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Pumpkin Spice and Not So Nice
If I were ever to write a memoir, it would be titled, Jenna Peterson’s Guide to Dating Emotionally Unavailable Men . I’m like a professional at it. I’m so good, I can take any dysfunctional man and turn him into Prince Charming, just in time for him to dump me and then go on to marry the next woman he dates. I’m about ready to give up on loving real men and focus on lusting over fictional men in the Turkish dramas I can’t stop devouring. But then . . . I find a mysterious fifty-dollar bill with a handwritten note on it that was donated to my family’s pumpkin patch by accident. And wouldn’t you know it, the mystery man it belongs to is emotionally unavailable, albeit freakishly attractive. I keep telling myself to walk away, but there’s something about Aidan St. Claire that makes me want to unravel all his secrets. All I know is he sure can heat up the cozy fall nights. I can’t help but think that maybe this time I’ll get to keep Prince Charming for myself. Grab your pumpkin spice latte and cozy up with the newest romantic comedy from USA Today bestselling author Becky Monson!
242 pages, Paperback
First published September 8, 2022
1269 people are currently reading
15667 people want to read
About the author
Becky Monson
22 books1,297 followersBy day, Becky Monson is a mother to three young children, and a wife. By night, she escapes with reading books and writing. In her debut novel, Becky uses humor and true-life experiences to bring her characters to life. She loves all things chick-lit (movies, books, etc.), and wishes she had a British accent. She has recently given up Diet Coke for the fiftieth time and is hopeful this time will last... but it probably won't.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,116 reviews
October 16, 2022
Update: So I came for the spooky vibes and I definitely got scared 😭😭😭 Don’t expect any romance or any comedy. It was like watching pumpkin-colored paint dry.
Literally her guide is encouraging you to stay in an emotionally draining, abusive relationship where you’ll be miserable and disappointed the entire time. And I’m supposed to like this? Y’all 😭😭😭 Each of the rules related to the chapter. So that should tell you enough.
My Highlights and Notes that ain’t being allowed to post for this book. Basically my list of 🚩🚩🚩. Look at this shit y’all:
“Jenna Peterson’s Guide to Dating Emotionally Unavailable Men: When dating an emotionally unavailable man, get ready for disappointment. Because there’s going to be a lot of it.”
Rae’s Guide: Don’t.
Don’t get used to disappointment. Just leave.
“Don’t be fooled into believing that emotionally unavailable men don’t have deep feelings. They have a lot, in fact, but they don’t know how to show it. So get your shovel out and hone those detective skills, because you’re going to have to dig deep to find them.”
It’s not your job nor your responsibility. They’re men. Adults. They can learn how to do this themself or go to therapy.
“It’s important that you have a lot of patience when dating an emotionally unavailable man.”
Stop catering to them. They’ll walk all over you. Tell them to get therapy.
“Saying thank you is hard for a man if he’s not in touch with his feelings. Don’t take it personally even if you really, really, really want to.”
Wtf. Her guide is basically encouraging staying in toxic one-sided, draining relationships
“In the beginning of the relationship, you’ll find that you have to do most of the talking until they feel comfortable opening up. So bring a lozenge.”
Or don’t do most of the talking. Sit there in silence until two brain cells rub themselves together enough for the guy to form a thought to speak.
“Looking for flaws is one of their specialties.”
Holy shit! So accept a man who will always point out your flaws?? Jesus. Imma DNF solely bc of those rules at the top of the chapters.
“Don’t expect apologies. They are about as frequent as actual sightings of bigfoot.”
I wanna cry. This is actually painful to read. I literally hate this
“Hone those conversational skills, and be prepared for one-word answers like, yeah, uh-huh, and okay.”
He’s childish if he does this. Immature. He doesn’t care about you.
“Asking for a commitment will be like trying to get blood from a stone. Expect excuses.”
Don’t accept them tho, please. Call them out on it and then leave.
“Their home will reflect who they are. Don’t be surprised if it’s utterly lacking in warmth or originality.”
That’s kinda scary.
“Be prepared for broken plans. They will happen often.”
Call them out on it. They don’t value your time, energy, or effort. Don’t put up with it.
“Relationships are hard, but when you’re with someone who’s emotionally unavailable, they can be draining. Like the suck-the-life-out-of-you kind of draining.”
Immediate sign to gtfo. Go. You don’t deserve this.
“Emotionally unavailable men are resistant to change. Ease them in slowly.”
Why are we expected to coddle grown men?
“Have low expectations if and when he meets your family. Like, bottom-of-the-sea level low. Because he’s emotionally unavailable, chances are they won’t like him and vice versa. Have an escape plan at the ready. Or some alcohol.”
What the everloving fuck. Do not have low expectations omg. That’s not an excuse. Stop letting men get away with everything. The bar is so low I swear.
“Finding out they were wrong is a difficult position to be in for someone who isn’t in touch with their emotions. Be gentle.”
I’m so done y’all 😭 this is written as if a partner of a narcissist wrote it. Do you need help? Blink twice.
“If you hang on, someone who’s emotionally unavailable may start to come around.”
Key word may. Don’t do it. Get yourself a man willing to admit he needs help and go to therapy and not use you and offer you the bare minimum.
October 10, 2022
There was no spice. Pumpkin Spice my ass. 😐
November 27, 2022
This is the companion book to A Pumpkin and a Patch, which I enjoyed this month. I'm glad I went to visit the Petersons again, because this is a charming story with likable characters. I've enjoyed other books by this author, and am glad this one was a winner too.
Full review at LucyKnowsThings.com.
Full review at LucyKnowsThings.com.
September 12, 2022
This was a such a fun book to get me in the mood for fall! I loved the farm and pumpkin patch setting that her family runs, with all the quirkiness and "pumpkiny" spirit. Jenna also has her own career during the week and she and Aiden spend time in other locations, but it still had a small-town vibe. Aiden is a bit of a mystery since he's so buttoned-up, and I love how he recognizes that Jenna's personality complements him so well that he feels comfortable opening up to her. She has her own baggage with past relationships that is woven into her humorous narrative, and she goes through her own realizations as she gets closer to Aiden and discovers some hard truths about herself. Because we only get Jenna's perspective in the book, it was fun to guess at Aiden's motivations and when he was attracted to her and feeling more than friendship. They have a great dynamic and I loved their chemistry. There was plenty of delicious anticipation and romantic tension which really made the book for me. I read this before its companion book, A Pumpkin and a Patch, and I was impressed that they provided a simultaneous timeline without being repetitive with dialogue, which made each book stand so well on its own.
Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.
Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.
October 6, 2023
Ridiculously cute and the title says it all. I appreciate that it's pretty straightforward and yes almost cliche, but it still easily held my attention. I loved Jenna and Aidan. There was nothing I disliked whatsoever.
November 2, 2025
Clean & cute fall romance!
Really it’s all I needed at 2AM when I couldn’t sleep! Sometimes you just need something adorable with a slow burn plot and a cute ending 🥰
Really it’s all I needed at 2AM when I couldn’t sleep! Sometimes you just need something adorable with a slow burn plot and a cute ending 🥰
October 15, 2022
Cute but not enough chemistry or romantic development to make me believe they are in love. Also no spice.
September 14, 2022
This book is a companion book (and vice versa) to Jennifer Peel's book, A Pumpkin and a Patch. These two books compliment each other nicely. We have two cousins, Jenna and Josie (from Pumpkin and a Patch). They're Petersons, best friends, mischief makers, partners in crime, Turkish drama bingers, always there for each other, supporter of each other extraordinaire and much more!
I read the book about Josie first and loved the snippets of time that Jenna was in the scene and getting to know her personality. I couldn't wait to hopefully have her book. And then I saw the announcement that Becky Monson was writing her book. I was so excited!!! And I enjoyed my time while reading this one. I laughed, I cried (from laughter), I snorted a couple of times, I couldn't wait to tell my book besties about it and certain scenes or dialogues, I cheered Jenna on in her struggles and hopes, I was rooting for Aidan to step up and not be emotionally unavailable but very available and there for Jenna.
If you're looking for lots of swoony moments and sweet romantic conversations you'll have to be patient with this book. The romance and chemistry is there but, as another reviewer stated, it is a slow burn romance. There are looks and comments and internal dialogue and other little things that if you're looking, you'll see it and catch onto how these characters are feeling. I loved those little glimpses and moments. It gradually increases and when it comes time for that first kiss, the sparks and chemistry that has been building has flared to life.
I loved seeing Josie and the scenes I knew from her book, from Jenna's point of view. So fun! The Peterson's Pumpkin Patch is full of fun and mischief and I loved it all. There were several great scenes set at the patch, with Jenna and Aidan and with the whole Peterson crew. I'm so looking forward to fall now after reading both of these books! I need me some pumpkin spice ASAP!!!
The chapter headings were a hoot and fun to see how each chapter fit them. I loved the family relationships and characters having to discover their true selves and facing hard things and healing and learning and growing and so much more!
Jenna and Aidan made me smile and laugh and gave me a fun read while enjoying their story!!!
Content: There are a few mild swear words scattered throughout the book. Some innuendos, not necessarily about the couple but part of Jenna's thoughts about life. There is a kissing scene that gets a little spicy but not handsy and nothing further than the kisses. There are no explicit scenes in the book.
I received a copy from the author. But have also purchased my own copy. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
I read the book about Josie first and loved the snippets of time that Jenna was in the scene and getting to know her personality. I couldn't wait to hopefully have her book. And then I saw the announcement that Becky Monson was writing her book. I was so excited!!! And I enjoyed my time while reading this one. I laughed, I cried (from laughter), I snorted a couple of times, I couldn't wait to tell my book besties about it and certain scenes or dialogues, I cheered Jenna on in her struggles and hopes, I was rooting for Aidan to step up and not be emotionally unavailable but very available and there for Jenna.
If you're looking for lots of swoony moments and sweet romantic conversations you'll have to be patient with this book. The romance and chemistry is there but, as another reviewer stated, it is a slow burn romance. There are looks and comments and internal dialogue and other little things that if you're looking, you'll see it and catch onto how these characters are feeling. I loved those little glimpses and moments. It gradually increases and when it comes time for that first kiss, the sparks and chemistry that has been building has flared to life.
I loved seeing Josie and the scenes I knew from her book, from Jenna's point of view. So fun! The Peterson's Pumpkin Patch is full of fun and mischief and I loved it all. There were several great scenes set at the patch, with Jenna and Aidan and with the whole Peterson crew. I'm so looking forward to fall now after reading both of these books! I need me some pumpkin spice ASAP!!!
The chapter headings were a hoot and fun to see how each chapter fit them. I loved the family relationships and characters having to discover their true selves and facing hard things and healing and learning and growing and so much more!
Jenna and Aidan made me smile and laugh and gave me a fun read while enjoying their story!!!
Content: There are a few mild swear words scattered throughout the book. Some innuendos, not necessarily about the couple but part of Jenna's thoughts about life. There is a kissing scene that gets a little spicy but not handsy and nothing further than the kisses. There are no explicit scenes in the book.
I received a copy from the author. But have also purchased my own copy. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
September 19, 2023
The pumpkins were not pumpkiny. The spice was nonexistent. Not so nice of a read indeed!
This was the follow up companion to A Pumpkin and a Patch, which was a cute enough read. This was just…not good lol. Not written remotely well and so beyond cliché it was laughable. There were even some odd character name choices I couldn’t get over–“Kaytlynn Bristowe” and “Tom the Barman” literally a Bachelor and Harry Potter reference that was just weirdly inserted. Idk the only saving grace was that it was a v quick read at around 200 pages!
This was the follow up companion to A Pumpkin and a Patch, which was a cute enough read. This was just…not good lol. Not written remotely well and so beyond cliché it was laughable. There were even some odd character name choices I couldn’t get over–“Kaytlynn Bristowe” and “Tom the Barman” literally a Bachelor and Harry Potter reference that was just weirdly inserted. Idk the only saving grace was that it was a v quick read at around 200 pages!
October 8, 2022
Was it a little cheesy? Yes, yes it was. Did I enjoy it? Yes, yes I did. Kinda like a Hallmark movie - book version.
April 16, 2024
I didn’t love this book…it felt very…young? Immature? Idk, it just felt like the author didn’t really know how to write a book and characters with realistic interactions and timelines. I’ll start with what I liked! I really liked the fall vibes! The pumpkin patch, the weather, the adorable outfits Jenna wore, I loved it all! I really liked the family side of it as well! I love books with big families! ❤️ But that was the whole list of pros…I thought that Aiden and Jenna weren’t realistic. The book felt like it was written by a 12yr writing a “love story.” Just not very well thought out. I didn’t like the whole ‘met him while returning the $50 bill.’ Like what?! That doesn’t happen in real life! And even if it did, that’s totally weird😂 I thought that the whole helping with talking thing was ok, even a good addition to the book. But then he said he would pay her $5000 for it?!?! That’s weird. I don’t care how rich you are, that’s a bribe. I didn’t like that part. I thought the family dynamic was a little strange. And it got worse as the book went on…? Idk…overall I’d give this book 3 stars. It was ok, and I absolutely loved the fall vibes, but I wouldn’t recommend it…
Tropes:
🎃 Fake Dating
🎃 Small Town
🎃 Fall Season
🎃 Slow Burn
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Length of book: 237 pages
Language/TW: 2/10
Format I read: Kindle Unlimited
Genre: Clean rom com
Would I recommend to others: Probably not…
Tropes:
🎃 Fake Dating
🎃 Small Town
🎃 Fall Season
🎃 Slow Burn
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Length of book: 237 pages
Language/TW: 2/10
Format I read: Kindle Unlimited
Genre: Clean rom com
Would I recommend to others: Probably not…
September 13, 2022
Knowing this book is about being “emotionally unavailable”… I always wonder how people put up w love interests who give them one word answers? and are THIS completely non-conversational. Especially in rom com books, like how are y’all falling in love?? Do you fall in love with paint drying too? How about grass growing?
I also don’t understand why she WANTS to date emotionally unavailable men. In her internal monologue, she doesn’t even wish for better, she just wishes for the next emotionally unavailable man to actually stick around. Like girl what? Can you get those standards up off the floor?? Pls??
SPOILERS BELOW
*****************************************
19% so she pegs him as gruff and emotionally unavailable after about 10 seconds so… why… did he ask her out? He is acting just curt and emotionally stunted as she described. Reading the premise, I deff assumed this would be a forced proximity romance or something but I was not expecting him to actually ask her out for a drink. Weird.
23% it took him like 4 pages to go from very awkward silence and one word answers to absolutely spilling his guts? His personality is giving me whiplash’s
One quote to summarize this entire book: “Wouldn’t a therapist be better at helping you with this?”
42% casual shaming of sex workers is not the vibe
60% him decorating his house is a level of petty mixed with cuteness that I was not expecting from this man. I think this is the only swoon moment he has the whole book other than his predictable “gift” at the end.
Other thoughts, it’s 60 % in and h mentions that H hasn’t given her one indication he’s remotely interested in her or even is attached to her and I just realized he hasn’t either. I’m doubtful on the chances of squeezing an entire romance into the last 40%, but I guess this is one of the downsides of it being single POV, because I really have hardly any clue what this man is thinking.
62% that was the most awkward hug description I have ever read… um maybe they should just be friends
87% apparently this is a slowwwww burn because this is the first time he’s shown her a kernel of interest
At around the 87% mark where the H goes to the family party of the h, he finally shows a more direct interest in her, but with only a tiny bit of the book left, there just leaves sooooo much to be missed in the romance department.
Then, the fight. THE fight. He turns the tables and claims SHE’S the emotionally unavailable one. And yeah, she doesn’t talk about herself, but he claims he’s asked her allllll these questions to get to know her…. When?? Where?? There were like two, and she answered just as short as he answers her questions. Also, she did think he just wanted to hire her, how the hell was she supposed to know he wanted to get to know her because he wanted to DATE her?? Again, neither communicate, both seem emotionally unavailable at this point.
THEN she just decides she LOVES HIM??? After WHAT? It comes completely out of left field, again, with a barely established friendship as their only “relationship” foundation.
99% in and he confesses his love for her… as they are talking about how she basically never told him stuff about herself…. HOW can they love each other??? They hardly know anything about the other!! This was so unbelievable.
I also don’t understand why she WANTS to date emotionally unavailable men. In her internal monologue, she doesn’t even wish for better, she just wishes for the next emotionally unavailable man to actually stick around. Like girl what? Can you get those standards up off the floor?? Pls??
SPOILERS BELOW
*****************************************
19% so she pegs him as gruff and emotionally unavailable after about 10 seconds so… why… did he ask her out? He is acting just curt and emotionally stunted as she described. Reading the premise, I deff assumed this would be a forced proximity romance or something but I was not expecting him to actually ask her out for a drink. Weird.
23% it took him like 4 pages to go from very awkward silence and one word answers to absolutely spilling his guts? His personality is giving me whiplash’s
One quote to summarize this entire book: “Wouldn’t a therapist be better at helping you with this?”
42% casual shaming of sex workers is not the vibe
60% him decorating his house is a level of petty mixed with cuteness that I was not expecting from this man. I think this is the only swoon moment he has the whole book other than his predictable “gift” at the end.
Other thoughts, it’s 60 % in and h mentions that H hasn’t given her one indication he’s remotely interested in her or even is attached to her and I just realized he hasn’t either. I’m doubtful on the chances of squeezing an entire romance into the last 40%, but I guess this is one of the downsides of it being single POV, because I really have hardly any clue what this man is thinking.
62% that was the most awkward hug description I have ever read… um maybe they should just be friends
87% apparently this is a slowwwww burn because this is the first time he’s shown her a kernel of interest
At around the 87% mark where the H goes to the family party of the h, he finally shows a more direct interest in her, but with only a tiny bit of the book left, there just leaves sooooo much to be missed in the romance department.
Then, the fight. THE fight. He turns the tables and claims SHE’S the emotionally unavailable one. And yeah, she doesn’t talk about herself, but he claims he’s asked her allllll these questions to get to know her…. When?? Where?? There were like two, and she answered just as short as he answers her questions. Also, she did think he just wanted to hire her, how the hell was she supposed to know he wanted to get to know her because he wanted to DATE her?? Again, neither communicate, both seem emotionally unavailable at this point.
THEN she just decides she LOVES HIM??? After WHAT? It comes completely out of left field, again, with a barely established friendship as their only “relationship” foundation.
99% in and he confesses his love for her… as they are talking about how she basically never told him stuff about herself…. HOW can they love each other??? They hardly know anything about the other!! This was so unbelievable.
October 29, 2022
this fell so flat.. i guess i thought the romance would be more…??? i cant even describe it. it was just.. not what i thought it’d be. the 5-4 stars definitely hyped it up too much. there was hardly any romance, and the pining went on until the last page. literally.
October 4, 2022
This was cute and is just oozing with fall vibes. Copious amounts of pumpkins? Check. There are tractors, mazes, and some sort of green beret that's supposed to be a pumpkin stem that I'm really glad I don't have to wear.
By the time I was done with this, I was feeling infinitely more pumpkiny than when I started, and that's exactly what I wanted when I picked this up. I just wish the romance was more of a slow home baked pie rather than a quick store bought one. Everything happened quickly and while I liked it a lot; I think it would have been even more my cup of apple cider if there was more growth of the characters both individually and as a couple. With that said, it's important to note: store bought pie is still delicious.
Also in this universe is:
A Pumpkin and a Patch by Jennifer Peel which tells the story of
Josie and Reece the Rogue Pirate.
Both are available on KU as of Oct. 2022
By the time I was done with this, I was feeling infinitely more pumpkiny than when I started, and that's exactly what I wanted when I picked this up. I just wish the romance was more of a slow home baked pie rather than a quick store bought one. Everything happened quickly and while I liked it a lot; I think it would have been even more my cup of apple cider if there was more growth of the characters both individually and as a couple. With that said, it's important to note: store bought pie is still delicious.
Also in this universe is:
A Pumpkin and a Patch by Jennifer Peel which tells the story of
Josie and Reece the Rogue Pirate.
Both are available on KU as of Oct. 2022
April 11, 2025
This was a fun, mindless, and unique read.
The FMC has dated 4 emotionally unavailable men, all of which immediately found their person and got married right after they dated her. Now, she wants to break the cycle.
She also works at her family’s pumpkin patch over the weekends. And when someone randomly leaves a $50 bill in her tip jar with a sentimental note from their grandparents on it, she does research for 5 days straight to discover who this bill belonged to and return it to them.
Once she discovers who it is and meets him, it’s yet another emotionally unavailable man. I’ll leave it at that so you can still be surprised.
I thought the story was very unique but also mindless, which is exactly what I wanted. And I loved that I haven’t read a romance book with this storyline before!
My only criticism is that even though this book is called “Pumpkin Spice and Not So Nice,” and the cover is fall themed, this really isn’t a fall themed book. There’s nothing particularly Halloween or autumnal about it. So the spooky season and fall vibes were lacking.
Even though it was set at a pumpkin patch, it just didn’t seem like it at all. She could have just worked at any other farm. I feel like I was marketed something different than what I got.
Also, (this part isn’t a criticism, but I just wanted to mention) this is clean romance.
There is absolutely zero spice. Which I didn’t mind, but I was surprised. I haven’t read a clean adult romance book in … maybe ever. So just be aware in case you only read books with spice.
The FMC has dated 4 emotionally unavailable men, all of which immediately found their person and got married right after they dated her. Now, she wants to break the cycle.
She also works at her family’s pumpkin patch over the weekends. And when someone randomly leaves a $50 bill in her tip jar with a sentimental note from their grandparents on it, she does research for 5 days straight to discover who this bill belonged to and return it to them.
Once she discovers who it is and meets him, it’s yet another emotionally unavailable man. I’ll leave it at that so you can still be surprised.
I thought the story was very unique but also mindless, which is exactly what I wanted. And I loved that I haven’t read a romance book with this storyline before!
My only criticism is that even though this book is called “Pumpkin Spice and Not So Nice,” and the cover is fall themed, this really isn’t a fall themed book. There’s nothing particularly Halloween or autumnal about it. So the spooky season and fall vibes were lacking.
Even though it was set at a pumpkin patch, it just didn’t seem like it at all. She could have just worked at any other farm. I feel like I was marketed something different than what I got.
Also, (this part isn’t a criticism, but I just wanted to mention) this is clean romance.
There is absolutely zero spice. Which I didn’t mind, but I was surprised. I haven’t read a clean adult romance book in … maybe ever. So just be aware in case you only read books with spice.
September 12, 2022
Welcome back to Peterson Pumpkin Patch and get ready to say hello to Jenna!
We meet Jenna in the companion book to this one by author Jennifer Peel, A Pumpkin and a Patch. She clearly has something going on in that book but it's such a mystery! I'm so happy to be in the know now!
It all starts with a fifty dollar bill with a personal note written on it. Such a clever idea for the beginning of a love story! I loved it. Jenna is determined to find the owner and return it to them because she feels like it was dropped by mistake. And of course, this leads her to Aidan.
It's slow going getting to know Aidan because he is so reserved and doesn't have much to say. Because this book is written in first person from Jenna's point of view, it made it even harder. Which led me to a brilliant idea. hahaha I want this book rewritten from all Aidan's point of view. What? Too much to ask? Okay, fine. Maybe just a chapter or two? I just REALLY want to be in his head for a bit, to view Jenna and all the crazy situations she drags him into. By the end of the book, of course I loved Aidan. How could I not? And um, the kissing scenes? Holy hotness. I loved them. I wish I could have had more of those earlier!! I waited SOOOOOOO long!! Which, I realize, isn't saying much because I read this whole book in pretty much one day.
Other things I loved:
The pumpkin patch through Jenna's eyes
The daddy talk by the tractor
The chapter headings
Turkish drama references because, well, I'm a fan too.
Do yourself and pick this book up along with the companion book and settle in for some fantastic fall themed reading. Both are available on KU if you have that.
Content: kissing
We meet Jenna in the companion book to this one by author Jennifer Peel, A Pumpkin and a Patch. She clearly has something going on in that book but it's such a mystery! I'm so happy to be in the know now!
It all starts with a fifty dollar bill with a personal note written on it. Such a clever idea for the beginning of a love story! I loved it. Jenna is determined to find the owner and return it to them because she feels like it was dropped by mistake. And of course, this leads her to Aidan.
It's slow going getting to know Aidan because he is so reserved and doesn't have much to say. Because this book is written in first person from Jenna's point of view, it made it even harder. Which led me to a brilliant idea. hahaha I want this book rewritten from all Aidan's point of view. What? Too much to ask? Okay, fine. Maybe just a chapter or two? I just REALLY want to be in his head for a bit, to view Jenna and all the crazy situations she drags him into. By the end of the book, of course I loved Aidan. How could I not? And um, the kissing scenes? Holy hotness. I loved them. I wish I could have had more of those earlier!! I waited SOOOOOOO long!! Which, I realize, isn't saying much because I read this whole book in pretty much one day.
Other things I loved:
The pumpkin patch through Jenna's eyes
The daddy talk by the tractor
The chapter headings
Turkish drama references because, well, I'm a fan too.
Do yourself and pick this book up along with the companion book and settle in for some fantastic fall themed reading. Both are available on KU if you have that.
Content: kissing
October 17, 2022
Set in the same world as Jennifer Peel's A pumpkin and a patch, this story focuses on Josie's cousin Jenna who believes her toxic trait is always falling for emotionally unavailable men. A chance encounter with Aiden has the two making a bargain. Jenna will help Aiden with opening up around other people in exchange for a donation to the family pumpkin patch.
Overall this was cute and quirky, full of small town charm. I didn't love Jenna personally though. It took her a long time to figure out she needed to stop wasting her time on toxic men and when a good one finally does practically fall into her lap she doesn't trust him enough to give him an honest chance.
If you're looking for a quick, kissing only romance with lots of kitsch that's good on audio and enjoy authors like Cindy Steel and Jennifer Peel, this one is definitely worth giving a try.
Overall this was cute and quirky, full of small town charm. I didn't love Jenna personally though. It took her a long time to figure out she needed to stop wasting her time on toxic men and when a good one finally does practically fall into her lap she doesn't trust him enough to give him an honest chance.
If you're looking for a quick, kissing only romance with lots of kitsch that's good on audio and enjoy authors like Cindy Steel and Jennifer Peel, this one is definitely worth giving a try.
September 12, 2022
"Jenna Peterson's Guide to Dating Emotionally Unavailable Men: Don't expect apologies. They are about as frequent as actual sightings of bigfoot." Jenna has a whole list of tips to save herself from making the same mistake once again and each chapter is headed with a tip such as this one. They all made me smile and anticipate what situations that chapter would hold.
I loved meeting Jenna in A Pumpkin and a Patch and getting her story was a real pumpkiny treat! Her last several boyfriends have married the girl they dated right after her and she's decided they're all emotional unavailable...until she breaks through their walls. She's the type of character who is easy to relate to because I think everyone has trouble seeing some of their "toxic traits. Her determination (stubbornness) leads her to find someone who was missing something important, which leads her to find herself helping an emotionally unavailable man once again.
Aidan is Mr. Grumpy Pants personified. He comes across as so socially awkward and a little too blunt for his own good, yet he asks her for help with something big, which leads them have constant contact with each other. I loved their interactions and watching him blossom and open up.
This slow-burn romance is sweet and fun, with some funny and cringe-worthy moments, and I adored it in all its autumn splendor. I would've loved a little more romantic interaction, but all-in-all, I loved it!
Content: mild language; mild romance
*I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
I loved meeting Jenna in A Pumpkin and a Patch and getting her story was a real pumpkiny treat! Her last several boyfriends have married the girl they dated right after her and she's decided they're all emotional unavailable...until she breaks through their walls. She's the type of character who is easy to relate to because I think everyone has trouble seeing some of their "toxic traits. Her determination (stubbornness) leads her to find someone who was missing something important, which leads her to find herself helping an emotionally unavailable man once again.
Aidan is Mr. Grumpy Pants personified. He comes across as so socially awkward and a little too blunt for his own good, yet he asks her for help with something big, which leads them have constant contact with each other. I loved their interactions and watching him blossom and open up.
This slow-burn romance is sweet and fun, with some funny and cringe-worthy moments, and I adored it in all its autumn splendor. I would've loved a little more romantic interaction, but all-in-all, I loved it!
Content: mild language; mild romance
*I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
October 17, 2023
This book was super fun to read! It is romantic and a perfect choice for fall. I liked the characters and how the plot seemed to change. I think it would have been really cool to have heard more from Aidan and his side of how he was feeling throughout the book. I do wish it could have gotten a little more intimate with Aidan and Jenna or have more pages about their relationship starting. It seemed a bit sudden.
October 23, 2023
Very cute fall read!!
September 10, 2025
I couldn't get into this at all. It was fluffy and mind-numbing. It was short and easy so I didn't DNF. The whiney main character and stuffy execution of first person POV were major downfalls.
October 11, 2024
rtc… but overall rating: 3/5⭐️s. Very meh but super cozy and funny.
June 21, 2024
Ok, this had no right being this cute and enjoyable.
New trope alert: sunshine x stoic
I v much identify with Jenna's unfortunate pattern of being the girl her exes date before they settle down with The One after her. Jenna decides she's had enough - no more fixing emotionally unavailable guys for someone else to reap the rewards!
And then Aiden comes along and needs her help doing what she does best. Can she help him without falling for yet another emotionally unavailable guy?
I loved seeing her break through Aiden's tough exterior and get him to open up. This had some cozy fall vibes with her family's pumpkin farm, and I was really invested in their relationship. I'm intrigued about the sister's story so perhaps I'll read the companion book.
New trope alert: sunshine x stoic
I v much identify with Jenna's unfortunate pattern of being the girl her exes date before they settle down with The One after her. Jenna decides she's had enough - no more fixing emotionally unavailable guys for someone else to reap the rewards!
And then Aiden comes along and needs her help doing what she does best. Can she help him without falling for yet another emotionally unavailable guy?
I loved seeing her break through Aiden's tough exterior and get him to open up. This had some cozy fall vibes with her family's pumpkin farm, and I was really invested in their relationship. I'm intrigued about the sister's story so perhaps I'll read the companion book.
November 7, 2025
A one sitting read ♥️
I just loved Aiden and Josie so much! Their sweet, slow burn romance touched my heart deeply. I laughed and cried as I read this book…these characters became very real to me. I know when I really love a book 📖 s when I read it in one sitting….this was that book for me. I also listened to it on audiobook and the narrator was fantastic. A wonderful book boyfriend, admirable heroine, lovable family makes this the perfect read. A totally sweet read with the best first kiss ever! Highly recommend!
I just loved Aiden and Josie so much! Their sweet, slow burn romance touched my heart deeply. I laughed and cried as I read this book…these characters became very real to me. I know when I really love a book 📖 s when I read it in one sitting….this was that book for me. I also listened to it on audiobook and the narrator was fantastic. A wonderful book boyfriend, admirable heroine, lovable family makes this the perfect read. A totally sweet read with the best first kiss ever! Highly recommend!
October 7, 2024
4.5 ⭐️
This was so good for being a 200 page book. It was exactly the vibes i was looking for 🎃🧡
This was so good for being a 200 page book. It was exactly the vibes i was looking for 🎃🧡
September 9, 2023
Cheesy and cute. It kinda makes you feel the same way that watching Gilmore Girls does. Not spicy, nothing profound, but a cute fall story nonetheless.
September 16, 2022
Clever plot twist?
I enjoyed this one maybe even a little more than its companion, A Pumpkin and a Patch. And I totally loved the IDEA of the twist at the end. I'm still wrestling with whether or not the author actually credibly supported it with the story & therefore actually pulled it off though. If it hadn't left me feeling a bit in doubt, I'd have given it a 4.5. Once I reread it, I'll decide whether or not to revise this 😊
*Romance level: passionate kisses, nothing graphic
I enjoyed this one maybe even a little more than its companion, A Pumpkin and a Patch. And I totally loved the IDEA of the twist at the end. I'm still wrestling with whether or not the author actually credibly supported it with the story & therefore actually pulled it off though. If it hadn't left me feeling a bit in doubt, I'd have given it a 4.5. Once I reread it, I'll decide whether or not to revise this 😊
*Romance level: passionate kisses, nothing graphic
September 25, 2024
Cute, hallmarky, quirky. Predictable.
September 13, 2022
If you like slow burn romance, then this is the book for you. Jenna is a snarky and quirky protagonist, who always seems to attract the wrong type of guy. Each chapter starts with a tip from her about how to date “an emotionally unavailable man”, which has resulted in the last four men she’s dated moving on to immediately marrying their next girlfriend.
Enter Aiden, and things get a little more interesting. He is so similar to previous boyfriends she’s had, so she resolves to help him -but not date him. He is pretty swoony, but quiet, limiting his conversations to one word answers or simple phrases. As Aiden and Jenna spend more time together, she starts to develop feelings and worries that, once again, she is making the same mistake as in past relationships.
I liked seeing characters from the companion book to this one (Jennifer Peel’s A Pumpkin and a Patch) and it was so good to finally read Jenna’s story! I’d been wondering about her since I first read the other book about her cousin Josie. Sometimes I got a little frustrated with Jenna, as she tended to monologue a lot in her mind (in the middle of conversations especially) but I came to enjoy the growth that her character experienced as the story went on.
Aiden was certainly not a man of many words, and as stated before, this was a slow burn romance- but OH, that first kiss definitely gave me all the feels! I was surprised the direction the story took from there, which was kinda nice that it was more unexpected for me. I do wish the epilogue was longer (I definitely wanted to see more of what happened in the future!) but this was still a sweet fall holiday romance.
Enter Aiden, and things get a little more interesting. He is so similar to previous boyfriends she’s had, so she resolves to help him -but not date him. He is pretty swoony, but quiet, limiting his conversations to one word answers or simple phrases. As Aiden and Jenna spend more time together, she starts to develop feelings and worries that, once again, she is making the same mistake as in past relationships.
I liked seeing characters from the companion book to this one (Jennifer Peel’s A Pumpkin and a Patch) and it was so good to finally read Jenna’s story! I’d been wondering about her since I first read the other book about her cousin Josie. Sometimes I got a little frustrated with Jenna, as she tended to monologue a lot in her mind (in the middle of conversations especially) but I came to enjoy the growth that her character experienced as the story went on.
Aiden was certainly not a man of many words, and as stated before, this was a slow burn romance- but OH, that first kiss definitely gave me all the feels! I was surprised the direction the story took from there, which was kinda nice that it was more unexpected for me. I do wish the epilogue was longer (I definitely wanted to see more of what happened in the future!) but this was still a sweet fall holiday romance.
October 31, 2024
This was a pleasant surprise! Such a cute little pumpkin patch and farm setting. Cute slow burn romance. I just found out there’s also a companion story written by a different author, but follows this same family. Fun! There’s no spice in this by the way, I see a lot of people say for a book with the word “spice” in it, it has no spice. I didn’t mind that though, it was really good.
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