The Cinnamon Spice Inn 🍂☕️🧡

If you’re looking for a cozy fall romance, this book is it! The story is based in Maple Falls, which the author described so perfectly that you can practically feel the crisp fall air and smell the cinnamon rolls. From the cozy inn, town fall festivals, fall treats, and other small town charm, this book felt like a warm hug. For fans of Laurie Gilmore, you’d love this one!! The cover is so cute and definitely matches the vibes inside the book.

Madison comes back to Maple Falls to help her family’s inn after a mysterious letter showed up to her apartment in NYC. While she’s back home, Madison runs into her ex and first love, Zach. They have to work together to fix up the inn for a big Halloween opening so they can bring people back in and also help the town get back on track.

My only problem with it is that there was some serious miscommunication between Madison & Zach over a situation that happened years ago that could’ve easily been resolved by a quick conversation. Instead, they drug it out for a good chunk of the book before finally addressing all of their feelings from the past. It’s still definitely worth checking out, but be prepared for there to be a few frustrating moments with the characters.

I received a copy of both the book and audiobook and I really loved the audio! The narrators did a great job and were so easy to listen to! I definitely recommend listening if you’re a fan of audiobooks.

🍂 Small Town vs City Life
🧡 Second Chance
🍂 Cozy Vibes
🧡 Forced Proximity
🍂 Opposites Attract
🧡 First Love

Thank you to NetGalley, Bookouture and Harper Graham for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!

A cute no thoughts needed fall romance. For fans of Dream Harbor and small town romance. While quite predictable, banter was decent. Some of the dialogue could’ve been much more natural and felt like plot struggled in points. However it’s great to fulfill that fall romance you’re likely looking for

Narrator was okay but wasn’t a big fan of her narrating the men or other women characters that weren’t Madison. The spice level did surprise me. The storyline was frustrating at times with the miscommunication. I wish the story was more descriptive with the scenes of Fall.

I picked up The Cinnamon Spice Inn on NetGalley during an unseasonably cool end of summer day when I was already craving all things fall. Harper Graham absolutely nailed the fall atmosphere in this one. Think: a small-town inn in October, a pumpkin festival, cozy sweaters, crisp days, bonfires, coffee, and all the autumn feels.
The story follows Madison, a NYC food writer who returns home to her family’s struggling inn. Coming back means facing a lot: her ex, old friends, the grief of losing a parent, and the question of whether she can save the family business that the whole town depends on. It’s a second chance romance with small town charm.
I listened to the audiobook and it was such a cute, quick read. The narration fit the romcom vibe perfectly, though it definitely had a few more steamy moments than I usually read (so if that’s your thing, you’ll love it!). Overall, this one gave me exactly what I wanted, an easy, cozy fall romance with lots of pumpkin spice vibes. It hits shelves on August 28, 2025, just in time for your fall TBR

Madison is currently residing in NYC, but finds herself back in her home town Maple Falls to save The Cinnamon Spice Inn. The problem with that is the best handyman in town happens to be her very attractive ex, Zach. I loved all of the fall vibes and the Pumpkin Fest. The foods and desserts are one of my favorite things about Fall. The Smores Truffle sounded so mouth watering and creative.

Madison realizes how nostalgic her home town is and how much she actually misses it. There is no doubt that there are strong feelings still between Zach and Madison. Madison struggles a lot internally and has difficulty communicating her feelings and problems with Zach which is frustrating at times. Zach goes above and beyond to show her how strong his feelings are. Madison is burdened with having decide what she wants to do with her future. Does she want to go far away and pursue her dreams or does she want to stay and take over the inn? Thank you to Netgalley, Bookouture Audio, and Harper Graham for an ARC of this audiobook. This review is my own honest opinion.

She left without notice. They grew apart. Her family’s inn is in trouble but her life is in the city. When she returns, her doesn’t expect it.

I went in with low expectations and I’m positive that if it hadn’t been an audiobook that I could listen to in a day, I would’ve DNFd.

The vibes were fine and kinda cozy but so much felt surface level and forced, unfortunately. I never really felt the chemistry between the characters even though it was second chance so the chemistry should’ve been OFF THE CHARTS.

The issues they had were just miscommunication after miscommunication. And I don’t hate the miscommunication if it makes sense, but this was the annoying kind, unfortunately.

I wasn’t even invested in the story until about 88% in and the FMC had an actual conflict to solve but even that was….disjointed.

I also wish the narration had been dual because it was difficult to distinguish the POVs given it’s in 3rd person.

Overall, I sadly don’t recommend this book. Thank you NetGalley for this ALC in exchange for an honest review.

This book is comparable to The Pumpkin Spice Cafe, so if you loved that book, I think you'll enjoy this one. I, however, unfortunately was not a fan of the execution of The Pumpkin Spice Cafe. Maybe cozy, low stakes, fluffy, spicy, small town romances just aren't for me? I didn't like it at first, but the story grew on me, so I give it a 2.5 stars rounded up. It's like a hallmark movie set in the fall.

The story just felt kind of shallow at first because neither character, the protagonist nor the MMC really knew what they wanted and didn't have very many concrete goals other than "get the inn back on its feet." So much of this book could've been resolved if they had actually talked, both in the beginning of the story and the ending relied heavily on them avoiding each other and leaving things unsaid. The amount of time the characters spent thirsting after each other was kinda annoying to me, because to me it felt like it took up half of the POV character's inner monologue whenever their love interest was in the room. Most of the characters felt flat.

Props to the audiobook narrator, she did a great job in terms of narrating the story.

It was just unsatisfying to me, so I don't think I was the right audience for it. If you like them spicy, cozy, and low stakes and are okay with a lot of miscommunication, you might like this.

Thank you Netgalley and Bookouture Audio for an advanced audiobook of this story in exchanged for an honest review.

Thank you to the publisher and #NetGalley for the ARC audiobook.

Our weather just turned a little cooler as I listened to this cozy romance book set during the fall. Madison is living away from her small town when she receives an anonymous note that tells her that the family inn is struggling since her mother passed away. She is a food journalist in the city but leaves it behind to see what she can do to help. Almost immediately she is thrust into the small town life and her long ago boyfriend. It is very apparent in the beginning but their are some smoldering embers between those two. Madison digs sin to help clean up the Inn and get it ready for a new release. While working she gets a job offer that is her dream job. Can she leave the small town life, her family and her old boyfriend behind for the perfect job. Or does she dig into the new job? Such a cute read with and great narration. I can feel this town becoming a book series for sure. Many characters to draw from.

received an ALC from netgalley for this book's audiobook. thank you for the chance!

the cinnamon spice inn? more like the miscommunication inn! I have to say, the miscommunication/misunderstanding trope isn't my thing, especially when it's done multiple times in a book. I think I liked the overall plot but the misunderstandings were kind of a lot. they really need to learn how to communicate. both madison and zach are at fault here!

the plot reminded me of a hallmark movie—big city girl comes back to her small hometown and has multiple run-ins with the boy she used to have a thing with. I liked how there was the mystery of who sent the letter to madison in the first place.

overall, it was a fine listen. maple falls is a cute town and I would be willing to try other books in this series!

3.75 stars rounded up

The Cinnamon Spice Inn by Harper Graham is a second chance romance that follows Madison and Zach. Madison recently came to visit to help her family's Inn after a mysterious note showed up in her apartment in New York City. During her visit she sees her ex-boyfriend Zach again, who is still the handsome small town boy she left after seeing him with another woman. Madison and Zach must work together to revamp the Inn so the town can get back on track.

What did I think? I loved the cute fall vibes, I give it top marks for that. I also read this book in what I consider to be technically one sitting. I enjoyed myself but sometimes it was like reading a horny teenager's journal which is hilarious and entertaining but I don't know if it was what the book intended. The two main characters were incapable of having a conversation without wanting to jump each other's bones. To be honest, it was a little distracting. I wish there was more substance between them other than they think the other person is hot. But I want to reiterate, I had a great time reading this book.

I would recommend this book to people who enjoy fall vibes as it gives that so much. I do want to point out that the book was also just one big misunderstanding plot so if you don't like misunderstandings this is not for you but if you like them... boy will you love this book! I would also not recommend this book to anyone looking for high stakes, this is a cozy book.

I want to take a second to praise the narrators. I enjoyed them a lot but I did wish it was a duet rather than the male narrator doing the voice of the woman and the woman doing the voice of the male narrator in their chapters. I still want to say that they were both great, I just wished they were great together.

Tropes: misunderstanding, small town, second chance, rivals to lovers, forced proximity, childhood sweethearts

Triggers: death of a parent (mentioned)

Thank you to NetGalley, Bookouture, Bookouture Audio, and Harper Graham for giving me the opportunity to review this ARC. All opinions are my own.

3.5 ⭐️This book is like stepping into a postcard perfect small town in peak autumn—crisp air, golden leaves, and the comforting scent of cinnamon drifting from the inn’s kitchen. The setting was beautifully done, and the inn itself felt like a character: warm, inviting, and full of memories. The vibes were charming, the characters sweet, and the themes of second chances and found family gave me all the warm fuzzies. Harper Graham has a lovely way of capturing small-town magic.

I especially loved the theme of friendship and family. Watching old friends return to their hometown to support loved ones added so much heart to the story. Their bond felt genuine, and those scenes gave me all the cozy, nostalgic feels.

Where it fell short for me was the central romance. The miscommunication trope took center stage, but instead of adding tension, it left both main characters feeling stuck and disconnected. I wanted more emotional growth and clarity between them to really root for their love story.

Still, Cinnamon Spice Inn delivers a sweet, seasonal escape with themes of second chance romance, close knit community and hometown vibes. A lovely pick for anyone craving a fall-flavored read with a touch of romance.

🎃 🍂 🎃 🍂
Tropes:
Enemies to lovers
Forced proximity
Small-town vs. city life
Opposites attract
Second chance romance
Miscommunication
Childhood sweethearts
Work romance
Spicy

The Cinnamon Spice Inn by Harper Graham is the definition of a cozy, autumn romance. With the small-town charm, pumpkin-spice atmosphere vibes, it’s easy to see how this story will appeal to fans of Gilmore Girls-style romance mixed with a touch of heat.

The narration is where this audiobook really shines. Andi Eloise delivers Madison’s character with warmth, emotion, and great pacing that kept the dialogue engaging. Brandon Francis, though only featured briefly, brought his usual polished performance and depth. I always enjoy listening to his narration in any project!

While the story itself didn’t fully capture me all the way through, I can see it being a perfect choice for listeners looking for a light, seasonal romance. Between the setting, the inn’s relaunch, and the second-chance romance sparks, it’s a sweet listen!

3⭐️ 2🌶️ 4🎧 I am not a fan of the miscommunication troupe, but this book was so dang sweet! Their miscommunication started when they were young and was the catalyst for their separation, and the animosity from it is holding strong in the present day. Even with my least favorite troupe, I really enjoyed this book! It had all the cozy fall vibes I was hoping for!

Zach and Madison were good together, at least when they communicated with each other. I do wish we had more of them being good together, but it seemed that 80% of the book they couldn’t even talk about being in the same book, let alone the same page. Their lack of communication does not give me any confidence in a long-term relationship, but this is fiction so they will be happy forever!

This book was narrated by Andi Eloise and the bonus content is narrated by Brandon Francis. With two narrators I assumed this was dual 1st person POV and was bummed to find out this book was written in 3rd person POV with only one Andi for the story and Brandon for the bonus content. Overall, they both did a good job narrating the book and I enjoyed this listen.

Thank you @NetGalley and Bookouture Audio for this advanced copy audiobook in exchange for an honest review.

This was a sweet escape for me!

Madison grew up in a SMALL town with lots of small town vibes, people and stores. Her home was the local Inn and her family ran it. But, several years ago she moved away for school, and to begin her career. Although she had the love of her life back home, things just didn't work out for them...

Zach grew up in the same small town, but, he stayed there. Although the love of his life, Madison aka Maddie left, he never stopped loving her. But, he must go on... and so, he is now the small town's handyman. And, did I mention that as he grew up he got even more handsome!

So, all these years later, when Maddie gets a typewritten note stating that her father desperately needs her help to keep the Inn afloat, well... what else can she do? She takes time off and returns home!

I'm going to 🛑STOP 🛑 RIGHT 🛑 HERE!!

There is a lot going on in this one with a whole bunch of ancillary characters, but they ALL play a part in the weave of this book! And, I dare you to not fall in love with each and every one of them!!

4 big, cinnamon-pumpkin stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ for me!! You could smell the sweet Fall scents coming from this one as you read!!!

#TheCinnamonSpiceInn (Maple Falls, Book #1) by @HarperGraham and narrated nicely by @AndiEloise and @BrandonFrancis.
Did I also mention that this looks like a Debut Novel for this author!!! Kudos!!

** THIS HAS NOT YET BEEN RELEASED, BUT LOOK FOR IT ON SHELVES THIS WEEK... 8/28/25 **

Thanks so much to #NetGalley and #BookoutureAudio for an ARC of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review.

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I love an autumn based book and this cover is eye catching! The spice was a bit more than I expected but I still enjoyed it. A bit predictable but most second chance tropes are. I enjoyed the narrator and overall an enjoyable listen. Rounded up to 4 stars. Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for this audio arc.

Amé demasiado la ambientación de este libro. Los “cozy fall vibes” y las descripciones de la autora me sumergieron al pequeño pueblo de Maple Falls. Me sentía allí, comiéndome un rico cinnamon roll con apple butter y un pumpkin spice latte.

Siento que el pace de la lectura fue bastante rápido y ligero pero hubiese deseado más profundidad en el desarrollo de los personajes, sobre todo más tensión entre los personajes principales. El miscommunication trope no fue de mi agrado en esta lectura y me traía frustrada.

Si estás buscando una lectura cozy y con todos los fall vibes 🍁 quizás esta pueda ser para ti.

Madison is back in her small town after receiving a mysterious letter. She needs to help her father salvage their beloved Cinnamon Spice Inn, still suffering after the death of Madison's mother years before. Almost immediately, Madison is confronted with her past in the form of her ex, Zach. They were once white hot, but crashed and burned, and now they can barely be around one another. Can Madison come to terms with the death of her mother, the choices she's made, and leave the door open for a second chance at romance?

This book packs in the fall feels. The small town vibes were excellent as well. We get cameos of cute animals, delicious desserts, and autumn scenes so fun you'll be wishing that it's fall RIGHT NOW. The narrator does an excellent job of bringing third person omniscient storytelling to life through the eyes of both of our main characters.

I had a hard time rooting for this couple, as the multiple miscommunications we encounter felt easily fixable. I never understood why they loved each other, either. The author attempts to add extra spice to this novel via the protagonists' fantasies. As someone who prefers spice that moves the plot along and is tied to emotional connection, these scenes felt hollow and formulaic.

Bottom Line: If you're in the mood for some spice, drama, and small town fall fun, you'll enjoy this book.

Trigger warnings: third act break up (not quite a trigger, but I'm including it anyway, LOL), death of a mother (before story begins), grieving the loss of a mother

I'd like to thank Bookouture Audio and Netgalley for the ALC of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.

Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the ARC in exchange for an honest review of this book.

The Cinnamon Spice Inn by Harper Graham is a cozy, small-town romance set in autumn. Madison, a food writer from New York, returns to her hometown to help save her family's struggling inn. There, she’s forced to work with her ex, Zach, a local handyman, leading to a slow-burn, second-chance romance. The story is filled with fall charm, festive town vibes, and classic romance tropes like forced proximity and rekindled love.

This made my slow burn heart so happy. We all know how romance books end so I was rooting for Madison and Zach the whole time. I’m not a fan of the miscommunication trope, but this time it felt very minimal. It’s wasn’t drawn out like so many other books and was resolved quickly.

I was a big fan of the mystery behind all the letters and was happy that I guessed who sent them.

This was the cozy book I needed to get me ready for fall.

I want to thank Netgalley and the author for gifting me the audiobook.
I was very excited to read this. I loved the cover and it is perfect for fall time!
But it is very very sexual and I just didn't care for this. I thought by the synopsis and the cover it was just a cozy rom com Hallmark type story but no. It was just a no for me.

Madison is on the path to living her best life in NYC as a food writer. Her plans all come to a halt when she receives an anonymous letter urging her to come back home to Maple Falls, the small town she grew up in, because the family business is in trouble. While still getting acclimated to being back, her ex-boyfriend Zach enters the picture and they’re forced to rehash their past and attempt to work together for the good of Madison’s family’s inn.

This book has SO much potential. I loved the cozy autumn setting, the classic fall foods and festivities, and the larger than life personalities of the towns people.

Unfortunately I could just never find myself rooting for Madison and Zach to get back together. The miscommunication was so deeply frustrating, not just once, but multiple times. Neither character had the emotional depth or maturity needed to be in a relationship with the other even in the present time. The several years apart just weren’t enough for them to get it together. I did find the side characters much more enjoyable than the main characters and do hope they get their own stories so we get more of the beauty of Maple Falls featuring the lives of more mature characters.