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Mapleton #2
Good to Be Home
She’s coming home. He never left...
When Isabel Marshall moved away from her hometown with hopes of making a name for herself in Los Angeles, she didn't mean to abandon her roots, but that’s what happened. Now, four years later and having amassed an interior design empire, Isabel must return to Mapleton to film a home renovation special for her TV show. While most of the village welcomes her with open arms, her family and the ex-boyfriend she left in her dust are another story.
Daniel Smith couldn’t follow Isabel to California, no matter how badly he wanted to, because his grandfather needed him in Mapleton. Since she’s been gone, he’s moved on—or so he thought. But as they reconnect, Daniel can’t deny that though they’ve both changed, his feelings for Isabel haven’t. Unfortunately, a choice he made in her absence could ruin any chance of reconciliation.
Together, Daniel and Isabel must determine whether the love they once shared has stood the test of time and distance. Can they navigate Isabel’s fame, their past decisions, and the growth they’ve undergone to build the future of their dreams?
...An uplifting and heartwarming story about the importance of family, the beauty of forgiveness, and the magic of falling (or re-falling!) in love. Perfect for fans of RaeAnne Thayne, Jenny Hale, Debbie Macomber, and Rachael Bloome.
When Isabel Marshall moved away from her hometown with hopes of making a name for herself in Los Angeles, she didn't mean to abandon her roots, but that’s what happened. Now, four years later and having amassed an interior design empire, Isabel must return to Mapleton to film a home renovation special for her TV show. While most of the village welcomes her with open arms, her family and the ex-boyfriend she left in her dust are another story.
Daniel Smith couldn’t follow Isabel to California, no matter how badly he wanted to, because his grandfather needed him in Mapleton. Since she’s been gone, he’s moved on—or so he thought. But as they reconnect, Daniel can’t deny that though they’ve both changed, his feelings for Isabel haven’t. Unfortunately, a choice he made in her absence could ruin any chance of reconciliation.
Together, Daniel and Isabel must determine whether the love they once shared has stood the test of time and distance. Can they navigate Isabel’s fame, their past decisions, and the growth they’ve undergone to build the future of their dreams?
...An uplifting and heartwarming story about the importance of family, the beauty of forgiveness, and the magic of falling (or re-falling!) in love. Perfect for fans of RaeAnne Thayne, Jenny Hale, Debbie Macomber, and Rachael Bloome.
- GenresRomance
277 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 5, 2022
24 people are currently reading
164 people want to read
About the author
Leah Dobrinska
14 books295 followersLeah Dobrinska is the author of the Songwriter Sleuth Mysteries, the Larkspur Library Mysteries, the Fall In Love romcom series, and the Mapleton novels. She earned her degree in English Literature from UW-Madison where she was awarded the Dean’s Prize and served as a Writing Fellow. She has since worked as a freelance writer, editor, and content marketer. As a kid, she hoped to grow up to be either Nancy Drew or Elizabeth Bennet. Now, she fulfills that dream by writing mysteries and love stories.
A sucker for a good sentence, a happy ending, and the smell of books—both old and new—Leah lives out her very own happily ever after in a small Wisconsin town with her husband and their gaggle of kids. When she's not writing, handing out snacks, visiting the local library, or doing projects around the house, Leah enjoys reading and running. Find out more about Leah, join her newsletter community, and connect with her through her website, leahdobrinska.com.
A sucker for a good sentence, a happy ending, and the smell of books—both old and new—Leah lives out her very own happily ever after in a small Wisconsin town with her husband and their gaggle of kids. When she's not writing, handing out snacks, visiting the local library, or doing projects around the house, Leah enjoys reading and running. Find out more about Leah, join her newsletter community, and connect with her through her website, leahdobrinska.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
April 21, 2022
This love story might be one of my favorites EVER!! The characters are so relatable and lovable, and I cannot get enough of this dreamy small town! The story was absolutely heartwarming and I truly felt “at home” with every page I read. Couldn’t have loved it more!
April 29, 2022
Love finds it’s way back home in this delightful small town romance. Sometimes all you need is a second chance at love. Leah delivers just that in this heartwarming story. Her characters are well developed, her plot is believable, and the dialogue moves the story along. Read this one…I promise it’ll make you feel good! Already looking forward to book #3!
April 16, 2022
I just adore small town romances and Leah Dobrinska knocks it out of the park with Good to be Home.
I adored Good to be Home: it takes the Big Town successful lady returning to a small town trope and stretches and enhances it in all the right ways. Isabel Marshall moves away from Mapleton to make it big in LA and never looks back. In the process she burns a lot of bridges with her family and ex-boyfriend. When she has to return in order to save her home décor TV show, she’s challenged beyond matching paint colours. Can she redeem herself? Isabel is a powerhouse character who won over my heart with her vulnerability and willingness to admit her mistakes. I love a small town romance, and throw in a second chance romance and I am a goner!
Isabel is a smart and savvy heroine who isn’t afraid of her ambition. I loved that she owned it and acknowledged that it meant that she couldn’t have everything in her life that she wanted: like a relationship and a better connection to her family back home. Even throughout the book, Isabel doesn’t give up on her dreams, in fact I’d say she’s MORE successful by the end of the book, but she also learns how to prioritize herself and fuel the relationships that are important to her. Which leads me to her very yummy and sweet ex, Daniel. Daniel is the one that got away for Isabel. When she leaves for LA they both must make hard decisions. And Daniel’s is to stay in their hometown and build his life as a writer there while taking care of his grandfather. Daniel is strong, loyal and quietly talented. When Isabel and Daniel meet up again the chemistry is so strong. Neither has ever gotten over the other, but they each have scars and are wary of starting something up when Isabel is still going back to LA. Daniel’s relationship with his grandfather and the members of his community is heartwarming. Could he be a better man? And yet, he’s also been able to make himself a success – something Isabel didn’t think could be done in a small town. Isabel and Daniel are an adorable couple with the kind of chemistry only old lovers can have. It made me yearn to have someone in my life who loved me unconditionally and already knew about me flaws and weaknesses as well as my strengths.
Click on the link to read our full review on our blog: https://romancebythebook.com/2022/04/...
I adored Good to be Home: it takes the Big Town successful lady returning to a small town trope and stretches and enhances it in all the right ways. Isabel Marshall moves away from Mapleton to make it big in LA and never looks back. In the process she burns a lot of bridges with her family and ex-boyfriend. When she has to return in order to save her home décor TV show, she’s challenged beyond matching paint colours. Can she redeem herself? Isabel is a powerhouse character who won over my heart with her vulnerability and willingness to admit her mistakes. I love a small town romance, and throw in a second chance romance and I am a goner!
Isabel is a smart and savvy heroine who isn’t afraid of her ambition. I loved that she owned it and acknowledged that it meant that she couldn’t have everything in her life that she wanted: like a relationship and a better connection to her family back home. Even throughout the book, Isabel doesn’t give up on her dreams, in fact I’d say she’s MORE successful by the end of the book, but she also learns how to prioritize herself and fuel the relationships that are important to her. Which leads me to her very yummy and sweet ex, Daniel. Daniel is the one that got away for Isabel. When she leaves for LA they both must make hard decisions. And Daniel’s is to stay in their hometown and build his life as a writer there while taking care of his grandfather. Daniel is strong, loyal and quietly talented. When Isabel and Daniel meet up again the chemistry is so strong. Neither has ever gotten over the other, but they each have scars and are wary of starting something up when Isabel is still going back to LA. Daniel’s relationship with his grandfather and the members of his community is heartwarming. Could he be a better man? And yet, he’s also been able to make himself a success – something Isabel didn’t think could be done in a small town. Isabel and Daniel are an adorable couple with the kind of chemistry only old lovers can have. It made me yearn to have someone in my life who loved me unconditionally and already knew about me flaws and weaknesses as well as my strengths.
Click on the link to read our full review on our blog: https://romancebythebook.com/2022/04/...
April 7, 2022
Good to be Home by Leah Dobrinska
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
_____________________________________________________
Story Notes
As I read through the pages of this book, my mind kept going back to the words, “wonderfully fun”. That’s what this book is, wonderfully fun. It takes a plot that could be flat and formulaic and makes it fresh, vibrant, and ever so enjoyable. We get to dive into Isabel’s life as she rediscovers herself and her love for home design. It was like combining the best HGTV home flip show with the best Hallmark love story and getting a book that you just had to finish reading. It had depth, excellent characters, plots that challenged the characters and a real-ness that engaged your heart and your mind. I’ve not read the others in this series yet but you can bet I’m going to be tracking them down ASAP. I can’t recommend this story highly enough. It was such a lovely story and you should definitely add it to your TBR list now. I’m going to be adding a copy to my shelves as I KNOW I’ll want to read it again.
Favorite Things:
Grace and her friendship
Grandpa Gus
Val Marshall’s exclamations - “Ralphing Roaches..” 🤣🤣
Julia and her cafe
Mapleton
Daniel and Isabel
Being honest
Isabel learning the value of home
The porch kiss 🔥🔥
The epilogue
I received this temporary complimentary E-book from Leah via BookFunnel. I am not required by anyone to write a positive review but am pleased to do so. I will receive no fiscal compensation for this review and the opinions expressed herein are entirely my own.
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
_____________________________________________________
Story Notes
As I read through the pages of this book, my mind kept going back to the words, “wonderfully fun”. That’s what this book is, wonderfully fun. It takes a plot that could be flat and formulaic and makes it fresh, vibrant, and ever so enjoyable. We get to dive into Isabel’s life as she rediscovers herself and her love for home design. It was like combining the best HGTV home flip show with the best Hallmark love story and getting a book that you just had to finish reading. It had depth, excellent characters, plots that challenged the characters and a real-ness that engaged your heart and your mind. I’ve not read the others in this series yet but you can bet I’m going to be tracking them down ASAP. I can’t recommend this story highly enough. It was such a lovely story and you should definitely add it to your TBR list now. I’m going to be adding a copy to my shelves as I KNOW I’ll want to read it again.
Favorite Things:
Grace and her friendship
Grandpa Gus
Val Marshall’s exclamations - “Ralphing Roaches..” 🤣🤣
Julia and her cafe
Mapleton
Daniel and Isabel
Being honest
Isabel learning the value of home
The porch kiss 🔥🔥
The epilogue
I received this temporary complimentary E-book from Leah via BookFunnel. I am not required by anyone to write a positive review but am pleased to do so. I will receive no fiscal compensation for this review and the opinions expressed herein are entirely my own.
April 7, 2022
I simply adored this small town, second chance romance. Leah’s characters have such depth it’s impossible not to fall in love with them. Daniel had me swooning from the beginning! 🤍
This is the second book in the Mapleton series but it can be read as a stand alone. Leah’s writing makes me feel like I’m right there in Mapleton and I love it! Can’t wait to read all of Leah’s work!
This is the second book in the Mapleton series but it can be read as a stand alone. Leah’s writing makes me feel like I’m right there in Mapleton and I love it! Can’t wait to read all of Leah’s work!
March 22, 2022
ARC reader of this book! [03-2021]
Leah Dobrinska is a freelance writer, editor and content marketer. She writes mysteries and love stories. I read this romance book in advance and these are my thoughts!
WILL BE PUBLISHED ON APRIL 5TH
ROMANCE
Isabel and Daniel have been a couple in their college years. They both grew up in the smaal town Mapleton. One day, four years ago in the book, Isabel left to achieve her dreams in New York. Daniel had to cope with the ultimatum of going with her or staying with his grandfather. He chose the latter.
Isabel, as a home designer with her own TV show now, gets a job back in Mapleton, where she hasn’t visited for four years, having left everything and everyone behind. Daniel finds he never quite recovered from his heartbreak and always longed after Isabel, still. It’s pretty similar for Isabel.
Their second chance comes to it’s rather slow and rocky restart once they start seeing each other daily again. There’s a lot of emotional damage that needs to be tended to, which at first seems to only give them reasons not to try. Isabel’s best friend from New York and Daniel’s grandfather keep pushing them together again, bit by bit receiving all the help from the whole of Mapleton.
Yes. Yes, their happy ending does come. Second chances seem to work out well when they’re deserved.
what to find in this book
- second chance
- home town feelings
- mutual pining
- small town gossip
PLOT
Isabel is afraid of going back home, not having stayed in touch with the people there after having left. Still, she takes on the job, meeting kind faces and warm welcomes from most of the people around her. Her parents didn’t like her absent behaviour at all, feeling hurt and neglected. Especially Isabel’s mother cam around, though, building the fundament for a blooming mother-daughter connection. Isabel’s older brother has been her partner in crime before she left, and now that she is back in the land of the living – at home – he is giving her quite a hard time. Rightfully so.
Isabel wants to make right with all the people she left behind. In doing so she finds that Mapleton has and always will be her home, even if at the time it might felt isolating living in such a small town, knowing everyone. Her work there creates new perspectives, showing her that she can work anywhere she wants to. In the process of figuring herself out and growing as a person, she also comes across new acquaintances, making her see the value of family and having them close. She realizes Mapleton is her extended family, if you will.
Daniel decided against going with Isabel when she left for New York, wanting to stay with his grandfather – the only blood-related family he has left. He never really understood why she left, as it seemed at first and tried to hold a grudge against her. He opens up to his grandfather about his real feelings – about Isabel, about her move, about her being back and about staying in Mapleton and not going to New York. He decides for her, hoping it isn’t to late, ready to go back to New York with her. He realizes the mistakes he made considering all things Isabel and cannot bear to see her leave again.
With the pressure of the entire town encouraging him to choose love, to choose for himself and himself alone, he does. He’s all in.
The town, the people, New York, Isabel and Daniel. Who will win in the end?
CONCLUSION
The book is written in both Daniel’s and Isabel’s points of view. It has third person narrative, so it’s like looking from the outside, watching them both go about their lives with an insight on their thoughts. The prologue and epilogue are articles considering Isabel’s show, and they both connected all the dots given throughout the story so beautifully.
This was a feel good, home atmosphere, fluffy romance book that I will recommend to all the romance lovers out there. Though second chance isn’t really my thing, this one really did it for me!
Good To Be Home indeed!
Leah Dobrinska is a freelance writer, editor and content marketer. She writes mysteries and love stories. I read this romance book in advance and these are my thoughts!
WILL BE PUBLISHED ON APRIL 5TH
ROMANCE
Isabel and Daniel have been a couple in their college years. They both grew up in the smaal town Mapleton. One day, four years ago in the book, Isabel left to achieve her dreams in New York. Daniel had to cope with the ultimatum of going with her or staying with his grandfather. He chose the latter.
”What does Mapleton have to offer me?”
“It has me, Izzy. Us. Isn’t that enough?”
Isabel, as a home designer with her own TV show now, gets a job back in Mapleton, where she hasn’t visited for four years, having left everything and everyone behind. Daniel finds he never quite recovered from his heartbreak and always longed after Isabel, still. It’s pretty similar for Isabel.
Their second chance comes to it’s rather slow and rocky restart once they start seeing each other daily again. There’s a lot of emotional damage that needs to be tended to, which at first seems to only give them reasons not to try. Isabel’s best friend from New York and Daniel’s grandfather keep pushing them together again, bit by bit receiving all the help from the whole of Mapleton.
Yes. Yes, their happy ending does come. Second chances seem to work out well when they’re deserved.
”If you love Isabel, and if she loves you, too, then you should move mountains – or cities – for her.”
what to find in this book
- second chance
- home town feelings
- mutual pining
- small town gossip
PLOT
Isabel is afraid of going back home, not having stayed in touch with the people there after having left. Still, she takes on the job, meeting kind faces and warm welcomes from most of the people around her. Her parents didn’t like her absent behaviour at all, feeling hurt and neglected. Especially Isabel’s mother cam around, though, building the fundament for a blooming mother-daughter connection. Isabel’s older brother has been her partner in crime before she left, and now that she is back in the land of the living – at home – he is giving her quite a hard time. Rightfully so.
”[…] You are light and joy and hope for people. You’re sharing your gifts with others, and that is so beautiful to witness. […]”
Isabel wants to make right with all the people she left behind. In doing so she finds that Mapleton has and always will be her home, even if at the time it might felt isolating living in such a small town, knowing everyone. Her work there creates new perspectives, showing her that she can work anywhere she wants to. In the process of figuring herself out and growing as a person, she also comes across new acquaintances, making her see the value of family and having them close. She realizes Mapleton is her extended family, if you will.
Daniel decided against going with Isabel when she left for New York, wanting to stay with his grandfather – the only blood-related family he has left. He never really understood why she left, as it seemed at first and tried to hold a grudge against her. He opens up to his grandfather about his real feelings – about Isabel, about her move, about her being back and about staying in Mapleton and not going to New York. He decides for her, hoping it isn’t to late, ready to go back to New York with her. He realizes the mistakes he made considering all things Isabel and cannot bear to see her leave again.
With the pressure of the entire town encouraging him to choose love, to choose for himself and himself alone, he does. He’s all in.
The town, the people, New York, Isabel and Daniel. Who will win in the end?
CONCLUSION
The book is written in both Daniel’s and Isabel’s points of view. It has third person narrative, so it’s like looking from the outside, watching them both go about their lives with an insight on their thoughts. The prologue and epilogue are articles considering Isabel’s show, and they both connected all the dots given throughout the story so beautifully.
This was a feel good, home atmosphere, fluffy romance book that I will recommend to all the romance lovers out there. Though second chance isn’t really my thing, this one really did it for me!
Good To Be Home indeed!
April 5, 2022
I was given this ARC in exchange for an honest review. Thankyou Leah Dobrinska!
This follow up to the author’s book Love at On Deck Cafe was a wonderful continuation of the Mapleton series.
The author’s writing style is one that I enjoy, enough descriptive detail to paint a clear beautiful picture of what is happening without being too wordy. 👍
You are quickly immersed in the charm and cosiness of Mapleton and its inhabitants right from page one!
I read this book at a time when I was extremely busy with family commitments and could not wait to get back to reading it each time, but like her first book, I definitely could have read this story in one sitting!
Although this is the second book in the Mapleton series, if you did read it without having read the first you would still enjoy the story as much, I believe, since the author has an excellent way of tying in the previous book’s characters without spoiling what happens in the first book.
That is an accomplishment.
It has all of the things you need in a cosy romance. Great character development, heartwarming storyline, romantic yearnings, family bonds, etc.
I absolutely enjoyed this book and look forward to books three and four in the series!
I am also excited to know that the author is writing a cosy mystery series as well!
Well done!
This follow up to the author’s book Love at On Deck Cafe was a wonderful continuation of the Mapleton series.
The author’s writing style is one that I enjoy, enough descriptive detail to paint a clear beautiful picture of what is happening without being too wordy. 👍
You are quickly immersed in the charm and cosiness of Mapleton and its inhabitants right from page one!
I read this book at a time when I was extremely busy with family commitments and could not wait to get back to reading it each time, but like her first book, I definitely could have read this story in one sitting!
Although this is the second book in the Mapleton series, if you did read it without having read the first you would still enjoy the story as much, I believe, since the author has an excellent way of tying in the previous book’s characters without spoiling what happens in the first book.
That is an accomplishment.
It has all of the things you need in a cosy romance. Great character development, heartwarming storyline, romantic yearnings, family bonds, etc.
I absolutely enjoyed this book and look forward to books three and four in the series!
I am also excited to know that the author is writing a cosy mystery series as well!
Well done!
April 3, 2022
Good to Be Home is a second-chance romance about a successful interior designer who returns to her small hometown in Wisconsin (against her will) to film for her TV show. Isabel left town and never looked back, so coming home is a little rocky with her family and ex-boyfriend Daniel. It is a great balance of touching and fun, and Leah Dobrinska’s character development is a delight to read. I especially loved Daniel’s grandfather, Gus, and his down-to-earth wisdom. Isabel’s assistant, Grace, is the best friend we all need in our lives. The whole town of Mapleton is so charming, I wish I could visit there in real life!
If you like HGTV and Hallmark movies, you will LOVE Good to Be Home by Leah Dobrinska!
April 6, 2022
This romance was refreshingly realistic, while still capturing all of the feel-good elements of a romance novel! After reading a handful of romance novels in-between Love at On Deck Cafe and this book, I welcomed the honest, courageous dialogue between Good To Be Home's main characters. I felt like the characters could be my friends in my own home town. I understood their flaws, and admired their strengths. Also, after getting to know and love the characters from Leah's first Mapleton book, as well as from the novella, it was delightful to get glimpses of how their life has progressed. I was so happy to be submersed in the lovely town of Mapleton again while reading this book.
Another great work from Leah!
Merged review:
This romance was refreshingly realistic, while still capturing all of the feel-good elements of a romance novel! After reading a handful of romance novels in-between Love at On Deck Cafe and this book, I welcomed the honest, courageous dialogue between Good To Be Home's main characters. I felt like the characters could be my friends in my own home town. I understood their flaws, and admired their strengths. Also, after getting to know and love the characters from Leah's first Mapleton book, as well as from the novella, it was delightful to get glimpses of how their life has progressed. I was so happy to be immersed in the lovely town of Mapleton again while reading this book.
Another great work from Leah!
Another great work from Leah!
Merged review:
This romance was refreshingly realistic, while still capturing all of the feel-good elements of a romance novel! After reading a handful of romance novels in-between Love at On Deck Cafe and this book, I welcomed the honest, courageous dialogue between Good To Be Home's main characters. I felt like the characters could be my friends in my own home town. I understood their flaws, and admired their strengths. Also, after getting to know and love the characters from Leah's first Mapleton book, as well as from the novella, it was delightful to get glimpses of how their life has progressed. I was so happy to be immersed in the lovely town of Mapleton again while reading this book.
Another great work from Leah!
September 16, 2022
Wonderful book. Great series! Love the characters!
December 14, 2024
Good to Be Home by Leah Dobrinska
Mapleton #2
8h 42m narrated by Sarah Naughton and Sean Patrick Hopkins
Genre: Contemporary Cozy Romance, Clean Romance
Featuring: Home Designer, Television Show, Second Chance Trope, Homecoming Trope, Reviews, Renovations, Writers Block, Journalists, Jilted Lover Trope, Blogger, Shame, Los Angeles, California; Northeast Wisconsin, Dual POVs, Guilt, Flashbacks, Assistant, Characters From Previous Book, Close Proximity Trope, Estranged Family, Reunion Trope, Reminiscing, Drama, Forgiveness Trope, Baseball
Rating as a movie: PG
Songs for the soundtrack: "Let It Go" by Idina Menzel, "Me And Julio Down By The Schoolyard" by Paul Simon, "Dancing Queen" by ABBA, "Free Ride" by Edgar Winter, "The Imperial March" by John Williams and London Symphony Orchestra
Books and Authors mentioned: Frozen by Jennifer Lee, The Snow Queen by Hans Christian Andersen, Harry Potter Series by J. K. Rowling, P.S. I Love You by Cecelia Ahern, Home Alone by John Hughes, Beauty and the Beast by Gabrielle-Suzanne de Villeneuve translation by James Planché, The Story of the Trapp Family Singers by Maria Augusta von Trapp (The Sound of Music by Richard Rodgers Oscar Hammerstein II),
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🏚🏠🏡🏘👩🏼💻📺🧑💻📰
My thoughts: I spent all afternoon with this story and I enjoyed it more than the first book. It was obvious earlier on who the story was going to be about, even though it started with an unknown character, the relationship was briefly mentioned in the previous story and I loved that it was a minor character I felt I knew of but had a lot to learn about. This plot was fun, and the end was obvious given the title of the series but enjoyed the ride and character flaws. I'm hoping Ford is next in Book 3 but I'm ready for anything.
Recommend to others: Yes, this series is a hit and family-friendly.
Mapleton
1. Love at On Deck Cafe (2021)
2. Good to Be Home (2022)
3. Together With You (2022)
3.5 Choosing Love (2023)
Mapleton #2
8h 42m narrated by Sarah Naughton and Sean Patrick Hopkins
Genre: Contemporary Cozy Romance, Clean Romance
Featuring: Home Designer, Television Show, Second Chance Trope, Homecoming Trope, Reviews, Renovations, Writers Block, Journalists, Jilted Lover Trope, Blogger, Shame, Los Angeles, California; Northeast Wisconsin, Dual POVs, Guilt, Flashbacks, Assistant, Characters From Previous Book, Close Proximity Trope, Estranged Family, Reunion Trope, Reminiscing, Drama, Forgiveness Trope, Baseball
Rating as a movie: PG
Songs for the soundtrack: "Let It Go" by Idina Menzel, "Me And Julio Down By The Schoolyard" by Paul Simon, "Dancing Queen" by ABBA, "Free Ride" by Edgar Winter, "The Imperial March" by John Williams and London Symphony Orchestra
Books and Authors mentioned: Frozen by Jennifer Lee, The Snow Queen by Hans Christian Andersen, Harry Potter Series by J. K. Rowling, P.S. I Love You by Cecelia Ahern, Home Alone by John Hughes, Beauty and the Beast by Gabrielle-Suzanne de Villeneuve translation by James Planché, The Story of the Trapp Family Singers by Maria Augusta von Trapp (The Sound of Music by Richard Rodgers Oscar Hammerstein II),
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🏚🏠🏡🏘👩🏼💻📺🧑💻📰
My thoughts: I spent all afternoon with this story and I enjoyed it more than the first book. It was obvious earlier on who the story was going to be about, even though it started with an unknown character, the relationship was briefly mentioned in the previous story and I loved that it was a minor character I felt I knew of but had a lot to learn about. This plot was fun, and the end was obvious given the title of the series but enjoyed the ride and character flaws. I'm hoping Ford is next in Book 3 but I'm ready for anything.
Recommend to others: Yes, this series is a hit and family-friendly.
Mapleton
1. Love at On Deck Cafe (2021)
2. Good to Be Home (2022)
3. Together With You (2022)
3.5 Choosing Love (2023)
March 13, 2022
Second-chance romances are my jam. I just love them so much. Isabel and Daniel had what I can best describe as a steady, sweet love. It wasn’t the drama, fiery, crazy love that feels like it’s bound to fizzle out.
They were like two puzzle pieces meant to fit together and do life side by side. That made the insta-attraction something I didn’t mind. There was no way to fake not being drawn to the other because it was meant to be.
Isabel owned up to her mistakes and how she hurt her family and Daniel. Can we all appreciate the adult handling of communications??
A sweet story of family, missed opportunities, new dreams, and second chances.
They were like two puzzle pieces meant to fit together and do life side by side. That made the insta-attraction something I didn’t mind. There was no way to fake not being drawn to the other because it was meant to be.
Isabel owned up to her mistakes and how she hurt her family and Daniel. Can we all appreciate the adult handling of communications??
A sweet story of family, missed opportunities, new dreams, and second chances.
January 15, 2023
I really enjoyed reading "Good To Be Home." I had a hard time putting the book down! I love the small town feel and story based on the small town I grew up in. ❤️
April 5, 2022
Excuse me while I look for houses for sale in Mapleton…because I want to move there! It’s the perfect setting for a small-town romance! Isabel and Daniel’ story is wonderfully full of sweetness, forgiveness, and family. So touching and special.
I highly recommend it for all the best heartwarming feels!
I highly recommend it for all the best heartwarming feels!
April 3, 2022
I really loved Dobrinska’s debut and the first of the Mapleton books Love at On Deck Café, so I had no doubt I would enjoy this one as well. It far surpassed my expectations, and I loved Isabel and Daniel’s story even more. The story is fast paced and hard to put down, and I absolutely loved the behind the scenes look at a home improvement show. While the book is fluffy and lighthearted, it’s never corny or cringey. After reading two books set in Mapleton, I am really starting to feel like I know the people and the town itself, which is so much fun! This is truly the perfect feel-good book for a warm spring day. I don’t read many small town romances, but Leah Dobrinska’s will always be on my list!
April 5, 2022
Good to be Home
published today and it's such a sweet second chance
love story. I really didn't think I'd enjoy second chance
but this book proved me wrong. It's book 2 in a series
although it can be read as a stand alone. It's cute and
heartwarming. The character development is great.
Isabel has some wrongs she needs to fix and I liked
that she realized that and put in the effort to improve
her relationships.
I loved Daniel's relationship with his grandpa, the
setting in Mapleton, revisiting old characters, and
loving new ones!
published today and it's such a sweet second chance
love story. I really didn't think I'd enjoy second chance
but this book proved me wrong. It's book 2 in a series
although it can be read as a stand alone. It's cute and
heartwarming. The character development is great.
Isabel has some wrongs she needs to fix and I liked
that she realized that and put in the effort to improve
her relationships.
I loved Daniel's relationship with his grandpa, the
setting in Mapleton, revisiting old characters, and
loving new ones!
April 5, 2022
Leah Dobrinska is a new author to me. I wasn't sure if her stories would peek my interest but lets just say I read this book in one day.
This book takes you on a journey to true love in a small town where everyone knows your business and your past. You will see Isabel face her fears of going home and facing Daniel again.
This book is beautifully written. If you are a fan of sweet romance with a hint of drama and the feel of a Hallmark movie then I have found the book for you.
This book covers friendships, family, forgiveness, drama, and love.
I was given an ARC of this book by the author for an honest review. This book was four stars for me.
This book takes you on a journey to true love in a small town where everyone knows your business and your past. You will see Isabel face her fears of going home and facing Daniel again.
This book is beautifully written. If you are a fan of sweet romance with a hint of drama and the feel of a Hallmark movie then I have found the book for you.
This book covers friendships, family, forgiveness, drama, and love.
I was given an ARC of this book by the author for an honest review. This book was four stars for me.
March 13, 2022
I enjoyed Good To Be Home so much. It is a heartwarming love story, with the best happy ever after!
Mapleton reminded me so much of my own hometown (and it made me miss it even more!) I love that I really got to know this town and it's people. The characters are lovable and I am a sucker for a second chance romance. Overall, it gave me the same experience and cozy feeling that I get after watching a Hallmark movie. If you are looking for story that will leave you with a smile on your face, this is it!
*I received an ARC from the author in exchange for a honest review*
Mapleton reminded me so much of my own hometown (and it made me miss it even more!) I love that I really got to know this town and it's people. The characters are lovable and I am a sucker for a second chance romance. Overall, it gave me the same experience and cozy feeling that I get after watching a Hallmark movie. If you are looking for story that will leave you with a smile on your face, this is it!
*I received an ARC from the author in exchange for a honest review*
April 1, 2022
This is a second chance romance, and it is beautifully written! I loved the characters, the setting, the romance, everything! When I finished reading, I was ready to pack my bags and move to Mapleton myself. 😍
The relationships in this book are perfectly shown. I loved the development of the romance between Isabel and Daniel, the relationship between Daniel and his grandfather, and the healing of the damaged relationships between Isabel and her family. It was hard for me to put the book down because I just wanted to stay with the characters!
Isabel’s job is a lot of fun to read about too! I am not creative with interior design at all (my style could be defined as toddler-chic with a splash of it’s-going-to-get-messy-again-and-I’d-rather-be-reading), so I enjoyed that part of the book!
This book just made me so happy. It was a difficult week when I started it, so I took a mental health day and read this book whenever I had the chance, and it was the perfect story for what I needed that day.
5/5 stars!
Content:
Mild swearing
Clean romance
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The relationships in this book are perfectly shown. I loved the development of the romance between Isabel and Daniel, the relationship between Daniel and his grandfather, and the healing of the damaged relationships between Isabel and her family. It was hard for me to put the book down because I just wanted to stay with the characters!
Isabel’s job is a lot of fun to read about too! I am not creative with interior design at all (my style could be defined as toddler-chic with a splash of it’s-going-to-get-messy-again-and-I’d-rather-be-reading), so I enjoyed that part of the book!
This book just made me so happy. It was a difficult week when I started it, so I took a mental health day and read this book whenever I had the chance, and it was the perfect story for what I needed that day.
5/5 stars!
Content:
Mild swearing
Clean romance
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 27, 2022
Good To Be Home is a story full of heart.
How would it feel to go back to your hometown, after four years with little to no communication with family, friends and your first true love? This is where Isabel finds herself, right back where she started in Mapleton, Wisconsin. Isabel has become an interior design star with her own television show. When her producer asks about her hometown, she wasn't expecting to go back there to film a series for her show. How will it feel to be around those that she left behind, especially Daniel the man she left to follow her dreams?
The author vividly paints the picture of the small town of Mapleton and it's residents. The characters are authentic and fun. The community truly believes in helping each other. The themes of forgiveness, family, community, and love are depicted in this feel good romantic read.
**Side note, if this was made into a Hallmark movie, I can see Tyler Hynes playing the part of Daniel and Taylor Cole playing the part of Isabel. Just saying....
This is the second book in a series and the first book I have read from the author. You can tell the author told this story from a place of love and admiration. I look forward to reading more books in this series.
How would it feel to go back to your hometown, after four years with little to no communication with family, friends and your first true love? This is where Isabel finds herself, right back where she started in Mapleton, Wisconsin. Isabel has become an interior design star with her own television show. When her producer asks about her hometown, she wasn't expecting to go back there to film a series for her show. How will it feel to be around those that she left behind, especially Daniel the man she left to follow her dreams?
The author vividly paints the picture of the small town of Mapleton and it's residents. The characters are authentic and fun. The community truly believes in helping each other. The themes of forgiveness, family, community, and love are depicted in this feel good romantic read.
**Side note, if this was made into a Hallmark movie, I can see Tyler Hynes playing the part of Daniel and Taylor Cole playing the part of Isabel. Just saying....
This is the second book in a series and the first book I have read from the author. You can tell the author told this story from a place of love and admiration. I look forward to reading more books in this series.
September 21, 2023
Oh goodness, where do I begin?! I've been a fan of Leah Dobrinska's books, especially the Mapleton series, since I first found a copy of her books in my hands.
Mapleton is such a beautiful place and I love how each book, while individual, maintain some of the same characters and also add some each time. Meeting Isabel and Daniel, their "on again-off again" relationship had me swooning at times, but also wanting to shake them so they could realize what they had in each other. Their relationship and the whole story line was absolute perfection and the theme of second chances and new beginnings was stellar.
I mean, who wouldn't want to enjoy a romantic evening under the willow tree with tea light candles and a cozy blanket to look at the stars and have an intimate conversation with the love of your life? Or get caught in a storm and end up into his arms as he came to save you, despite earlier tensions ans disagreements? Every scene that Leah brings to life is so much better than any Hallmark movies because it feels real and like the reader is right there in all the pages. Get ready to be wowed by the lovely story of Isabel and Daniel, and be roped into the charming place of Mapleton, Wisconsin, where they are always ready to welcome you- either a first time visitor to the prodigal family member who comes back "home" after some time away... you'll always feel like and become part of the family, time and time again!
Cheers to Leah, Isabel and Daniel, and the beauty of Mapleton! 🥂😍
Mapleton is such a beautiful place and I love how each book, while individual, maintain some of the same characters and also add some each time. Meeting Isabel and Daniel, their "on again-off again" relationship had me swooning at times, but also wanting to shake them so they could realize what they had in each other. Their relationship and the whole story line was absolute perfection and the theme of second chances and new beginnings was stellar.
I mean, who wouldn't want to enjoy a romantic evening under the willow tree with tea light candles and a cozy blanket to look at the stars and have an intimate conversation with the love of your life? Or get caught in a storm and end up into his arms as he came to save you, despite earlier tensions ans disagreements? Every scene that Leah brings to life is so much better than any Hallmark movies because it feels real and like the reader is right there in all the pages. Get ready to be wowed by the lovely story of Isabel and Daniel, and be roped into the charming place of Mapleton, Wisconsin, where they are always ready to welcome you- either a first time visitor to the prodigal family member who comes back "home" after some time away... you'll always feel like and become part of the family, time and time again!
Cheers to Leah, Isabel and Daniel, and the beauty of Mapleton! 🥂😍
May 10, 2023
I absolutely love second chance romances, especially when they occur in a small town.
This is my third book of Leah's and I am in love with this town, the people, everything. I need to go visit Mapleton and On Deck Café. The atmosphere and the way Leah describes the town of Mapleton just makes me want to move there and be a part of the community.
In Good To Be Home we meet Isabel and Daniel. They dated before she left for L.A. and he stayed back to pursue his own career and stay close to his grandfather. Now Isabel is back in town shooting for her tv show and they both realize that those sparks they had years ago are still there.
I loved seeing both Isabel and Daniel's POV throughout this book. Another thing I really enjoyed in Good To Be Home was Isabel's blog posts. Seeing her growth through them was an added layer of perfection. And can we just talk about the epilogue?! Ugh! Love that for Isabel & Daniel!
Tropes:
- second chance
- small town
- closed door
- swoony hero
- strong heroine
- sweet home Alabama vibes
This is my third book of Leah's and I am in love with this town, the people, everything. I need to go visit Mapleton and On Deck Café. The atmosphere and the way Leah describes the town of Mapleton just makes me want to move there and be a part of the community.
In Good To Be Home we meet Isabel and Daniel. They dated before she left for L.A. and he stayed back to pursue his own career and stay close to his grandfather. Now Isabel is back in town shooting for her tv show and they both realize that those sparks they had years ago are still there.
I loved seeing both Isabel and Daniel's POV throughout this book. Another thing I really enjoyed in Good To Be Home was Isabel's blog posts. Seeing her growth through them was an added layer of perfection. And can we just talk about the epilogue?! Ugh! Love that for Isabel & Daniel!
Tropes:
- second chance
- small town
- closed door
- swoony hero
- strong heroine
- sweet home Alabama vibes
September 11, 2022
Good To Be Home is another great read by author Leah Dobrinska. I loved revisiting the village of Mapleton, Wisconsin in this charming story. The theme of giving home, and love, a second chance runs strong throughout. I completely enjoyed my time with Izzy and Daniel in Mapleton, and, even though Good To Be Home reads perfect as a standalone, I loved the glimpses of Julia and Samson from the first novel in the series. Well written and sweet, the entire book was like a visit home. Can't wait to read the next one set at Christmas.
I recommend this entire series to anyone who loves a good Hallmark movie.
I recommend this entire series to anyone who loves a good Hallmark movie.
January 1, 2023
Mapleton feels like my second home. It’s giving me all the warm and cozy vibes I wish I could feel daily.
I honestly cannot comprehend how Leah captures the small town feel into a 265 paged book. The book is so detailed where I can picture each scene throughout.
Daniel was previously mentioned throughout the first in this series and I was relieved when Isabel showed up in the picture. I’m so glad they got their happy ending after all the life struggles that occurred throughout the course of the book.
I honestly cannot comprehend how Leah captures the small town feel into a 265 paged book. The book is so detailed where I can picture each scene throughout.
Daniel was previously mentioned throughout the first in this series and I was relieved when Isabel showed up in the picture. I’m so glad they got their happy ending after all the life struggles that occurred throughout the course of the book.
April 25, 2022
Good To Be Home is the second book in the Mapleton series by Leah Dobrinska. Cute story with the charm of Sweet Home Alabama in a Wisconsin World. It was fun to reconnect with characters from book one, but not essential to read Love At On Deck Café first. Sweet characters and charming small-town feel! Who wouldn't want to move to Mapleton?
April 29, 2022
This second book in the series gave me the warm fuzzies, just as the first book did. I enjoyed the love story of a new couple while getting an update of the couple from her first book, Love At On Deck Cafe. The way she integrated in the characters of the village felt like a cozy blanket I knew well. And the end made me smile and want to celebrate. I look forward to the next book in the series!
May 5, 2022
4.5
So, we have a small town, a famous interior design blogger/TV star, a freelance writer all mixed into a second chance romance. I mean, do I need to go on? I will but I'm not sure I can sell it better than that.
Seriously, it will make you sigh and it will end with a smile on your face. Good, sweet characters you can root for, quirky small town folks, and cameos from the previous book.
So, we have a small town, a famous interior design blogger/TV star, a freelance writer all mixed into a second chance romance. I mean, do I need to go on? I will but I'm not sure I can sell it better than that.
Seriously, it will make you sigh and it will end with a smile on your face. Good, sweet characters you can root for, quirky small town folks, and cameos from the previous book.
Read
December 31, 2022My most recent read: "Good To Be Home" by Leah Dobrinska. It was "good to be home" this summer, to take a walk through Mapleton, to grab a latté at the On Deck Café and to channel a little Joanna Gaines along the way. What a lovely way to be reminded of the character and the joys of small town America.
April 25, 2022
LOVED this second Mapleton novel. It was a delight; so well-written! If you like Hallmark movies with a good number of twists and turns, this one is for you! I can't wait for the next book in the series; I love the town of Mapleton and its lovable characters!
April 29, 2022
Picked up this book and didn’t want to set it down! The first few chapters took me a bit to get into, but once I did the book didn’t leave my side! An easy read that flowed and kept me going! Fantastic book!
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