Oh my GOSH! I can not stop thinking about this book. I have shared it with all my gal pals who read. It just had all the feel good feels and was just precious. Beautifully written.

What a sweet book! If you are in the mood for a cozy, fall read, The Cinnamon Bun Bookstore should be your next read!

This book was everything I wanted it to be and so much more. I dare say this might be my new favorite series. I read the first book last year and fell in love. I loved it so much that I was honestly worried that nothing could come close to it. I am so glad I was proven wrong. Reading this book was like getting a deep hug from the man of your dreams while he chews Big Red gum. If you are a fan of Gilmore Girls and like a little spice with a deliciously mysterious plot, then you really should quit reading this review and crack the book open already. You won't be disappointed. spice 3/5

Review copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

Sweet, Spicy, and Totally Addictive
Okay, so, The Cinnamon Bun Book Store is basically like a warm hug in book form, if hugging also leads to more steamy pursuits. It's got everything you could want: a cute bookstore owner, a hot fisherman, and a mystery that'll keep you guessing.
Hazel, the bookstore manager, is totally relatable. And Noah? I'm a sucker for a ginger, and he's a cinnamon roll himself.
The mystery part was pretty cool too. But let's be real, the best part was watching Hazel and Noah's relationship blossom. It was like watching a slow-burn rom-com, but with way better characters.
If you're looking for a book to curl up with and forget about the world, this is it. Trust me, you won't regret it.

Adding this author to my must read list after being gifted this A R C and happily volunteering my review.

Thank you to NetGalley for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinions.

When I read the Pumpkin Spice cafe I couldn’t wait for the next in the series and let me tell you this one did not disappoint! I read this is one sitting and I was hooked! I think I may have even liked this one better.

Hazel is a 29 year old book seller who has never really had any adventures in her life. Now she’s two months away from turning 30 and she wants to have adventures before her big birthday. Then one day someone starts leaving book askew in her shop…but once she goes to fix them she notices they are dog eared and passages are highlighted. She doesn’t think anything about it until she mentions it to the hot local fisherman who mentions they might be clues to a scavenger hunt. So she recruits him to help her and they go on a huge scavenger hunt to have adventures before her birthday! But will love be her biggest adventure of all?

This was such a fun cozy read.
4/5 stars and I would highly recommend this whole series so far!

The perfect end of summer read! Hazel and Noah’s love story was adorable. Just like the first in the series I continue to find myself charmed by the fictional town of Dream Harbor. If I could live in any fictional town - it’s Dream Harbor. The secondary characters are just so quirky and endearing. If you loved the first book or even if you love Gilmore Girls - this is a must read! I flew through the book. It was really sweet that Hazel and Noah discovered new parts of themselves together. They really brought out the best in each other. Don’t let the cozy name fool you there is still spice 😉 I enjoyed the cozy mystery aspect of trying to figure out who was leaving in the bookstore to encourage Hazel to get out of her comfort zone and have fun! I found her character to be so relatable. I won’t give away any spoilers but that ending was so sweet! Truly the perfect ending.

Look at that cover! This book contains all the good stuff that makes up my dreams. There's a great cozy setting, so many books, a cute bunch of shops, mystery, love, and more! Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC.

This is the perfect second book in this series! I enjoyed Hazel and Noah's story. I loved the idea of the secret messages inside the books encouraging Hazel to go on adventures and Noah being the perfect partner! The only thing I wish we got more of was Noah with his family. I think both of their families kind of fell off in this story and it would have been nice to have a little more of that in there.

The Cinnamon Bun Book Store by Laurie Gilmore
Rating: 5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 3/5 🌶️🌶️🌶️

A huge thank you to One More Chapter, Netgalley, and Laurie Gilmore for granting me access to this ARC.

Laurie Gilmore’s second book of her Dream Harbor series did not disappoint! After reading (and absolutely LOVING!!!) The Pumpkin Spice Cafe last fall, I was thrilled to read the second installment of this wonderfully cozy and cute series. This is a perfectly quintessential small town romance with a cozy mystery element, late summer adventures, swoon worthy moments throughout, and spice.

Hazel, who is turning 30 soon and has been extremely responsible throughout her twenties, sets out to do something different and go on an exciting adventure. The opportunity arises when she starts finding random clues in the books from the bookshop where she works. This gives Noah, the sexy fisherman who has been harboring a crush on Hazel, the opportunity to spend more time with her. As the story progresses, we see Hazel become more carefree and fun-loving, while Noah grows in confidence. Overall, such great character development! Hazel and Noah have incredible chemistry and their differing personalities work well together.

This entire series is so comforting and I can’t wait for the next Dream Harbor book!

Hazel’s quest to decode secret messages hidden in books leads her to a heartwarming scavenger hunt with the charming fisherman, Noah. Their journey through Dream Harbor is as fun and flirty as it is endearing, with their chemistry popping like fresh cinnamon buns from the oven. The cozy small-town setting and vibrant characters make this read feel like a warm hug. I loved reading it.

~Small-Town Romance, He Falls First, Opposites Attract, Mystery, and more!~

The Cinnamon Bun Book Store by Laurie Gilmore is a cozy small-town romance. Hazel is months away from turning thirty and can't help but feel she has wasted her twenties playing it safe. After some mysterious marked-up books appear in The Cinnamon Bun Book Store, she decides to take it as a sign and live the last couple months of her twenties up following the clues and having fun. With the help of the younger, handsome fisherman, Noah, will she find out who is leaving the clues? Will she finally stop playing it safe? Will she and Noah turn into something more?

3.5| This was a very cozy and easy read. I initially did not know it was part of a series, but I am now very interested in reading the first book better to understand the town and context of the side characters. Hazel's character is very relatable and felt like someone who could be a real person, not just a book character. I loved her growth from being insecure to being happy and confident in herself and her body. Even though Noah and Hazel are such opposites, I felt they had a lot of good chemistry and bounced off each other's energy well. Seeing both perspectives was nice and helped me understand where both characters were and how they felt about the relationship. I do wish this book was a little more heavy on the mystery aspect. There isn't really any conflict besides the lack of communication between the characters about their feelings. It got a little frustrating, and at times, I just wanted to yell at them to say how they felt about each other.

One thing that bothered me was some of the wording of the sentences. It felt a little awkward at times. I also wasn't particularly a fan of hearing about Noah's past experiences. While it helped me understand who the character was, it felt a bit much. I did love Noah's character growth and his relationship with his family progress. I would have loved to see Hazel meet his family and a more in-depth scene of Noah meeting Hazels family formally. The town felt very cozy and very realistic with everyone being in eachother business. I loved Hazels friendships and how much she relays on her friends. I wish we saw more of Hazel's relationship with her parents. I would have liked to see a little bit more between the end of the book and the epilogue.

Overall, this book was cozy and quick to read. I loved the characters and their personality. The town of Dream Harbor is adorable and one I'll definitely be interested in reading more about. I was so excited to read this book and even more excited to see what's next. The cozy vibes of this book can't be beat.

Never been adventurous, love books versus adventure, but questioning if the quiet life is all there is - so a little scavenger hunt with the town hottie is just what the doctor ordered! A fun small town with likeable characters, a good vacation or weekend read.

I didn't realize this was the 2nd book in a series and I don't use TikTok so I don't know about the "viral TikTok phenomenon, The Pumpkin Spice Cafe" -- but this was a very enjoyable stand alone read, too. But I would like to go back and read the first one.

Hazel has a big birthday coming up and she's re-thinking a lot about her life, and decides she needs to say "yes" to more fun! I totally understood this part. She runs a bookstore and finds a mis-shelved book and when she opens it, finds a certain passage underlined and takes it to heart. She continues to find these mystery clues and decides to follow them - with the help of handsome, fisherman Noah who's always up for adventure. It's a sweet, spicy romance and a fun read.

Thank you to NetGalley, the author and publisher for a temporary, digital ARC in return for my review.

I want to start by thanking the author and publisher for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this book. I finished this book in a day! I found it to be very easy to read!

Such a cute and lighthearted read! Absolutely loved noah and hazel’s relationship. I was already in the fall mood so this was the perfect read. The only thing I didn’t like was how frustrating it was that they both refused to just say they had feelings for each other.

****Publishing September 3, 2024****

Hazel owns the Cinnamon Bun Book Store in Dream Harbor. She is approaching 30 and wants to change her single status. Noah, a local fisherman, has taken an interest in Hazel. When Hazel discovers books with highlighted passages, she begins to wonder. She asks Noah to help her figure it out. What will she discover? Who is doing this? Will this lead her to a love interest?

A fun and entertaining book with a satisfying ending. I loved the mystery element in this book! When books are being left in her bookstore with highlighted passages, Hazel has to figure out who is doing it, which sends her on a scavenger hunt. Such a clever premise! If you love cozy mysteries, then this book is for you! A perfect book to read with a cup of tea!

Thanks to Harper 360, I was provided an ARC of The Cinnamon Bun Book Store by Laurie Gilmore via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

Ahhhhh!! I absolutely adored this novel and did not want it to end! I adored everything about this book from the visual description of the town created in my head by the authors description, to the actual characters and their budding romance. This is the perfect fall cozy read, that will have you craving Cinnamon rolls and a good throw blanket!


Hazel, whom is about to turn 30 has realized that she has lived her life very carefully and safely in her twenties and sets out to do something different and more sporadic before turning 30. That opportunity comes when she begins finding random issues with books within the bookshop she works full time. The first book she finds out of its original place has a dog eared page and also a highlighted portion of the book. Hazel takes a chance at looking for these clues and they lead her to Noah.

Noah has his eyes on Hazel and wants an opportunity to see if they can work out and persuades Hazel to give him a chance. Noah is so sweet, and loving! I adored him and Hazel together.

I went into this novel fairly blind out of pure love for the first novel and was highly anticipating this novel! I am sooo thankful I was provided an opportunity to read an ARC of this novel by Harper 360, NetGalley and the author Laurie Gilmore. I adored this novel and truly binge read it around a busy work schedule in less than 24 hours.

If you loved the first novel, definitely pick this one up! I have already preordered my copy!

I really enjoyed reading this book! I was initially a little nervous, because it is third person POV but this was a great book. Hazel’s quest to decode secret messages hidden in books leads her to a heartwarming scavenger hunt with the charming fisherman, Noah. Their journey through Dream Harbor is as fun and flirty as it is endearing, and such a great fall read. Their chemistry was just perfection. The cozy small-town setting and vibrant characters make this read feel like a warm hug, and also the right balance of sweet and spicy. Overall, I loved this book and this entire series and I cannot wait for the next book!

After adoring the Pumpkin Spice Cafe, I couldn’t wait to dive into this one. What a warm and cozy read. Thank you NetGalley.

First I would love to thank Harper 360 and NetGalley for the arc of "The Cinnamon Bun Book Store" by Laurie Gilmore.
This book literally has my favorite tropes opposites attract, small town, forced proximity, and he falls first!
So far out of this year, I have to say this was my favorite read and definitely in my Top 5 books! I enjoyed how Hazel and Noah were not perfect (like in real life) and that we could definitely relate to the main characters (honestly all the characters). Ever since I read The Pumpkin Spice Cafe, and heard about The Cinnamon Bun Cafe, I immediately added it to my TBR! These two books were perfect and I really don't think I can thank NetGalley and Harper 360 enough!!! You guys will definitely enjoy this cozy read!!

Thank you Harper 360 and NetGalley for the arc of "The Cinnamon Bun Book Store" by Laurie Gilmore.

5/5 🌟

🍁 opposites attract
🍁 small town
🍁 forced proximity
🍁 he falls first

One of my favourite reads this year so far! The setting was adorable, the characters lovable and the plot was great. I really enjoyed that Noah and Hazel were not perfect people and I could relate with Hazel a lot. The Pumpkin Spice Cafe has been on my tbr for the longest time but never got around to it, however starting with the second book in the series was no issue at all. I cannot wait to read the third book in the series.

📖 ARC REVIEW 📖

Thank you @harpercollins360 for an early copy of The Cinnamon Bun Bookstore by @lauriegilmore_author. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. 🤍

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5/5
Release date: September 3rd, 2024

Blurb: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/196241667-the-cinnamon-bun-bookstore?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=HzgvK90kQx&rank=1


The Cinnamon Bun Bookstore is so so good, and I would argue it’s even better than the first book in the series, The Pumpkin Spice Café! It’s an adorable small-town romance between bookseller Hazel and fisherman Noah, who have been attracted to each other since the first time they met.

Hazel was turning thirty in a few months and realized that she felt stuck in her life, having the same job, same friends, and being in the same town for so long, she wanted to experience some fun and adventure before she hit that milestone in her life. Her character is very relatable; she’s somehow satisfied with how her life is going, being in her comfort zone and all, but feels like there’s more she can do and experience.

Coincidentally, she finds defaced books in her bookshop, dog-eared and with some highlighted passages, seemingly giving her clues on how to have fun. Seeking Noah’s help, the fisherman who doesn’t do long-term relationships, they complete or do each activity highlighted in each book Hazel finds at the bookstore, and with each activity, their attraction for each other grows stronger, and I swear their banter never fails to make me smile! And while they were only doing those fun activities as friends (but honestly I feel like they’re dates with all Noah and Hazel’s flirting!), I can’t help but think that Noah was getting free date ideas from the books’ clues. (But he did come through at the end with a huge grand romantic gesture – which was one of the sweetest ones I have read thus far - *swooonnnn*)

Both Hazel and Noah’s character growth in this book was very evident – with Noah’s help, Hazel was able to get past her insecurities, and Noah finally had that sense of being enough for somebody – their growth made this book all the more satisfying to read.

The Cinnamon Bun Bookstore was such a fun and easy read, with lots of chemistry and spice from Hazel and Noah, and the other characters in Dream Harbor being the ever-nosy but supportive bunch, I would highly recommend you guys pick this up when it releases next month! Ready your pumpkin spice lattes and autumn music playlist for a full Dream Harbor reading experience.

The Cinnamon Bun Bookstore is a small town romance about bookstore manager Hazel and fisherman Noah.

This book is another trip into Dream Harbor with many characters we've already met in the Pumpkin Spice Café.

With Hazel's 30th birthday approaching she regrets playing it so safe in her 20s, as codes begin to appear in books in her store, she begins a scavenger hunt for adventure with the help of Noah. Hazel and Noah have amazing chemistry, and although they're complete opposites they compliment each other's personalities.

This next book in the dream harbor series was a quick and cozy read, I love these characters and can't wait to see what comes next.

Thanks to the publisher & author for the ARC of this book, Hazel who wants to have this great & exciting summer before her 30th birthday, decides to follow clues from her books. Unbeknownst to her who put them there relies on her on the special town hottie for help. Love her & her friends and family, can’t wait to read the Christmas tree farm!

I loved this so much that I read it in one sitting! The love those characters had for each other was so heartwarming to read. I would describe The Pumpkin Spice Cafe as the funny one, and this one as the sweet one. I loved both so much and I’m glad I found this author!

I liked this book because it has a neat plot with a touch of mystery that intrigued me. The idea of codes and secret messages is what actually pushes Hazel to go on an adventure and Noah is the perfect companion for her. Hazel and Noah are great characters and have a good dynamic between the two with opposite personalities. It was wonderful, the perfect ending and such a great cozy atmosphere. I highly recommend it!

Thank you to Harper360 and NetGalley for allowing me to read and review this book.

The Cinnamon Bun Book Store by Laurie Gilmore is a heartwarming romance set in a quaint, small town. Hazel is approaching her thirtieth birthday and feels like she’s spent her twenties being too cautious. When she discovers some mysteriously annotated books at The Cinnamon Bun Book Store, she takes it as a sign to make the most of her last few months in her twenties, following the clues and embracing spontaneity. With the assistance of Noah, a charming and younger fisherman, will she uncover the identity of the person leaving the clues? Will she finally take more risks? Could something deeper develop between her and Noah?
This was a warm and effortless read. Hazel is a character many can relate to, feeling very much like someone you might know in real life, rather than just a fictional figure. I appreciated her journey from insecurity to becoming content and confident in who she is, both in mind and body. Despite Noah and Hazel being so different, their chemistry was evident, and they complemented each other nicely. Seeing the story from both characters’ perspectives added depth and helped me grasp their emotions and thoughts about their relationship. However, I wish there had been more focus on the mystery element. The only real tension stemmed from the characters’ lack of communication about their feelings, which was a bit frustrating. At times, I just wanted to tell them to be honest with each other.
I did enjoy seeing Noah's character develop and the progress in his relationship with his family. I would have liked a scene where Hazel meets Noah's family, as well as a more detailed depiction of Noah meeting Hazel's family. The town itself was depicted as very cozy and realistic, with everyone involved in each other’s lives. I loved Hazel’s friendships and how much she depends on her friends. I wish there had been more exploration of Hazel’s relationship with her parents. I also think there could have been more content between the conclusion of the story and the epilogue.
All in all, this was a charming and quick read. The characters and their personalities were delightful, and the town of Dream Harbor is utterly charming—I’m definitely interested in reading more about it. I was thrilled to dive into this book and am looking forward to what’s next. The cozy atmosphere of this story is truly unmatched.

Spicy contemporary male female romance. I really enjoyed this book! Both leads were interesting and relatable. The way they came together was believable and really cute. Lots of fun and super cozy. I can't wait to read the first book (though this is a standalone I wish I had read them in order).

Perfect mix of Cozy AND Spicy!!!! Guuuurl sign me up 🤣 this was such a cute read and I loved that this was giving innocent vibes with our adorable bookstore worker Hazel who’s realizing she never had her wild 20s moment and enlists the hottie fisherman Noah to help her let loose for the summer. This was such a great read to help me prep for the cozy end of summer and transition into fall vibes. It included all my favorite things books, hot men, and a girl learning to love to me herself unapologetically. This was my first book in the series and I will definitely be going back to read the pumpkin spice cafe ♥️

Hazel works at the bookstore in her small town. She’s about to turn 30 and has been feeling in a rut. When she discovers a book askew on the shelves that has been highlighted, she decides to go out and recreate the scenes.

Noah is the local playboy. He’s a bartender and fisherman who has been crushing on Hazel for months. He drops into the bookstore regularly asking for recommendations, just to see her. When he gets wind of the whole defaced books situation, he insists on helping Hazel make the most of her summer.

It’s a third person, dual POV, small town, spicy, cozy romance. The town is charming, sweet, and endearing. If you like B.K. Borison’s “Lovelight Farms” series, add this to your TBR right now! It’s like if you took a Hallmark movie, but added steam.

The nod to the name change of the book made me laugh. We love a self aware queen! Though with all the mentions of summer, I’m curious about why they switched the cover art to look like fall. This book def gives end of summer vibes.

I wanna know more about Annie and the bar owner she has one sided beef with. It looks like book 3 already has characters assigned to it, so maybe book 4? Fingers crossed!!

Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for my advanced digital copy!

this was another great read in the dream harbor series. we follow hazel a bookseller, and noah a fisherman. hazel is worried about turning 30 feeling like she hasn't lived. when she find this savanger hunt. she need noah help to work out the cluses.

I loved getting the chance to return to Dream Harbor. These characters feel like friends, and the town feels like a place you never want to leave. There is some good spice in the romance but not too much that it loses the story. The book is well written. It is a perfect, cozy read! I highly recommend this book for when you want a quick and comfy romance. It will not disappoint!

This book was everything I wanted it to be. I was in a reading slump, and this is the only book that was about to hold my interest and I fell in love with the characters. I cannot wait to read the rest of this series.

The Cinnamon Bun Book Store by Laurie Gilmore was such a sweet and spicy book. I loved meeting Hazel and Noah and the fact that their romance grew through quotes in books was so adorable. Hazel, an introverted almost 30 year old, finds a book mis-shelved and highlighted in when looking through the romance section of the book store she works at. She realizes the highlighted part of the book is a clue in a sort of birthday treasure hunt. She enlists the help of Noah, a handsome younger man who does fishing tours in their quaint town, to complete each activity as the clues show up in books at the store. Over time, Hazel and Noah develop feelings for each other and I loved reading their love story.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC of this book. All opinions expressed are my own. 4 stars!

I loved Hazel and Noah’s story, especially after loving the Pumpkin Spice Cafe. I was excited to read this and loved every second of it! I can’t wait for the next one.

The Cinnamon Bun Bookstore by Laurie Gilmore
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I 100% applied for this ARC because of the authors name, so thank you to @Netgalley for sending it to me in exchange for my honest review.

This was a perfect summer read as the story is all about Hazel making the most of her summer before turning 30. She suddenly realizes that she's bored with her life. She's worked in the same bookstore, in the same small down she grew up in, and doesn't really do much for fun. When random clues start showing up at the bookstore, she takes it as a sign and starts following them.

Noah has secretly had a crush on Hazel for months, so when she asks for his help following the clues and having fun adventures for the summer, he's all in for any excuse to spend time with her.

The two have lots of mutual friends and lots of small town neighbors keeping an eye as them as they start hanging out together and realizing how much they enjoy each other's company. In some respects, this book was super cheesy and small town wholesome... until you got to the spicy parts that were decidedly unwholesome, so it was slightly discordant in that respects, but not unenjoyable.

I loved this book! I have a full review up on Goodreads as well, but this was a perfect read. I related to hazel which made me love her even more and I fear that the love Noah had for Hazel I might never fid in my lifetime. it was so beautifully written and I think I read this books just smiling and giggling. I usually hate books in third person but I did not mind one bit with this one. I think this may have been my favorite book ive read all year!

Thank you Harper 360 and Netgalley for this ARC.

While this book did take place in the summer, its the perfect cozy romance for fall. Make it make sense ??? I loved everything about this. If I am being honest I never read the first one but this one was amazing that I think I need to go back and read immediately.

Charming and cozy, I read this in one sitting! I loved following the characters on their journey to solve the mystery but omg the spice! I loved the spice!

I received this arc after book 3, The Christmas Tree Farm, and I was so excited to read the rest of this series that I devoured this book in one day. I loooove this sweet little town, which is entirely new for me as I usually do not get too interested in side characters. I have a particular distaste for hearing about how 'experienced' a male love interest may be, which seems to be a theme for this author. I also get very irritated very quickly by miscommunication tropes, but at the end of the day I can recognize that it is a very popular romance trope for a reason. Overall I really enjoyed this book as an addition to such a sweet series.

Such a cozy, cute, and fun romance! If you want a good palette cleanser with end of summer/early fall vibes and spice, this is the perfect book for that. Thank you Netgalley for the ARC!

You know how some sequels don’t live up to the first book? That was NOT the case with Gilmore’s latest novel.

I loved every moment between Noah and Hazel. They were absolutely perfect together. Couple Goals for sure. And the spice? Goodness, I’m fanning myself just remembering it.

In this novel we follow Hazel and Noah. Hazel works at a bookstore and begins to find these mysterious messages (or clues) in some of the books. These clues give her the nudge she needs to live her life freely until her 30th birthday (2 months away). Noah has had a crush on Hazel for the last year and comes into the bookstore every week to see her and buy her latest book recommendation. When he finds out about the messages, he wants in on the adventure. Who is leaving the clues, and will this duo find the treasure at the end? (Psst, the treasure is love).

This book is perfect for someone who is looking for a relaxing read. Yes, there is an interesting plot that moves, but it has a chill vibe…know what I mean? I’ve been super stressed the last few weeks, and this series has been the perfect mellow book to put me at ease.

Not only did I receive this book as an ARC from the publisher and NetGalley, but I received the next book featuring Jeanie’s brother Bennet. I can’t wait to dive into the next one! I’m not ready to leave Dream Harbor!!

I was planning on reading this book in September with book one just to get the fall vibes, but gosh I am happy I read it right away (and in one sitting).

Contrary to the cover, It felt more like a summery beach read than Fallish but it was very cozy and such a cute read.
Hazel, a 30 years old booklover and bookseller decided she needed real life adventure after realizing that she never lived fully her youth.
Enters Noah the fisherman and all fun casual only guy who was in fact pining for her.
Together, they will go on a scavenger hunt like adventure after finding clues hidden in her boookstore.

I just loved the coziness and mystery vibes of this book.
It was everything I wanted to read and I still plan on rereading it in september.

The perfect little cozy romance that's perfect for fall! I loved the Pumpkin Spice Cafe just as much and cannot wait for the rest of the series to release

I couldn’t resist but to read “The Cinnamon Bun Book Store after reading “ The Pumkin Spice Cafe ” couldn’t wait any longer to see what new adventures this cute small town (Dream Harbor) romance had in store🍂☕️ @lauriegilmore_author did an amazing job I love every bit of it.

Rate: Definitely 5 🌟

Mini Summary

🍂Sexy fisherman
🍂Book Boyfriend
🍂BookClub
🍂Started as a flimsy excuse to see her
🍂Cute Dates
🍂Romance Section
🍂Bookstore
🍂He fell for her first

Quote 💋

“ If you had told him a year ago that he would regularly be tearing through five-hundred-page books, he never would have believed it. But he loved these things. What had started out as a flimsy excuse to see Hazel had turned into something real. “ Too Cute

Literally so, SO good. The Cinnamon Bun Bookstore is the kind of book you pick up to feel warm and fuzzy. The main characters are so well written and have such fun chemistry. The playlist to go along with the story was AMAZING and was so nice to listen to while reading. This book had me giggling and kicking my feet. I really have enjoyed this series so much, each book is the perfect amount of plot and spice. The fun little clues through out the story was a fun little touch. I can't wait to see what Gilmore does next! :)

𝐞𝐀𝐫𝐜 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰
4 🌟
-
The Cinnamon Bun Bookstore is the second book in the Dream Harbor series and can be read as a standalone!
Now, this book gave off cozy, fall, sitting by the fire with a cup of hot chocolate vibes, lol.
I didn't like how often they (Hazel and Noah) brought up, "This is only for two months." And the whole secret messages in the books weren't a mystery to the audience, but to Hazel, they were. We knew who it was; I just wish it had been kept a mystery to us, the audience, as well. But overall, it's a good read, and I finished it in one day. The storyline held my attention. It's a really cute romance read.
𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 Sept.3
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Thank you, Netgalley, and Harper Books for the eBook in exchange for my honest review.

I received a copy of this for my honest review

After reading the Pumpkin Spice Cafe - I couldn't wait for this!

In this story our FMC is the manager of the local bookstore, which right now is called the Cinnamon Bun Book Store. She is two months from turning 30, and scared that she wasted her 20s. She was never the wild child, has been at the same job for 15 years, in the same town, with everything else the same. When she finds a book in the romance section sticking out, she goes to reshelve it but notices that it's dog eared. She looks at it and finds a highlighted quote. She gets caught by our MMC, the local fisherman who offers tours, has the reputation of only causal relationships, and has had a crush on her since he moved to Dream Harbor. He offers to have an adventurous summer with her, following the clues from the books, and giving her a chance to live. They both want to spend the time together, but are under the impression that the other is only looking for casual. Will she feel that she has done enough by the time she is 30? As a transplant, will he find a permanent home here, or need an escape to run from his past?

The Cinnamon Bun Bookstore is so cute and so perfect for a cozy autumnal(in my best British accent) romance read. This book is just adorable. I was super impressed that there is a Spotify playlist at the beginning of the book too to set the vibe. The banter between the FMC and MMC is perfect. The romance story gives you all the good feels and early love butterflies. The spice level is so well written. Its in 3rd person POV which normally takes me a minute to get into and she uses single apostrophes for dialogue versus quote marks so that was a bit different(I caught on quick, so it wasn't a big deal). A few things I absolutely loved: Age range is late twenties, LGBTQ+ representation, genuine friendship where I could connect with all characters, the plot kept me engaged for the entire book. I ate this book up in less than 2 days. It's a must read for the fall!

This story was absolutely adorable. Hazel is turning thirty and looking to shake up her seemingly stagnate life. It was very relatable. I loved the town of Dream Harbour and all the characters we meet along the way. It was fun to read as an end of summer book. It had the perfect amount of romance. I enjoyed the cozy vibes. Looking forward to the next books in this series

Did I borderline have a stroke when I got approved for the ARC? YES ABSOLUTELY I DID.

no spoilers … solely because i think everyone needs to go into this semi blind

Hazel and Noah were phenomenal, the love story , the spice , keep up with Logan and Jeanie , getting small bits of details for book 3 and 4(I think) . Perfection executed perfectly.

A lot of authors I’ve notice flop on book two. This is NOT the case.

Everything about this book was amazing.

I struggled at first because I personally relate heavily to hazel and her obstacles.

This makes me so excited for book three … with what I think what’s coming 😉

This is a 4.75 ⭐️ for me.

I absolutely loved this story. What better way to kick off fall season than with a cozy, inspirational, sweet story. The characters were so relatable.

“Hazel had essentially been in her 30s since she was 15”

“Maybe she hadn’t needed to change her life. Maybe she just needed to change how she saw her life”

I was able to sit and read this book in one day!

Definitely worth the read

I really enjoyed this book. The small town aspect was perfect. Definitely pictured Stars Hollow while reading. The plot was well thought out and flowed nicely. The cover is perfection.

Thank you so much to NetGalley and Laurie Gilmore for providing me with a complimentary digital ARC for The Cinnamon Bun Book Store coming out September 3, 2024. The honest opinions expressed in this review are my own.

This is the first book I’ve read by this author. I really love cozy bookstore novels. I think I missed the part why they couldn’t fall in love with each other. Besides reasons? I thought there would be a little more about owning and working in the bookstore. I thought that aspect of the book fell off the edge once Hazel and Noah started to get to know each other. There didn’t seem to be much about his job as a fisherman either. I don’t remember any boat scenes. But overall, I really enjoyed the romance. I think it did feel like a spicy Hallmark story. I’m obsessed with Hallmark movies! It also had some cozy vibes, so I enjoyed it. I received another book by this author, so I’m definitely excited to check it out.

I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys contemporary romance!

Hazel runs a small town bookstore and starts finding random books out of place, with dog eared pages and highlighted passages. The first instance she thought would be a one-off, but when she keeps finding ‘clues’, she takes this as her sign to live a little and go on an adventure before her 30th birthday.

Noah, a local fisherman, has had a crush on Hazel but thought he’d never had a chance with her. When the opportunity arises to accompany Hazel on her pre-30th birthday adventures, he can’t pass it up.

I could relate to Hazel, as someone who likes to play it safe and stick to what I know. But being with Noah helps Hazel realize that life is worth living, and it’s okay to have fun and take chances (and also, make it spicy 🤭🌶️🌶️).

Many thanks to NetGalley and Harper 360 for the ARC of this book.

The Cinnamon Bun Bookstore, by Laurie Gilmore, is the perfect end-of-summer, PSL season romance read! A small town bookstore manager finds earmarked passages in romance novels in her store, helping her break her turning-30 blues and make a summer of adventure. Enter Noah and a summertime of fun and casual escape!

What I loved:
🫶🏼 this book can be read as a stand alone or in the spectrum of the series!
🫶🏼 you didn’t have to wait for 80% of the book for things to get 🔥
🫶🏼 the setting and storyline sets the mood! Be sure to read this during the end of summer or early fall!

Would have loved more of:
✨ Cinnamon roll Sunday moments in the bookstore
✨I’m ready for the next— but the characters for the third book could have been woven in a little more to hook me for the next.

All in all, a fun mood setting romance reader with all the ingredients to enjoy on a crisp fall day! I loved reading this book and can’t wait for the next Dream Harbor story at the Christmas Tree Farm!

Thank you to NetGalley and harper360 for the opportunity to read this digital ARC copy in exchange for my honest opinions of this read!

this was PRECIOUS! first, I loved being back in dream harbor with these crazy town folks. it gave me the best gilmore girls vibes & I am grateful for it.

hazel & noah were adorable.

this book follows Hazel coming up on her 30’s, she worried that she hasn’t been living life to the fullest & wants to change things up & experience excitement—enter the mysterious clues via defacing books (GASP, hazel feels this way too), who could be leaving the clues? Noah is a new to town fisherman he’s been around for a while & is usually just an easy going good time kind of guy. however he’s harboring some feelings & his insecurities are continuing to get the best of him.. hazel & noah decide to team up & follow the clues while also helping hazel finally live her life the way she wants to before turning 30. taking them on some fun adventures & helping her get out of her comfort zone. things begin to change for hazel & noah, escalating rather quickly & mutually pining after each other both continuously thinking that neither could possibly love the other more than a “fun time.” boy when they are WRONG.

I loved the coming together of noah & hazel it was so sweet & pure & wholesome. they both just fell into each other so easily & helped each other get over there insecurities while supporting each other so thoroughly. I loved it. the build up & everything was perfect.

my ONLY issues with the book is I felt some of their arguments & disagreements were slightly based on miscommunication & could have been solved rather quickly, but I still really loved the book as a whole it was sweet & fun & noah & hazel were quirky & HOT.

4.5 stars- I read the Pumpkin Spice Café before I started this book & I honestly think this one was a bit better. I loved Noah and Hazel and HANSOF. The whole book clue idea was so cute & I really liked the way it got Hazel to realize she was always fun, she just needed to take some risks. I enjoyed the fact that Hazel always had a book with her wherever she went, This is so relatable and is something I do too. The grand gesture was so cute & worth it. I cannot wait to read the Christmas Tree Farm and to be back in Dream Harbor with all of these amazing characters. Get this book when it comes out 9/3.

This book was absolutely adorable! I was obsessed with both the MC's, and I thought that the way that the book lead up to everything was so perfect. I was rooting for the couple the whole time! This book gives such cozy fall small town vibes and that was exactly what I wanted. Originally I was unaware that this was part of a series but now I can't wait to read the rest! Some of the wording came off a little funky but other than that it's a truly great book. It's a perfect fall book and I highly recommend it if you're looking for something cozy and easy to read.

Huge thank you to Harper360 and NetGalley for this ARC!

A small town bookstore, angsty playboy ready for a shot at his long term crush, and an FMC stepping into her confidence? Nothing but an absolutely swoon-worthy, cozy, cusp of fall romance! Noah and Hazel had me hooked from the beginning and I have no complaints. Was some of the dialogue so awkward and cheesy I couldn't help but roll my eyes? Yes. Was it feet-kicking-giggle worthy? Also yes. Pull it to the top of your TBR and pick the first chilly day to indulge.

Thank you NetGalley and Laurie Gilmore for the advance copy! Honest reviews only, you know I don't lie.

4.5. The perfect fall read! Summer may be ending but the adventure is just beginning. Curl up in a soft blanket with a cinnamon bun while reading this one! Learn what you like while having a little fun...You won't want to put this down and will only be disappointed that it has ended.

This was such a cute read. Perfect for end of summer/beginning of fall! The romance was perfect. He falls first and treats her like a princess from day one. If you like romance (and a little bit of spice) you’ll like this one! Felt like a hallmark movie in a book and I loved every second of it!

Thank you to HarperCollins publishing, NetGalley, and to Laurie Gilmore for the advanced copy of The Cinnamon Bun Bookstore.

I really enjoyed this cozy and fun book that makes you feel like you are in a Hallmark movie. The Cinnamon Bun Bookstore was a quick and enjoyable read. It was my first book I've read from Laurie Gilmore. I have found out this is book two of the series, however I do not feel the reader will be confused if they read out of order. I will be reading book one, The Pumpkin Spice Cafe soon.

If you are looking for a sweet, but spicy romance story between a book loving lady and a man of the sea that takes place in a small town where everyone knows each other, this is the book for you. Hazel and Noah are opposites, but they bring out the best in each other. Their story is very cute! Gilmore does a good job at creating well developed characters who are relatable. I found myself relating to Hazel on many personal levels. Noah is a happy, easy going, and likable guy who balances Hazel in the positive ways she needs.

The Cinnamon Bun Bookstore is a worthwhile read, especially for this upcoming Fall season. If you are a Gilmore's girl fan and have dreamed of going to Stars Hollow, you'll definitely want to visit Dream Harbor.

The Cinnamon Bun Book Store by Laurie Gilmore is the second installment of the Dream Harbor series. We follow Hazel, the quirky, shy, bookstore manager who is mature beyond her years as she learns to have a little fun. Nearing 30, she feels like she missed out on having fun in her 20s. She asks Noah, the fun and flirty fisherman, to show her a good time.
Already smitten with Hazel, Noah is more than willing to spend some time getting closer to her. But can a playboy and a bookworm really click?

It's such a cute story. I might have even liked it better than the first? Maybe lol. Hazel is my fave. She's smart and reserved but totally comes out of her shell. I also love that the characters from The Pumpkin Spice Café are in there, too.

Thank you, NetGalley and Harper 360, for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review. I love this series!

cozy-pumpkin-spiced-cinnamon-bun-ny fun! loved the small town and it's cast of characters, felt very stars hollow-esque
i enjoyed our main characters and the scavenger hunt was fun (although perhaps the conclusion was a tad unsatisfactory...) but overall this is a great no thoughts head empty book to warm up with this fall!

I cannot thank you enough for allowing me to read The Cinnamon Bun Bookstore!! I am obsessed with this series and cannot wait to continue reading about Dream Harbor. I will attach my review below and it will also be posted on Instagram and Amazon. Thank you again, I cannot wait to add a physical copy to my bookshelf.

After reading The Pumpkin Spice Cafe last year, I could not wait to read The Cinnamon Bun Bookstore and it did not disappoint! If you are looking for a super cute, feel good, and cozy quick read... this is it! It is so darn cute and has the perfect amount of spice! I wish I could take a stroll down Main Street in Dream Harbor.

Hazel is a soon to be 30 year old bookseller who regrets wasting her 20s playing it safe. Noah is a 25 year old playboy fisherman who has been crushing on Hazel for the past year. When mysterious clues start appearing in books at the bookstore Hazel begins to crave adventure, it just so happens Noah is the perfect adventure buddy. Ready to be carefree and reckless, Hazel and Noah team up to solve the mystery. Follow along for their story!

I highly recommend The Cinnamon Bun Bookstore. I loved Hazel and Noah's story and I cannot wait to continue the Dream Harbor Series!!

Huge thanks to NetGalley, Harbor 360, and Laurie Gilmore for allowing me to read an ARC!

A fun fall romp!

If you love a hint of mystery, bookshop atmosphere, beachy vibes, and steamy scenes, this is your next read!

I really enjoyed this book. I loved that fact that the author took us all the way to a satisfying HEA. Loved it!

Thank you to NetGalley and to the publisher for an arc. All opinions expressed are my own.

this is such a lovely, fun, cozy story! I loved the first in this series, and now I feel I can confidently say this is the most cozy, fallmazing, adorable series 🥰

Noah and Hazel are so freaking adorable together, always showing the other how special and amazing they are, even when they don’t see it themselves. I loved the progression of friends to adventure partners to lovers and how they both are able to show the other how worthy they are of the incredible love they give to each other. I loved seeing Hazel see and accept how wonderful she is and loved seeing Noah realize he’s so much more than his perceived mess-ups in the past. they both are worthy of so much love and it was so amazing seeing them realize it.

and the side cast of characters were awesome! they gave this story so much perspective, entertainment, and validation.

just the loveliest, coziest, spiciest story, perfect for fall 🎃🍂❤️

thank you for the arc!

Sigh. This was just so dang cute!

It was nice to be back in Dream Harbor visiting all the Dreamers I loved in The Pumpkin Spice Cafe. I really enjoyed the little mystery aspect of the scavenger hunt books in this one. And it was fun getting to know Hazel and Noah and watching them skirt around the truth as they fell harder and harder for each other. (Seriously guys, one conversation is all it would've taken!) But for real, they were just such a sweet couple and I'm glad we got to see Noah reconcile his feelings about himself- you are good, Noah! You're so sweet and good!

Also glad to see the reappearance of the book club, love them. Also really excited about Jeanie's brother coming for the next book!

This book is a heartwarming tale that perfectly blends the cozy atmosphere of a small-town bookstore with the sweetness of budding romance. Set in a charming, quaint town, the story follows Claire, who inherits a bookstore with a bakery twist. The rich scent of cinnamon buns wafting through the pages is almost tangible, drawing readers into a world where love, friendship, and the joy of reading come together.

Gilmore’s writing is warm and inviting, with a cast of delightful characters who feel like old friends by the end of the book. The plot is engaging without being overly complex, making it a perfect read for a lazy afternoon or a cozy evening by the fire.

While the romance is predictable, it’s also comforting, offering the feeling-good satisfaction often sought in contemporary fiction. The small-town dynamics are well-captured, and the descriptions of the bookstore and bakery make you wish you could step right into the pages.

Overall, this was a delightful read that offers a comforting escape into a world of warmth, love, and cinnamon buns. If you’re a fan of cozy romances with a touch of sweetness, this book is definitely worth your time.

Laurie Gilmore pulls it off again with another small town feel good autumn romance! I absolutely had to read this after reading Pumpkin Spice Cafe, and it did not disappoint. It has everything one is looking for in a small town romance book, from your opposites attract to everybody knows everything. The quirky townsfolk band together to make the loner bookstore managers summer packed full of fun and adventure and the hot fisherman comes along for the ride. This book definitely makes me want to curl up with a hot cup of tea and some bakery and just read it from start to finish. Can't wait to read more Dream Harbor stories!

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5

Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for my honest review.

This is the most perfect end of summer/moving into fall book! I knew I would love Hazel and Noah from the peeks of them in the Pumpkin Spice Cafe but I truly didn’t expect to fall for them as much as I did! Noah is such a sweet, charming, and unproblematic guy but I love that the more that Hazel got to know him she really pulled back his layers to see the real Noah. And on the other hand I loved this whole scavenger hunt/mystery that Hazel found herself on that had Noah bringing Hazel out of her shell! It truly was such a wonderful experience to see these two characters blossom together! What a fabulous book, I absolutely love Dream Harbor and all the wonderful stories that reside there. Phenomenal job Laurie Gilmore!

This was a new to me author and MAN Laurie Gilmore did not disappoint. I probably should have started with book one but I just couldn’t help myself. Now on to the next or I guess I should say the first.

Thank you to HarperCollins Publishing, NetGalley, and to Laurie Gilmore for the advanced copy of The Cinnamon Bun Bookstore.

The Cinnamon Bun Bookstore is the second book in the Dream Harbor Series following The Pumpkin Spice Cafe. It’s an adorable small-town romance between bookseller Hazel and fisherman Noah, who have been attracted to each other since the first time they met.

With her 30th birthday approaching, Hazel feels stuck in a rut. She's worked in the same bookstore, in the same small town she grew up in, and doesn't really do much for fun. While working a shift as the manager at the Cinnamon Bun Bookstore, she discovers a clue hidden in a romance novel: a highlighted line in the text.

Her friend Noah, who owns the local fishing tour company, offers to help her solve the mystery. As they uncover more clues, Hazel and Noah embark on a series of adventures around their town, Dream Harbor.

The Cinnamon Bun Bookstore is a wonderful read that will leave you with a smile. Perfect for a cozy night in, this book is a wonderful escape to a world where love, community, and self-discovery take center stage. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a feel-good romance this fall!

Tropes:
✨ Friends to Lovers
✨ He Falls First
✨ Opposites Attract
✨ Small-Town Romance
✨ Force Proximity

This book gave me all the cozy fall vibes for being set during the summer. I related to Hazel so much and I think a lot of people will as well. Seeing her grow and being there to help Noah realize who he is was is all you want in a story like this.

4⭐️ Thank you to NetGalley and Harper 360 for an advanced copy of The Cinnamon Bun Book Store.

Hazel is turning thirty in a few months and she starts to wonder if she has been going through life playing it safe. She starts to feel like she is in a rut until she starts noticing books at the bookstore she works at have earmarked pages with high lighted passages in them. The crazier part is she feels like they are directed at her urging her to have more adventures. She enlists the help of Noah, Dream Harbor’s sexy elusive fisherman who does not take life too seriously. Noah gladly accepts Hazel’s proposition to help her have a fun adventurous summer because he has feelings for her. But he does not do relationships but once he and Hazel spend more and more time together both of them start wanting more. Can they both let go of insecurities from there past to have a future together?

This is the second book in the Dream Harbor series. This book was so good! This book just gave me all the sweet, cozy, happy vibes but with the perfect amount of spice! I cannot wait to read the other books in this series!

I loved this book so much. I’m not surprised I liked it though, I loved The Pumpkin Spice Cafe, and once I found out there was a sequel I preordered it so quickly. I am thankful to have been able to read this book before it is released. The story line immediately caught my eye when there was a mystery aspect to it. I enjoy a not scary mystery! Laurie Gilmore is a wonderful writer and captured my attention right away! I loved the amount of dialogue to monologue ratio; the perfect amount! This novel is written in 3rd person POV, and usually I’m not a fan of it but I really loved it. I was able to really feel what the characters were feeling at that moment in time. There was a decent amount of spice without it only being about the spicy scenes. And obviously I thought the plot was great.
This is the perfect end of summer read and will have you wishing you lived in Dream Harbor during the Fall!

Thank you to NetGalley and Laurie Gilmore for allowing me to read this ARC!

Ok- I’ll round it to 5 but it’s technically a 4.5
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
I’ll be very honest- it’s a VIBE. A must for Pumpkin Spice Cafe readers.
Similar to the Pumpkin Spice Cafe, there were def things that I was sort of rolling my eyes at or pacing through. But despite that being the case, I was still very very happy to read it. (And will most def still purchase when it’s out)
If you have read Pumpkin Spice Cafe then this is a must tbh - having that background does make it waay better. It’s such a Fall builder and I’m here for it!

Thank you for the ARC. I enjoy this series so much and it feels very much like Stars Hollow. This was a fun, spicy book.

**4-Star Review of *The Cinnamon Bun Bookstore* by Laurie Gilmore**

*The Cinnamon Bun Bookstore* by Laurie Gilmore is a delightful blend of cozy mystery and sweet romance, perfect for those crisp fall days when you want to curl up with a feel-good story. Set in the charming town of Dream Harbor, this book takes you on a whimsical scavenger hunt filled with secret codes, hidden messages, and a dash of romance.

Hazel, the bookish and endearing owner of the Cinnamon Bun Bookstore, stumbles upon a mysterious message hidden in a book. As more codes appear, she enlists the help of Noah, the charming and adventurous fisherman who’s been quietly admiring her from afar. The chemistry between Hazel and Noah is as warm and inviting as the scent of fresh cinnamon buns wafting through the bookstore. Their interactions are full of playful banter, and watching their relationship blossom as they uncover clues around town is pure joy.

What makes this story particularly engaging is the cozy atmosphere Gilmore creates. Dream Harbor feels like a place you’d want to visit, with its quaint shops, friendly locals, and the irresistible allure of the Cinnamon Bun Bookstore. The mystery itself is light-hearted and fun, providing just the right amount of intrigue to keep the pages turning.

While the romance is sweet and the setting enchanting, the mystery’s resolution felt a bit predictable. However, this doesn’t take away from the overall charm of the book. It’s a story that wraps you in a warm hug, with the promise of a happily-ever-after that’s as satisfying as a freshly baked treat.

If you’re a fan of cozy mysteries with a side of romance, *The Cinnamon Bun Bookstore* is a must-read this fall. It’s the perfect mix of love, adventure, and a touch of mystery that will leave you with a smile.

#BookReview #CozyMystery #RomanticReads #LaurieGilmore #TheCinnamonBunBookstore #BookLovers #FallReads #HappilyEverAfter #BookstoreRomance #MustRead

Such a cute read! I can confidently say that Hazel (fmc) and Noah (mmc) are now one of my favorite book couples!

I loved the bookstore setting of this book. I will say that this book takes place primarily in summer and definitely doesn't have the same cozy feeling as the first book in this series. However I did enjoy the fair, beach, and summer feeling of this one as well.

The mystery aspect of this book and the plot that drives Hazel and Noah together was enjoyable to follow and I loved taking guesses for myself. The family feeling is very strong and every character feels like a big hug.

I saw much of myself in Hazel and being able to relate to her interests and hobbies really helped me form a connection with her. Being able to witness her step out of her comfort zone and be spontaneous and rightfully selfish was so refreshing and almost inspiring.

Noah was so much fun and ughh everything. He did all he could to encourage and empower Hazel. The way he spoke and guided her was everything. I also loved the family drama he had and his complicated past.

Overall loved this and will be reading the rest of this series!!

This is a great transition from Summer to Fall vibes for reading. Hazel and Noah's love story is so sweet. I love how they bring out the best in each other and step outside of their comfort zones for one another without a second thought and without changing who they are. As a side note: I absolutely loved the touch of "who did this to you" that would make tiny appearances in Noah. I greatly appreciated the nonexistent theatrics (aka the typical drama of romance books) like a big secret or a breakup and make up scenario etc. The undercurrent of being honest with themselves about their feelings before being honest with each other was the perfect touch for their turbulence. I can't wait to get my hands on the next book in the Dream Harbor series! Thank you Harper 360, NetGalley, and Laurie Gilmore for the eARC!

"He was summer and she was fall. He was adventure and she was comfort. But right now, on the cusp between the two seasons, in this liminal space they’d carved out for themselves, they fit just right."

I absolutely fell in love with this book. I loved the first book, but this one has stolen my heart. Noah is a top-tier book boyfriend. Sexy fisherman, loves to read, knows her drink order!!
I found myself getting excited each time a new clue was found. These two brought out the best in each other.
I adore the whole town, it gives Gilmore Girls vibes and I love that. Can't wait to read the next Dream Harbor book.

Thank you, NetGalley for the advanced copy for my honest review.

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5

If you liked Belle from Beauty and the Beast and Gilmore Girls small-town vibes you will love The Cinnamon Bun Book Store. Hazel, a local bookseller, feels stuck in life. She always read about adventures but never had any of her own. As 30 approaches she decides she needs a change, Strange clues start popping up in books in her store, and Noah, who has been crushing on Hazel, takes the opportunity to spend the summer with her.

Hazel is a well-developed and relatable character. Noah is a well-written and endearing character. At first, he is made to seem like a carefree lothario until you learn more about him. As the book progresses both Hazel and Noah experience character development. Hazel and Noah have such amazing chemistry written well without sounding cringy or forced. Despite their different personalities and interests, neither stood a chance of resisting the other.

This book was a very low-angst enjoyable read. I do wish there was a little more to the mystery but it was still delightful. The lack of communication between Hazel and Noah sometimes bordered on frustrating but I was still rooting for them.

A fabulously charming story that has all the vibes of the end of summer & all the coziness of the beginnings of fall in this small town romance.

Hazel & Noah are so easy to fall in love with in this book. Although they are complete opposites, they help one another discover a better sense of who they truly are & what they truly want. Their perspectives of themselves & each other changes for the better.

As they complete various activities from clues Hazel finds in books (who leaves the clues remains a mystery until the end!), their time together allows them to develop a strong friendship with each other; eventually their friendship turns into love.

There are a few misunderstandings. There is a lot ofspice. There is fun & the warmth of the summer. There is the the warmth & coziness of fall. And this is exactly Noah & Hazel - he is all summer & she is all fall. Together they are perfect for one another.

Gilmore delivers the happily ever after we all expect in this story & it makes for the best ending to the book. I love this series & am excited about the next book coming out soon!

If you love a good small-town romance with friends to lovers, some spice, AND a little bit of mystery… then this is the book for you!

I gave this book 5 ⭐️‘s! It was such a fun read that had me giggling, a little teary-eyed, and most of all having that “happy cozy romance” feeling. This book is a perfect transition book from the summer months, into the fall months as well. I could just picture the quaint little town perfectly from this book and the characters gave a “one big happy family” type of vibe.

I felt the characters were well written, especially in regards to the “friends-to-lovers” trope in this book. I enjoyed the dynamic of their relationship, in regards to how they were brought together as well. Overall, such a fun read and I cannot wait for book 3 to come out!

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher/author for letting me read this book early!

The perfect summer-to-fall transition book. It's exactly what it looks like- a cute, cozy, small town romance. Hazel works at a bookstore and was such a relatable character and Noah is THE acts of service man. Their relationship and their "summer of fun" was so sweet. I am definitely going to read the rest of the books in this series!

The Cinnamon Bun Book Store by Laurie Gilmore
Release date: September 3rd
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/ 5
🌶️🌶️/ 5

Blurb:
Hazel, She is approaching 30 who regrets wasting her 20s playing it safe, and she’s also the owner of the Cinnamon Bun Bookstore. Hazel finds a secret message hidden in a book and follows the clues that appear between the pages. Going through this new adventure, She enlists the help of Noah, a handsome fisherman with a past who's always up for an adventure. As the two search for treasure around Dream Harbor, they unexpectedly find themselves falling for each other.

My thoughts 💭
Last year I read The Pumpkin Spice Cafe, I could not wait to read The Cinnamon Bun Bookstore and this book did not disappoint! If you are looking for a super cute/cozy quick read... this is it! It has the perfect amount of spice and I absolutely loved the chemistry Hazel and Noah had! Reading this with a pumpkin spice latte in hand and a cozy fall playlist is seriously the way to go🍁

If you’re looking for
-Small Town Romance
-Forced Proximity
-Friends to Lovers
-Cozy Mystery
-He Falls First

Then this is the book for you!

I'm absolutely smitten with Laurie Gilmore's "The Cinnamon Bun Book Store"! This charming romance set in Dream Harbor is a delightful treat that I devoured over a weekend.
Hazel and Noah's chemistry sizzles like fresh cinnamon buns as they embark on an intriguing scavenger hunt through their small town. Gilmore masterfully weaves mystery and romance, creating a cozy yet exciting atmosphere that keeps you turning pages.
The vibrant cast of supporting characters adds depth and humor to the story, making Dream Harbor feel like a place you'd love to visit. I particularly enjoyed the opposites-attract dynamic between the bookish Hazel and the adventurous Noah.
While the plot is engaging, it's the character development that truly shines. Watching Hazel and Noah's relationship blossom amidst the treasure hunt is both heartwarming and entertaining.
Overall, "The Cinnamon Bun Book Store" is a perfect blend of small-town charm, sweet romance, and light mystery. It's an ideal escape for readers looking for a cozy, feel-good story with just the right amount of spice. A solid 4.5/5 stars!

This whole series is so cute and fun. I love the fall and cozy vibes. I loved Noah and Hazel and how their relationship grew from the start. I loved the opposites attract trope. I can’t wait for the next installment in the series!

There's so much to love in this book!

First there's the fall aesthetic which the cover captures perfectly. Also the cozy small town bookstore vibes were definitely delivered. I loved the setting of Dream Harbor. It was so comforting to read.

Secondly, the characters were wonderful. I couldn't get enough of Noah and Hazel. Both felt so realistic and were so cute! I loved an opposites attract trope mixed with he falls first. It always promises a good time and fun dynamic between the characters. I related to Hazel the most since she is closer to me in personality. I totally understood her need for change/adventure and feeling like your life is in a monotonous rut. Noah is a dreamboat book boyfriend. I absolutely loved him! He does so many little things for Hazel and just wants to make her happy, how could I not fall for him?!? Impossible.

I liked the mystery of the book. I thought it was unique and clever. Plus it gave an excuse for our main characters to interact which is always a boon!

This book was delightfully charming! Perfect fall read!

You won’t want to miss book two in The Pumpkin Spiced Cafe (Dream Harbor) series! This book welcomes new characters and brings back the old ones we already fell in love with in book one. In this book we get to know Noah and Hazel better and follow them along in a scavenger hunt and possibly even a little romance. Reading this made me feel all warm and cozy inside, just like the first one in the series did. With a lot of chemistry and just enough mystery, I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough. I can’t wait to finish this entire series!

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC of this book. I thoroughly enjoyed it.

This was really cute and a fun read once I got into it. Once I hit the 20% mark I couldn’t put it down. I love the concept of the scavenger hunt bringing Hazel and Noah together. It was really cute and unique and I just adored Noah. Laurie also did a great job really reeling you into the story where it felt like you were there with them. I do wish we could’ve seen a little more of Noah with his family at the end, but I can’t wait to continue the series! If you like Lucy Scores Blue Moon series and BK Borisons Lovelight series you’ll like this one.

Hazel is turning thirty years old this year, and she finds herself worrying that she wasted her 20s by not experiencing enough. However, during one of her shifts at the book store, she notices a book out of place, and when she goes to reshelve it, she notices that a sentence inside is highlighted. The sentence invites someone to go on an adventure, and Hazel takes it as a sign that she needs to go on that adventure and get out of her comfort zone. So she enlists the help of Noah, a fisherman in town who sometimes comes into the bookshop, to help her explore new things during the summer.

Such a perfect combination of coziness, fluff, and spice. I loved every second of this. Hazel is someone that I can relate to and it was so nice to see her character development throughout the story.

One comment that I have, is that this book is tagged as a mystery, but the mystery aspect is pretty small. It is mostly centered around them wondering who is leaving the notes in books with clues for Hazel. Definitely a cozy mystery, but do not go into this thinking that it will be a full fledged, hardcore, mystery novel.

Another comment is that I wish there was more about Hazel meeting Noah's family. The story does go into detail about Noah and his family, and there was a lot of build up, but towards the end it got a bit glossed over and put on the back burner. They also mentioned Hazel meeting his family, which would have been lovely to have in the story, but then it was left out.

This is the second book in this series, however, they are interconnected standalones so this book can be read and understood without reading the first book. I loved this one so much that I am adding the first one to my TBR, and at the end of this book, I saw an announcement for the next book in the series and I am very excited for that!

Thank you to Laurie Gilmore, Harper 360, and NetGalley for the eARC of this book. This is my honest opinion.

Awww man! I really enjoyed the cozy vibes of The Pumpkin Spice Cafe and was so excited I’d get to go back to Dream Harbor for book 2. The Cinnamon Bun Bookstore exceeded my expectations!

This book was really well written and had the perfect summer turning into fall vibes. I felt like the author is really growing into her writing style and finding a groove with her characters and the town.

Hazel was a super relatable and loveable FMC. I think we’ve all struggled with the feeling of “I’m about to be XYZ years old and I have nothing to show for it” and I loved her character development. The ways her family and friends supported her. Her relationship with Noah and how each of them grew from their time together was so sweet.

The romance? Sigh. So romantic, and the book lovers among us (so, basically everyone here) will adore this story.

I am affectionately calling this book the “perfect spicy Hallmark read” because it’s got all the cozy feel good vibes of a Hallmark story.. with spice. We love to see it!

All of the appearances by the characters we came to love in The Pumpkin Spice Cafe were totally organic and never felt forced into the story just for the sake of it. Every time any of Hazel’s friends appeared I was so happy to see them, like I was greeting my own friends. I loved the little continuation of their stories and am so looking forward to reading more.

Dream Harbor is becoming a comfort series for me and I can’t wait to dive into book 3!

Thank you NetGalley and Harper360 for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5

Okay, I’ll be real with you—this one took a minute to hook me, but once it did, I was all in!

Meet Hazel Kelly: just shy of 30, perfectly happy with her “boring” routine of work, sleep, eat, repeat. But as summer winds down, she finds herself craving a bit more excitement.

Cue Noah, the charming fishing tour owner with a not-so-secret crush on Hazel. One night at a friend’s house, Hazel decides to spice things up and asks Noah to help her solve a mystery—someone’s been leaving her clues in the romance section of the local bookstore! Naturally, Noah jumps at the chance to be her sidekick.

What follows is a whirlwind of emotions: Hazel slowly breaking out of her shell, Noah being his goofy, lovestruck self, and plenty of chemistry (like, way more than I expected!). There’s a perfect blend of sweet and spicy in this one.

Dream Harbor is where the magic happens, but will Hazel and Noah make the most of their chance at love?

This ARC hits shelves on September 3rd, 2024. Mark your calendars and get ready for a read you won’t want to put down (seriously, once it gets going, you’re hooked!).

This was amazing! I was hooked right from the beginning. I laughed, I cried and when I closed the book on the last page I was ready to dive in for more. When you can find characteristics that you related with within the characters the book becomes so much more personal. I am a harsh critic and I don't give out 5 star ratings to just any book. This book I will be picking back up again and again to submerge myself in the world that Hazel and Noah are in. I want to be eating blueberries and drinking wine and creating my own fun with a friend as well.

This is exactly what I’m looking for in a cozy, fall, feel good book! I almost want to read it again in a month when the fall leaves start falling and there’s a chill in the air so I can be even more immersed. Laurie Gilmore knows comfy cozy that’s for sure and I will be reading more of her books.

**Thank you NetGalley for the eArc!**

Laurie did it again! This heartfelt cozy novel has made me feel all the feels and helped me to deviate from my Romantasy genre frenzy.

The Cinnamon Bun Book Store follows another resident of Dream Harbor, the lovable Hazel. Hazel feels stuck in her boring life and wants a change of pace. When a mystery-filled scavenger hunt leads her to implore the help of the town hottie, sparks are bound to fly!

This is truly a cozy novel filled with personal discovery, adventure, and delicious cinnamon buns.

I highly recommend this to anyone who wants a cute, cozy, fall feel novel that will leave you with a smile and happy tears.

Gilmore girl coded book store romance. I love the town of dream harbor.

Age gap (5 yr) he's younger
Quarter life crisis
Book clues!

This was the most cozy read!

Hazel is about to turn 30, she realizes she has been stuck doing the same things in the same town with the same people for all of her adult life. When she discoveres mysterious messages left in books she recruits the help of Noah to follow the clues! Noah is the towns “playboy” fisherman, he doesn’t do commitment, but he’s been holding a torch for hazel so he happily agrees to help her.

This was such a sweet light hearted book, there was no angst, nothing triggering. A really fun opposites attract, friends to lovers, small town romance with a dollop of spice and a dash of mystery! I giggled and swooned on more than one occasion. The Cinnamon Bun Book Store is definitely a fall must read!

Who knew that a hidden message in a bookstore could spark both a treasure hunt and a romance?!

That’s exactly what happens to Hazel at the Cinnamon Bun Bookstore. When secret codes start popping up in her bookstore, she’s drawn into a scavenger hunt.

Noah is the charming and adventurous fisherman who’s had a crush on Hazel for months. Together, they do the treasure hunt and try to teach Hazel how to have fun!

This book was the absolute cutest! I flew through it because it was such an easy and enjoyable read.

The "he fell first" trope was done so well, and getting inside Noah's mind made it even sweeter.

Watching Hazel grow in confidence by the end was so satisfying—she really came into her own

If you’re a fan of sweet romance with a little bit of cozy mystery, this book is definitely for you.

Thank you NetGalley and Harper 360 for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Thank you Harper 360 and NetGalley for allowing me to read this early.This was a very cozy and easy read.This book is #2 in the Dream Harbor series.

"The Cinnamon Bun Book Store" is a cozy, feel-good romance that will warm your heart and leave you craving sweets. The story follows Hazel, a charming bookseller who stumbles upon a secret message hidden in one of her bookstore's novels. As more coded messages appear, Hazel teams up with Noah, a handsome and adventurous fisherman, to follow the clues. Their scavenger hunt takes them all around Dream Harbor, sparking undeniable chemistry and a sweet romance that’s as irresistible as the bakery treats.

One of the highlights of this novel is Noah’s “he falls first” dynamic. His genuine affection for Hazel is clear from the beginning, making him the perfect blend of sweet and devoted. Watching him gently encourage Hazel out of her shell and into a world of adventure is endearing and heartwarming. Hazel’s journey of self-discovery is equally compelling, showcasing her growth in confidence as she learns to embrace her own sense of bravery and adventure. It's refreshing to see a heroine who doesn’t need to change who she is to find love, but instead becomes more herself.

While the mystery at the heart of "The Cinnamon Bun Book Store" is low stakes, it’s precisely this simplicity that makes the story so charming. It's an ideal read for anyone looking for a comforting escape and a perfect transition book for those late summer to early fall days. With its sweet romance, lovable characters, and a touch of small-town magic, you won’t want to put this book down. My only disappointment was that it ended too soon!

The Cinnamon Bun Book Store ☾𖤓
by Laurie Gilmore
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5/5 stars!

I absolutely loved this book! After adoring The Pumpkin Spice Cafe, I couldn’t wait for the sequel and preordered it immediately. The mix of mystery and romance in The Cinnamon Bun Bookstore is just perfect for a cozy end-of-summer read. Laurie Gilmore’s writing grabbed me from the start, and the balance of dialogue to inner thoughts was spot on. Even though I’m not usually a fan of third-person POV, it worked really well here, letting me connect with the characters.

Hazel and Noah are a charming pair—opposites attract and all that. Their scavenger hunt adventure around Dream Harbor is as sweet as the cinnamon buns at Hazel’s bookstore. With just the right amount of spice and a heartwarming story, this book is a fantastic pick for fall. If you loved the first book or just enjoy a feel-good romance, this one’s a must-read!

Thank you Harper 360 and NetGalley for the ARC!!

The Cinnamon Bun Book Store is about Hazel wanting to takes risk and live a little before she turns 30. She recruits the town play boy, Noah to help her out with a series of clues that are left behind mysteriously at the bookstore she manages.

I thought this was such a cute book! I love Hazel and Noah together, and they are a great example of opposites attract. Hazel is especially relatable, and lovable. While this is a romance Laurie Gilmore does a great job with some deeper themes.

There is a bit of a loll in the middle of the book, but overall I enjoyed the pacing. I would defiantly recommend this books for fans of Tessa Bailey’s Hook, Line and Sinker!

Overall I give The Cinnamon Bun Bookstore 4.25 stars!!

I devoured this book in only a few hours - especially the beginning! Chapter 1 had me hooked because I was already loving the vibe of Hazel and Noah and then getting dual POVs was great. The premise of the story has Hazel and Noah following clues she has found in books leading them on adventures and it’s adorable! They really brought out the best in each other and their relationship was so sweet. Noah made Hazel feel sexy and fun, and Hazel made Noah feel appreciated and capable. The middle was a little slower for me because the miscommunication was frustrating in them trying to navigate and define their feelings. However the big moment (you will see) was just top notch and one of my favorite ways to express one’s love! Can’t wait to read others in the series.

This book was cute. This is not good in terms of a literary viewpoint, but it’s fun. This is more of a “cozy” book in which you can shut your mind off. The writing is not necessarily good, but it’s fun. Sometimes the writing felt amateur, but once you let that part of your mind stop overthinking this book was quite enjoyable. This isn’t a book I’d recommend to everyone, but I would recommend it to anyone looking for a sweet and simple time with a little bit of spice.

Thank you Netgalley and Harper360 for allowing me to read this for an honest review.

This book was super cute and easy to read. Hazel and Noah's story was lots of fun to read. Noah is a very lighthearted character who likes to crack jokes to cover up his vulnerabilities. Hazel is a bookworm who's timid and stuck in a rut. They embark on a summer of fun, and Noah falls fast and hard for Hazel. My only dislike was that these characters would not talk to each other about their feelings. I don't care for the miscommunication trope, and there was a bit of that in this story. Thankfully the author wraps it up pretty quick so we aren't left with lots of angst and drama. Noah was a very swoon worthy character, and I loved watching Hazel break out of her shell and embrace life. Overall a very good summer read!

"Cinnamon Bun Bookstore" by Laurie Gilmore is one of my new favorite reads!!!

This book was an absolute delight from start to finish! I couldn’t put it down and devoured it in just two days!

The story centers around Hazel, a book-loving woman about to turn 30, who decides to step out of her comfort zone and indulge in some carefree fun before hitting the big 3-0. Enter Noah, a charming fisherman with a zest for adventure.

When Hazel discovers a series of mysterious clues, she recruits Noah to help her unravel the mystery. (scavenger hunt style) Hazel is incredibly relatable—passionate about books, cozy fall vibes, and a bit self-conscious unless she’s talking about her favorite reads. Noah, with his adventurous spirit, helps Hazel rediscover her confidence, making for a truly heartwarming story. I also adore how the characters’ love for reading is such a central theme!

The ending was simply perfect! I’ll definitely be rereading this book and recommending it to everyone I know!

Tropes I loved:
*He Falls First
*Small Town Romance
*Forced Proximity
*Friends to Lovers
*Cozy Mystery
*Rom-Com

Thank you NetGalley and Laurie Gilmore and Harper360 for this ARC!

Hazel and Noah were *chefs kiss*

Similar to the Pumpkin Spice Cafe, it all starts with a mystery when Hazel finds books in her store in the wrong place and defaced - finding little pieces highlighted like a clue. She asks Noah for his help completing the tasks and through it, he gets to finally spend time with his dream girl.

I LOVED how much he respects her and provides words of affirmation. Through the story we see her confidence grow and I just freaking love to see it!

Read if you love: reverse age gap, friends to lovers, a summer fling, and a mystery!

I devoured Pumpkin Spice Cafe and knew I needed to get my hands on The Cinnamon Bun Book Store! I was NOT disappointed! I adored this book! A small- town romance, friends to lovers, mystery, some spice - there is truly something for everyone. This is the perfect book to read to transition from summer to fall! Thank you so much for granting me access to my very first ARC!!

4 stars!

I enjoyed Laurie Gilmore's "The Cinnamon Bun Book Store" more than I enjoyed "The Pumpkin Spice Cafe." It is a wonderful summer-to-fall transition book that I think readers will devour! I loved Hazel and Noah so, so much, way more than I thought I would! Anyone who has ever felt lost in life, like they are stuck spinning their wheels, can and will relate to Hazel. She is on the verge of turning 30 and feels like she hasn't had any grand adventures in life. She lives in a small town, has had the same friends forever, and works in the same bookshop that she has loved for years. Her life is fine. She is content... but there's no excitement, no chaos, no spontaneity. She starts getting secret messages dog-eared on the pages of certain books in her store, and she takes that as a sign that someone is leaving her clues to help get her out of her comfort zone. Enter Noah, who has been head over heels for Hazel for years. Hazel asks for Noah's help to have a memorable summer before she turns 30... but she doesn't expect to fall in love with him in the process! This book will surely satisfy people who are looking for a blend of spicy and sweet. It's shockingly more spicy than I expected! Sure, some of the dialogue is super cheesy bordering on cringe-worthy, but I think there is enough substance and fun here that most readers will overlook the goofiness. I liked this book quite a bit and cannot wait for the next installment in the series!

Thank you to NetGalley, Laurie Gilmore, and Harper 360 for the complimentary ARC of this book. All opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review.

This was one of those books that already started out good, but ended great. Hazel is a character that most girls can identify with. she’s insecure with herself and the things she hasn’t done and wants to change that. Noah is your dreamboat kind of sex on a stick if you know what I mean, character. I love him though he’s so much more and he shows that even in the cool kids can be insecure. Watching the two of them bring out the confidence in each other was just magical. This is such a fun series.

What a great second book to the series! I enjoyed The Pumpkin Spice Café, but wow, The Cinnamon Bun Book Store exceeded ALL my expectations. This is another cozy romance with fall vibes but the plot was so much better. I thoroughly enjoyed reading about Hazel and her feelings towards turning 30 (I’ve was there last year) and Noah is just the sweetest. I thoroughly enjoyed reading about them & am anxiously awaiting to read the Christmas Tree Farm!

I loved “The Pumpkin Spice Cafe”, so I was excited to find there was more to the series and I could continue to read about other “Dreamers” in the coziest small town!

Noah and Hazel’s story was a treat to read, it really brought to life the end of summer carefree vibes turning into something more serious and not fleeting.

This is a cute romance book, but the characters have a lot of depth and growth. It makes the book both and easy read, but a satisfying one!

This was one of my most anticipated reads of the year, and it was so worth the wait! Some things to know if you've also been eagerly anticipating The Cinnamon Bun Bookstore:

1. I think a lot of readers were expecting this to be a fall read- it's more of an end of summer read, but still perfect for reading this time of year!
2. You should read The Pumpkin Spice Cafe first- there's a lot of side characters who you'll want to know. If you read it a year ago, just read a brief recap, you'll be fine.
3. You definitely want to listen to the author's playlist while reading- it's perfect.

I adored this read and I'm absolutely in love with Hazel. As a responsible, but not always fun person, I resonated with her so much! I am also a sucker for books about books, so this being set in a bookstore that has weekly fresh cinnamon buns? Perfection. I was beyond delighted to jump back into Dream Harbor and Laurie Gilmore is officially an auto buy author for me!

Thank you so much to NetGalley and Harper 360 for the ARC of The Cinnamon Bun Bookstore!

I was thrilled to receive an ARC of The Cinnamon Bun Bookstore, from HarperCollins 360 and NetGalley, the second book in Laurie Gilmore's Dream Harbor series. Having loved The Pumpkin Spice Cafe, I couldn’t wait to dive back into this charming small-town world.

In this installment, we follow Hazel, the delightful manager of the Cinnamon Bun Bookstore. As she nears her 30th birthday, Hazel starts receiving mysterious secret messages hidden in highlighted pages of romance novels. These messages are the catalyst for Hazel to confront the feeling that she missed out on her wild twenties. Determined to make up for lost time, she turns to Noah, the town’s gorgeous fisherman known for his adventurous spirit and good times.

The chemistry between Hazel and Noah is electric, making this a perfect opposites-attract, friends-to-lovers story. Noah, who’s had a crush on Hazel for ages, isn’t exactly known for commitment, while Hazel isn’t usually one for spontaneity. Watching these two navigate their growing attraction while embarking on little adventures—and solving the mystery of who’s behind the secret messages—was pure fun.

Laurie Gilmore definitely kicked up the steaminess in this book, and I was here for it! Hazel and Noah’s journey is both sweet and spicy, making for a satisfying read.

What a cute and fun book! I truly loved Noah and Hazel’s story! Plus, I love this little town so much! Reading this book was the perfect way to ring in Fall!

Oh. My. Goodness.

This book held my attention from start to finish - it was captivating. The mystery, the romance, the spice, the small town, everything was perfection! I think I liked this one even more than the first one in the series, such a great little story!!

I really enjoyed this slow simmer romance. As always, the characters are so enjoyable and almost seem like old friends. This was a unique and cute plot with clues leading Hazel and Noah on a summer adventure. But what starts out as a casual few weeks, ends up being a whole lot more. With lots of laughs, some lows and highs, the two find the confidence to believe in themselves and each other. Looking forward to the next book in the series.
I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

Thank you NetGalley and the publishers for the opportunity to review this title. This is the second book in the Dream Harbor series by Laurie Gilmore and it is just as cozy and fun as the first one was. Highly recommend.

I just finished reading The Cinnamon Bun Book Store and I absolutely loved it! This is the 2nd book in the Dream Harbor series and it does not disappoint. This is Hazel's story. Hazel is about to turn 30 and wants her final couple of months to be wild and crazy. She has always lived a fairly quiet and calm life, but wants to show everyone that she can be exciting! Who better to help her than the sexy playboy Logan.
Logan is know to bounce from woman to woman, keeping things casual. Casual is exactly what Hazel's wants... or is it?
With lots of steamy sparks, laughter and sweetness, The Cinnamon Bun Book Store is such a fun, fast read. Reader also get to visit with the characters from the first book, The Pumpkin Spice Cafe and see what they are up to!

A cozy read great for the end of summer!

I ADORED this book. Hazel and Noah are absolutely perfect for each other and their chemistry was written so well! A player trying to be better and a book store owner trying to branch out - these two are a match made in heaven.

If you’re looking for a small town, opposites attract, forced proximity, he falls first read - this one’s for you!

This was just as cosy as The Pumpkin Spice Café, and I definitely understand why so many people are loving these books. To me, it was the ultimate feelgood read and I genuinely enjoyed it, but I could have done with a little more plot. I don't think this book will really stick with me, but it did what I wanted it to do, which is help me relax after a tiring day. I'm looking forward to reading the Christmas book in December!

Big thanks to NetGalley and Harper 360 for the ARC!

I love it when the second book in a series is even better than the first! The Cinnamon Bun Bookstore has all the charm of The Pumpkin Spice Café, including small-town antics, kooky neighbors, and heaps of romance. But it improves on the original formula with more relatable arcs for both MCs, weaving personal development alongside the love story.

I really enjoyed watching Hazel and Noah help each other grow and overcome their insecurities. And while they encountered some bumps along the way, including a touch of the miscommunication trope, none of the drama was drawn out, which I appreciated!

The SPICE was also a big improvement. In Book 1, the open-door scenes surprised me and felt out of place. But this second book did a great job hinting at Hazel and Noah’s growing chemistry early on, which helped the intimate moments feel natural.

I don’t consider it a spoiler to say that there’s an HEA at play here. And while I won’t go into details about it, I will say I didn’t feel the epilogue was necessary. I’m all about tying up loose ends, but the book’s final scene felt rushed and unrealistic.

If, like me, you’re coming back to Dream Harbor to catch up with old friends, bask in some Stars Hollow vibes, and get whisked away by a romance as frothy as the foam atop a PSL, then you won’t be disappointed!

Absolutely yes!!! All the stars for this adorable series, but especially this book.
This book gave all the fall/autumn vibes that I’ve been craving and all the tropes that I love. Small town Gilmore girl-ish town and community vibes, he falls first, forced proximity, a little adventure hunt through town. Loved every second of this and could not put it down.
I also loved that this book was an ode to all the book lovers out there. Finding clues in the books and the adventures along the way really made me fall in love this cute little town all over again

4 star
Such a cute story setting and characters. I love that the book didn’t feel like it was trying too hard. Sometimes small town romances can just be over the top or end up feeling cheesy. I thought Hazel was relatable and Noah was a perfect book boyfriend.

I only took a star away for the simplistic writing style.

Otherwise, it is a perfect beach read or end of summer romance.

I want to join the Dream Harbor Book Club!

Small town romance Hazel and Noah 🧡
Interconnected standalone (loved reading about Jeanie and Logan)
Reverse age gap
Cozy romance + a little mystery = Fall 🍁
Book will have you craving sweet treats 🫐🥤☕️

Such a fun book! I loved the humor and sweet romance. Excited to read The Christmas Tree Farm. Highly recommend this series!!
I will say there was more “smut” than expected with a title called The Cinnamon Bun Bookstore.
Thank you to the publisher for the opportunity to read this advanced copy. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

This is such a great cozy fall read. This is the second book in the Dream Harbor series following Hazel and Noah's story, however I did not read the first book and was easily able to pick up on the characters and story. I was looking for the perfect easy going cozy book to read to get into the fall feel and this book was 10000% it. I didn't want to put it down and read it over a 24 hr period. A very cute and cozy small town romance with a scavenger hunt mystery. I will definitely be reading the rest of the series.

Thanks to NetGalley and Harper 360 for the early eARC in exchange for my honest review.

The Cinnamon Bun Bookstore by Laurie Gilmore is THE fall read of the year.
A perfect spicy small town romance it follows a quiet book shop worker and a local bad boy as they follow mysterious clues left in romance books.
It was an addicting read full of laughter, some tears and of course, our happy ending.

You will really love this cozy fall romcom!

This was the perfect book to get into the fall spirit! I was hooked from the beginning until the end with this one. I loved that Hazel was a bookworm and Noah was a social butterfly. It always makes things interesting. Hazel is on the verge of turning 30 and realizes that theres no chaos or spontaneity in her life. I live in a small town and I know how that can feel sometimes. She starts getting secret messages dog-eared on the pages of certain books in her store, and she takes that as a sign that someone is leaving her clues to help get her out of her comfort zone. Life is about to et interesting for Hazel. This was such a cute, cozy, small town romance that will have you smiling throughout the book. I can't wait to read more in this series.


Thank you NetGalley and Harper 360 for allowing me to read this ARC for my honest opinion.

Thank you to Netgalley, Harper 360, and Laurie Gilmore for the chance to read this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

I LOVED the first installment in this series, The Pumpkin Spice Cafe and was so excited to return to Dream Harbor.

This book is your perfect summer to fall transition book! We start at the last sweet chunk of summer and carry right into fall.

This book is for the readers. I adored how beautifully Hazel's love of reading and her bookstore job was woven into the story. As a reader of all romance- there were just so many moments and tidbits that made the story relatable to readers. Add in the fact that Noah was a reader too and we're all in heaven!

I can't wait to return to Dream Harbor for The Christmas Tree Farm in October 2024 and The Strawberry Patch Pancake House in April 2025.

I loved Hazel and Noah’s story! I may have loved it more that Jeanie and Logan’s….. I honestly can’t choose! This was another sweet and cozy read by Laurie Gilmore and absolutely what I wanted for the start of my favorite season. You would think from the cover that this is a closed door romance, but please don’t let that fool you… Ms. Gilmore can write the spice!! The thing about both books in this series is that the whole town is lovable. You don’t just enjoy the main characters, but all the side characters too. The author makes you feel that you are actually in Dream Harbor. I loved this book with the forced proximity/small town vibes and Noah was THE perfect MMC. New book boyfriend? Yes.

This was absolutely adorable, from start to finish. From the beginning, you can’t help but love Hazel and Noah. Both are so wrapped up in their perceptions of themselves and their perceived character flaws. Throughout the book, they help the other through their personal issues and being more confident in themselves. All the while thinking the other wants a causal relationship when they both want something real. The mystery of the book clues was so cute, it was entertaining to see Hazel go down the list of people who could possibly be trying to help her be more adventurous. Really loved the character and relationship development throughout this book. I can’t wait to read more about the characters in Dream Harbour (with the most cozy shop names).

I enjoyed reading The Cinnamon Bun Book Store by Laurie Gilmore. You will fall in love with all the characters. I received an ARC of this book courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and given freely. Happy Reading!

If you're in the mood for a heartwarming, cozy romance that feels like a warm hug with a dash of mystery, *Dream Harbor Secrets* is the book for you! Although it is second in a series and I hadn't read the first, I was able to follow the story very easily with Hazel and get to know Dream Harbor.

The chemistry between Hazel and Noah is electric, with each clue drawing them closer together in ways neither expected. Their journey is filled with sweet moments, flirty banter, and a blossoming romance that is as irresistible as the fresh cinnamon buns Hazel bakes. The setting of Dream Harbor is beautifully described, making you wish you could stroll down its streets and visit the Cinnamon Bun Bookstore yourself.

What sets *Dream Harbor Secrets* apart is how it seamlessly blends romance with a dash of mystery, making it a page-turner that’s hard to put down. The scavenger hunt adds an extra layer of excitement, and watching Hazel and Noah’s relationship unfold is pure joy. Fans of the author’s previous work will be thrilled to return to this cozy, vibrant town, while new readers will quickly fall in love with its quirky characters and heartfelt stories.

Overall, *Dream Harbor Secrets* is a delightful, feel-good romance that will leave you smiling long after you’ve turned the last page. Whether you’re a fan of small-town cozy love stories or just looking for a sweet escape, this book is a perfect choice.

I love the Dream Harbor series and this book did not disappoint! I really related to Hazel's character and identified with a lot of her personality. Noah reminded me of my husband, that was fun! Both Hazel and Noah's stories were super relatable and universal, with Hazel wondering if she wasted her 20s and Noah questioning his self-worth. This book is quite spicy and spicier than The Pumpkin Spice Cafe. Hazel and Noah's relationship was adorable and made me feel so giddy at times.

The Cinnamon Bun Book Store is the DREAMIEST love story of the season! I stayed up all night reading it and have a full-blown love hangover today. I can already tell that Hazel and Noah’s love will stay with me for a long time.

Noah is the PERFECT misunderstood bad boy and I related deeply to Hazel’s introverted, shy insecurities. The mutual solace and excitement they found in each other continues to squeeze at my heart! And their chemistry was some of the hottest I have ever read. Dang. Laurie Gilmore really knows how to sprinkle the sweetest sweet with the spiciest spice!

So far this is my favorite of the Dream Harbor series! Which, btw is the closes to small-town Gilmore Girls vibes on paper I have found thus far. I think this makes me an official Laurie Gilmore fangirl!

Thank you to NetGalley for an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.

I’m not typically one for romance books, but this was so cute! I love the story, characters, pacing and the writing was very easy to read and flow through. It’s definitely a cute “we found love at a pumpkin patch” kind of book!

This small town romance was the perfect ending of summer read!! Hazel works in a bookstore and is feeling regretful for not letting loose during her 20s as she approaches her 30th birthday. She starts finding defaced books that lead her on a scavenger hunt, and Noah is going along for the ride!! I can’t even explain how this book, especially the ending, gave me all the emotions and tugged at my heartstrings!!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ The Cinnamon Bun Book Store by Laurie Gilmore

👩‍❤️‍👨opposites attract
🏠small town
💙forced proximity
🤭he falls first

I loved this 2nd book in the Dream Harbor Series. Just like the 1st one, The pumpkin Spice Cafe, this book gives you all the cozy romantic mystery vibes, Hazel has started to notice interesting book placements of some of the romance book in the book store where she works. Some books are in the wrong place, highlighted and dog eared. Who would do such a thing to books? Especially ones that not have been purchased yet. Hazel starts to think whoever is messing with the books is trying to send her a message of some sort.
Hazel is about to turn 30 and realized that she has missed out on all the fun you are supposed to have in you 20's. Along with the help from a hot fisherman named Noah, Hazel is determined to live up her last couple month in her 20"s as while trying to figure out these clues.
I loved this book!

Thank you to Laurie Gilmore and NetGalley for the ARC.

#TheCinnamonBunBookStore #NetGalley

This was truly a treat! The perfect book to transition from summer to fall with cozy beach scenes to pumpkin spice appreciation. This was the perfect mix of cozy with spice- with a side of mystery attached. Truly can’t wait for the rest of the books to come out.

Thank you NetGalley and Lauri Gilmore for the ARC!

This book is truly the perfect cozy mystery for those who are over the summer heat and ready to dive into the cozy season. This definitely had the small town Gilmore Girls feel to it, and the mystery aspect was so fun!

Our FMC is an introverted bookworm who feels like her life has been slipping away from her, and wants to find some adventure to spice things up. As our story progresses, we get to see her come out of her shell with the help of Noah, the town's resident (hot) fisherman who's been secretly harboring a crush on Hazel. It was very heartwarming seeing the two of them grow as characters while falling in love!

I definitely think that this series is an essential fall tbr book - it has everything you'd want in a cozy read for the upcoming season!

This book is so cute and spicy and perfect to read in September!

I loved this book, I couldn’t put it down. We follow Noah and Hazel follow “clues” left in the Cinnamon Bun Bookstore leading up to Hazels’ 30th birthday however no one in town is admitting to leaving the clues.

Over the course of two months, Noah brings out the fun side of Hazel and they engage in little adventures around town while trying to figure out who the culprit is. They learn a lot about each other along the way. If you are a fan of When Harry Met Sally, this is the perfect book for you!

I would say this is an emotional slow burn that has very well executed spicy scenes 🌶️🌶️🌶️
I loved Noah’s character and arc, I was falling in love with this man! 🥵

spoilers:
-i wish this man didn’t wink so much lol
-if this happened to me i would literally be so embarrassed i would have to move out of town
-age gap✨ with a man 5 years younger but with a developed frontal lobe 👍🏻

4.5 Stars
Medium Spice level

I have decided that Laurie Gilmore is the queen of adorable seasonal reads with the perfect amount of spice.

I haven't yet read The Pumpkin Spice Cafe and I feel like it's absolutely okay to read these out of order, but after this I definitely plan to read her other books in this series.

The Cinnamon Bun Bookshop is definitely one of my favorite sweet romances I've read this year. It's a great palate cleanser and the perfect book to get you in the fall mood.

I can't wait to read about the other couples in this town.

I loved the first book and was so excited to read this. This book is perfect for the fall and was so cozy. Small town romance, bookstores and fall - the best combination in my opinion.

Thank you to Netgalley, Laurie Gilmore, and One More Chapter for the gifted ebook ARC! I LOOOOVED the Pumpkin Spice Cafe, so I was thrilled to get my hands on this one before it released!

This book is so stinkin’ sweet! I love a bookish story, especially when the books are a part of the story. Our MC is finding “clues” written in her beloved romance books and a local (hot) guy is willing to help her figure out what they mean by carrying the adventures written on them out. He clearly has a crush on her, and she’s a bit of a homebody trying to live it up before she turns thirty.

Small town vibes + bookstore vibes + “just friends”

Laurie Gilmore has crafted the perfect cozy small-town setting of Dream Harbor. I love all the characters and enjoy getting to keep coming back to the town with each new release. The Cinnamon Bun Bookstore was the perfect combination of cute and cozy with the right amount of spice added. I love how a town with so many characters can have such well-rounded and well-written personalities. Hazel and Noah may be my new favorites or maybe that will keep changing with each book release. I read this right at the beginning of September and as a seasonal reader, I loved the end of summer beginning of fall setting for this one. I hope to continue reading the Dream Harbor series and if I could have it my way more residents would keep showing up in this town that are perfect for each other, so that Gilmore will keep releasing books!

I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

I enjoyed this book so much that I bought a physical copy so I could read it again!

4.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
After devouring pumpkin spice cafe, I was very fortunate to get approved for a copy of this book from netgalley! Thank you!

Another great fast read! Especially considering that I finished this book in one day. And a work day no less! Once I got home, I had to finish this after reading bit by bit during my day. It is saying a lot because I have been having a harder time keeping up with my physical/kindle reads as opposed to audiobooks since I can listen for most of my day.

I loved the opposites attract, he falls first tropes of this book. Both characters had their insecurities that got in the way and made them keep each other at arms length. Like the first book, this was a little miscommunication-y but more like the characters were keeping up their guards instead of not talking to each other or omitting truths. They both were saying things and acting in what they thought the other wanted or needed, which I found less grating than in the first book. This was the only detractor for me, but it was more forgivable here

And extra credit for the book club mentioning a sub genre of romance books and specific things I've come to love and VERY much enjoy recently *blushes hard* it made me giggle and I love that this book and the last one made me smile and giggle while reading.

Now, do I dare move on to christmas tree farming while fall isn't here yet?! I'm probably going to have to!

Another perfect story in Dream Harbor. I think I liked this one more than the first because there’s a lot of similarities between me & Hazel. I’m a homebody. An indoor cat. Like Hazel, as I approach my thirties I worry I’ll regret how I’ve spent my time. But unlike me Hazel decides to do something about it. Hazel & Noah decide to have a summer of fun before her 30th birthday. Noah is a total cinnamon roll book boyfriend which couldn’t be more fitting given the title of the book. This was seriously just a fun & cute read. And yes there’s spice too. I’m excited for the 3rd in the series, The Christmas Tree Farm, which comes out next month.

Thank you NetGalley & Harper Collins 360 for the advance copy.

There is a reason this series is an internet sensation! I loved the first book in this series and the second one did not disappoint! I think I speak for all of us readers to say that we love anything in a bookstore and one that has cinnamon rolls on Sundays what could be better than that. I really enjoyed following Hazel and Noah as they investigated the clues left around the shop. I feel like I was more invested in the character of this book and really enjoyed watching both fall in love! This is the perfect fall book to cozy up with and I can’t wait to disappear back into dream harbor I need the next book ASAP. I would rather hangout with the characters in dream harbor than work any day of the week! Great HEA! I also enjoyed the level of spice in this book.

Thank you, Net Galley, the author, and the publisher for an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.

If you are interested in a cozy fall book with a little bit of spice in a small town this book is for you. I was hooked from the beginning and I have told all my friends about it! I'm so grateful for the opportunity to receive this arc. Thank you and hope everyone enjoys this cozy fall book.

I’ve been excited to read Noah and Hazel’s story ever since I read The Pumpkin Spice Café last year. I had so many theories about how their story would play out, and none of them were right, but I LOVED the way it unfolded. Seeing Hazel open up to the world was so heartwarming, and seeing Noah's sensitive side and insecurities made me just want to hug him. I had so much fun reading this book, and now I really need Mac and Annie’s story!

Thank you so much, NetGalley and Harper 360 for sending me this ARC.

HANSOF! HANSOF! HANSOF!
I loved Hazel and Noah so much!!! The way this man was down bad for her from the beginning is everything.
“I was prepared to read every damn book in the bookstore just to spend more time with you.” MY HEART! It’s giving Gilmore Girls when Dean is like “We could go to a bookstore and I’ll watch you browse for six or seven hours.” 😭 I’m so happy I read this now instead of waiting for Autumn. The book is mostly late Summer going into Autumn towards the end.

This book was so stinkin cute, and the perfect summer-to-fall transition love story!

First off, the fact that this starts off in a bookstore and Hazel works there, I’m already in😅

I relate with Hazel so much, so this was such a cute read, with the mystery component thrown in! Noah is so sweet with her and reassuring of her when she feels uneasy about herself. He cares for her, all of who she is, and helps her gain confidence in herself.
And he also reads?! SWOON.

Definitely a small-town romance trope, which I am here for!! I love how through their little adventures, they get to know each other more and growing in their feelings for each other.
This was such a cute story from beginning to end, and I can’t wait to keep reading more books by Laurie Gilmore!

Overall a super cute fluffy romance! This was the second enstallment in the series and really enjoyed it! I thought it was the perfect cozy fall book to kick off the season and it put me in the best mood!! Hazel and Noah were perfect for one another<3

I AM HERE FOR #HANSOF!!!! This book was absolutely delicious. I had so much fun with Noah and Hazel, and the side characters. Five very enthusiastic stars!!!! Thank you for ARC!!!

I LOVED this!! When I saw there was a new book to read for Fall I was super excited. The characters are engaging and the slice is just the right amount. I’m probably going to reread both of the books again further into Fall. They are definite favorites for me. Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the gift of this book.

✨📚🥐 The Cinnamon Bun Book Store by Laurie Gilmore 🥐📚✨

I would love to spend a Saturday morning eating pastries and browsing books at the Cinnamon Bun Book Store. It is truly every bookish gals dream stop.

If you are a fan of small town romances like the Bellinger Sister series by Tessa Bailey or the Lovelight Farms series by B.K. Borison, this is the series for you. Sweet friendships, spicy romances, and lots of small town drama mixed in—yes, please!

This book is a light read following the summer adventures of Hazel, a local bookstore manager who is two months from her 30th birthday and has found herself mid-crisis about how mild and uneventful her twenties were. She enlists Noah, local fishing guide and town hottie to join her as she attempts to make the most of her remaining twenties. And they might just find that what they are doing is more than just fun.

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️.5/5

Thank you NetGalley and Harper 360 for the ARC of this book! 🥰

When I saw The Cinnamon Bun Book Store was available on NetGalley I jumped at the opportunity to read another Laurie Gilmore book. After falling in love with Dream Harbor through The Pumpkin Spice Cafe I knew I needed to take a trip back asap. Noah and Hazel are perfectly sweet, the definition of a Hallmark-sappy love. I really don't know what I can say other than this book is feel good from beginning to end and had me kicking my feet the entire time. Once again, Laurie Gilmore lived up to the Gilmore name, providing all the small town, feel-good sappiness. I cannot wait for the next one.

Laurie? Keep 'em comin' :)

♡ I received an arc copy of The Cinnamon Bun Bookstore in exchange for an honest review... that being said, let’s get into it! :)

♡ This is such a cute cozy read, perfect to read during the transition from summer to fall! It has opposites attract, reverse age gap (4 years), mystery, friends with benefits, he falls first, and small town vibes! Hazel is nearing her thirtieth birthday with dread because she feels that she hasn't lived her twenties to the fullest. But as mystery clues pop up around her bookstore, she sees it as an opportunity to have some fun during her last few months of her twenties by having a grand summer adventure following these clues. She decides to recruit the local fisherman, Noah, to help her follow said clues in order to have a fun-filled summer! And they have fun... in many ways!

♡ This was a light fluffy read, with some serious moments and feels. The topic of anxiety, over perfection, fear of what other people think, and a need to be successful was represented well in this book and written in a manner that made it so relatable to the readers. You really felt for the characters and resonated with them. I loved it, it made them more than just characters you read about on a page.

♡ Hazel and Noah were so cute! I loved their journey of figuring out their footing, and growing to love not only each other but themselves as well. I LOVED the town meeting scene! It was just so cute and I giggled the whole time. It really reminded me of the town hall meetings in Gilmore Girls.

Laurie Gilmore brought all the happy tears with this one! I would describe this book as cozy, spicy fun! Sub-categorized as erotica but I did not find the spice level required that genre. Like 4 peppers/5.

I adored the main character, Hazel! She was so much fun to unravel. And the newness and awkwardness of her new love gave me all the feels!
I did not even realize this was the 2nd book of a series so they can definitely be read independently. Though I loved the characters and setting so much I will be going back to read the first book.
A quaint little town that made me feel like I was watching a Hallmark movie. So precious!

Overall great, fun read!

I've completely fallen in love with the town of Dream Harbor and the residents who live there! This is the second book or visit to the town and our favorite bookseller finds the town playboy willing to help her with a summer of fun! This story is the sweet romance that you are looking for especially if you like your spice leaning towards the hotter side. The first book was sweet with a touch of spice, this book is sweet with hotter spice! I can't wait to visit Dream Harbor again soon to see which resident or residents will be featured! Witty banter, unique characters, fun antics and great friendships as well as quality spice make this the must-read book you didn't know you needed. You don't absolutely have to read the books in order, but I highly recommend it as you'll get more enjoyment and the characters build from book to book. Now all I have to do is wait for the author to write another book in the series....soon please!!!

This book was amazing. Hands down a new romance favorite. Noah and Hazel felt like really fleshed out characters with genuine internal obstacles and backstories, without it ever feeling too heavy. They had immediate, palpable chemistry that transitioned so smoothly into more. This was my first foray into the series but I can’t wait to read them all.

thank you Netgalley for the e arc.
STOP. These books are so cute. They are the epitome of fun, cozy, autumn vibes. I can’t wait for the next books

This book was even better than the first!!! PSC was a cutesy, hallmark book but CBBS brought the spice the first was lacking! I am obsessed with Noah and Hazel! I want more of them! Such a cute story line and I loved where the plot went! A little mystery like the first book as well! I cannot wait to read the Christmas tree farm and learn about Kira and Ben!!

I was so happy to return to the town of Dream Harbor! And who doesn't love a good opposites attract trope? Introverted bookworm, Hazel, meets town playboy and local fisherman, Noah. There is an insta-love quality to their relationship, but there are so many cute moments and pining to make up for it. Overall, this is such a fun and cozy read and perfect transition from the summer season to fall.

Ok, this is the absolute sweetest book! This book was even better than the 1st in the series ( The Pumpkin Spice Cafe)and I wasn't sure that was even possible. Hazel and Noah are absolutely perfect together. Noah became my favorite contemporary romance boyfriend. He is compassionate, empathetic and wants to make himself better to be worthy of Hazel. I absolutely melted for him. That ending and the gestures he made.....OH MY GOD.

It was so fun to go back to Dream Harbor and see what characters from the previous book were up to and to truly see this as a cozy little town that is big on taking care of their own. I feel like these characters resemble friends of my own, and it really is so easy to connect and fall in love with them and want to know what's going on in their lives. I am so thoroughly impressed with Laurie Gilmore and how she has brought this series to life.

First off love the storyline, I loved the talking about changing a decade and the genuine feelings that come with that. I loved the characters so much and the continuation of the group of friends we got to meet and love in Pumpkin Spice Cafe. It is a perfect book to cozy up with a blanket and read! Cannot wait to read the next one.

Thank you so much to netgalley for the eARC in exchange for an honest review!

This was so cute! I love a good small town, spicy romance. I read it in one sitting and stayed up late to finish it.
I would describe this book as Gilmore Girls meets Tessa Bailey It Happened One Summer. I love anything to do with books and bookstores, so I loved that she worked at the bookstore and the plot was driven by clues hidden in books.

It inspired me to read the first in the series, The Pumpkin Spice Cafe and it was also great! I pre-ordered the next two that are coming out too.

Thank you to Netgalley and Harper 360 for providing me with an early copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. For more book content, follow me @romantic.ally_ on instagram

I received this book as an ARC. This is the second book in the Dream Harbor series and was such a perfect summer to fall romance. Getting to see Hazel and Noah work through their personal insecurities while falling in love and learning to communicate really tugged on the heart strings. There was the perfect amount of cute moments to make you root for their love story to have a happy ending. I will definitely be reading the rest of the series once it’s released.

This sweet book is as easy to read as it is to breathe!

Hazel has always been responsible and as she’s on the cusp of turning 30 she decides she wants to be a bit more reckless and fun. As clues pop up through her bookstore, they lead her on an adventurous scavenger hunt, and she asks Noah, the gorgeous local fisherman to help her see them through.

I was hooked from the first 10 pages –– Hazel and Noah are both so dang likable! They quickly became more than friends and I enjoyed the spicy scenes and sweet vibes between them.

You’ll Like ‘The Cinnamon Bun Bookstore’ If You Enjoy:
- A little bit of mystery 🔍
- Small Town Romance
- Steamy scenes with consent 🔥
- Cute laughable moments
- Books with a Bookstore (duh!) 📚
- He Falls First 💫
- Miscommunication Trope
- LGBTQIA+ inclusion (softly woven into supporting characters)

The author shares this is a guaranteed HEA and without giving anything away, I will say that Noah’s grand gesture had me swooning! 🥹🥹🥹

A Few of My Favorite Quotes:
- ‘Trust me, okay? I’ll keep you safe. Promise.’ She tipped her face up to his. ‘I do trust you. There’s just a lot of ways this could go wrong.’ ‘Yeah, but think of all the ways it could go right.’
- Because what more did one need besides good friends, good books, and the occasional cinnamon bun?

PS – This is a great standalone book, so don’t hesitate to read it before the series prequel ‘The Pumpkin Spice Cafe’!

THANK YOU to Laurie Gilmore, NetGalley, and Harper 360 for the eARC copy in exchange for my review!

I am loving this series so far. so cozy with added spice. I love the mystery elements in this series. cannot wait for the next couple of books to come out!
definitely worth the hype I've been seeing all over social media

Dual POV, Spicy, Bookish FMC & MMC, He Falls First, Small Town, Opposites Attract

"She was allowed to be content. She was allowed to not want anything more than this."

Okay, this book absolutely took me by surprise. Not only does Laurie Gilmore deliver a perfect cozy, fall romance but the overall theme of this book is all about self acceptance and self love. Shedding expectations from society, friends, and family and just loving yourself the way you are. This book feels like having your favorite person handing you your favorite warm drink and placing a kiss on your forehead.

Cinnamon Bun Bookstore is the perfect combination of hallmark movie meets spicy romance. Laurie Gilmore creates the coziest and dreamiest small town you can imagine, Dream Harbor. As she approaches turning 30, Hazel is feeling stuck in her career and life and general. After a drunken kiss is a blueberry patch, Noah, the fun time fisherman agrees to teach her how to let loose and be a little reckless to help her feel less stuck in life. This was the perfect combination of sweetness with some spice and a book lovers dream! I mean, a scavenger hunt of clues left in books, the FMC managers a bookstore while her best friend owns the local bookstore down the street, what more could you want? As if Noah wasn’t swoonworthy enough, his relationship with his nieces and their friendship bracelets had me tearing up. This one has all the fall feels and has me so excited to head into cozy season!

Will be posting on Instagram in the next 1-2 weeks

Hazel and Noah were a great story! Sweet meets spicy in the second Dream Harbor book. An unlikely couple have quickly become one of my favorites. If you are in the mood for a cute, small town romance with a touch of spice, this one is for you!

This was a very cute and spicy follow up for the Dream Harbor series. I enjoyed the scavenger hunt activity that Hazel and Noah completed together and seeing how they went from casual to more. 3rd person point of view isn’t my favorite but I felt like this one was done well and had a nice flow in the story.

I was so excited to read about Hazel and Noah. I loved the treasure hunt that brought them together. It was a new spin on a romance. I also enjoyed the little peak we get of other characters from past and (hopefully) future stories. These are cute cozy romances that can get you out of a slump quick!

Love Love Love!!
I enjoyed the first book in the series, which is why I requested the second book (and third). You get a little insight into them in the first book, which is why I was so excited the 2nd book was for them. I will note the 2nd book can be a standalone and you do not need to read the first in the series, but I do recommend just because it is good! Hazel's personality just cracks me up! Will be starting the 3rd book ASAP.

The title of this book should have been "Hazel Kelly CAN Have Fun." It was an adorable love story between a woman who didn't give herself enough credit, and a slightly younger man who didn't give himself any credit. Steamy but still sweet, with (thank god) NO third act break up. I look forward to more titles from this aithor!

🍂🍁What a PERFECT way to welcome fall! 🍁🍂

The Cinnamon Bun Bookstore is cute, cozy, comfy read to welcome the season of cinnamon, sweaters, and hot chocolate. This is book two in the series, and while I did not read the first before consuming this treat (though I sure did once I finished it) I was pleasantly surprised at the characters, storyline and author.

Hazel is the typical, everyday wallflower in her quant little bookstore, happy to live her happiness in the books that she reads. Noah on the other hand is an introvert's worst nightmare, (aka mine lol) he is the social, outgoing ladies man. Not exactly a cupid's couple, but that doesn’t mean a thing when Noah falls for the quiet little bookworm. Hazel is happy to live in her smalltown, living the same day with her same friends, she is used to it. Who needs all the other stuff anyway?

Right?

Nope. Slowly Hazel starts to get mysterious dog eared messages on the pages of specific books in her store. What do they mean? And more so; who are they from? Deciding to embrace something new and spontaneous; Hazel dives deep into the messages, wanting to solve the mystery. When Noah sees the messages by chance, Hazel requests his help in solving the riddle, and maybe something a little more…

To say this book was cheesy would be an understatement, but in the best way possible. The grin I had on my face while reading it was probably just as cheesy, but who cares lol For an author I have never read before, I was overjoyed to have the smalltown romance, but with such great spice! Noah and Hazel are such a cute couple, and how they get together is even better. The whole premise of Hazel having so many regrets before she turns thirty is really relatable for so many people, so when she takes a chance on Noah it has real meaning. While he may be a playboy, he is a sweet, caring guy that has had a crush on Hazel for years, so of course it makes sense for him to jump at the chance to help her out. Very happy with the book and very much looking forward to the rest of the series!

4 ⭐
2.5 🌶️