a sexy handyman who will do whatever chores we want around the house without us nagging him, I became quickly bored of Sydney’s attitude. She came back to settle her grandma’s estate, and then wanted to head back to the big city to open a more cozy bakery. Sydney was continually cranky with Nick, although he couldn’t care less since he had the money already and was going to finish the job no matter what.
The last story, Romance on Tap by Marina Adair definitely felt the weakest to me in all three of the anthologies that I’ve read. I really liked the concept and enjoyed that the actual start of the story happened many years prior, but it just felt really rushed to me. Maybe each author had a page restraint that they needed to stick to, but I wanted more details. There were so many aspects of the characters that could have been explored, and not just Mila and Ford/Hudson, but her friends, that I felt was a real missed opportunity.
Will this keep me from picking up next year’s anthology? No, but I do hope they are stronger stories, especially since they have a year to think about and write them!
November 2, 2021
3.5 stars: This is a romance anthology set around Halloween. It was a great way to get in the Halloween Spirit with all three novellas centered around Halloween in Moonbright, Maine, and its traditions. We follow three couples and their journeys to love. This is the third anthology set in Moonbright, centered around the Corner Café. There is a magic, romantic legend that promises to show a woman the man she will marry reflected in a surface on Halloween after she recites a chant three times. Will the couples in this book find love? The stories are written by three relatively new authors to me, but I will look for more of their works. I enjoyed each of the stories in this book. I think my favourite of the three is Love Over Easy by Kate Angell. I really enjoyed the connection between Jake and Hannah as well as all the secondary characters. Of course there was a troublesome, yet adorable set of triplets and that always adds to my enjoyment. It was also the longest of the stories, which means it was more developed. Love Rising by Stacy Finz is a second chance romance coupled with new beginnings. There is a bit of an enemies to lovers trope, but it was more of a misunderstanding. Romance on a Tap by Marina Adair is the shortest and my least favourite of the three. This is a story of crushing on the wrong twin. It was cute, but there wasn't much to it. Overall this was a fun book that I read over a few days to get in my pumpkin spice
July 26, 2021
A great way to get in the Halloween Spirit, three novellas all centered around Halloween in Moonbright, Maine, and its traditions. We follow three couples and their journeys.
Love Over Easy:
Hannah and Jake, she is relying on the town legend to find her true love. Jake is not looking for love but is intrigued by Hannah.
Love Rising:
Sydney and Nick, will they get a second chance when she returns home?
Romance on Tap:
Mila has had a crush on Ford for years, but her supposed curse on relationships caused by a kiss has her frustrated. Time to break the curse.
All in all, quick, fun reads to get into the spirit of the holiday. Moonbright is a charming town when fall is in the air.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books; this is my voluntary review.
Love Over Easy:
Hannah and Jake, she is relying on the town legend to find her true love. Jake is not looking for love but is intrigued by Hannah.
Love Rising:
Sydney and Nick, will they get a second chance when she returns home?
Romance on Tap:
Mila has had a crush on Ford for years, but her supposed curse on relationships caused by a kiss has her frustrated. Time to break the curse.
All in all, quick, fun reads to get into the spirit of the holiday. Moonbright is a charming town when fall is in the air.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books; this is my voluntary review.
November 25, 2024
Not worth the read. First short story was the worst - 1/5 (if even). The other two were better - probably 2 or 2.5/5 each. Boring and the “love” centered too much around lust.
I like the idea of having a book made up of a few short stories that take place in the same town. However, these characters did not even overlap much so it felt a little pointless.
I like the idea of having a book made up of a few short stories that take place in the same town. However, these characters did not even overlap much so it felt a little pointless.
January 29, 2023
Read my review on RomanceJunkies.com by clicking on the link below. It is also posted in full.
https://romancejunkies.com/reviews/th...
I rated the book 4.5 stars but rounded to 5 stars here and on other sites.
THE CAFE BETWEEN PUMPKIN AND PIE is an anthology that includes three novellas written by three different authors. The stories all take place in Moonbright, Maine at Halloween. They are filled with the Moonbright Legend, holiday happenings, love, and even some magic! We get to know the goodness of the town and can feel the magic in the air. There are several recipes in the back of the book that are woven throughout the story, and I plan to give a couple of them a try.
LOVE OVER EASY by Kate Angell
LOVE OVER EASY has the café at its core with Nan, the owner, two of her granddaughters who work with her, and staff and regular customers. This is Hannah and Jake’s story, and it is hot from the minute their eyes meet across the parade route. She’s trying to ride herd on her triplet nephews, and Jake steps in to give her a hand. From then on, they seem to be an instant couple. But does he have one foot out the door since he’s only there to visit with his elderly grandfather? Her sister, Lauren, who has a past with Jake but is happily married with the triplets, keeps telling her that’s his M.O.
Jake and Hannah seem to hit it off, although he’s more worldly than she is and Hannah’s more of an innocent whom everyone looks out for, especially while she’s waitressing. The Moonbright Legend, the belief that you will see your future husband in a reflective surface before midnight if you say the magical chant, is a fun part of the story. Hannah says the chant and throws caution to the wind. She and Jake work well together and have definite chemistry, but will their romance stand if he leaves? The small town gossips add humor to a terrific love story.
Angell is one of my favorite authors. This is her third visit to Moonbright, Maine, and I hope she’ll be returning for more. (She normally writes contemporary romances with baseball and the beach at their core.) I eagerly await each one.
LOVE RISING by Stacy Finz
LOVE RISING has Sydney in town after the death of her beloved grandmother (who raised her.) She’s there to settle her estate and get her grandmother’s lovely Victorian house ready for sale. Then Sydney will return to her life and business in San Francisco. When Nick, a contractor her grandmother hired, shows up and is tearing apart the carriage house to install a commercial kitchen, she doesn’t know what to think. She doesn’t understand why her grandmother designed the kitchen and paid for it in full knowing she was dying. As Nick and Sydney grow closer, her grandmother’s reasonings seem to come to light. But will those reasons be enough to keep Sydney in Moonbright?
There are some hot moments between the sheets, along with a hefty dose of romance between Nick and Sydney–who knew each other a long time ago–and some rough goings with Sydney’s business partner. Will things work out the way her grandmother planned? A great romance with an epilogue (which takes place a year later) that’s just the icing on the cake.
Ms. Finz is a new-to-me author. I have several of her books on my TBR pile.
ROMANCE ON TAP by Marina Adair
ROMANCE ON TAP is Mila and Hudson’s story, but Mila only has eyes for his twin brother, Ford. Events that happened seven years ago mix with the present, and Mila has to rethink what she’s believed all that time. As Hudson and she get closer, they both have trouble expressing what they want. Not communicating almost costs them their future. Good thing they both seem to come to their senses at about the same time, and Hudson has his brother to thank for some of it.
Together, Mila and Hudson seem to make a great team. Mila’s a window artist in Moonbright, decorating a lot of the businesses windows to make some money. Hudson seems to be wherever she is. Their relationship builds gradually, and the romance is genuine. But will life and their obligations keep them apart if she gets a new job in L.A.? Great pacing and terrific characters make this a really fun and satisfying story.
I’ve read several of Ms. Adair’s books and always enjoy them. I look forward to reading more of her work.
I rated the book 4.5 stars but rounded to 5 stars here and on other sites.
https://romancejunkies.com/reviews/th...
I rated the book 4.5 stars but rounded to 5 stars here and on other sites.
THE CAFE BETWEEN PUMPKIN AND PIE is an anthology that includes three novellas written by three different authors. The stories all take place in Moonbright, Maine at Halloween. They are filled with the Moonbright Legend, holiday happenings, love, and even some magic! We get to know the goodness of the town and can feel the magic in the air. There are several recipes in the back of the book that are woven throughout the story, and I plan to give a couple of them a try.
LOVE OVER EASY by Kate Angell
LOVE OVER EASY has the café at its core with Nan, the owner, two of her granddaughters who work with her, and staff and regular customers. This is Hannah and Jake’s story, and it is hot from the minute their eyes meet across the parade route. She’s trying to ride herd on her triplet nephews, and Jake steps in to give her a hand. From then on, they seem to be an instant couple. But does he have one foot out the door since he’s only there to visit with his elderly grandfather? Her sister, Lauren, who has a past with Jake but is happily married with the triplets, keeps telling her that’s his M.O.
Jake and Hannah seem to hit it off, although he’s more worldly than she is and Hannah’s more of an innocent whom everyone looks out for, especially while she’s waitressing. The Moonbright Legend, the belief that you will see your future husband in a reflective surface before midnight if you say the magical chant, is a fun part of the story. Hannah says the chant and throws caution to the wind. She and Jake work well together and have definite chemistry, but will their romance stand if he leaves? The small town gossips add humor to a terrific love story.
Angell is one of my favorite authors. This is her third visit to Moonbright, Maine, and I hope she’ll be returning for more. (She normally writes contemporary romances with baseball and the beach at their core.) I eagerly await each one.
LOVE RISING by Stacy Finz
LOVE RISING has Sydney in town after the death of her beloved grandmother (who raised her.) She’s there to settle her estate and get her grandmother’s lovely Victorian house ready for sale. Then Sydney will return to her life and business in San Francisco. When Nick, a contractor her grandmother hired, shows up and is tearing apart the carriage house to install a commercial kitchen, she doesn’t know what to think. She doesn’t understand why her grandmother designed the kitchen and paid for it in full knowing she was dying. As Nick and Sydney grow closer, her grandmother’s reasonings seem to come to light. But will those reasons be enough to keep Sydney in Moonbright?
There are some hot moments between the sheets, along with a hefty dose of romance between Nick and Sydney–who knew each other a long time ago–and some rough goings with Sydney’s business partner. Will things work out the way her grandmother planned? A great romance with an epilogue (which takes place a year later) that’s just the icing on the cake.
Ms. Finz is a new-to-me author. I have several of her books on my TBR pile.
ROMANCE ON TAP by Marina Adair
ROMANCE ON TAP is Mila and Hudson’s story, but Mila only has eyes for his twin brother, Ford. Events that happened seven years ago mix with the present, and Mila has to rethink what she’s believed all that time. As Hudson and she get closer, they both have trouble expressing what they want. Not communicating almost costs them their future. Good thing they both seem to come to their senses at about the same time, and Hudson has his brother to thank for some of it.
Together, Mila and Hudson seem to make a great team. Mila’s a window artist in Moonbright, decorating a lot of the businesses windows to make some money. Hudson seems to be wherever she is. Their relationship builds gradually, and the romance is genuine. But will life and their obligations keep them apart if she gets a new job in L.A.? Great pacing and terrific characters make this a really fun and satisfying story.
I’ve read several of Ms. Adair’s books and always enjoy them. I look forward to reading more of her work.
I rated the book 4.5 stars but rounded to 5 stars here and on other sites.
April 25, 2021
I was drawn to The Cafe Between Pumpkin and Pie because I love books about food, and I especially love pumpkin flavored foods and drinks that show up every fall. I’ve read many cozy mysteries set in small towns, and I assumed it would remind me of those. I was wrong.
The Cafe Between Pumpkin and Pie is a set of three connected novellas all set in around the annual Halloween Parade in Moonbright, Maine. It is the third in a series about Moonbright, Maine. There is a legend in the town that women will see the person they will marry in a reflection on Halloween. Each novella is connected and the central characters in each show up in the others.
In “Love Over Easy,” Hannah, who works at the town diner, falls for Jake, who her older sister had a relationship with in high school. “Love Rising” is about Sydney, a successful baker from San Francisco, who returns to Moonbright to handle her grandmother’s affairs after her passing. Sydney learns that her grandmother had hired a contractor, Nick, to upgrade her kitchen, and she ends up romantically involved with him. In “Romance on Tap,” Mila, an artist ends up revisiting a high school crush.
The premise of the Halloween reveal of a woman’s future spouse struck me as misogynistic and heteronormative. It makes it seem like there is larger than necessary focus on finding husbands for the women in the town, and there never is any consideration that any of the women would many someone who is not a man. Hannah gets very upset when she thinks the man she sees in the reflection is not the person she hopes it will be (of course, she could still be with the person she wants to date…)
This overtone permeates the rest of the stories as well. One man in Romance on Tap, the third of the shorts, tells his brother to give back his “man card” when he says something that might be coded as feminine. In the same novella, Hudson pretends to be his twin so he can kiss, Mila, the girl (and then woman) he likes, twice! Moments like this frustrated me and made it hard for me to like any of the male characters in the stories.
It might be because “Love Over Easy”, “Love Rising”, and “Romance on Tap” are all shorter than an average novel, but the romance in each felt very rushed. I didn’t feel as though I had the time to get invested in any of the relationships before the stories ended and the couples were living their “happily ever afters.” It was hard to believe, for example, that Nick would fly all the way to San Francisco from Maine to help Sydney because their romance isn’t developed enough.
I really wanted to like The Café Between Pumpkin and Pie, but I had a hard time getting into any of the stories. It didn’t fill me with the warm and cozy feelings I was hoping it would.
The Cafe Between Pumpkin and Pie is a set of three connected novellas all set in around the annual Halloween Parade in Moonbright, Maine. It is the third in a series about Moonbright, Maine. There is a legend in the town that women will see the person they will marry in a reflection on Halloween. Each novella is connected and the central characters in each show up in the others.
In “Love Over Easy,” Hannah, who works at the town diner, falls for Jake, who her older sister had a relationship with in high school. “Love Rising” is about Sydney, a successful baker from San Francisco, who returns to Moonbright to handle her grandmother’s affairs after her passing. Sydney learns that her grandmother had hired a contractor, Nick, to upgrade her kitchen, and she ends up romantically involved with him. In “Romance on Tap,” Mila, an artist ends up revisiting a high school crush.
The premise of the Halloween reveal of a woman’s future spouse struck me as misogynistic and heteronormative. It makes it seem like there is larger than necessary focus on finding husbands for the women in the town, and there never is any consideration that any of the women would many someone who is not a man. Hannah gets very upset when she thinks the man she sees in the reflection is not the person she hopes it will be (of course, she could still be with the person she wants to date…)
This overtone permeates the rest of the stories as well. One man in Romance on Tap, the third of the shorts, tells his brother to give back his “man card” when he says something that might be coded as feminine. In the same novella, Hudson pretends to be his twin so he can kiss, Mila, the girl (and then woman) he likes, twice! Moments like this frustrated me and made it hard for me to like any of the male characters in the stories.
It might be because “Love Over Easy”, “Love Rising”, and “Romance on Tap” are all shorter than an average novel, but the romance in each felt very rushed. I didn’t feel as though I had the time to get invested in any of the relationships before the stories ended and the couples were living their “happily ever afters.” It was hard to believe, for example, that Nick would fly all the way to San Francisco from Maine to help Sydney because their romance isn’t developed enough.
I really wanted to like The Café Between Pumpkin and Pie, but I had a hard time getting into any of the stories. It didn’t fill me with the warm and cozy feelings I was hoping it would.
April 6, 2021
I think I’ve gained weight since I’ve been visiting Moonbright… I loved this anthology and how we get to read different authors couples’ stories. It’s sort of a bird’s eye view of Moonbright, along with a Halloween legend about finding your true “one”. I really loved Hannah and Jake. Both of them are just a wee bit broken and find their hearts when they spend time together. Jake is such a sweetie, at least to me. He seems like he’s never felt…enough but he’s just what Hannah needs and wants. And I could actually feel the energy coming off the triplets… So cute! Sydney and Nick are both stubborn, imho. Their relationship, if you can call it that, starts out contentious but reading how it changed and grew was pretty special. I had a harder time liking Mila and Ford and Hudson (the men are twins). There was more angst than I enjoy but I did like Hudson! Great anthology about another visit to Moonbright, Maine!
June 16, 2024
This book is nothing like the back describes it to be. I was so exited for a cozy fall, Halloween, true love and magical book for summerween but it failed me. Scrap all those things, it is just sexual insta love. This book made me lose all hope in men, why do they sexualise everything??? And it’s even written by women….
This book was tell no show, so much info dumping and just gendering of things instead of describing them. Stop saying he is all male, smells male and gives ‘man’ hugs just describe it because omg what even means that ‘he’s all male’??? This book left me confused and in a reading slump
This entire book doesn’t make any sense but it’s also so predictable, the couples end up together within a week even though all of them were like “we should definitely not date” like what??
This book was tell no show, so much info dumping and just gendering of things instead of describing them. Stop saying he is all male, smells male and gives ‘man’ hugs just describe it because omg what even means that ‘he’s all male’??? This book left me confused and in a reading slump
This entire book doesn’t make any sense but it’s also so predictable, the couples end up together within a week even though all of them were like “we should definitely not date” like what??
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Read
November 19, 2021I had to DNF this after the first story because I just couldn't get into it. I liked the first 25% of the first story and the autumnal atmosphere, but I think the short story aspect of it just didn't lend well to the plot -- it felt boring and meandering and then, bam it was over and way too serious too fast? Yeah, I tried.
October 21, 2021
Another fun trip to Moonbright, Maine! I was so excited to see there was another installment in this series because it is just so perfect for Halloween! As per use, I liked a few stories more than others and rated this book as a whole 4 stars because I just love the atmosphere and vibe of these books despite not loving all of the stories equally. Individual ratings/reviews are below.
"Love Over Easy" by Kate Angell: 1 Star
I knew going into this that this one would probably be my least favorite since I haven't gotten along with his author's short stories in the past. Sadly, I was proven correct despite hoping I would change my mind.
IDK if I will ever get used to this author's fragmented writing style and unrealistic dialogue that was both hokey and way too formal. I didn't connect with the two MC's or felt myself rooting for their romance. It felt like this author googled 'Cliche's For Bad Boys' and ran with it. She took every stereotype/cliche (said bad boy rides a motorcycle, walks around his apartment naked and wears aviators even when it's dark out 😒) and used them in a very predictable way that I was just bored with. And I will say there was quite a lot of misogynistic dialogue going on: women can only be truly desirable if they're a "natural beauty" blah blah blah. Two guys in a pissing match over one woman and laying claim to her (😝)
It also felt like this story was trying to jam a year's worth of events into a few pages since this whole story took place in three days and the couple goes from 0-100 way too quickly for me to take it seriously. The two leads also just felt really wrong for each other and like they were being forced together despite having nothing in common or having traits that complemented each other. Hannah, one half of said couple, also had a sister who was supposedly happily married but kept interfering with her new relationship since she used to date the guy and nothankyouplease.
I gave one star for the atmosphere and overall cozy Halloween vibes but if there are any future installments for this series, I'll probably just skim this author's story.
"Love Rising" by Stacy Finz: 4 stars
This one was my favorite of the three! I felt a better connection to our main couple and thought the way they handled their prospective situations were more realistic and that epilogue at the end was the icing on the cake. Speaking of cake, this book had so much delicious sounding food mentioned that I'm pretty sure I gained like 15 pounds just from reading this! Yes, there were sadly some cheesy dialogue moments that gave me secondhand embarrassment but it was still a strong installment. I also liked how some of this author's previous characters made a cameo too. And of course the hints of mysticism regarding the Halloween chant about finding your future spouse were a fun touch.
"Romance on Tap" by Marina Adair: 3.5 stars
I enjoyed this one for the most part. This one just utilized one of my least favorite tropes, where a woman gives up her dream job to be with a guy (😑), which is just not my jam but if that isn't an issue for you, then I think you'll really like this one. I really liked the couple in this and felt their dynamic complemented each other perfectly. I loved seeing more female friendships in this one as well, along with having an adopted Asian protagonist who was raised by white parents and how she navigated that growing up. I could've lived without the blatant sexist remarks from the male characters about their "man cards' but otherwise a solid entry to this anthology.
I don't tend to gravitate towards anthologies but I will make an exception for this one because it is just the perfect cozy fall read. I also liked that there were recipes included at the back of the book! I mean after all the talk of food in this book, it would be rude of them not to. So if you're looking for a reprieve from all the spooky reads and want something more light-hearted, check out this sweet anthology series!
"Love Over Easy" by Kate Angell: 1 Star
I knew going into this that this one would probably be my least favorite since I haven't gotten along with his author's short stories in the past. Sadly, I was proven correct despite hoping I would change my mind.
IDK if I will ever get used to this author's fragmented writing style and unrealistic dialogue that was both hokey and way too formal. I didn't connect with the two MC's or felt myself rooting for their romance. It felt like this author googled 'Cliche's For Bad Boys' and ran with it. She took every stereotype/cliche (said bad boy rides a motorcycle, walks around his apartment naked and wears aviators even when it's dark out 😒) and used them in a very predictable way that I was just bored with. And I will say there was quite a lot of misogynistic dialogue going on: women can only be truly desirable if they're a "natural beauty" blah blah blah. Two guys in a pissing match over one woman and laying claim to her (😝)
It also felt like this story was trying to jam a year's worth of events into a few pages since this whole story took place in three days and the couple goes from 0-100 way too quickly for me to take it seriously. The two leads also just felt really wrong for each other and like they were being forced together despite having nothing in common or having traits that complemented each other. Hannah, one half of said couple, also had a sister who was supposedly happily married but kept interfering with her new relationship since she used to date the guy and nothankyouplease.
I gave one star for the atmosphere and overall cozy Halloween vibes but if there are any future installments for this series, I'll probably just skim this author's story.
"Love Rising" by Stacy Finz: 4 stars
This one was my favorite of the three! I felt a better connection to our main couple and thought the way they handled their prospective situations were more realistic and that epilogue at the end was the icing on the cake. Speaking of cake, this book had so much delicious sounding food mentioned that I'm pretty sure I gained like 15 pounds just from reading this! Yes, there were sadly some cheesy dialogue moments that gave me secondhand embarrassment but it was still a strong installment. I also liked how some of this author's previous characters made a cameo too. And of course the hints of mysticism regarding the Halloween chant about finding your future spouse were a fun touch.
"Romance on Tap" by Marina Adair: 3.5 stars
I enjoyed this one for the most part. This one just utilized one of my least favorite tropes, where a woman gives up her dream job to be with a guy (😑), which is just not my jam but if that isn't an issue for you, then I think you'll really like this one. I really liked the couple in this and felt their dynamic complemented each other perfectly. I loved seeing more female friendships in this one as well, along with having an adopted Asian protagonist who was raised by white parents and how she navigated that growing up. I could've lived without the blatant sexist remarks from the male characters about their "man cards' but otherwise a solid entry to this anthology.
I don't tend to gravitate towards anthologies but I will make an exception for this one because it is just the perfect cozy fall read. I also liked that there were recipes included at the back of the book! I mean after all the talk of food in this book, it would be rude of them not to. So if you're looking for a reprieve from all the spooky reads and want something more light-hearted, check out this sweet anthology series!
October 11, 2025
In Moonbright every one knows each other and the Cafe is the hub of the town. It’s run by a family of women who have lived there since the early days.
The story centers around Hannah, who the author describes as naive, sweet and loved by her family. To me she made her sound almost mentally challenged. I was very confused by the character.
Then Jake comes in to town. He’s described as hard, tough, scruffy. He rides a Ducati motorcycle, wears all black including a motorcycle jacket and black bandanna and always has his aviators on.
Jake helps Hanna at the Halloween costume parade with her triplet nephews who are 3.
Then after 2 days they are professing their love for each other and he proposes.
I didn’t like the writing style of this author. After one walk in the park, Greg confronts Jake and tells him to back off of Hannah, and Jake says “she’s my woman”.
The way Jake spoke sounded too “old fashioned” to me.
It was a corny story. There are two more stories in the book, but I’m done for now.
I was gifted this book for my honest opinion. I would not spend my money on it.
The story centers around Hannah, who the author describes as naive, sweet and loved by her family. To me she made her sound almost mentally challenged. I was very confused by the character.
Then Jake comes in to town. He’s described as hard, tough, scruffy. He rides a Ducati motorcycle, wears all black including a motorcycle jacket and black bandanna and always has his aviators on.
Jake helps Hanna at the Halloween costume parade with her triplet nephews who are 3.
Then after 2 days they are professing their love for each other and he proposes.
I didn’t like the writing style of this author. After one walk in the park, Greg confronts Jake and tells him to back off of Hannah, and Jake says “she’s my woman”.
The way Jake spoke sounded too “old fashioned” to me.
It was a corny story. There are two more stories in the book, but I’m done for now.
I was gifted this book for my honest opinion. I would not spend my money on it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 30, 2021
I am not a big fan of Anthologies, but I am of Marina Adair and Stacy Finz. And now am also a fan of Kate Angell. Happily, I found this to be more like a trilogy series in one volume. The stories take place in small town, Moonbright, Maine and the common theme is a Moonbright Legend that is "if you said "mirror, mirror on Halloween, will my future spouse been seen" and then looked at a mirror or anything with a reflection at midnight on Halloween, you'd see your future spouse". In all three stories, the ladies didn't believe, but did it anyway, and were confused by who they saw. All three stories are second chances and were consistent with the characters, and descriptions of the town.
I am moving from a house to an apartment and must downsize, including my books, but I enjoyed this and will read it again, so it is coming with me. I think you will enjoy it too.
I am moving from a house to an apartment and must downsize, including my books, but I enjoyed this and will read it again, so it is coming with me. I think you will enjoy it too.
October 16, 2022
"Mirror, mirror on Halloween, will my future spouse be seen?"
The women of Moonbright, Maine believe in Halloween magic. According to town lore, when a single woman casts the love spell before the the clock strikes midnight the identity of her soul mate will be revealed in a reflective surface. The women at the center of this anthology of novellas are skeptical, but non completely unbelieving. Will the love spell work for them too?
The Café Between Pumpkin and Pie is an anthology of three delightful contemporary romance novellas. It's not closed door, but definitely a little sexier than Hallmark. And it's perfect for those wanting a non-scary Halloween read. They all center around the small, but growing, town's yearly Halloween parade. The stories worked wonderfully as palate cleansers in between heavier reading for #victober. Like all anthologies, some of the stories are stronger than others. For me, personally, Romance on Tap, had the best character development. (TW: This story deals with parental abandonment and transnational/transracial adoption.) And speaking of characters, I loved how the town of Moonbright was a character in itself and how the three authors used the same cast of town characters in their stories so that they were all connected to each other even though the three couples don't interact in each other's stories.
The women of Moonbright, Maine believe in Halloween magic. According to town lore, when a single woman casts the love spell before the the clock strikes midnight the identity of her soul mate will be revealed in a reflective surface. The women at the center of this anthology of novellas are skeptical, but non completely unbelieving. Will the love spell work for them too?
The Café Between Pumpkin and Pie is an anthology of three delightful contemporary romance novellas. It's not closed door, but definitely a little sexier than Hallmark. And it's perfect for those wanting a non-scary Halloween read. They all center around the small, but growing, town's yearly Halloween parade. The stories worked wonderfully as palate cleansers in between heavier reading for #victober. Like all anthologies, some of the stories are stronger than others. For me, personally, Romance on Tap, had the best character development. (TW: This story deals with parental abandonment and transnational/transracial adoption.) And speaking of characters, I loved how the town of Moonbright was a character in itself and how the three authors used the same cast of town characters in their stories so that they were all connected to each other even though the three couples don't interact in each other's stories.
January 11, 2022
As with most collections, readers will likely enjoy one story more than the others, and for me, that one was Love Rising. All were quick reads, heavy on the romance. Centered around the magical season of Hallowe’en, this collection will likely put you in the mood for autumn and all that goes with it.
April 3, 2022
Light hearted and predictable, but sometimes that is enough.
Enjoyable book with charm .
Felt like these stories could easy be turned into a Hallmark movie . And again, sometimes that's all a person needs .
Enjoyable book with charm .
Felt like these stories could easy be turned into a Hallmark movie . And again, sometimes that's all a person needs .
October 28, 2025
Couldn’t put it down as it was three short stories. I would have to finish one before I put it down then found myself every time I sat down to read the next one.
August 19, 2022
Love how all three short stories are centered in the same town. Perfect reading for Autumn.
September 22, 2023
It’s essentially the book version of a hallmark movie in my opinion.
September 15, 2024
Honestly… the last story was my favorite and saved this book for me. The first story was okay but I ended up getting bored at certain sections and the second story was not my fave at all. Three stars seemed like a happy medium rating for such mixed emotions.
July 29, 2021
I would like to thank Netgalley, Kensington Books and the authors for an e arc copy of this book.
Moonbright is a lovely town and the characters as fun to get to know. There is a tradition for the ladies of the town that if you say special words on Halloween before midnight, your future husband will be revealed to you in a reflective surface.
In this book we meet 3 different women, who do say the words and this is their stories. I really enjoyed all the characters and their stories. The town and its people all play a part. The town sounded lovely and their Halloween celebrations sound fun. I don’t want to say much about each story as it may spoil the stories for other readers. They are all lovely romances that made me smile.
I will definitely read more books by these authors and hope to head back to Moonbright again. Would recommend this book.
Moonbright is a lovely town and the characters as fun to get to know. There is a tradition for the ladies of the town that if you say special words on Halloween before midnight, your future husband will be revealed to you in a reflective surface.
In this book we meet 3 different women, who do say the words and this is their stories. I really enjoyed all the characters and their stories. The town and its people all play a part. The town sounded lovely and their Halloween celebrations sound fun. I don’t want to say much about each story as it may spoil the stories for other readers. They are all lovely romances that made me smile.
I will definitely read more books by these authors and hope to head back to Moonbright again. Would recommend this book.
April 27, 2021
Thank you NetGalley, I was looking forward to this.
Accurate rating: 3.33 ⭐️
Love Over Easy by Kate Angell // 3⭐️
I had really high hopes in the beginning, and I quickly realized that dialogue and character development were far more important than atmosphere to this author. Angell doesn’t have unattractive writing, there’s an appeal to her characters and their somewhat unique traits, how she handles family dynamics and how well she treats older characters far better than most. She writes her characters respectfully with a bit of flair, her older characters really.
The MC was okay. I related to her insecurity, her shyness and slight innocence, but the author made it very clear to both reader and love interest, that her main selling point was how undeniably kind she was, with no flaw. It was borderline Mary Sue.
The love interest was, ofc, a broody man with a six pack, lock hair and a need for speed on his motorcycle, unable to settle down since he was a high school John Travolta from grease, and our MC was Sandy. I do not fault them, as much, because we actually got quite a bit of something from his POV. I adored seeing the grandfather ’major’ and his friend, his interactions with his family and their relation to the small town and the mc’s family.
I also quite enjoyed the lore and magical realism behind the story, as small as it was to the plot.
I can’t help but be disappointed by the obvious things that put me off. One, it was very contradictory. One moment he understands her independence and wants to give her space, and the next he’s looking up her skirt and calling her babe two days into seeing her again after years.
The dialogue often felt... unrealistic and too pitched in favor for the characters to be perfect for each other in the end, which I can’t %100 complain about, because it’s a story routed about magical soulmates.
I thought this author made the mistake of making the narration very similar to male authors who don’t understand how to write women, or how to not over sexualize them and make them objects with one or two needs... either or both being sex.
Often the writing took me out with humorous one-liners such as the “breath he’d been holding” and honestly I couldn’t contain my laughter.
I won’t lie, Angell has promise, but I won’t be reading any of her works. This book was not for me.
I do rec this for anyone who is die-hard about cheesy romcoms with laughably tropey characters and rushed romances where (spoiler) their fates are sealed by proposal after having sex ( without foreplay??? ).
Anywho. It’s a three star that isn’t quite a 2⭐️ and not a 3.5⭐️
Love Rising by Stacy Finz: 4.5⭐️
From the moment I started reading this short, I was aware of how much I would come to adore it. The writing is top notch, humorous constantly, and full of story. I adore our mc, who I remember, Sydney. A somewhat well known baker and recipe book writer who moved from our main plot small town Moonbright, Maine. Unlike our last mc, Syd got away from the small town to grow big.
From the get go when we have an altercation between Sydney and her love interest, Nick, we learn there’s a lot more between them than we know. There’s some sort of spoiled history, a grudge Syd hasn’t let go of, and it seems Nick hasn’t let go of her either.
Sydney is an incredible character, funny in narration, strong willed and wildly stubborn. I adore her quirks, how she handles herself and how she‘s straightforward. Her relationship with her grandmother even in passing was detailed and allowed us to have emotions for their relationship despite only seeing it per her recollection and situations with other family and townsfolk. Sydney is a great character and I loved getting to know her, her Insecurity on the past and how she struggled to have good relationships, and how her love for her job keeps her from moving on from past failed romance and pain.
Finz did an amazing job at what Angell didn’t. The way she connected the town and brought the characters from Angell’s story felt molded in like pottery, no cracks. Whereas the first story felt like a short rundown, this was the full body film that kept me hooked.
I knew very soon that I wasn’t too fond of Nick. Where at some points he was this antagonistic brute who played off Sydney with cute and hilarious banter, the author didn’t hide that she wanted Nick‘s trait of being a sexist pig to be hot. I hated it.
I love Nick’s family and his relation to wanting to stay in Moonbright, unlike his high school love Jennifer who he broke off with after unforeseen red flags, and Sydney who couldn’t stand the small town discomfort. I enjoyed seeing how he was genuinely a good person at times, caring, willing to help others, and how he respected his promises even after death. I also like that he admitted his fault at how his past actions hurt Sydney, and that it was important to acknowledge what it meant for both of them.
However, and I’m tired of this, I don’t understand why female authors make their female characters so authentic... and then make rubbish, by making the men solely desiring a woman’s physic. At many points in this story, I just kept asking why women lit write this way, the sexist and misogynistic way that woman every day fight against.
I won’t stop pointing this out. Every time Nick, or any love interest in this anthology, seem to get their head straight and show emotions, some sort of non-toxic-masculinity trait, the progress is shut down by a scene where he wonders what underwear the mc is wearing.
I just don’t understand. I really don’t, and I’ve come to learn that I despise the love interest point of views, aware that at any time I will see more gross paragraphs about the female sex.
The writing is great. The story is well crafted and interesting, I loved learning about the characters and seeing their romance unfold. I also liked that even though the Moonbright Lore wasn’t a huge catalyst, it still brought everything together neatly.
I liked this story a lot, but I brought it down a little bit because I’m especially tired of reading stories where women are objectified... by woman authors. It’s not hot, and I wish y’all would think of yourselves better... by creating things that make y’all feel better
This is the best story out of 3!
Romance On Tap by Marina Adair: 2/2.5⭐️
Oh boy. This one. I stopped reading at 80%, about 5/9 chapters finished. Umm.. lets get started.
This story is about Mila, a Vietnamese artist in Moonbright, Maine whose taking care of her senior adoptive parents while struggling to make her career soar... while still hung on her first love and target, Ford James.
After so many years, Mila believes she was cursed by the seven minutes in heaven kiss she supposedly shared with Ford James, the best kisser then and still now, in town. She believed he was the one, but thinks the best think she can do is break the curse by kissing him again, so she can find true love. He shows up, they kiss again. And oops. It’s not Ford, but his twin brother Hudson, the bad boy.
There’s miscommunication, since Hudson pretended to be his brother bc he liked Mila, while Mila liked Ford. Due to the mixup, there’s a grudge. However, as typically as one might expect, she falls for Hudson.
The writing was okay until it wasn’t. It didn’t flow well, and even through Mila is a lot older, she didn’t get any more mature, and don’t get me started on how long some particular scenes went on for. It truly felt like I was reading a 60 page script for one scene, in one single paragraph. There seemed to be so much going on in one scene that it was hard to tell what the main focus was, her old crush, the curse, her list of qualities she’s looking for in Mr. Right... I just started skimming.
I can’t say that I would have enjoyed this if anything had been different. I was indifferent towards Mila, I thought the twins were written okay and their relationship.. I liked the dynamic of the romance..
But.. I hate military men characters due to trauma and I prefer not reading romance stories about them... and I just couldn’t get behind Mila’s personality or her motivations. It was very ... simplistic and overdone.
I found myself skimming afterwards, even after forcing myself to finish it since I am trying not to get back into a slump.. but this wasn’t it. I honestly can’t make myself read any more, but I’m sure someone else will love it.
I recommend the second or third author, and recommend the second author if you’re needing a reason to check it out or continue!
Accurate rating: 3.33 ⭐️
Love Over Easy by Kate Angell // 3⭐️
I had really high hopes in the beginning, and I quickly realized that dialogue and character development were far more important than atmosphere to this author. Angell doesn’t have unattractive writing, there’s an appeal to her characters and their somewhat unique traits, how she handles family dynamics and how well she treats older characters far better than most. She writes her characters respectfully with a bit of flair, her older characters really.
The MC was okay. I related to her insecurity, her shyness and slight innocence, but the author made it very clear to both reader and love interest, that her main selling point was how undeniably kind she was, with no flaw. It was borderline Mary Sue.
The love interest was, ofc, a broody man with a six pack, lock hair and a need for speed on his motorcycle, unable to settle down since he was a high school John Travolta from grease, and our MC was Sandy. I do not fault them, as much, because we actually got quite a bit of something from his POV. I adored seeing the grandfather ’major’ and his friend, his interactions with his family and their relation to the small town and the mc’s family.
I also quite enjoyed the lore and magical realism behind the story, as small as it was to the plot.
I can’t help but be disappointed by the obvious things that put me off. One, it was very contradictory. One moment he understands her independence and wants to give her space, and the next he’s looking up her skirt and calling her babe two days into seeing her again after years.
The dialogue often felt... unrealistic and too pitched in favor for the characters to be perfect for each other in the end, which I can’t %100 complain about, because it’s a story routed about magical soulmates.
I thought this author made the mistake of making the narration very similar to male authors who don’t understand how to write women, or how to not over sexualize them and make them objects with one or two needs... either or both being sex.
Often the writing took me out with humorous one-liners such as the “breath he’d been holding” and honestly I couldn’t contain my laughter.
I won’t lie, Angell has promise, but I won’t be reading any of her works. This book was not for me.
I do rec this for anyone who is die-hard about cheesy romcoms with laughably tropey characters and rushed romances where (spoiler) their fates are sealed by proposal after having sex ( without foreplay??? ).
Anywho. It’s a three star that isn’t quite a 2⭐️ and not a 3.5⭐️
Love Rising by Stacy Finz: 4.5⭐️
From the moment I started reading this short, I was aware of how much I would come to adore it. The writing is top notch, humorous constantly, and full of story. I adore our mc, who I remember, Sydney. A somewhat well known baker and recipe book writer who moved from our main plot small town Moonbright, Maine. Unlike our last mc, Syd got away from the small town to grow big.
From the get go when we have an altercation between Sydney and her love interest, Nick, we learn there’s a lot more between them than we know. There’s some sort of spoiled history, a grudge Syd hasn’t let go of, and it seems Nick hasn’t let go of her either.
Sydney is an incredible character, funny in narration, strong willed and wildly stubborn. I adore her quirks, how she handles herself and how she‘s straightforward. Her relationship with her grandmother even in passing was detailed and allowed us to have emotions for their relationship despite only seeing it per her recollection and situations with other family and townsfolk. Sydney is a great character and I loved getting to know her, her Insecurity on the past and how she struggled to have good relationships, and how her love for her job keeps her from moving on from past failed romance and pain.
Finz did an amazing job at what Angell didn’t. The way she connected the town and brought the characters from Angell’s story felt molded in like pottery, no cracks. Whereas the first story felt like a short rundown, this was the full body film that kept me hooked.
I knew very soon that I wasn’t too fond of Nick. Where at some points he was this antagonistic brute who played off Sydney with cute and hilarious banter, the author didn’t hide that she wanted Nick‘s trait of being a sexist pig to be hot. I hated it.
I love Nick’s family and his relation to wanting to stay in Moonbright, unlike his high school love Jennifer who he broke off with after unforeseen red flags, and Sydney who couldn’t stand the small town discomfort. I enjoyed seeing how he was genuinely a good person at times, caring, willing to help others, and how he respected his promises even after death. I also like that he admitted his fault at how his past actions hurt Sydney, and that it was important to acknowledge what it meant for both of them.
However, and I’m tired of this, I don’t understand why female authors make their female characters so authentic... and then make rubbish, by making the men solely desiring a woman’s physic. At many points in this story, I just kept asking why women lit write this way, the sexist and misogynistic way that woman every day fight against.
I won’t stop pointing this out. Every time Nick, or any love interest in this anthology, seem to get their head straight and show emotions, some sort of non-toxic-masculinity trait, the progress is shut down by a scene where he wonders what underwear the mc is wearing.
I just don’t understand. I really don’t, and I’ve come to learn that I despise the love interest point of views, aware that at any time I will see more gross paragraphs about the female sex.
The writing is great. The story is well crafted and interesting, I loved learning about the characters and seeing their romance unfold. I also liked that even though the Moonbright Lore wasn’t a huge catalyst, it still brought everything together neatly.
I liked this story a lot, but I brought it down a little bit because I’m especially tired of reading stories where women are objectified... by woman authors. It’s not hot, and I wish y’all would think of yourselves better... by creating things that make y’all feel better
This is the best story out of 3!
Romance On Tap by Marina Adair: 2/2.5⭐️
Oh boy. This one. I stopped reading at 80%, about 5/9 chapters finished. Umm.. lets get started.
This story is about Mila, a Vietnamese artist in Moonbright, Maine whose taking care of her senior adoptive parents while struggling to make her career soar... while still hung on her first love and target, Ford James.
After so many years, Mila believes she was cursed by the seven minutes in heaven kiss she supposedly shared with Ford James, the best kisser then and still now, in town. She believed he was the one, but thinks the best think she can do is break the curse by kissing him again, so she can find true love. He shows up, they kiss again. And oops. It’s not Ford, but his twin brother Hudson, the bad boy.
There’s miscommunication, since Hudson pretended to be his brother bc he liked Mila, while Mila liked Ford. Due to the mixup, there’s a grudge. However, as typically as one might expect, she falls for Hudson.
The writing was okay until it wasn’t. It didn’t flow well, and even through Mila is a lot older, she didn’t get any more mature, and don’t get me started on how long some particular scenes went on for. It truly felt like I was reading a 60 page script for one scene, in one single paragraph. There seemed to be so much going on in one scene that it was hard to tell what the main focus was, her old crush, the curse, her list of qualities she’s looking for in Mr. Right... I just started skimming.
I can’t say that I would have enjoyed this if anything had been different. I was indifferent towards Mila, I thought the twins were written okay and their relationship.. I liked the dynamic of the romance..
But.. I hate military men characters due to trauma and I prefer not reading romance stories about them... and I just couldn’t get behind Mila’s personality or her motivations. It was very ... simplistic and overdone.
I found myself skimming afterwards, even after forcing myself to finish it since I am trying not to get back into a slump.. but this wasn’t it. I honestly can’t make myself read any more, but I’m sure someone else will love it.
I recommend the second or third author, and recommend the second author if you’re needing a reason to check it out or continue!
December 4, 2023
This is the third book in the Moonbright, Maine series, though they can all stand alone. I'm not a big short story fan, but I've always enjoyed this series of fall / Halloween themed romance novellas. This one contained three sweet (and sometimes steamy) romances, all taking place in small town Maine. I LOVE the setting and the fall vibes, though this was my least favorite of the three books. If you're a fall lover like me, check out this series. It's cute and sets the tone for the season.
October 31, 2022
If you love romantic stories, this is the book for you. This books holds 3 different love stories that take place in the same place, at the same time. I gave it 4 stars because 1 story out of the 3 didn't really do it for me but was overall a great read.
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