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Fern Falls #2
In the Case of Heartbreak
With a gorgeous beachfront mansion, salty ocean breeze, steamy nights, and ALL the summertime feels, this funny, sexy queer rom-com is a celebration of summer love, as a cinnamon roll of a pastry chef finds his indie rocker crush suddenly within reach. Perfect for fans of Casey McQuiston, Roan Parrish, Alexandria Bellefleur, Ruby Barrett, and Alexis Hall!
When his hometown crush suddenly returns his affections at a seaside celebration, pastry chef Ben Parrish must find a way to pursue his dream of moving his bakery to San Francisco – without losing the love he’s always wanted…
Ben has been baking his grandma’s cinnamon rolls at the family café for years. He’s been quietly in love with Adam Reed, his musician-slash-mechanic neighbor, for just as long. But Ben’s done waiting behind the pastry case. He’s entered a make-or-break competition to show off his own recipes. He’s going to buy his overprotective family out of the business. And he’s going to ask Adam out. TONIGHT.
Except his big plans get punched down before they even half-rise. Soon Ben is dashing down the coast to his grandma’s 80th birthday party on the beach, hiding his broken heart in Maywell Bay, California. Sun, sea, and fresh breezes should blow in something new—except they don’t. They blow in Adam Reed, grinning like a pirate and stealing the show as the musical entertainment hired by Grandma for her big bash. Grandma’s signature Heartbreak Tea is the only remedy, and Grandma’s tea could take the paint off a fence.
But there’s a burn of truth along with the booze in his bottle, and Ben has a decision to make. Can he take the sweetness in front of him, and brave the bitterness that comes after? Or is a little sea salt just what this cinnamon roll needs?
Salty cinnamon rolls? Ew. Ben would never.
When his hometown crush suddenly returns his affections at a seaside celebration, pastry chef Ben Parrish must find a way to pursue his dream of moving his bakery to San Francisco – without losing the love he’s always wanted…
Ben has been baking his grandma’s cinnamon rolls at the family café for years. He’s been quietly in love with Adam Reed, his musician-slash-mechanic neighbor, for just as long. But Ben’s done waiting behind the pastry case. He’s entered a make-or-break competition to show off his own recipes. He’s going to buy his overprotective family out of the business. And he’s going to ask Adam out. TONIGHT.
Except his big plans get punched down before they even half-rise. Soon Ben is dashing down the coast to his grandma’s 80th birthday party on the beach, hiding his broken heart in Maywell Bay, California. Sun, sea, and fresh breezes should blow in something new—except they don’t. They blow in Adam Reed, grinning like a pirate and stealing the show as the musical entertainment hired by Grandma for her big bash. Grandma’s signature Heartbreak Tea is the only remedy, and Grandma’s tea could take the paint off a fence.
But there’s a burn of truth along with the booze in his bottle, and Ben has a decision to make. Can he take the sweetness in front of him, and brave the bitterness that comes after? Or is a little sea salt just what this cinnamon roll needs?
Salty cinnamon rolls? Ew. Ben would never.
320 pages, Paperback
First published July 25, 2023
72 people are currently reading
8348 people want to read
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July 16, 2023
3.5 Stars
In the Case of Heartbreak is a summertime vibe, friends-to-lovers MM romance, featuring an anxiety-ridden baker with A LOT on his emotional plate and the town’s mechanic-by-day/musician-by-night who has held his heart captive since they were kids.
There was much to love about this one and perhaps a few things I wasn't mad for, but let's start with the positives!
The first thing to appreciate is the small-town setting, with its wide and diverse community of extremely supportive and accepting people. In her author’s note, Kae writes, “In all her novels, I love to imagine a world that is kinder to queer people, unquestioning, unchallenging. A place where we don’t need to explain, defend, or prove ourselves.” And she achieved that here. I really loved the themes of unconditional love and acceptance that came naturally to the characters, as it should in real life.
The second thing I enjoyed was the romance. Although it started off on a rocky note, with a bit of miscommunication and a lot of external interruptions to the leads conversations, the friends-to-lovers relationship that developed between MC Ben and his long-time crush Adam, was all things tender and sweet. The unfolding of their relationship is arguably easy and perhaps overtly sappy, but I gobbled the sugar-sweetness of it up to great delights. Adam particularly, had a bit of a swoon-factor going on, delivering some heart-melting romantic lines that made me feel all warm and fuzzy.
I’d honestly compare the tone of this story to that of a Hallmark movie. Feel free to interpret that how you will, but I personally am a notorious Hallmark movie fanatic (especially at Christmastime), always yearning for some light-hearted, low-angst vibes and delicious, if somewhat corny, romantic tales, which are usually much needed in my life when the world gets too heavy. This story was much like that: sweet, charming, easy to devour and unapologetic for it.
So far this is looking all good, right?! Well, for the most part it was a positive experience, but I did have some niggles that stopped this from being a truly successful read for me personally.
Mostly, I had issues with the plot—or perhaps, more specifically, the execution of the plot points. Beyond the romance, there was a lot happening around Ben and to Ben, and it felt all sorts of convoluted. Now, one could argue that because I didn’t read book one (In the Event of Love), I may have, perhaps, missed some details along the way, particularly in the introduction of the characters and the town of Fern Falls itself. This is on me, of course, and I acknowledge that’s a failing on my part. But it didn’t stop a lot of what happened here from feeling scattered, in many ways.
The whole reality show competition and situation with Ben’s horrid absentee father was very melodramatic in its telling. Also, it wasn’t clearly told—as in, I had no idea what was happening when the story began and took a long time to understand what Ben was upset about and why. His feelings of overwhelm were well-handled, I'll admit, in relation to that of a guy who was struggling with anxiety and past feelings of abandonment and self-worth (well, ongoing feelings really). So, big points for how Ben's mental health was handled throughout the story, but my issue remains that the situations themselves felt like they were thrown into a blender and mixed about, without any real cohesion as the story unfolded.
And then there was the fact that 80% of the story was set not in Fern Falls but, rather, in a place called Maywell Bay, where Ben’s grandma was having a week-long series of parties to celebrate her birthday. A) if the series is called Fern Falls, I expect the book to be predominantly set in Fern Falls, and B) as loving and supportive as grandma (sorry, G-ma) was, I’m honestly super tired of these types of overtly inappropriate, party-animal old ladies (the likes of Lucy Lennox’s Made Marian series). In this particular case, the week-long party setting was absolutely ridiculous and didn’t sit right, especially considering G-ma (ugh) was having major financial troubles yet felt like it was a great idea to just party it up in extended self-indulgence. It was just a strange story choice, as far as my interpretation and enjoyment was concerned.
Ultimately, this was an escapist romance novel at its core. I had to put reality aside for a hot minute and that’s okay—and mostly why I read anyway, to be honest. The romance worked for me, and will work for those who enjoy a bit of sweetness and sappiness, but predictably not so much for those readers who prefer a bit more grit and depth in their love stories. However, the inclusivity and the positive vibes that underlined the core of the narrative, make this story a worthwhile LGBTQ+ read, despite any personal grievances I may have had with the plot.
***A special thanks to the publishers (via Netgalley) for providing an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
In the Case of Heartbreak is a summertime vibe, friends-to-lovers MM romance, featuring an anxiety-ridden baker with A LOT on his emotional plate and the town’s mechanic-by-day/musician-by-night who has held his heart captive since they were kids.
There was much to love about this one and perhaps a few things I wasn't mad for, but let's start with the positives!
The first thing to appreciate is the small-town setting, with its wide and diverse community of extremely supportive and accepting people. In her author’s note, Kae writes, “In all her novels, I love to imagine a world that is kinder to queer people, unquestioning, unchallenging. A place where we don’t need to explain, defend, or prove ourselves.” And she achieved that here. I really loved the themes of unconditional love and acceptance that came naturally to the characters, as it should in real life.
The second thing I enjoyed was the romance. Although it started off on a rocky note, with a bit of miscommunication and a lot of external interruptions to the leads conversations, the friends-to-lovers relationship that developed between MC Ben and his long-time crush Adam, was all things tender and sweet. The unfolding of their relationship is arguably easy and perhaps overtly sappy, but I gobbled the sugar-sweetness of it up to great delights. Adam particularly, had a bit of a swoon-factor going on, delivering some heart-melting romantic lines that made me feel all warm and fuzzy.
"I want to call this what it is. I want to make my intentions clear because I've held back for far too long. Dating is too fragile." His expression darkens. "My feelings for you are not fragile."
I’d honestly compare the tone of this story to that of a Hallmark movie. Feel free to interpret that how you will, but I personally am a notorious Hallmark movie fanatic (especially at Christmastime), always yearning for some light-hearted, low-angst vibes and delicious, if somewhat corny, romantic tales, which are usually much needed in my life when the world gets too heavy. This story was much like that: sweet, charming, easy to devour and unapologetic for it.
So far this is looking all good, right?! Well, for the most part it was a positive experience, but I did have some niggles that stopped this from being a truly successful read for me personally.
Mostly, I had issues with the plot—or perhaps, more specifically, the execution of the plot points. Beyond the romance, there was a lot happening around Ben and to Ben, and it felt all sorts of convoluted. Now, one could argue that because I didn’t read book one (In the Event of Love), I may have, perhaps, missed some details along the way, particularly in the introduction of the characters and the town of Fern Falls itself. This is on me, of course, and I acknowledge that’s a failing on my part. But it didn’t stop a lot of what happened here from feeling scattered, in many ways.
The whole reality show competition and situation with Ben’s horrid absentee father was very melodramatic in its telling. Also, it wasn’t clearly told—as in, I had no idea what was happening when the story began and took a long time to understand what Ben was upset about and why. His feelings of overwhelm were well-handled, I'll admit, in relation to that of a guy who was struggling with anxiety and past feelings of abandonment and self-worth (well, ongoing feelings really). So, big points for how Ben's mental health was handled throughout the story, but my issue remains that the situations themselves felt like they were thrown into a blender and mixed about, without any real cohesion as the story unfolded.
And then there was the fact that 80% of the story was set not in Fern Falls but, rather, in a place called Maywell Bay, where Ben’s grandma was having a week-long series of parties to celebrate her birthday. A) if the series is called Fern Falls, I expect the book to be predominantly set in Fern Falls, and B) as loving and supportive as grandma (sorry, G-ma) was, I’m honestly super tired of these types of overtly inappropriate, party-animal old ladies (the likes of Lucy Lennox’s Made Marian series). In this particular case, the week-long party setting was absolutely ridiculous and didn’t sit right, especially considering G-ma (ugh) was having major financial troubles yet felt like it was a great idea to just party it up in extended self-indulgence. It was just a strange story choice, as far as my interpretation and enjoyment was concerned.
Ultimately, this was an escapist romance novel at its core. I had to put reality aside for a hot minute and that’s okay—and mostly why I read anyway, to be honest. The romance worked for me, and will work for those who enjoy a bit of sweetness and sappiness, but predictably not so much for those readers who prefer a bit more grit and depth in their love stories. However, the inclusivity and the positive vibes that underlined the core of the narrative, make this story a worthwhile LGBTQ+ read, despite any personal grievances I may have had with the plot.
***A special thanks to the publishers (via Netgalley) for providing an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 3, 2023
What a delight! Sweet yet angsty and deeply heartfelt. Full review to come.
April 30, 2023
In case of Heartbreak is a timely queer escapist romance. Cozy, funny, and emotional, this novel invites readers into an idyllic, inclusive haven. In the Author’s Note, Courtney Kae writes, “In all my novels, I love to imagine a world that is kinder to queer people, unquestioning, unchallenging. A place where we don’t need to explain, defend, or prove ourselves. You’ll find that here in Maywell Bay, like you found it in Fern Falls.” Beginning the book with this promise, Kae undeniably delivers. Though protagonist Ben Parrish’s narrative is marked by drama, it occurs in a setting free from identity-based fear and judgement. At a time when trans rights and queer culture are under attack, In case of Heartbreak is a welcome respite from reality.
The novel opens with Ben Parrish filming a reality TV episode at his café, Peak Perk. Nestled in the quaint California mountain town of Fern Falls, Ben’s café is renowned for his special Parrish Family Cinnamon Rolls. Ben and his café are being featured on Take the Cake National in the hopes that viewers will vote Peak Perk their favorite independent bakery and the Parrish Family Cinnamon Rolls will be mass-produced and sold nationwide. During filming, the producers capture an unfortunate moment between Ben and his longtime crush Adam Reed, in which Adam appears to reject Ben as a love interest. Already humiliated and heartbroken, Ben then receives a Cease & Desist letter from his estranged father, claiming ownership of the Parrish Family Cinnamon Roll recipe. Behind the scenes of these catalyst events, Ben is coping with triggered childhood trauma and immense pressure to please his family. Basically, Ben is having a terrible day.
However, there is to be a reprieve after this rocky start. For the next two weeks Ben will be in Maywell Bay for a massive family reunion celebrating his grandmother’s 80th birthday. Ben’s extraordinarily wealthy, many-times married, free-spirited grandmother (who goes by G-ma) is hosting a massive extravaganza, including three costume-mandatory themed evenings. Though miserable, Ben plans to spend his time in Maywell Bay getting over Adam, resolving the cinnamon roll scandal, and generally trying to be “a better Ben.” But dear ol’ meddling G-ma has a different plan in mind—she’s booked Adam’s band (“Forced Proximity”) for the entire birthday bash AND arranged for Adam and Ben to stay alone together in the same guest house. Looks like Ben won’t be getting over Adam any time soon…
Where this book excels:
Inclusivity: I love the gender and racially inclusive language Kae uses to introduce readers to new characters. It especially stands out to me as something I still rarely encounter in books; it was honestly a joy to read. The cast of characters is diverse, and all are enthusiastically accepting of one another. Kae creates a safe space for both characters and readers. Although—warning—anyone reading this book will be forced to make cinnamon rolls. It’s unavoidable; enter at your own risk.
The Cinnamon Rolls: The Parrish Family Cinnamon Rolls sound so good. I craved cinnamon rolls the entire book.
Romance: This book is one for the romantics. Kae sets the stage for numerous swoon-worthy scenes and writes Adam as an unapologetic romantic. From heartfelt moments in historical garb, and abundant Bridgerton references, sentimental readers will adore this book.
Love, Affirmation, Validation: In the Author’s Note, Kae writes, “I love to create escapes where we’re safe to examine the messy, painful, hard things—and learn to believe how very worthy of love we are.” In Case of Heartbreak offers an environment for self-discovery and healing. Throughout the book, Ben and Adam reckon with childhood trauma, toxic beliefs ingrained from witnessing their parents’ failed marriages, and feeling inadequate due to a misplaced sense of responsibility. They stumble between self-awareness and doubt, as do most people. At times Ben’s insecurities are too relatable; his self-sabotage is painful to watch. Despite these very real internal challenges, Kae and her characters again and again reinforce the message—whoever you are, you are worthy of love in all its forms.
Where this book struggles:
Artlessly Overt: There are a lot of instances where I felt this book was too ‘on the nose.’ I don’t particularly enjoy when characters in a tropey book comment on how their author-manufactured situation resembles that of being in a tropey book. Things like naming the band “Forced Proximity” while writing a forced proximity romance. I feel like this “cheeky” artistic choice is rarely actually amusing.
This lack of subtlety shows up throughout the book in other ways, as well. For example:
Enthusiastic consent is sexy. What’s not sexy? Telling readers instead of showing. I really hate when authors literally write “consent is sexy” during sex scenes. If your enthusiastic consent scene is sexy, it will be obvious to your readers; you don’t need to point it out.
Romance: I’m sorry! I know what I wrote above, but this book was way too sappy for me.
Annoying Characters For most of the book, I found Ben and his family unbearable. Ben is completely inert to the point where trauma alone cannot fully justify his inaction. He takes little initiative and nearly everything is handed to him, including the family cinnamon bun recipe on which his reputation and livelihood balance. G-ma was also a miss; the lewd, alcoholic grandma character is tired.
Clunky Plot The reality TV show premise is somehow both superfluous and fundamental. Apart from the episode at the beginning, the Take the Cake National storyline mostly occurs in the background. Given his history, Ben’s decision to participate on the show is not reasonably justified. The show’s format and producers’ actions (for example, letting the star of a one-episode feature disappear for most of filming) don’t make sense. This plot point had potential but was not adequately realized. I wish the author had more fully embraced the reality TV show plot or discarded it entirely.
Conclusion: 3.5 Stars
In Case of Heartbreak has all the trademarks of a classic romcom: an over-the-top family event; a meddling grandmother; a friends-to-lovers romance with the bff’s brother; and many, many extravagant costume parties. There are many reasons to love this book, which is why I am sorry to admit that I really did not. Ultimately, this book is not for me. I found the characters annoying, the romance too sweet, and the plot choppy. However, I would honestly sum up this book as sweet, heartfelt, and authentic. I genuinely think many readers will love escaping into this novel. I am just not one of them.
Star Criteria
1: Is the book engaging/enjoyable/entertaining? I’m sorry, but no. At least, not for me. Though I wanted to love it, this book eventually became a slog to read. I’m still giving a half-star because it does have its moments.
2: Is the book creative? Yes.
3: Does the book offer educational value? Yes—there are a lot of important lessons about self-love, boundaries, consent, and mental health.
4. Does the book highlight underrepresented voices? Yes—the two main characters are bisexual and pansexual, and the supporting cast is diverse.
5. Does the book challenge existing literary norms and tropes? No, I would almost say the opposite.
Massive thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books who provided an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
**UPDATE: I finally made the cinnamon rolls**
The novel opens with Ben Parrish filming a reality TV episode at his café, Peak Perk. Nestled in the quaint California mountain town of Fern Falls, Ben’s café is renowned for his special Parrish Family Cinnamon Rolls. Ben and his café are being featured on Take the Cake National in the hopes that viewers will vote Peak Perk their favorite independent bakery and the Parrish Family Cinnamon Rolls will be mass-produced and sold nationwide. During filming, the producers capture an unfortunate moment between Ben and his longtime crush Adam Reed, in which Adam appears to reject Ben as a love interest. Already humiliated and heartbroken, Ben then receives a Cease & Desist letter from his estranged father, claiming ownership of the Parrish Family Cinnamon Roll recipe. Behind the scenes of these catalyst events, Ben is coping with triggered childhood trauma and immense pressure to please his family. Basically, Ben is having a terrible day.
However, there is to be a reprieve after this rocky start. For the next two weeks Ben will be in Maywell Bay for a massive family reunion celebrating his grandmother’s 80th birthday. Ben’s extraordinarily wealthy, many-times married, free-spirited grandmother (who goes by G-ma) is hosting a massive extravaganza, including three costume-mandatory themed evenings. Though miserable, Ben plans to spend his time in Maywell Bay getting over Adam, resolving the cinnamon roll scandal, and generally trying to be “a better Ben.” But dear ol’ meddling G-ma has a different plan in mind—she’s booked Adam’s band (“Forced Proximity”) for the entire birthday bash AND arranged for Adam and Ben to stay alone together in the same guest house. Looks like Ben won’t be getting over Adam any time soon…
Where this book excels:
Inclusivity: I love the gender and racially inclusive language Kae uses to introduce readers to new characters. It especially stands out to me as something I still rarely encounter in books; it was honestly a joy to read. The cast of characters is diverse, and all are enthusiastically accepting of one another. Kae creates a safe space for both characters and readers. Although—warning—anyone reading this book will be forced to make cinnamon rolls. It’s unavoidable; enter at your own risk.
The Cinnamon Rolls: The Parrish Family Cinnamon Rolls sound so good. I craved cinnamon rolls the entire book.
“After Dad left, Mom used recipes to create new things for our just-the-two-of-us life. Dad used to enjoy the cinnamon rolls, so it was the first recipe she changed. She added heavy cream to the rising buns, and they became more fluffy, full, and rich in flavor. She also doctored up the cream cheese frosting until it was so thick it formed upright peaks in the mixing bowl, then, once spread on the baked rolls, melted down into each gooey crevice.”
Romance: This book is one for the romantics. Kae sets the stage for numerous swoon-worthy scenes and writes Adam as an unapologetic romantic. From heartfelt moments in historical garb, and abundant Bridgerton references, sentimental readers will adore this book.
Love, Affirmation, Validation: In the Author’s Note, Kae writes, “I love to create escapes where we’re safe to examine the messy, painful, hard things—and learn to believe how very worthy of love we are.” In Case of Heartbreak offers an environment for self-discovery and healing. Throughout the book, Ben and Adam reckon with childhood trauma, toxic beliefs ingrained from witnessing their parents’ failed marriages, and feeling inadequate due to a misplaced sense of responsibility. They stumble between self-awareness and doubt, as do most people. At times Ben’s insecurities are too relatable; his self-sabotage is painful to watch. Despite these very real internal challenges, Kae and her characters again and again reinforce the message—whoever you are, you are worthy of love in all its forms.
Where this book struggles:
Artlessly Overt: There are a lot of instances where I felt this book was too ‘on the nose.’ I don’t particularly enjoy when characters in a tropey book comment on how their author-manufactured situation resembles that of being in a tropey book. Things like naming the band “Forced Proximity” while writing a forced proximity romance. I feel like this “cheeky” artistic choice is rarely actually amusing.
This lack of subtlety shows up throughout the book in other ways, as well. For example:
“Do you want me to open this door?” He angles his gaze. “Do you want me to throw you onto the bed? Do you want me to have my way with you?”
I whimper. “God, you make consent extremely sexy.”
“Consent is sexy.”
Enthusiastic consent is sexy. What’s not sexy? Telling readers instead of showing. I really hate when authors literally write “consent is sexy” during sex scenes. If your enthusiastic consent scene is sexy, it will be obvious to your readers; you don’t need to point it out.
Romance: I’m sorry! I know what I wrote above, but this book was way too sappy for me.
Annoying Characters For most of the book, I found Ben and his family unbearable. Ben is completely inert to the point where trauma alone cannot fully justify his inaction. He takes little initiative and nearly everything is handed to him, including the family cinnamon bun recipe on which his reputation and livelihood balance. G-ma was also a miss; the lewd, alcoholic grandma character is tired.
Clunky Plot The reality TV show premise is somehow both superfluous and fundamental. Apart from the episode at the beginning, the Take the Cake National storyline mostly occurs in the background. Given his history, Ben’s decision to participate on the show is not reasonably justified. The show’s format and producers’ actions (for example, letting the star of a one-episode feature disappear for most of filming) don’t make sense. This plot point had potential but was not adequately realized. I wish the author had more fully embraced the reality TV show plot or discarded it entirely.
Conclusion: 3.5 Stars
In Case of Heartbreak has all the trademarks of a classic romcom: an over-the-top family event; a meddling grandmother; a friends-to-lovers romance with the bff’s brother; and many, many extravagant costume parties. There are many reasons to love this book, which is why I am sorry to admit that I really did not. Ultimately, this book is not for me. I found the characters annoying, the romance too sweet, and the plot choppy. However, I would honestly sum up this book as sweet, heartfelt, and authentic. I genuinely think many readers will love escaping into this novel. I am just not one of them.
Star Criteria
1: Is the book engaging/enjoyable/entertaining? I’m sorry, but no. At least, not for me. Though I wanted to love it, this book eventually became a slog to read. I’m still giving a half-star because it does have its moments.
2: Is the book creative? Yes.
3: Does the book offer educational value? Yes—there are a lot of important lessons about self-love, boundaries, consent, and mental health.
4. Does the book highlight underrepresented voices? Yes—the two main characters are bisexual and pansexual, and the supporting cast is diverse.
5. Does the book challenge existing literary norms and tropes? No, I would almost say the opposite.
Massive thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books who provided an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
**UPDATE: I finally made the cinnamon rolls**
September 2, 2023
In the Case of Heartbreak
by Cortney Kae (2023) has been a book I’ve been looking forward to since I saw the beautiful cover. However, this was a miss for me. ★★✬☆☆ 2.5/5
There isn’t anything technically bad with the book. There were cute moments, but I think plot conflict was too much and not enough on the MCs and their relationship arc. Reality TV show wanting to sue for breach of contract unless they somehow get social media attention, Asshole Dad drama, G-Ma’s 80th two-week birthday, and somehow g-ma’s stinking rich and having money problems? Way too much IMO, and really quickly resolved.
Props for the mental health rep and creating an inclusive world with diverse characters.
Full disclosure: I haven’t read the first in this series and my booksta bestie loved both the these, so that might have made a difference.
I still recommend reading if you loved the first one. This just wasn’t for me. Sorry!
Thanks to Kensington Books and NetGalley for a chance to early review this story in exchange for an honest review.
There isn’t anything technically bad with the book. There were cute moments, but I think plot conflict was too much and not enough on the MCs and their relationship arc. Reality TV show wanting to sue for breach of contract unless they somehow get social media attention, Asshole Dad drama, G-Ma’s 80th two-week birthday, and somehow g-ma’s stinking rich and having money problems? Way too much IMO, and really quickly resolved.
Props for the mental health rep and creating an inclusive world with diverse characters.
Full disclosure: I haven’t read the first in this series and my booksta bestie loved both the these, so that might have made a difference.
I still recommend reading if you loved the first one. This just wasn’t for me. Sorry!
Thanks to Kensington Books and NetGalley for a chance to early review this story in exchange for an honest review.
April 11, 2023
Unfortunately, this book was a huge disappointment for me.
Almost everything is over the top, the plot is rather silly and I found myself really bored for large parts of the books. The two protagonists have several sweet scenes but that's about it.
Thank you NetGalley and Kensington for the ARC!
Almost everything is over the top, the plot is rather silly and I found myself really bored for large parts of the books. The two protagonists have several sweet scenes but that's about it.
Thank you NetGalley and Kensington for the ARC!
July 27, 2023
read my review on instagram
Rep: bi mc with anxiety & depression, pan li, lesbian, bi, nonbinary & trans side characters
CWs: past parental neglect, toxic father, past emotional/mental abuse
Rep: bi mc with anxiety & depression, pan li, lesbian, bi, nonbinary & trans side characters
CWs: past parental neglect, toxic father, past emotional/mental abuse
May 14, 2023
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for the opportunity to read this ARC.
Ben owns a bakery, but after an appearance on a live TV show, his past comes back to haunt him and to make demands. At the same time, the crush he has on his friend from childhood seems increasingly impossible, and in (a)n (failed) attempt to get over him, he escapes his small town to celebrate his grandmother's 80th birthday.
What follows is a story of family, love and just overall fun, summery vibes. Underneath it all lurks trauma from both Ben and Adam's past - something they learn to trust each other in.
At times funny, romantic and swoonworthy (spoiler: the concept of "courting" is very much one I need MUCH more of), it also deals with parental abandonment, neglect and abuse.
I wanted to wholeheartedly adore and enjoy this, but I was never completely swayed by the romance, and the writing was a bit over the top and repetitive for some of the scenes. Between bouts of cringing and secondhand embarrassment, there were elements of the story I enjoyed (read: the, at times, A+ healthy communication and Bridgerton references)
Ben owns a bakery, but after an appearance on a live TV show, his past comes back to haunt him and to make demands. At the same time, the crush he has on his friend from childhood seems increasingly impossible, and in (a)n (failed) attempt to get over him, he escapes his small town to celebrate his grandmother's 80th birthday.
What follows is a story of family, love and just overall fun, summery vibes. Underneath it all lurks trauma from both Ben and Adam's past - something they learn to trust each other in.
At times funny, romantic and swoonworthy (spoiler: the concept of "courting" is very much one I need MUCH more of), it also deals with parental abandonment, neglect and abuse.
I wanted to wholeheartedly adore and enjoy this, but I was never completely swayed by the romance, and the writing was a bit over the top and repetitive for some of the scenes. Between bouts of cringing and secondhand embarrassment, there were elements of the story I enjoyed (read: the, at times, A+ healthy communication and Bridgerton references)
July 3, 2023
This started out really well, I liked Ben a lot and the fact he runs a bakery. He lives in a quaint town with supportive friends. He’s had a crush on his friend, Adam, for years but Ben has suffered his father leaving and he blames himself. He has a lot of self doubt and is guilty for things that he believes he caused.
Once the book changes settings to Ben’s grandmother’s house in a seaside town things started to get over the top. I’m not a fan of the flashy and sexual like grandmother. She is throwing herself a 2 week party at her mansion for her 80th birthday. Ben’s mother thinks that g-ma (as she obnoxiously wants to be called all of a sudden) is in financial distress. She’s counting on Ben’s success with a food competition show to save the day. This is for a lavish, over the top 2 week bash for a rich white woman who has married something like 6 times (that’s how she made her fortune). And this wasn’t just a run of the mill type of party, these were all out costume themed parties with major vendors setting things up and the property being transformed.
Ben’s deadbeat father re-enters the picture to try to save his own failing business by ruining his sons chances at success. This man was one of the worst characters!
In between all of this Adam, Ben’s crush, is also at this 2 week party to play with the band. Him and Ben hang out, kiss but then there’s miscommunication. Then every time Adam tries to talk to Ben there is a distraction! That is the most annoying plot ever!
I didn’t like that Ben pushed Adam away telling him to fulfill his dream even though Adam told him that’s not his choice multiple times! Ben’s been in therapy for years but it’s not like he’s come that far. He’s holding everything up to his father leaving, which wasn’t fair to Adam. Plus you would think his mother would have explained things to him eventually because he has no issue mentioning why he was insecure.
The “steamy” times were basically fade to black scenes which would’ve been fine but I was hoping something could save this story.
Unfortunately this did not work for me.
ARC received for review
All thoughts and opinions are my own
Once the book changes settings to Ben’s grandmother’s house in a seaside town things started to get over the top. I’m not a fan of the flashy and sexual like grandmother. She is throwing herself a 2 week party at her mansion for her 80th birthday. Ben’s mother thinks that g-ma (as she obnoxiously wants to be called all of a sudden) is in financial distress. She’s counting on Ben’s success with a food competition show to save the day. This is for a lavish, over the top 2 week bash for a rich white woman who has married something like 6 times (that’s how she made her fortune). And this wasn’t just a run of the mill type of party, these were all out costume themed parties with major vendors setting things up and the property being transformed.
Ben’s deadbeat father re-enters the picture to try to save his own failing business by ruining his sons chances at success. This man was one of the worst characters!
In between all of this Adam, Ben’s crush, is also at this 2 week party to play with the band. Him and Ben hang out, kiss but then there’s miscommunication. Then every time Adam tries to talk to Ben there is a distraction! That is the most annoying plot ever!
I didn’t like that Ben pushed Adam away telling him to fulfill his dream even though Adam told him that’s not his choice multiple times! Ben’s been in therapy for years but it’s not like he’s come that far. He’s holding everything up to his father leaving, which wasn’t fair to Adam. Plus you would think his mother would have explained things to him eventually because he has no issue mentioning why he was insecure.
The “steamy” times were basically fade to black scenes which would’ve been fine but I was hoping something could save this story.
Unfortunately this did not work for me.
ARC received for review
All thoughts and opinions are my own
dnfs
March 17, 2023DNF at 64%
July 21, 2023
4.75 - Thank you so much to Courtney Kae for the advanced copy of the book!
This book will be published on July 25th.
Content Warnings from Storygraph:
Courtney is one of my favorite authors I have discovered in the last year and not only have I enjoyed their books but also their conversation. We have bonded over millennial things and also my constant championing their podcast with fellow author Falon Ballard. After loving the Hallmark-esque debut In The Event Of Love, when the opportunity came to review the 2nd book in this series, I knew I had to have it!
"And what does happiness mean to you?"
"Not being tethered to my fears."
With In the Event of Love, it took me a little to get into the setting and the characters but with this one I was fully invested right away. I am not sure if it was because I was already familiar with the characters or perhaps the way it was written was just different.
There were a few times that I found myself cackling with different dialogues that were happening. One of my favorite lines (that I even messaged Courtney about) came from Ben's internal monologue - "I would have never let him sleep on my floor. I would have offered to share the bed. It's called manners.' Also the G-Ma in this was hysterical! I hope I can be as cool as an 80 year old having a two week party to celebrate all things me.
The relationship that Ben has with his grandmother and his mother were both really just love him so much and were so worried for him! And I think we needed their sunshine in contrast to his horrible father. He just made everything sour. I don't want to go into too much detail as then you won't be surprised while reading.
"Darling."
Badam. Badam. Badam.
Yes I have been saying their relationship name in the tune of the Kylie Minogue's song Padam. But anyhow, I just absolutely ADORED Adam. He just was the sweetest of sweet book boyfriend who was so patient with Ben. I was very attracted to him and him being a musician was just an added bonus. I love how we had a build up of them expressing how he felt towards Ben. His love for Ben just was just so apparent and just made me swoony.
I really wanted to shake Ben so many times and one of my biggest pet peeves when it comes to romances is when one character self sabotages things in their life. I understood why he thought the way that he thought and trauma just will always be there lurking in your brain but as a reader it was so frustrating. Ben needed to go through what he went through in order to get to the other side and I'm sure even after he was good, he still will have his moments. Even with the self sabotaging I was so proud of him and how hard he was working through all his issues.
One thing I loved about the couple is that they were really honest with one another. There were a few items I thought was going to be dragged out until the 3rd act break up but it ended up being discussed earlier. I really hope that Ben's character continues to ask for help. He takes on a lot and waits until it reaches eruption before he brings in other resources.
I appreciate that Courtney has done in her writing is the positive dialogue with seeing a therapist & different representations throughout the book.
If you are a fan of friends to lovers, small town romance, cinnamon rolls (the food and book boyfriend) with a side of family drama this one's for you!
PS - Did you catch the Easter eggs in the book?!
A new thing to my reviews:
Swoon Meter: 8/10
Is there a karaoke moment? No-ish? There is a sing along but not karaoke
This book will be published on July 25th.
Content Warnings from Storygraph:
Courtney is one of my favorite authors I have discovered in the last year and not only have I enjoyed their books but also their conversation. We have bonded over millennial things and also my constant championing their podcast with fellow author Falon Ballard. After loving the Hallmark-esque debut In The Event Of Love, when the opportunity came to review the 2nd book in this series, I knew I had to have it!
"And what does happiness mean to you?"
"Not being tethered to my fears."
With In the Event of Love, it took me a little to get into the setting and the characters but with this one I was fully invested right away. I am not sure if it was because I was already familiar with the characters or perhaps the way it was written was just different.
There were a few times that I found myself cackling with different dialogues that were happening. One of my favorite lines (that I even messaged Courtney about) came from Ben's internal monologue - "I would have never let him sleep on my floor. I would have offered to share the bed. It's called manners.' Also the G-Ma in this was hysterical! I hope I can be as cool as an 80 year old having a two week party to celebrate all things me.
The relationship that Ben has with his grandmother and his mother were both really just love him so much and were so worried for him! And I think we needed their sunshine in contrast to his horrible father. He just made everything sour. I don't want to go into too much detail as then you won't be surprised while reading.
"Darling."
Badam. Badam. Badam.
Yes I have been saying their relationship name in the tune of the Kylie Minogue's song Padam. But anyhow, I just absolutely ADORED Adam. He just was the sweetest of sweet book boyfriend who was so patient with Ben. I was very attracted to him and him being a musician was just an added bonus. I love how we had a build up of them expressing how he felt towards Ben. His love for Ben just was just so apparent and just made me swoony.
I really wanted to shake Ben so many times and one of my biggest pet peeves when it comes to romances is when one character self sabotages things in their life. I understood why he thought the way that he thought and trauma just will always be there lurking in your brain but as a reader it was so frustrating. Ben needed to go through what he went through in order to get to the other side and I'm sure even after he was good, he still will have his moments. Even with the self sabotaging I was so proud of him and how hard he was working through all his issues.
One thing I loved about the couple is that they were really honest with one another. There were a few items I thought was going to be dragged out until the 3rd act break up but it ended up being discussed earlier. I really hope that Ben's character continues to ask for help. He takes on a lot and waits until it reaches eruption before he brings in other resources.
I appreciate that Courtney has done in her writing is the positive dialogue with seeing a therapist & different representations throughout the book.
If you are a fan of friends to lovers, small town romance, cinnamon rolls (the food and book boyfriend) with a side of family drama this one's for you!
PS - Did you catch the Easter eggs in the book?!
A new thing to my reviews:
Swoon Meter: 8/10
Is there a karaoke moment? No-ish? There is a sing along but not karaoke
July 30, 2023
TITLE: IN THE CASE OF HEARTBREAK
AUTHOR: Courtney Kae
PUB DATE: 07.25.2023 Now Available
With a gorgeous beachfront mansion, salty ocean breeze, steamy nights, and ALL the summertime feels, this funny, sexy queer rom-com is a celebration of summer love, as a cinnamon roll of a pastry chef finds his indie rocker crush suddenly within reach.
THOUGHTS:
This sappy queer romcom had all the ingredients for an amazing hea - cinnamon rolls (the actual pastry, and the protagonist too), an amazing G-ma (an over the top 80 yo meddling grandma), forced proximity romance, a reality TV show, and a diverse cast of characters.
I was entertained and the romance was definitely swoon worthy - lots of funny scenes and lots of family drama too. Great writing that I found enjoyable.
AUTHOR: Courtney Kae
PUB DATE: 07.25.2023 Now Available
With a gorgeous beachfront mansion, salty ocean breeze, steamy nights, and ALL the summertime feels, this funny, sexy queer rom-com is a celebration of summer love, as a cinnamon roll of a pastry chef finds his indie rocker crush suddenly within reach.
THOUGHTS:
This sappy queer romcom had all the ingredients for an amazing hea - cinnamon rolls (the actual pastry, and the protagonist too), an amazing G-ma (an over the top 80 yo meddling grandma), forced proximity romance, a reality TV show, and a diverse cast of characters.
I was entertained and the romance was definitely swoon worthy - lots of funny scenes and lots of family drama too. Great writing that I found enjoyable.
March 24, 2023
Getting a one-two punch of contact with his absent/neglectful/narcissistic father and being told on live TV that his lifelong crush is only interested in friendship within an hour was a lot for Ben to manage and away we went with this book.
I just loved Ben so much in In the Event of Love. He was clearly the Ethan Embry character to Morgan's Reese Witherspoon in their Sweet Home Alabama moments in Book 1. The eternal helpful character who doesn't seem to take anything for himself. In this book we see exactly why that is and ouch.
I will love Adam forever for being so stable and loving with his feelings after we got through the initial awkwardness in this book. Once he realized he had permission to court Ben, it was ON. I am still unwell from "my feelings from you are not fragile."
His father though, I loathe entirely. I even messaged the author and asked if she can arrange to have him murdered or imprisoned in any future books. TBD, friends. I tried though.
Thank you to Courtney Kae for a copy in exchange for an honest review. My opinions are my own.
I just loved Ben so much in In the Event of Love. He was clearly the Ethan Embry character to Morgan's Reese Witherspoon in their Sweet Home Alabama moments in Book 1. The eternal helpful character who doesn't seem to take anything for himself. In this book we see exactly why that is and ouch.
I will love Adam forever for being so stable and loving with his feelings after we got through the initial awkwardness in this book. Once he realized he had permission to court Ben, it was ON. I am still unwell from "my feelings from you are not fragile."
His father though, I loathe entirely. I even messaged the author and asked if she can arrange to have him murdered or imprisoned in any future books. TBD, friends. I tried though.
Thank you to Courtney Kae for a copy in exchange for an honest review. My opinions are my own.
March 26, 2023
I love romance novels where the two characters are actively good for each other, and Ben and Adam are so good together. It's an example of the best friends to lovers trope done well. Also have never craved cinnamon rolls more in my life than I did while reading this.
August 5, 2023
Small town queer story with baked goods.
You know I was in!
This was really cute and had a surprising amount of plot packed into it.
I love a good small town story and making the centerpiece M/M love and cinnamon rolls?
I was hooked!
This is a slow burn, second chanceish romance, so get your patience pants on.
Much love to NetGalley & Kensington Books for my ARC.
You know I was in!
This was really cute and had a surprising amount of plot packed into it.
I love a good small town story and making the centerpiece M/M love and cinnamon rolls?
I was hooked!
This is a slow burn, second chanceish romance, so get your patience pants on.
Much love to NetGalley & Kensington Books for my ARC.
April 17, 2023
There is a lot to like in this book. It has a great cast of unique characters, a charming seaside setting, and some well-handled mental health rep. I really enjoyed both main characters' arcs as they dealt with past trauma and figured out what they wanted their future to look like.
Unfortunately, the romantic aspects of this story fell flat for me. It’s easy to forgive a shaky premise or a convoluted setup (it makes zero sense that a reality show would be airing live?) when you are invested in seeing two people find their way to a HEA. This was ostensibly friends to lovers but abruptly progressed from two people who couldn’t communicate to a couple that was immediately confessing their undying love with half the book left to go.
I still enjoyed this quite a bit but ultimately preferred the first book in this series. Thanks to Kensington and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Unfortunately, the romantic aspects of this story fell flat for me. It’s easy to forgive a shaky premise or a convoluted setup (it makes zero sense that a reality show would be airing live?) when you are invested in seeing two people find their way to a HEA. This was ostensibly friends to lovers but abruptly progressed from two people who couldn’t communicate to a couple that was immediately confessing their undying love with half the book left to go.
I still enjoyed this quite a bit but ultimately preferred the first book in this series. Thanks to Kensington and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
August 14, 2023
I received this book through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. ARC provided by Kensington Books.
When his hometown crush suddenly returns his affections at a seaside celebration, pastry chef Ben Parrish must find a way to pursue his dream of moving his bakery to San Francisco – without losing the love he has always wanted.
Ben has been baking his grandma’s cinnamon rolls at the family café for years. He has been quietly in love with Adam Reed, his musician-slash-mechanic neighbor, for just as long. But Ben’s done waiting behind the pastry case. He has entered a make-or-break competition to show off his own recipes. He is going to buy his overprotective family out of the business. And he is going to ask Adam out. Tonight.
Except his big plans get punched down before they even half-rise. Soon Ben is dashing down the coast to his grandma’s 80th birthday party on the beach, hiding his broken heart in Maywell Bay, California. Sun, sea, and fresh breezes should blow in something new—except they do not. They blow in Adam Reed, grinning like a pirate and stealing the show as the musical entertainment hired by Grandma for her big bash. Grandma’s signature Heartbreak Tea is the only remedy, and Grandma’s tea could take the paint off a fence.
But there is a burn of truth along with the booze in his bottle, and Ben has a decision to make. Can he take the sweetness in front of him, and brave the bitterness that comes after? Or is a little sea salt just what this cinnamon roll needs? Salty cinnamon rolls? Ew. Ben would never.
This was really cute and sweet. With one of the main characters being a pastry cook with a famous cinnamon roll recipe it was fitting for this book to be overtly sweet. I really loved Ben and Adam together. There were so many missed opportunities between these two characters as they navigate all that happens between them. I pretty much love the characters in this book, and think everyone will be able to relate to at least one character. Kae knows how to create beautiful settings and joyful scenes that grip my heart and stay in my memory. Her writing feels so immersive at times, it felt like I was sitting in Maywell Bay. I also really love how she included amazing representation of depression and anxiety. I loved how Kae normalizing therapy and talking about and validating feelings. Overall, Kae has done an amazing job yet again and I would highly recommend this book. Overall, I did find the book good. I thought it was sweet and authentic. Kae did a great job with inclusivity and I will be sure to pick up and read her future works. If you like friends to lovers queer rom-coms with some meddling family members, this books for you.
When his hometown crush suddenly returns his affections at a seaside celebration, pastry chef Ben Parrish must find a way to pursue his dream of moving his bakery to San Francisco – without losing the love he has always wanted.
Ben has been baking his grandma’s cinnamon rolls at the family café for years. He has been quietly in love with Adam Reed, his musician-slash-mechanic neighbor, for just as long. But Ben’s done waiting behind the pastry case. He has entered a make-or-break competition to show off his own recipes. He is going to buy his overprotective family out of the business. And he is going to ask Adam out. Tonight.
Except his big plans get punched down before they even half-rise. Soon Ben is dashing down the coast to his grandma’s 80th birthday party on the beach, hiding his broken heart in Maywell Bay, California. Sun, sea, and fresh breezes should blow in something new—except they do not. They blow in Adam Reed, grinning like a pirate and stealing the show as the musical entertainment hired by Grandma for her big bash. Grandma’s signature Heartbreak Tea is the only remedy, and Grandma’s tea could take the paint off a fence.
But there is a burn of truth along with the booze in his bottle, and Ben has a decision to make. Can he take the sweetness in front of him, and brave the bitterness that comes after? Or is a little sea salt just what this cinnamon roll needs? Salty cinnamon rolls? Ew. Ben would never.
This was really cute and sweet. With one of the main characters being a pastry cook with a famous cinnamon roll recipe it was fitting for this book to be overtly sweet. I really loved Ben and Adam together. There were so many missed opportunities between these two characters as they navigate all that happens between them. I pretty much love the characters in this book, and think everyone will be able to relate to at least one character. Kae knows how to create beautiful settings and joyful scenes that grip my heart and stay in my memory. Her writing feels so immersive at times, it felt like I was sitting in Maywell Bay. I also really love how she included amazing representation of depression and anxiety. I loved how Kae normalizing therapy and talking about and validating feelings. Overall, Kae has done an amazing job yet again and I would highly recommend this book. Overall, I did find the book good. I thought it was sweet and authentic. Kae did a great job with inclusivity and I will be sure to pick up and read her future works. If you like friends to lovers queer rom-coms with some meddling family members, this books for you.
March 28, 2023
In the Case of Heartbreak is the second in a series. Unfortunately I didn’t read the first, so my only meeting with these two characters is in this book. Apparently they have known each other for years, and have been unknowingly pining for one another the entire time.
Ben is a baker and on a reality TV show. He’s sent a cease and desist order for using a recipe allegedly handed down from his father (not the case) but Ben is already grappling with a hefty dose of trauma courtesy of his father, so this doesn’t help at all. The TV network proposes it’s not such a big deal and can be mitigated if they see more of Ben with Adam, his friends brother, who is mistaken for Ben’s boyfriend on the reality show, and subsequently has the world -shipping them as a couple.
Ben takes some time out to work out his options, taking two weeks for his Grandmother’s birthday party. Unlike the rest of the cast of this book G-ma sounds like a real hoot, but it appears she’s got money problems and might have to be bailed out by Ben’s mother. G-ma and her parties sound like a cross between Priscilla Queen of the Desert and the Rocky Horror Picture Show, and heaps of fun. When Adam turns up at G-ma’s part the boys are declaring their love left right and centre for one another but want to take things slow. I quite enjoyed how the book was shaping up until this point.
What comes after makes for a bit of directionless book, as much as I wanted to love it.
What didn’t work for me with this one is -
* it was about cake-ing and baking but apart from the little at the start there wasn’t a whole lot of either, just loose references to Ben owning the business (which really G-ma gifted to him) and his friend who was covering for him in his absence. And there’s the one cooking scene which was more like foreplay really, and somewhat cringey.
- the one POV from Ben felt emotionally juvenile and made him sound like he was whining.
- there was no buildup to Ben and Adam getting together. I can’t say whether it happened to some extent in the previous book
- the romance scenes seemed as if they were going to be off page and then there’s a scene with oral sex that was pretty graphic. It didn’t make sense to me. Particularly when the off the page and implied getting together happened first … (it doesn’t bother me either way, it just seemed as if the author couldn’t decide how far to go).
-the resolution of Ben’s father being a shitbag was really unsatisfactory, and a real whimper considering the trauma and disruption caused throughout the book.
- Adams voice was like an annexure and I wanted to know more about how he’d arrived at the point he was at.
I appreciated the representation and the modelling of a healthy relationship between Ben and Adam based on communication, albeit it was at odds with them NOT communicating for such a long time about how they felt about one another. Also for the mental health representation and the support and acknowledgment of Ben’s supper network.
Thanks to Kensington Books and Netgalley for the eARC of this book.
I’m sorry I didn’t love this one more.
Ben is a baker and on a reality TV show. He’s sent a cease and desist order for using a recipe allegedly handed down from his father (not the case) but Ben is already grappling with a hefty dose of trauma courtesy of his father, so this doesn’t help at all. The TV network proposes it’s not such a big deal and can be mitigated if they see more of Ben with Adam, his friends brother, who is mistaken for Ben’s boyfriend on the reality show, and subsequently has the world -shipping them as a couple.
Ben takes some time out to work out his options, taking two weeks for his Grandmother’s birthday party. Unlike the rest of the cast of this book G-ma sounds like a real hoot, but it appears she’s got money problems and might have to be bailed out by Ben’s mother. G-ma and her parties sound like a cross between Priscilla Queen of the Desert and the Rocky Horror Picture Show, and heaps of fun. When Adam turns up at G-ma’s part the boys are declaring their love left right and centre for one another but want to take things slow. I quite enjoyed how the book was shaping up until this point.
What comes after makes for a bit of directionless book, as much as I wanted to love it.
What didn’t work for me with this one is -
* it was about cake-ing and baking but apart from the little at the start there wasn’t a whole lot of either, just loose references to Ben owning the business (which really G-ma gifted to him) and his friend who was covering for him in his absence. And there’s the one cooking scene which was more like foreplay really, and somewhat cringey.
- the one POV from Ben felt emotionally juvenile and made him sound like he was whining.
- there was no buildup to Ben and Adam getting together. I can’t say whether it happened to some extent in the previous book
- the romance scenes seemed as if they were going to be off page and then there’s a scene with oral sex that was pretty graphic. It didn’t make sense to me. Particularly when the off the page and implied getting together happened first … (it doesn’t bother me either way, it just seemed as if the author couldn’t decide how far to go).
-the resolution of Ben’s father being a shitbag was really unsatisfactory, and a real whimper considering the trauma and disruption caused throughout the book.
- Adams voice was like an annexure and I wanted to know more about how he’d arrived at the point he was at.
I appreciated the representation and the modelling of a healthy relationship between Ben and Adam based on communication, albeit it was at odds with them NOT communicating for such a long time about how they felt about one another. Also for the mental health representation and the support and acknowledgment of Ben’s supper network.
Thanks to Kensington Books and Netgalley for the eARC of this book.
I’m sorry I didn’t love this one more.
October 30, 2023
In the Case of Heartbreak is a sweet Hallmark-movie-esque type of story, a companion book to In the Event of Love, which I read (and loved) last year. In the last book, we got a winter wonderland type of a setting, and now we're following the characters we've already met for some summer fun.
In the Case of Heartbreak opens with Ben, a baker, as he's filming the first episode of a reality TV Show he's a part of, and follows him into an awkward interaction with Adam, his friend (who he's in love with). Ben walks out of that situation feeling utterly humiliated, as it's now commemorated on camera that Adam "rejected" him. As if that's not stressful enough already, he receives a cease and desist letter from his estranged father regarding a family recipe he's using on the show. He's trying to put worries aside as he goes to his grandma's week-long birthday celebration. However, his grandma has ideas of her own, and she's hired Adam's band to play at her parties, so Ben is forced to confront his feelings and the situation at hand.
I will skip the long intro to my thoughts and start off with the things I enjoyed. This is a friends to lovers romance, and I thoroughly enjoyed the main characters and the romance. I really loved seeing Ben and Adam interact and have no complaints directed at the "core" of the story. I also really enjoyed seeing all of the characters from the previous novel, as well as Adam's grandma, I thought she was great.
Some things I enjoyed slightly less was the fact that there seemed to be one too many things happening at all times. In a different setting, perhaps this would've worked better, but as is it felt like things were overlapping but not actually connecting. As well as the storyline regarding Ben's father, which seemed overly dragged out and dramaticised. There were a lot of times I felt like the issue at hand could've been solved by Bell talking to someone, instead of internalizing everything.
Overall, this was a sweet, feel-good story, and I would definitely recommend it, especially if you've read In the Event of Love, and want more of the Fern Falls crew!
Thank you to Netgalley for providing me with an arc in exchange for an honest review!
In the Case of Heartbreak opens with Ben, a baker, as he's filming the first episode of a reality TV Show he's a part of, and follows him into an awkward interaction with Adam, his friend (who he's in love with). Ben walks out of that situation feeling utterly humiliated, as it's now commemorated on camera that Adam "rejected" him. As if that's not stressful enough already, he receives a cease and desist letter from his estranged father regarding a family recipe he's using on the show. He's trying to put worries aside as he goes to his grandma's week-long birthday celebration. However, his grandma has ideas of her own, and she's hired Adam's band to play at her parties, so Ben is forced to confront his feelings and the situation at hand.
I will skip the long intro to my thoughts and start off with the things I enjoyed. This is a friends to lovers romance, and I thoroughly enjoyed the main characters and the romance. I really loved seeing Ben and Adam interact and have no complaints directed at the "core" of the story. I also really enjoyed seeing all of the characters from the previous novel, as well as Adam's grandma, I thought she was great.
Some things I enjoyed slightly less was the fact that there seemed to be one too many things happening at all times. In a different setting, perhaps this would've worked better, but as is it felt like things were overlapping but not actually connecting. As well as the storyline regarding Ben's father, which seemed overly dragged out and dramaticised. There were a lot of times I felt like the issue at hand could've been solved by Bell talking to someone, instead of internalizing everything.
Overall, this was a sweet, feel-good story, and I would definitely recommend it, especially if you've read In the Event of Love, and want more of the Fern Falls crew!
Thank you to Netgalley for providing me with an arc in exchange for an honest review!
July 25, 2023
I loved this book so much, I don't even know where to begin writing this review. 🥺
This book is about Ben, a pastry chef, running his family business in the small town of Fern Falls. This is his journey of letting go of the past, accepting he isn't to blame for other people's actions, a journey of healing, overcoming his abandonnment issues and understanding that doing his best is always enough. Ben, I see you.
Ben is dealing with a lot of childhood trauma at the beginning of this book. He's putting so much pressure on himself, going outside his comfort zone, trying to prove to himself that he can do things on his own, without the help of his meddling family. But ultimately, he realizes that his family and friends are what really matter anyway. He accepts himself and his limitations, his family's help and the love of his forever crush.
That brings us to Adam. Aaaah. Sweet, wonderful, supportive Adam. That man is a dream. The way he talks to Ben, the way their friendship turns into more, how in tune to Ben's needs he is, how respectful of his insecurities and anxiety. He's dealing with his fair share of trauma, but my god, he's wonderful.
Listen, friends to lovers is my kryptonite.
I was bawling my eyes out he moment they confessed their feelings for each other, when they decided to start dating. The intimacy they shared was absolutely perfect. The way they communicated about their feelings, their doubts and fears, their plans for the future. It was so beautiful. I cried. A lot.
I didn't think I'd ever like a third act breakup, but this made so much sense, I would have been mad if it didn't happen this way. The selflessness these two guys posses was sexy as hell. To see them care for each other so much that they're willing to give up on their relationship just to see the other thrive and succeed. Gaaah.
That ending was perfect.
Thank you to Netgalley for the arc.
This book is about Ben, a pastry chef, running his family business in the small town of Fern Falls. This is his journey of letting go of the past, accepting he isn't to blame for other people's actions, a journey of healing, overcoming his abandonnment issues and understanding that doing his best is always enough. Ben, I see you.
Ben is dealing with a lot of childhood trauma at the beginning of this book. He's putting so much pressure on himself, going outside his comfort zone, trying to prove to himself that he can do things on his own, without the help of his meddling family. But ultimately, he realizes that his family and friends are what really matter anyway. He accepts himself and his limitations, his family's help and the love of his forever crush.
That brings us to Adam. Aaaah. Sweet, wonderful, supportive Adam. That man is a dream. The way he talks to Ben, the way their friendship turns into more, how in tune to Ben's needs he is, how respectful of his insecurities and anxiety. He's dealing with his fair share of trauma, but my god, he's wonderful.
Listen, friends to lovers is my kryptonite.
I was bawling my eyes out he moment they confessed their feelings for each other, when they decided to start dating. The intimacy they shared was absolutely perfect. The way they communicated about their feelings, their doubts and fears, their plans for the future. It was so beautiful. I cried. A lot.
I didn't think I'd ever like a third act breakup, but this made so much sense, I would have been mad if it didn't happen this way. The selflessness these two guys posses was sexy as hell. To see them care for each other so much that they're willing to give up on their relationship just to see the other thrive and succeed. Gaaah.
That ending was perfect.
Thank you to Netgalley for the arc.
May 2, 2023
I absolutely LOVED In the Event of Love, so when I saw that Courtney Kae had another book coming out set in the same town as her first book, it was IMMEDIATELY added to my TBR. Add on top of that, it has Ben and Adam? YES! PLEASEEEEE!!!
In the Case of Heartbreak takes us directly into Ben’s world as he’s being filmed for a reality baking show with his mother’s family Cinnamon Roll recipe. Plus, getting his name out there makes it even better for a small business owner. With all of the trouble his family has had to deal with over the years, he wants to be the one to help them out.
While filming, the cameras see him making a move to FINALLY ask out his best friend Adam, but it seems to everyone (including Ben) as if he’s turning him down… which in turn sends him spiraling. All the way to his G-Ma’s 80th Birthday Celebration in Maywell Bay! Where low and behold, Adam and his band, Forced Proximity, are the main act.
This book is full of honesty and pain and absolute love! It has an incredible diverse cast of characters (from which I’m trying to figure out who will be leading book 3) and features the Best Friends to Lovers trope, amongst others… including Forced Proximity… you know. Like the band name. 🤣 I am only recently starting to enjoy Friends to Lovers. It’s been growing on me a lot. So to read this now was the perfect time.🤷🏻♂️
I can’t wait to reread this when it comes out on July 25th. I think it’ll be even better listening to the audiobook. 😍
In the Case of Heartbreak takes us directly into Ben’s world as he’s being filmed for a reality baking show with his mother’s family Cinnamon Roll recipe. Plus, getting his name out there makes it even better for a small business owner. With all of the trouble his family has had to deal with over the years, he wants to be the one to help them out.
While filming, the cameras see him making a move to FINALLY ask out his best friend Adam, but it seems to everyone (including Ben) as if he’s turning him down… which in turn sends him spiraling. All the way to his G-Ma’s 80th Birthday Celebration in Maywell Bay! Where low and behold, Adam and his band, Forced Proximity, are the main act.
This book is full of honesty and pain and absolute love! It has an incredible diverse cast of characters (from which I’m trying to figure out who will be leading book 3) and features the Best Friends to Lovers trope, amongst others… including Forced Proximity… you know. Like the band name. 🤣 I am only recently starting to enjoy Friends to Lovers. It’s been growing on me a lot. So to read this now was the perfect time.🤷🏻♂️
I can’t wait to reread this when it comes out on July 25th. I think it’ll be even better listening to the audiobook. 😍
July 28, 2023
I really enjoyed this small town, second chance, queer romcom featuring both actual cinnamon rolls and one of the best fictional ones!!
Lots of summer vibes, heavy on the family drama but FULL of swoony moments between a baker trying to save his family's cafe and an aspiring rock star slash mechanic!! The queer rep was fantastic and treated so naturally - which was lovely to see! We don't learn until more than midway through that Ben is bisexual and Adam is pansexual.
Highly recommended if you want a feel-good story full of a great cast of queer secondary characters, supportive (mostly) family, reality tv x Rockstar romances, California sunshine and open door spice.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital copy in exchange for my honest review. Perfect for fans of authors like Roan Parrish and Timothy Janovsky.
Lots of summer vibes, heavy on the family drama but FULL of swoony moments between a baker trying to save his family's cafe and an aspiring rock star slash mechanic!! The queer rep was fantastic and treated so naturally - which was lovely to see! We don't learn until more than midway through that Ben is bisexual and Adam is pansexual.
Highly recommended if you want a feel-good story full of a great cast of queer secondary characters, supportive (mostly) family, reality tv x Rockstar romances, California sunshine and open door spice.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital copy in exchange for my honest review. Perfect for fans of authors like Roan Parrish and Timothy Janovsky.
August 11, 2022
I’m so excited for this book!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
May 24, 2023
In the Case of Heartbreak is a tender love story that will 100% make you shed a tear or two (or a hundred; I am emotionally invested in Adam and Ben and could read like 10 more books about them). It also deals with some heavier topics like parental abuse and abandonment, so I would recommend checking out the trigger warnings before diving in.
In In the Case of Heartbreak, we follow Ben, a baker from Fern Falls who just joined a baking competition that could send his little bakery and cafe to new heights. But when everything goes wrong on the day of filming in Fern Falls and Ben is rejected by the only man he's ever loved, Adam, on national TV for the whole world to see, things take a turn for the worse. And suddenly there is also his absentee dad, sending him a cease-and-desist letter over a cinnamon roll recipe that put Ben on the map and that was definitely not his dad's invention.
Ben thankfully has an escape from the dumpster fire that his life has turned into: two weeks celebrating his grandma's birthday, far away from Fern Falls. But he can't really run from his issues, and maybe Adam suddenly appearing in Maywell Bay is not such a terrible thing—maybe it can lead to something truly spectacular.
I don't even know where to start with this review! I loved how soft and understanding both Adam and Ben were. How Ben had so much anxiety surrounding basically every aspect of his life (so relatable! I will truly treasure Ben and his soft heart forever, and Adam knew exactly how to help ease them. Sometimes just letting someone know that "it's okay, we are okay, and you are going to be okay" can mean more than any other word ever could. Adam was a reprieve for Ben, a safe haven, and my heart felt so light whenever these two interacted, be it as friends at first, as lovers, or as partners later on.
And don't even get me started on the other important topics it touched on: anxiety, of course, but also depression, consent (like Adam said, "consent is sexy," and damn right it is!), addiction, and more. I truly believe Court treated those with the utmost care, and I can't wait to see what else they write (maybe another Fern Falls novel?). (Insert puppy eyes.)
The issues Ben dealt with felt so raw and real, and I could feel every one of his anxieties on a visceral level. At some points in the book, all the situations—his horrible dad, the baking competition, his grandma facing potential bankruptcy—felt hopeless and unsolvable, but when taken one at a time, they kind of stopped seeming so insurmountable. When the sudden reprieve came after everything kind of bulldozed Ben over, it was like taking a fresh breath of air. I found this feeling incredibly familiar; I never dealt with issues on the same level as Ben, but that feeling of "Oh, it's actually okay, everything will be okay" is one of the most calming ones there is.
All in all, In the Case of Heartbreak is a beautiful romance novel—with some angst, I would recommend positioning a tissue box close to you before you start reading—full of heart, beautiful mental health representation, and one of the softest and sweetest childhood friends to lovers stories I've ever read. I was a Ben and Adam (Badam!) fan before I even knew this book was going to be a thing, and I love them even more now. A total win of a romance novel all around!
In In the Case of Heartbreak, we follow Ben, a baker from Fern Falls who just joined a baking competition that could send his little bakery and cafe to new heights. But when everything goes wrong on the day of filming in Fern Falls and Ben is rejected by the only man he's ever loved, Adam, on national TV for the whole world to see, things take a turn for the worse. And suddenly there is also his absentee dad, sending him a cease-and-desist letter over a cinnamon roll recipe that put Ben on the map and that was definitely not his dad's invention.
Ben thankfully has an escape from the dumpster fire that his life has turned into: two weeks celebrating his grandma's birthday, far away from Fern Falls. But he can't really run from his issues, and maybe Adam suddenly appearing in Maywell Bay is not such a terrible thing—maybe it can lead to something truly spectacular.
I don't even know where to start with this review! I loved how soft and understanding both Adam and Ben were. How Ben had so much anxiety surrounding basically every aspect of his life (so relatable! I will truly treasure Ben and his soft heart forever, and Adam knew exactly how to help ease them. Sometimes just letting someone know that "it's okay, we are okay, and you are going to be okay" can mean more than any other word ever could. Adam was a reprieve for Ben, a safe haven, and my heart felt so light whenever these two interacted, be it as friends at first, as lovers, or as partners later on.
And don't even get me started on the other important topics it touched on: anxiety, of course, but also depression, consent (like Adam said, "consent is sexy," and damn right it is!), addiction, and more. I truly believe Court treated those with the utmost care, and I can't wait to see what else they write (maybe another Fern Falls novel?). (Insert puppy eyes.)
The issues Ben dealt with felt so raw and real, and I could feel every one of his anxieties on a visceral level. At some points in the book, all the situations—his horrible dad, the baking competition, his grandma facing potential bankruptcy—felt hopeless and unsolvable, but when taken one at a time, they kind of stopped seeming so insurmountable. When the sudden reprieve came after everything kind of bulldozed Ben over, it was like taking a fresh breath of air. I found this feeling incredibly familiar; I never dealt with issues on the same level as Ben, but that feeling of "Oh, it's actually okay, everything will be okay" is one of the most calming ones there is.
All in all, In the Case of Heartbreak is a beautiful romance novel—with some angst, I would recommend positioning a tissue box close to you before you start reading—full of heart, beautiful mental health representation, and one of the softest and sweetest childhood friends to lovers stories I've ever read. I was a Ben and Adam (Badam!) fan before I even knew this book was going to be a thing, and I love them even more now. A total win of a romance novel all around!
July 26, 2023
Trigger Warnings: past stroke, therapy, past missing child, past parental abandonment, cursing, marijuana, alcohol, divorce, absent parent, anxiety, depression, narcissist, sex
Representation: They/them pronouns, Bisexual, mental health, Pansexual
In the Case of Heartbreak is a queer rom-com celebration of summer love, as a cinnamon roll of a pastry chef finds his indie rocker crush suddenly within reach. When his hometown crush suddenly returns his affections at a seaside celebration, pastry chef Ben Parrish must find a way to pursue his dream of moving his bakery to San Francisco, without losing the love he’s always wanted.
Ben has been baking his grandma’s cinnamon rolls at the family café for years. He’s also been quietly in love with Adam Reed, his musician-slash-mechanic neighbor, for just as long. Ben is done with waiting behind the pastry case and so he has entered a make-or-break competition to show off his own recipes. He’s going to buy his overprotective family out of the business. And he’s going to ask Adam out. TONIGHT.
Except his big plans get punched down before they even half-rise. Soon Ben is dashing down the coast to his grandma’s 80th birthday party on the beach, hiding his broken heart in Maywell Bay, California. Sun, sea, and fresh breezes should blow in something new—except they don’t. They blow in Adam Reed, grinning like a pirate and stealing the show as the musical entertainment hired by Grandma for her big bash. But there’s a burn of truth along with the booze in his bottle and Ben has a decision to make. Can he take the sweetness in front of him, and brave the bitterness that comes after? Or is a little sea salt just what this cinnamon roll needs?
Salty cinnamon rolls? Ew. Ben would never.
This ARC was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Wow! I absolutely adored this book! The writing is sexy and funny, as well as raw, painful, and healing. The storyline is very steamy, but also reminds you that it will always get better. The author handles such heavy topics with grace and humility. I love how they constantly remind the characters and the readers that you deserve every good and wonderful thing.
I loved how different this book is compared to other friends-to-lovers stories! The main couple provide your HEA early on, which allows the author to explore being in a relationship and all of the twists and turns, as opposed to only coming together at the very end. All of the characters in this story are awesome! They are messy queers and such relatable humans! The author creates a place where you are “safe to examine the messy, painful, hard things—and learn to believe how very worthy of love we are.” I found myself in both main characters and the raw honesty from their individual childhood traumas is fantastic. The mental health representation is very good and often feels like my own inner monologue. Also, I fricken love g-ma!! She is so funny and actually all of the side characters are amazing! (minus Ben’s dad, iykyk)
I think this book is extremely important for so many reasons and I hope it reaches the hands of anyone who also needs it! Courtney creates a world that is “kinder to queer people, unquestioning, unchallenging. A place where we don’t need to explain, defend, or prove ourselves.”
Representation: They/them pronouns, Bisexual, mental health, Pansexual
In the Case of Heartbreak is a queer rom-com celebration of summer love, as a cinnamon roll of a pastry chef finds his indie rocker crush suddenly within reach. When his hometown crush suddenly returns his affections at a seaside celebration, pastry chef Ben Parrish must find a way to pursue his dream of moving his bakery to San Francisco, without losing the love he’s always wanted.
Ben has been baking his grandma’s cinnamon rolls at the family café for years. He’s also been quietly in love with Adam Reed, his musician-slash-mechanic neighbor, for just as long. Ben is done with waiting behind the pastry case and so he has entered a make-or-break competition to show off his own recipes. He’s going to buy his overprotective family out of the business. And he’s going to ask Adam out. TONIGHT.
Except his big plans get punched down before they even half-rise. Soon Ben is dashing down the coast to his grandma’s 80th birthday party on the beach, hiding his broken heart in Maywell Bay, California. Sun, sea, and fresh breezes should blow in something new—except they don’t. They blow in Adam Reed, grinning like a pirate and stealing the show as the musical entertainment hired by Grandma for her big bash. But there’s a burn of truth along with the booze in his bottle and Ben has a decision to make. Can he take the sweetness in front of him, and brave the bitterness that comes after? Or is a little sea salt just what this cinnamon roll needs?
Salty cinnamon rolls? Ew. Ben would never.
This ARC was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Wow! I absolutely adored this book! The writing is sexy and funny, as well as raw, painful, and healing. The storyline is very steamy, but also reminds you that it will always get better. The author handles such heavy topics with grace and humility. I love how they constantly remind the characters and the readers that you deserve every good and wonderful thing.
I loved how different this book is compared to other friends-to-lovers stories! The main couple provide your HEA early on, which allows the author to explore being in a relationship and all of the twists and turns, as opposed to only coming together at the very end. All of the characters in this story are awesome! They are messy queers and such relatable humans! The author creates a place where you are “safe to examine the messy, painful, hard things—and learn to believe how very worthy of love we are.” I found myself in both main characters and the raw honesty from their individual childhood traumas is fantastic. The mental health representation is very good and often feels like my own inner monologue. Also, I fricken love g-ma!! She is so funny and actually all of the side characters are amazing! (minus Ben’s dad, iykyk)
I think this book is extremely important for so many reasons and I hope it reaches the hands of anyone who also needs it! Courtney creates a world that is “kinder to queer people, unquestioning, unchallenging. A place where we don’t need to explain, defend, or prove ourselves.”
July 18, 2023
3.5⭐️ This book was SO sweet! With one of the MCs being a pastry cook with a famous cinnamon roll recipe it was fitting for this book to be overtly sweet. But even with all the sweetness this book tackled some tough topics such as depression/anxiety, childhood abandonment and emotional abuse from a parent.
In this book we follow Ben who owns a family bakery that got really popular online so much so that Ben was offered a spot in a baking competition show. Unfortunately for Ben an embarrassing moment gets caught on camera in front of his long time crush Adam Reed. Ben can’t wait to try to forget his embarrassment while on break to celebrate his Grandmother’s birthday party only to find out his G-ma hired Adam to play in a band for her weeks long birthday celebrations.
I really loved these characters and reading about their relationship journey. I thought Ben’s depiction of depression was extremely realistic and I loved seeing a character going through these really low moments and having someone love and care for them. It was really wonderful to see them support one another through their traumatic pasts.
There were a few different plot lines going on at a time and it got to be a little muddled at certain points I wish they were a little more flushed out or taken out all together. I also started rolling my eyes with all the “cool” and “horny” G-ma business. It was to much.
Overall throughly enjoyed this and recommend it!! Thank you to the publishers for the arc in exchange for an honest review.
In this book we follow Ben who owns a family bakery that got really popular online so much so that Ben was offered a spot in a baking competition show. Unfortunately for Ben an embarrassing moment gets caught on camera in front of his long time crush Adam Reed. Ben can’t wait to try to forget his embarrassment while on break to celebrate his Grandmother’s birthday party only to find out his G-ma hired Adam to play in a band for her weeks long birthday celebrations.
I really loved these characters and reading about their relationship journey. I thought Ben’s depiction of depression was extremely realistic and I loved seeing a character going through these really low moments and having someone love and care for them. It was really wonderful to see them support one another through their traumatic pasts.
There were a few different plot lines going on at a time and it got to be a little muddled at certain points I wish they were a little more flushed out or taken out all together. I also started rolling my eyes with all the “cool” and “horny” G-ma business. It was to much.
Overall throughly enjoyed this and recommend it!! Thank you to the publishers for the arc in exchange for an honest review.
March 26, 2023
This book was enjoyable.
I loved how the side characters of this book really added to the story. They were funny, had strong personalities, and I loved the banter between them and the main characters. However, I missed some depth in the main characters, especially from adam.
The book also had great representation from diverse characters. There were people with different gender identities and different mental health issues. Unfortunately, sometimes, I was a little bit overwhelmed with the anxiety from ben. I was also not a fan of the miscommunication trope in this book.
Last but not least, i enjoyed the setting. It really gave some cute summer vibes.
Overall, I think this is a cute and enjoyable read. If you enjoy a cute romance with also a strong representation of mental health issues, I will definitely recommend this to you.
Thank you, netgalley, for giving me this ARC in exchange for an honest review. All the opinions are my own.
I loved how the side characters of this book really added to the story. They were funny, had strong personalities, and I loved the banter between them and the main characters. However, I missed some depth in the main characters, especially from adam.
The book also had great representation from diverse characters. There were people with different gender identities and different mental health issues. Unfortunately, sometimes, I was a little bit overwhelmed with the anxiety from ben. I was also not a fan of the miscommunication trope in this book.
Last but not least, i enjoyed the setting. It really gave some cute summer vibes.
Overall, I think this is a cute and enjoyable read. If you enjoy a cute romance with also a strong representation of mental health issues, I will definitely recommend this to you.
Thank you, netgalley, for giving me this ARC in exchange for an honest review. All the opinions are my own.
March 27, 2023
Thanks to NetGalley for an arc of this book.
I already feel in love with Fern Falls and Ben in the “Event of Love” and “In the Case of Heartbreak” doesn’t disappoint. The book feels like a warm hug and gives the reader a heartfelt love story to root for.
The book centers on Ben, the owner of Peak Perk Cafe, who is desperately in love with his former best friend Adam who seems to only have eyes for his band mates. Enter a baking competiton, a famous idiot of a father, miss-understandings and a G-Ma that loves to celebrate her birthdays in style.
I love character-driven love stories and Ben’s anxiety and his growth are what kept me following along. I once more fell in love with the side characters from Ben’s G-Ma to Whitney his temporary replacement at the café, they all adds much life to the story.
I highly recommend this book to everyone who is looking for a cute love story with an honest representation of mental health struggles.
I already feel in love with Fern Falls and Ben in the “Event of Love” and “In the Case of Heartbreak” doesn’t disappoint. The book feels like a warm hug and gives the reader a heartfelt love story to root for.
The book centers on Ben, the owner of Peak Perk Cafe, who is desperately in love with his former best friend Adam who seems to only have eyes for his band mates. Enter a baking competiton, a famous idiot of a father, miss-understandings and a G-Ma that loves to celebrate her birthdays in style.
I love character-driven love stories and Ben’s anxiety and his growth are what kept me following along. I once more fell in love with the side characters from Ben’s G-Ma to Whitney his temporary replacement at the café, they all adds much life to the story.
I highly recommend this book to everyone who is looking for a cute love story with an honest representation of mental health struggles.
June 23, 2023
One of the most obvious five stars of the year. This book deals with heavy topics as both Ben and Adam have suffered a lot because of their parents, but their romance is the softest and easiest thing. I LOVED this aspect of the book so much. After years of pining, once they finally confess their feelings, there’s no added anxiety or drama. Their love is like a safe net where they can just be honest and explore the feelings they’ve been hiding. The romance was my most favorite part of the book.
If “shitty father” could count as trigger warning, I would add it. Ben’s father is the worst. There’s a paragraph that talks about how trauma can sneak up on you and make you feel like you have made zero steps towards recovery, and I could relate so much. Daddy issues issued truly hard in here. Adam was so loving and caring, always listening and comforting Ben. He also had some unresolved trauma, and the third act was exactly what they both needed to start healing properly.
I also wanted to mention how utterly cute Adam was! This is a big sunshine/sunshine romance, and Adam was the sun incarnate. He literally said he wanted to court Ben. My HEART nearly exploded. He was so romantic and soft! Please! Soft boys will always be above alpha heroes, sorry not sorry!
This beautiful love story deserves to be read by everyone.
TW: Emotional abuse, alcoholism, depression, parent abandonment
If “shitty father” could count as trigger warning, I would add it. Ben’s father is the worst. There’s a paragraph that talks about how trauma can sneak up on you and make you feel like you have made zero steps towards recovery, and I could relate so much. Daddy issues issued truly hard in here. Adam was so loving and caring, always listening and comforting Ben. He also had some unresolved trauma, and the third act was exactly what they both needed to start healing properly.
I also wanted to mention how utterly cute Adam was! This is a big sunshine/sunshine romance, and Adam was the sun incarnate. He literally said he wanted to court Ben. My HEART nearly exploded. He was so romantic and soft! Please! Soft boys will always be above alpha heroes, sorry not sorry!
This beautiful love story deserves to be read by everyone.
TW: Emotional abuse, alcoholism, depression, parent abandonment
March 22, 2023
Thank you to NetGalley, Kensington, and the Author for the ARC in exchange for an honest review
CW: parental neglect (past), parental abuse (emotional, past), depression, anxiety (on page), alcoholic father (side character), parental abandonment, blackmail
The second book in the series, this can be read entirely as a standalone
I would recommend if you're looking for (SPOILERS)
-m/m contemporary romance
-childhood crush
-slooow burn
-friends to lovers
-quirky family
I'd been rooting for Adam and Ben since I read In the Event of Love. Their romance was soft, tender, and very much about learning how to trust in love after being hurt.
Ben had a traumatic childhood, emotionally and physically abandoned by his father. But therapy, friends and families have truly benefited him, though in a lot of ways he hasn't dealt with those feelings of abandonment and what happened with his dad. Striking gold with a cooking competition show has his dad also knocking on his door, and with the added complication of things potentially falling into place with Adam, Ben is stressed to say the least. Ultimately this is Ben's journey as he learns to accept love and lean on everyone in his life. His family, Adam and trust in himself.
The romance between Adam and Ben is just soft. Adam courts Ben, as they both admit their feelings and learn how to be all in with each other and figure out their lives with each other. All while dealing with Ben's G-ma's wild birthday extravaganza.
Emotional and tender this was a beautifully written read.
Steam: 3
CW: parental neglect (past), parental abuse (emotional, past), depression, anxiety (on page), alcoholic father (side character), parental abandonment, blackmail
The second book in the series, this can be read entirely as a standalone
I would recommend if you're looking for (SPOILERS)
-m/m contemporary romance
-childhood crush
-slooow burn
-friends to lovers
-quirky family
I'd been rooting for Adam and Ben since I read In the Event of Love. Their romance was soft, tender, and very much about learning how to trust in love after being hurt.
Ben had a traumatic childhood, emotionally and physically abandoned by his father. But therapy, friends and families have truly benefited him, though in a lot of ways he hasn't dealt with those feelings of abandonment and what happened with his dad. Striking gold with a cooking competition show has his dad also knocking on his door, and with the added complication of things potentially falling into place with Adam, Ben is stressed to say the least. Ultimately this is Ben's journey as he learns to accept love and lean on everyone in his life. His family, Adam and trust in himself.
The romance between Adam and Ben is just soft. Adam courts Ben, as they both admit their feelings and learn how to be all in with each other and figure out their lives with each other. All while dealing with Ben's G-ma's wild birthday extravaganza.
Emotional and tender this was a beautifully written read.
Steam: 3
April 10, 2023
Ben is a baker (and bisexual) who has taken over his family’s baking business. Ben has been chosen to be on a televised baking show to compete with his cinnamon roll recipe. Ben also has a massive crush on his childhood best friend, Adam (who is pansexual), though he has not yet gotten the courage to tell him.
During an awkward interview on live television for the baking competition it appears Adam has rejected/friend-zoned Ben, which sends Ben into a tailspin.
With some interference from Ben’s wacky and eccentric grandmother (who is my favorite character, hands down) Ben and Adam end up living together for a few weeks. During these few weeks Ben’s estranged (selfish, entitled and rude as well) father posts to social media the cinnamon roll recipe is actually his causing a ton of stress for Ben and an ousting from the baking competition.
I enjoyed all the nods to book 1 and its characters as I absolutely adored the first installation. While this one also had likable characters there was no chemistry between Ben and Adam and there was no showing as to why they liked one another aside from being lifelong friends and attracted to each other. I really wish more time would’ve been spent on little moments showing the reader why Ben and Adam were a good match. I also wish less of the plot hung on miscommunication; all of the conflicts in the pages could’ve been easily solved with a conversation which is extremely frustrating in an adult romance novel.
3 stars
⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank You to NetGalley and Kensington for the E-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
During an awkward interview on live television for the baking competition it appears Adam has rejected/friend-zoned Ben, which sends Ben into a tailspin.
With some interference from Ben’s wacky and eccentric grandmother (who is my favorite character, hands down) Ben and Adam end up living together for a few weeks. During these few weeks Ben’s estranged (selfish, entitled and rude as well) father posts to social media the cinnamon roll recipe is actually his causing a ton of stress for Ben and an ousting from the baking competition.
I enjoyed all the nods to book 1 and its characters as I absolutely adored the first installation. While this one also had likable characters there was no chemistry between Ben and Adam and there was no showing as to why they liked one another aside from being lifelong friends and attracted to each other. I really wish more time would’ve been spent on little moments showing the reader why Ben and Adam were a good match. I also wish less of the plot hung on miscommunication; all of the conflicts in the pages could’ve been easily solved with a conversation which is extremely frustrating in an adult romance novel.
3 stars
⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank You to NetGalley and Kensington for the E-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
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