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Mapleton #3
Together with You
For fans of Hallmark Christmas movies comes a small-town holiday love story about following your heart and your dreams.
It's Christmas in Mapleton!
Laney McGregor’s previous holiday season ended in disaster. Add to that her recent Election Day loss, and her spirits are decidedly un-bright. She’s determined to spend a quiet Christmas at home in Mapleton, helping out on her family's tree farm when needed but mostly keeping to herself. That is, until a job opportunity sweeter than sugar plums gets dangled in front of her…if only she’ll participate in a sequence of Christmas clichés.
Ford Marshall has made his list and checked it twice, and he’s sure of one thing. He’s been half in love with Laney since he knew being in love was a thing to be, but he’s always acted like a fool where she’s concerned. Now, though, when Laney finds herself running McGregor Tree Farm solo, Ford gladly steps up to be her right hand elf.
As the pair participates in the Merry Mapleton festivities, an unexpected holiday romance is born. But when personal insecurities and professional developments are brought to light, Ford and Laney’s new relationship is put to the test. Can they learn from past mistakes, let their guards down, and come together to make theirs a Christmas love story that’ll last the whole year long…and beyond?
A delightful and swoon-worthy holiday romance, filled to the brim with friendship, fun, and finding love in the most unexpected places.
It's Christmas in Mapleton!
Laney McGregor’s previous holiday season ended in disaster. Add to that her recent Election Day loss, and her spirits are decidedly un-bright. She’s determined to spend a quiet Christmas at home in Mapleton, helping out on her family's tree farm when needed but mostly keeping to herself. That is, until a job opportunity sweeter than sugar plums gets dangled in front of her…if only she’ll participate in a sequence of Christmas clichés.
Ford Marshall has made his list and checked it twice, and he’s sure of one thing. He’s been half in love with Laney since he knew being in love was a thing to be, but he’s always acted like a fool where she’s concerned. Now, though, when Laney finds herself running McGregor Tree Farm solo, Ford gladly steps up to be her right hand elf.
As the pair participates in the Merry Mapleton festivities, an unexpected holiday romance is born. But when personal insecurities and professional developments are brought to light, Ford and Laney’s new relationship is put to the test. Can they learn from past mistakes, let their guards down, and come together to make theirs a Christmas love story that’ll last the whole year long…and beyond?
A delightful and swoon-worthy holiday romance, filled to the brim with friendship, fun, and finding love in the most unexpected places.
291 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 6, 2022
43 people are currently reading
298 people want to read
About the author
Leah Dobrinska
14 books284 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 52 reviews
November 17, 2024
This is a sweet romance set in a small town with interesting characters.
I enjoyed the friendship of the main characters and how they got to know each other better.
I listened to this book on audio.
The narration was really well done.
I enjoyed the friendship of the main characters and how they got to know each other better.
I listened to this book on audio.
The narration was really well done.
September 1, 2022
Wow! The author called this the Christmas book of her dreams, but it’s also the Christmas book of MY dreams as well! The relationship between Laney and Ford is so believable and well written. I loved all the interwoven mentions of popular Christmas songs and even Christmas movies. This one has all the holiday goodness including a tree lighting ceremony, a sleigh ride, a Christmas tree farm, and more. The author truly has a gift for painting a picture in your mind. I devoured this book in about a day and a half and didn’t want it to end! The perfect book to cozy up by the fire with a cup of hot cocoa. Christmas in Mapleton is an absolute dream!
September 16, 2022
ALL the heart eyes for this sweet Christmas romance!! The characters in this novel are so lovable and relatable! The description Leah Dobrinska uses is impeccable and it truly allows for you to take a trip to Mapleton during the most wonderful time of the year! The village is a winter wonderland and all of the holiday festivities and references are truly what Hallmark movie dreams are made of - Christmas cookies, sleigh rides, classic Christmas tunes, Christmas trivia night, a Christmas ball and SO much more woven throughout in the most magical way! This is seriously the perfect holiday love story and it REALLY makes a person ready to haul out the holly and step into Christmas! There is no doubt that this book will be an annual read for me - I just can't get enough of it! Also, I'm serious when I say this book is what Hallmark movie dreams are made of...make it happen, @HallmarkChannel!!!!
December 20, 2022
Love, love, LOVE this book!! 😍
Mapelton is a picturesque community filled with kind and caring neighbors -exactly where I’d want to be!
Laney is guarded and let down after losing the most recent election. She heads home and is running her parents Christmas tree farm after an unexpected series of events…..with Ford. How did that happen?! Laney doesn’t trust him but she definitely needs help as it’s the busiest time of the year!
I really enjoyed the dialogue between these two -a little sassy but mostly sweet. A Hallmark sweet romance that’ll warm your heart! Highly recommend!
Mapelton is a picturesque community filled with kind and caring neighbors -exactly where I’d want to be!
Laney is guarded and let down after losing the most recent election. She heads home and is running her parents Christmas tree farm after an unexpected series of events…..with Ford. How did that happen?! Laney doesn’t trust him but she definitely needs help as it’s the busiest time of the year!
I really enjoyed the dialogue between these two -a little sassy but mostly sweet. A Hallmark sweet romance that’ll warm your heart! Highly recommend!
September 7, 2022
I want to live in Mapleton! This was a perfect holiday romance balanced with my favorite things about Christmas; sleigh rides, decorating for Christmas, hot chocolate and more. This added such a fun element to the book and lots of laughs. The romance between Laney & Ford was straight out of a Hallmark movie, PG and completely swoon worthy.
Definitely add this to your list for the holidays, I promise you won’t regret it. In fact this is now my favorite holiday book.
Definitely add this to your list for the holidays, I promise you won’t regret it. In fact this is now my favorite holiday book.
September 3, 2022
Together with You reads like a Hallmark movie. It would actually make a great Hallmark movie adaptation. Personally, I think the book is always better though, there is just so much more depth in a book.
This book was such a charming read. You could easily sit and read through in one day. The descriptions in Together with You were so vivid, particularly with regards to the Christmas tree farm. It reminded me of our annual trips to our local Christmas tree farm, I could almost smell the smells and feel the cold air on my cheeks. And everytime I picked up this book I wanted hot cocoa.
Laney, our main character, was such a great character. Laney is a self-assured, high achiever. She has always known what she wanted and gone after it. But Laney gets knocked down, hard, and her confidence and life plan take a hit. Laney needs some time to recover and decide what to do next. What better way to do that then to head back to her small home town for Christmas. Instead of staying in bed and ignoring Christmas, she really did embrace the circumstances she was in. She really found herself and stood up for herself!
I had one small irritant in Laneys highschool frenemy Ford. I wanted to yell at him a couple times because he came across as a bit overbearing. But, his character was not without its own insecurities and you could certainly see the place it came from.
I loved how this book really played with the formula of the Hallmark movies in a cheeky kind of way, with Laney even making a comment about something having Hallmark movie written all over it.
If you love Christmas and love romance, you'll love this book. I'd rate the spice rating as low, it's pretty PG, which I prefer. But, the romantic scenes are certainly swoonie (if that's a word).
I received an advanced copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
This book was such a charming read. You could easily sit and read through in one day. The descriptions in Together with You were so vivid, particularly with regards to the Christmas tree farm. It reminded me of our annual trips to our local Christmas tree farm, I could almost smell the smells and feel the cold air on my cheeks. And everytime I picked up this book I wanted hot cocoa.
Laney, our main character, was such a great character. Laney is a self-assured, high achiever. She has always known what she wanted and gone after it. But Laney gets knocked down, hard, and her confidence and life plan take a hit. Laney needs some time to recover and decide what to do next. What better way to do that then to head back to her small home town for Christmas. Instead of staying in bed and ignoring Christmas, she really did embrace the circumstances she was in. She really found herself and stood up for herself!
I had one small irritant in Laneys highschool frenemy Ford. I wanted to yell at him a couple times because he came across as a bit overbearing. But, his character was not without its own insecurities and you could certainly see the place it came from.
I loved how this book really played with the formula of the Hallmark movies in a cheeky kind of way, with Laney even making a comment about something having Hallmark movie written all over it.
If you love Christmas and love romance, you'll love this book. I'd rate the spice rating as low, it's pretty PG, which I prefer. But, the romantic scenes are certainly swoonie (if that's a word).
I received an advanced copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
September 1, 2022
If you grew up in a small town, or ever wanted to visit a small town during the holidays, Together With You is where it’s at. This book is my third “visit” to Mapleton (the third Mapleton Novel by Leah) and I get excited every time! I could not stop grinning as we followed Laney and Ford’s holiday adventure. This book is full of all things Christmas and will put you in the most festive spirit.
When Laney leaves Madison to return to Mapleton for the holidays, she is immediately surrounded by the neighborly, small-town characters that we’ve grown to love in Mapleton. As she is forced to run her family’s Christmas Tree farm with Ford, an old high school classmate, it is interesting to see how Laney navigates the reminders of where she came from, while trying to navigate her future life/career.
I don’t always like dual POV books, but this one truly kept me intrigued and wanting to read “just one more chapter”. The insight between them both, as Laney and Ford’s relationship builds, was so endearing.
This was another great addition to the Mapleton series and I cannot wait for the next!
When Laney leaves Madison to return to Mapleton for the holidays, she is immediately surrounded by the neighborly, small-town characters that we’ve grown to love in Mapleton. As she is forced to run her family’s Christmas Tree farm with Ford, an old high school classmate, it is interesting to see how Laney navigates the reminders of where she came from, while trying to navigate her future life/career.
I don’t always like dual POV books, but this one truly kept me intrigued and wanting to read “just one more chapter”. The insight between them both, as Laney and Ford’s relationship builds, was so endearing.
This was another great addition to the Mapleton series and I cannot wait for the next!
December 21, 2024
I think Together With You is my favorite of the Mapleton series. It’s hard to choose when Leah’s given us four well written, sweet stories with relatable characters.
Ford and Laney are so sweet and I loved both of their personalities althought I wanted to shake them both form time to time. I can’t even judge them, though, because I can be the same way with expressing my feelings or caring what others think of me. I loved seeing their friendship grow into more as they each navigated their emotions and feelings towards each other. The scene with Dustin was perfect. I was like “yasss Ford!”
This has been on my TBR for a LONG time as I love Leah’s books but I am soooo glad that I saved it for Christmas time because like she said.. this is the Christmas book of my dreams.
I can’t wait to see what Leah comes up with next.
Ford and Laney are so sweet and I loved both of their personalities althought I wanted to shake them both form time to time. I can’t even judge them, though, because I can be the same way with expressing my feelings or caring what others think of me. I loved seeing their friendship grow into more as they each navigated their emotions and feelings towards each other. The scene with Dustin was perfect. I was like “yasss Ford!”
This has been on my TBR for a LONG time as I love Leah’s books but I am soooo glad that I saved it for Christmas time because like she said.. this is the Christmas book of my dreams.
I can’t wait to see what Leah comes up with next.
November 11, 2022
With all the earmarks of a Hallmark Christmas movie, Together With You feels like a sweet Christmas kiss tasting of hot cocoa and candy canes.
Laney McGregor finds herself back home in Mapleton, Wisconsin after losing her re-election in the state capital. When her parents are called away on a family emergency, she throws herself into running the family farm. Nothing surprises her more when high-school rival Ford Marshall, now a successful real estate agent, jumps in to help her out at the farm. As the two experience a small town Christmas together, they fall in love. But will Laney's prospects of a new job back at the capital tear them apart?
This was the perfect read, sweet and light, to kick off my Christmas reading. Loved visiting Mapleton once again!
Laney McGregor finds herself back home in Mapleton, Wisconsin after losing her re-election in the state capital. When her parents are called away on a family emergency, she throws herself into running the family farm. Nothing surprises her more when high-school rival Ford Marshall, now a successful real estate agent, jumps in to help her out at the farm. As the two experience a small town Christmas together, they fall in love. But will Laney's prospects of a new job back at the capital tear them apart?
This was the perfect read, sweet and light, to kick off my Christmas reading. Loved visiting Mapleton once again!
August 18, 2022
This book is for anyone that loves Hallmark Christmas movie. It has a small town full of Christmas spirit, enemies to lovers trope, and a lot of quirky side characters. It made me want to spend Christmas in a quaint town. I thought the book had good dialogue between the two main characters and the romance was a good build up. Laney definitely grew on me, she annoyed me a little in the beginning because she was so stubborn and hard on herself, but grew on me. Ford is a good book boyfriend, so sweet and thoughtful. The story was delightful and breezy, good for a weekend cozy day. Its like if Gilmore Girls and Hallmark movies combined for a cute love story. This is a perfect read for clean small town romance lovers!
September 2, 2022
Together With You is the SWEETEST holiday romance you’ll ever read!
This book is the third in the Mapleton Series, and it has:
Childhood Friends
Small town Romance
Dual POV
Boy falls first
Together With You is warm hot chocolate on a cold snowy day, while watching Hallmark movies 💕 I absolutely loved reading this, and binged it in a day!
Being from WI myself, I loved seeing all the similarities to the town i live near (and hearing more about the Madison area).
Thank you so much to the author, Leah, for the arc in exchange for an honest review!
This book is the third in the Mapleton Series, and it has:
Childhood Friends
Small town Romance
Dual POV
Boy falls first
Together With You is warm hot chocolate on a cold snowy day, while watching Hallmark movies 💕 I absolutely loved reading this, and binged it in a day!
Being from WI myself, I loved seeing all the similarities to the town i live near (and hearing more about the Madison area).
Thank you so much to the author, Leah, for the arc in exchange for an honest review!
August 22, 2022
Absolutely an amazing book that has all of the right, perfect holiday charm! This book is even better than the best of Hallmark movies. If you love the idea of a Christmas Cliche List, what sounds like heavenly hot chocolate, and the beautiful romance between two amazing characters, then this book is definitely one that you MUST read! The setting of Mapleton has been amazing in all of Leah Dobrinska's books, but even better with the holiday charm. It almost makes you wish that Mapleton was a real place that you could live in.
Also, I have to add that I personally think that the Mapleton romances are the best romance novels that I've ever read. Debbie Macomber and other authors can step aside. 🙂 Anyone wanting a wonderful romance should absolutely love this book and the phenomenal characters and setting that Leah Dobrinska creates!
(If Together With You ever makes the big screen as a Hallmark movie, I'll see you all there!)
Also, I have to add that I personally think that the Mapleton romances are the best romance novels that I've ever read. Debbie Macomber and other authors can step aside. 🙂 Anyone wanting a wonderful romance should absolutely love this book and the phenomenal characters and setting that Leah Dobrinska creates!
(If Together With You ever makes the big screen as a Hallmark movie, I'll see you all there!)
September 3, 2022
"You are going to have a holiday season to remember, LaneyMcGregor. I can feel it."
This story smells like hot cocoa, pine and fresh snow.I loved this small town where people come together to celebrate, help each other, and little romances can be created. How I wish I was there, feeling the snow, drinking the sweetest cocoa by Laney, tasting the most delicious pumpkin pie baked by Ford's mom, and getting lost in the McGregor's Christmas tree farm.
This story is really beautiful and cozy, makes you feel so good. The chapters are short and alternate between Ford and Laney, so we know exactly their feelings.
"Behind him, as the wind gusted, the trees picked up their tale once more, and Ford couldn’t help but hope they were telling the beginning of a love story."
I really want to see this story on TV as a Hallmark Christmas movie 🎄🎀
I recomend it to everyone!
This story smells like hot cocoa, pine and fresh snow.I loved this small town where people come together to celebrate, help each other, and little romances can be created. How I wish I was there, feeling the snow, drinking the sweetest cocoa by Laney, tasting the most delicious pumpkin pie baked by Ford's mom, and getting lost in the McGregor's Christmas tree farm.
This story is really beautiful and cozy, makes you feel so good. The chapters are short and alternate between Ford and Laney, so we know exactly their feelings.
"Behind him, as the wind gusted, the trees picked up their tale once more, and Ford couldn’t help but hope they were telling the beginning of a love story."
I really want to see this story on TV as a Hallmark Christmas movie 🎄🎀
I recomend it to everyone!
October 7, 2022
A sparkly, warm read whether it’s 90 degrees and you’re on a beach (Christmas in July is a thing, right?) or you’re snuggled up with a cozy blanket, enjoying some hot cocoa!! I’m a nerd and took a screenshot of the checklist and marked each item off the list while Laney made her way through the cliches. I can’t get enough of these Mapleton Romances, but there was something extra magical about this one: it was carefully gift wrapped and topped with a matching bow. Ha. I promise Leah’s unique and on theme metaphors and similes are better than the one I just tried to make! I’ll leave the genius to her.
January 4, 2023
Christmas in Mapleton sure is magical and it shows throughout the book! The setting with the tree farm and Candy Cane Lane made me want to dive into this fiction world and visit for a week or two.
I loved that this book did not put the two main characters against each other. Instead of fighting, it was constant bantering, flirting, and misunderstanding that led to a very happy ending. ❤️
I loved that this book did not put the two main characters against each other. Instead of fighting, it was constant bantering, flirting, and misunderstanding that led to a very happy ending. ❤️
August 31, 2022
I love how this series references Hallmark a lot since all the books would make great Hallmark movies. Just like most Hallmark movies I want to jump into this book series. Maybe they need a librarian....
September 1, 2022
This was adorable! Felt like a hug-in-a-book. Now I'm craving hot chocolate and ready to cozy up in a blanket by the fireplace. Such a sweet, clean, swoon-worthy romance. Love love loved it!
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October 26, 2024One of the best books ever!
September 2, 2022
Leah Dobrinska is back with the small town Christmas book I’ve been hoping for since I read her first book! Laney and Ford have such a sweet relationship, and of course I loved seeing characters from the previous books play a big part. This is absolutely a Hallmark movie in book form, and Dobrinska does such an amazing job setting the scene and making you feel like you, too, are in this small Wisconsin town. While I would have enjoyed just a little more conflict and action within the story, the atmosphere and Christmassy vibes kept me engaged throughout. I’ve completely fallen in love with Mapleton and all its small town charm, and I’ll never get tired of reading about this little slice of Midwestern heaven! Leah Dobrinska is an incredibly talented writer, and I’ll definitely be revisiting this book closer to the holidays!
I received an advanced copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
I received an advanced copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
April 5, 2023
Together With You was a great read! There is just something about a romantic, sweet story that takes place in your hometown that can't be beat. ❤️
August 20, 2022
For those of you who know me, you know I am a romcom book skeptic. Outside of Emily Henry and AWYITE by Olivie Blake, I’m hard to please. However, this book truly surprised me and made me so happy!!
Laney is a politican who lost her re-election and returns home for the holidays to regroup. She ends up having to run her parents Christmas tree farm and is offered help by Ford, a realtor who has been (in my opinion) clearly in love with Laney since high school.
This book made my heart explode. It was cute, romantic, and just cheesy enough that I liked it. I loved the awareness that the characters have of the “Hallmark movie-ness” of the plot. I truly think had the bits about encouraging Laney to live out her Christmas movie dreams had been left out, I would have found the book to be too cliched.
This is a feel good book, and while I have not read others that exist in the Mapleton universe, I can tell you that I probably will read them. I love small town romances, (they’re so cute) and this book nailed it.
March 1, 2023
So much Hallmark-style Christmas goodness! Laney’s plans to lie low after her recent political failure go sideways when she winds up running her family’s Christmas tree farm for the season. Prankster-turned-businessman Ford is eager to help her out, and prove he’s matured since high school, when he got a kick out of provoking her. Working together through the holidays, they see each other in a new light.
I love a good “coming back to my home town” romance & this one was great! The Christmas adventures were fun & sweet, especially how they gave Laney & Ford insight into what was truly important to each other. We get a lot of insight into the previous couples in the series (and maybe hints at future couples???), too.
If you’re ready to be immersed in Christmas, this is your book! It had me craving hot cocoa by the end!
No spice
I love a good “coming back to my home town” romance & this one was great! The Christmas adventures were fun & sweet, especially how they gave Laney & Ford insight into what was truly important to each other. We get a lot of insight into the previous couples in the series (and maybe hints at future couples???), too.
If you’re ready to be immersed in Christmas, this is your book! It had me craving hot cocoa by the end!
No spice
December 14, 2024
Together With You by Leah Dobrinska
Mapleton #3
8h 48m narrated by Sarah Naughton and Sean Patrick Hopkins
Genre: Contemporary Cozy Romance, Holiday > Christmas
Featuring: Madison, Wisconsin; Fictional Small-Town, Northeast Wisconsin, Dual POVs, Politics, Congress, Bet/Challenge Trope, Hallmark Movie, Clichés, Homecoming, To-Do List, Christmas Tree Farm, Secret High School Crush, Real Estate Agent, Siblings, Characters From Previous Book, Tail Between Legs Trope, Prankster, Thanksgiving, Winter Activities, Christmas Trivia, Crossroads Trope
Rating as a movie: PG
Songs for the soundtrack: "It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year" by Andy Williams, "Last Christmas" by Wham!, "Oh Santa!" by Mariah Carey, "Snow Flake" by Jim Reeves, "Caroling, Caroling" by Nat King Cole, "Who Let the Dogs Out" by Baha Men, "Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer" by Johnny Marks, "We'll Be the First Ones" by 12 Drummers Drumming, "Twelve Days of Christmas", "La légende de Saint-Nicolas" by Henri Dès, "The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting On An Open Fire)" by Nat King Cole, “Let It Snow!” by Jule Styne and Sammy Cahn, "Sleigh Ride" by Leroy Anderson, "Silver Bells" by Jay Livingston and Ray Evans,
"The Christmas Song" by Robert Wells and Mel Tormé, "Jingle Bells" by The Andrews Sisters, "Santa Claus Is Coming To Town" by the Jackson 5, "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing / It Came Upon a Midnight Clear" by Bing Crosby, "I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day" by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, "Jingle Bells" by Michael Bublé, "Happy Xmas (War Is Over)" by John Lennon and Yoko Ono and the Plastic Ono Band with the Harlem Community Choir
Books and Authors mentioned: Harry Potter Series by J. K. Rowling, Hamlet by William Shakespeare, Elf by David Berenbaum, You've Got Mail by Nora Ephron and Delia Ephron [based on] The Shop Around the Corner
by Samson Raphaelson [based on] Parfumerie by Miklós László; Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer by Robert L. May, A Visit from St. Nicholas by Clement Clarke Moore [Twas the Night Before Christmas], The Greatest Gift by Philip Van Doren Stern (It's A Wonderful Life), Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen, Beauty and the Beast by Linda Woolverton [based on] Beauty and the Beast by Gabrielle-Suzanne de Villeneuve translation by James Planché, How the Grinch Stole Christmas by Dr. Seuss, The Gospel of Luke, Christmas Bells by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️½👩⚖️🌲🌲🎄🎄
My thoughts: 📱27% 2:22:49 Chapter 13 Laney - Ford! I was so excited to discover he made it to MC status, but the story is just okay.
This story wasn't my favorite but it was enjoyable for what it was, a knockoff Hallmark Movie by its own claims, although there is more substance than you'll find in last year's lineup. I'm glad Ford found his other half and I'm hoping for more from this series, maybe the coach us next.
Recommend to others: Yes, this is definitely a Stonebrook-type community that any BSC fan would love.
Mapleton
1. Love at On Deck Cafe (2021)
2. Good to Be Home (2022)
3. Together With You (2022)
0.5 Choosing Love (2023)
Mapleton #3
8h 48m narrated by Sarah Naughton and Sean Patrick Hopkins
Genre: Contemporary Cozy Romance, Holiday > Christmas
Featuring: Madison, Wisconsin; Fictional Small-Town, Northeast Wisconsin, Dual POVs, Politics, Congress, Bet/Challenge Trope, Hallmark Movie, Clichés, Homecoming, To-Do List, Christmas Tree Farm, Secret High School Crush, Real Estate Agent, Siblings, Characters From Previous Book, Tail Between Legs Trope, Prankster, Thanksgiving, Winter Activities, Christmas Trivia, Crossroads Trope
Rating as a movie: PG
Songs for the soundtrack: "It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year" by Andy Williams, "Last Christmas" by Wham!, "Oh Santa!" by Mariah Carey, "Snow Flake" by Jim Reeves, "Caroling, Caroling" by Nat King Cole, "Who Let the Dogs Out" by Baha Men, "Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer" by Johnny Marks, "We'll Be the First Ones" by 12 Drummers Drumming, "Twelve Days of Christmas", "La légende de Saint-Nicolas" by Henri Dès, "The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting On An Open Fire)" by Nat King Cole, “Let It Snow!” by Jule Styne and Sammy Cahn, "Sleigh Ride" by Leroy Anderson, "Silver Bells" by Jay Livingston and Ray Evans,
"The Christmas Song" by Robert Wells and Mel Tormé, "Jingle Bells" by The Andrews Sisters, "Santa Claus Is Coming To Town" by the Jackson 5, "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing / It Came Upon a Midnight Clear" by Bing Crosby, "I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day" by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, "Jingle Bells" by Michael Bublé, "Happy Xmas (War Is Over)" by John Lennon and Yoko Ono and the Plastic Ono Band with the Harlem Community Choir
Books and Authors mentioned: Harry Potter Series by J. K. Rowling, Hamlet by William Shakespeare, Elf by David Berenbaum, You've Got Mail by Nora Ephron and Delia Ephron [based on] The Shop Around the Corner
by Samson Raphaelson [based on] Parfumerie by Miklós László; Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer by Robert L. May, A Visit from St. Nicholas by Clement Clarke Moore [Twas the Night Before Christmas], The Greatest Gift by Philip Van Doren Stern (It's A Wonderful Life), Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen, Beauty and the Beast by Linda Woolverton [based on] Beauty and the Beast by Gabrielle-Suzanne de Villeneuve translation by James Planché, How the Grinch Stole Christmas by Dr. Seuss, The Gospel of Luke, Christmas Bells by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️½👩⚖️🌲🌲🎄🎄
My thoughts: 📱27% 2:22:49 Chapter 13 Laney - Ford! I was so excited to discover he made it to MC status, but the story is just okay.
This story wasn't my favorite but it was enjoyable for what it was, a knockoff Hallmark Movie by its own claims, although there is more substance than you'll find in last year's lineup. I'm glad Ford found his other half and I'm hoping for more from this series, maybe the coach us next.
Recommend to others: Yes, this is definitely a Stonebrook-type community that any BSC fan would love.
Mapleton
1. Love at On Deck Cafe (2021)
2. Good to Be Home (2022)
3. Together With You (2022)
0.5 Choosing Love (2023)
September 26, 2022
Together with You by Leah Dobrinska
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
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Story Notes
Oh my goodness, could this book be any cuter and more fun?? It’s the kind of story I would happily read every day for the rest of my life, Christmas time or otherwise. It’s got fabulous characters, a delightful town, great plot lines and a wonderfully swoony romance that had me cheering at every sweet kiss. Leah has a gift for creating stories that make you wish you lived them, like I want to move to fictional Mapleton and never leave. The depth she puts in her stories to make them so real just rounds out the snarky banter and the candy cane sweetness in the most perfect way. Ford is a marvelous MC with an adorable vulnerability that plays well off of Laney’s competitive drive for perfection. Together they are a beautiful blend of soft and strong, inspiring others to be their best. Please, oh please!! Go get this book and read it RIGHT NOW!! It is guaranteed to make your life so much better. And possibly make you crave hot cocoa and Christmas cookies!!
I received this temporary complimentary E-ARC from Leah Dobrinska. I am not required by anyone to write a positive review but am most 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
Oh my goodness, could this book be any cuter and more fun?? It’s the kind of story I would happily read every day for the rest of my life, Christmas time or otherwise. It’s got fabulous characters, a delightful town, great plot lines and a wonderfully swoony romance that had me cheering at every sweet kiss. Leah has a gift for creating stories that make you wish you lived them, like I want to move to fictional Mapleton and never leave. The depth she puts in her stories to make them so real just rounds out the snarky banter and the candy cane sweetness in the most perfect way. Ford is a marvelous MC with an adorable vulnerability that plays well off of Laney’s competitive drive for perfection. Together they are a beautiful blend of soft and strong, inspiring others to be their best. Please, oh please!! Go get this book and read it RIGHT NOW!! It is guaranteed to make your life so much better. And possibly make you crave hot cocoa and Christmas cookies!!
I received this temporary complimentary E-ARC from Leah Dobrinska. I am not required by anyone to write a positive review but am most pleased to do so. I will receive no fiscal compensation for this review and the opinions expressed herein are entirely my own.
August 16, 2022
This small town, sweet romance, gets 5 shining Christmas stars from me!
I have enjoyed reading the other two Mapleton novels this year, and was super excited to learn that the third book would have a Christmas theme. The book cover is so warm and welcoming, like the town of Mapleton, Wisconsin where the story takes place.
Our MC Laney goes home to Mapleton when her career takes an unexpected turn. Laney isn't terribly excited to be back in Mapleton, and would rather ride out the holiday season in peace and quiet. Her best friend Sally comes up with a Christmas Cliche list for Laney to follow, in return for information for a potential job in Laney's field.
Ford has had a crush on Laney since they were in school together. Ford was more of the fun, practical joker classmate, while Laney was the serious student, always pushing herself to be the best. When Laney runs into Ford her first night back home, the two have a memorable Christmas adventure.
Again, this story was so sweet. The community of Mapleton adds a lot of heart and humor. The chemistry between Laney and Ford was fantastic and everything I hope to read in a romance.
Thank you to the author for the ARC.
I have enjoyed reading the other two Mapleton novels this year, and was super excited to learn that the third book would have a Christmas theme. The book cover is so warm and welcoming, like the town of Mapleton, Wisconsin where the story takes place.
Our MC Laney goes home to Mapleton when her career takes an unexpected turn. Laney isn't terribly excited to be back in Mapleton, and would rather ride out the holiday season in peace and quiet. Her best friend Sally comes up with a Christmas Cliche list for Laney to follow, in return for information for a potential job in Laney's field.
Ford has had a crush on Laney since they were in school together. Ford was more of the fun, practical joker classmate, while Laney was the serious student, always pushing herself to be the best. When Laney runs into Ford her first night back home, the two have a memorable Christmas adventure.
Again, this story was so sweet. The community of Mapleton adds a lot of heart and humor. The chemistry between Laney and Ford was fantastic and everything I hope to read in a romance.
Thank you to the author for the ARC.
September 21, 2022
Let’s give it up for Ford Marshall and Laney McGregor! WOW! The chemistry between these two is top tier and I was rooting for them from the beginning. Both characters were so lovable and relatable I felt myself easily connecting with them. I swooned, I laughed, I cried!
And what’s better that a swoon-worthy romance? How about a Christmas swoon-worthy romance! This story has major Hallmark movie vibes and I adored it. Together With You delivered the most wonderful Christmas scenery and activities in the small town of Mapleton. The quiet moments between the main characters were just as captivating as the Christmas activities they took part in. I also enjoyed the friendships that were formed in addition to the love story that unfolded between Ford and Laney. Also, Ford Marshall? *chef’s kiss*
Leah Dobrinska has done it again with this absolutely amazing and captivating Mapleton love story. I am a sucker for romance novels with dual POV, guy falls first, and friends to lovers and this story had it all!
5 beautiful, Christmas filled stars for this book! I have read everything from this author and this tops the list. My absolute favorite piece of work from Leah. I can’t wait to see what she writes next.
And what’s better that a swoon-worthy romance? How about a Christmas swoon-worthy romance! This story has major Hallmark movie vibes and I adored it. Together With You delivered the most wonderful Christmas scenery and activities in the small town of Mapleton. The quiet moments between the main characters were just as captivating as the Christmas activities they took part in. I also enjoyed the friendships that were formed in addition to the love story that unfolded between Ford and Laney. Also, Ford Marshall? *chef’s kiss*
Leah Dobrinska has done it again with this absolutely amazing and captivating Mapleton love story. I am a sucker for romance novels with dual POV, guy falls first, and friends to lovers and this story had it all!
5 beautiful, Christmas filled stars for this book! I have read everything from this author and this tops the list. My absolute favorite piece of work from Leah. I can’t wait to see what she writes next.
July 24, 2023
Wonderful, warm and fuzzy. Chefs kiss.
Dual POV, 3rd person. Frenemies to Lovers. He falls first. Small town. Found Family. Great family dynamics. Starts the day before Thanksgiving, so a smidge of fall vibes to start.
I loved watching Laney and Ford's love unfold. They were high school frenemies so there's some nice tension and banter from that. 😏
This story was 🤌🏻🤌🏻 Chef's kiss! Just amazing. I highly recommend it!
Perfect for fans of Hallmark movies and Christmas clichés.
Includes book club discussion questions in the back!
💞 Romantic Content: 3 (heavier kissing)
🗨 Some Quotes:
Ford bent and spoke directly into Laney’s ear. “Looks pretty good in here, doesn’t it?”
Laney visibly shivered when he kissed the column of her neck. “It’s beautiful.”
“It sure is.” He didn’t try to hide the fact that he was staring directly at her.
She peered down to make sure her pants hadn’t gone up in flames because… liar, liar.
"I should have said this a long time ago, but I’m sorry if the way I treated you in high school ever made you feel like you had more to prove. You don’t. You are enough. Just as you are.”
Dual POV, 3rd person. Frenemies to Lovers. He falls first. Small town. Found Family. Great family dynamics. Starts the day before Thanksgiving, so a smidge of fall vibes to start.
I loved watching Laney and Ford's love unfold. They were high school frenemies so there's some nice tension and banter from that. 😏
This story was 🤌🏻🤌🏻 Chef's kiss! Just amazing. I highly recommend it!
Perfect for fans of Hallmark movies and Christmas clichés.
Includes book club discussion questions in the back!
💞 Romantic Content: 3 (heavier kissing)
🗨 Some Quotes:
Ford bent and spoke directly into Laney’s ear. “Looks pretty good in here, doesn’t it?”
Laney visibly shivered when he kissed the column of her neck. “It’s beautiful.”
“It sure is.” He didn’t try to hide the fact that he was staring directly at her.
She peered down to make sure her pants hadn’t gone up in flames because… liar, liar.
"I should have said this a long time ago, but I’m sorry if the way I treated you in high school ever made you feel like you had more to prove. You don’t. You are enough. Just as you are.”
December 14, 2024
Loved it sooo much!
Laney and Ford have my heart!
Laney is so independent, type-A and absolutely has a golden heart. Her growth in this book was beautiful and so relatable! I loved how every scene brought me a deeper sense of who she was and how she was changing. It was beautiful.
Ford is a sweetheart and from the beginning I was cheering for him. I think we all can relate to falling trap to the comparison game, and his growth with overcoming that made me so happy.
I loved the Christmas tree farm setting, the sweet experiences they had, and the Christmas magic. Plus the meddling townspeople were fun and adorable.
This is a Christmas class I will love reading for many years to come!
💋Sweet kisses
⚠️Ex boyfriend was a cheating jerk. Layne has a niece and nephew in the NICU
Laney and Ford have my heart!
Laney is so independent, type-A and absolutely has a golden heart. Her growth in this book was beautiful and so relatable! I loved how every scene brought me a deeper sense of who she was and how she was changing. It was beautiful.
Ford is a sweetheart and from the beginning I was cheering for him. I think we all can relate to falling trap to the comparison game, and his growth with overcoming that made me so happy.
I loved the Christmas tree farm setting, the sweet experiences they had, and the Christmas magic. Plus the meddling townspeople were fun and adorable.
This is a Christmas class I will love reading for many years to come!
💋Sweet kisses
⚠️Ex boyfriend was a cheating jerk. Layne has a niece and nephew in the NICU
September 1, 2022
I'm gonna tell you what; if you like Hallmark movies, you won't want to miss this sweet book. If you don't like Hallmark movies, you still won't want to miss this sweet book! This is like the perfect, dreamiest Christmas book ever written.
I love dual POVs, so I was super excited to see that here. I enjoyed seeing the thoughts of both Laney and Ford, and even the trees whispered their secrets. Mapleton is just such a peaceful place to be, and I could happily live there forever and ever.
If you're looking for a book to read this Christmas (😱 it isn't too far away!), pick this one up.
*I received a free review copy of this book from the author. I was not required to leave a positive review. All opinions are my own.*
I love dual POVs, so I was super excited to see that here. I enjoyed seeing the thoughts of both Laney and Ford, and even the trees whispered their secrets. Mapleton is just such a peaceful place to be, and I could happily live there forever and ever.
If you're looking for a book to read this Christmas (😱 it isn't too far away!), pick this one up.
*I received a free review copy of this book from the author. I was not required to leave a positive review. All opinions are my own.*
November 10, 2022
This sweet story, Together with You, is the third in the Mapleton series. Get ready for a holiday romance when Laney loses a political election and comes home to help with the family Christmas tree business.
Enjoy the traditions of small-town Christmases, the charm of secondary characters from previous books, and of course Laney and Ford who are adorable together.
I hope there will be more stories from Mapleton. Although written as a series, each book is a perfect stand-alone as well. Can’t wait for the next Dobrinska feel-good story.
Perfect book for Christmas gifts--or enjoy all year long.
Enjoy the traditions of small-town Christmases, the charm of secondary characters from previous books, and of course Laney and Ford who are adorable together.
I hope there will be more stories from Mapleton. Although written as a series, each book is a perfect stand-alone as well. Can’t wait for the next Dobrinska feel-good story.
Perfect book for Christmas gifts--or enjoy all year long.
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