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Pelican Point #2
Just Desserts in Pelican Point: A Grumpy/Sunshine, Small Town, Romance
He’s all law and order. She’s sugar and spice. When opposites combust, someone’s bound to get burned.
Julie Harper is sunshine in an apron, serving up sweet treats and sass at her new bakery, Seaside Sweets. She’s got big dreams, a loyal girl gang, and zero time for complicated men, especially grumpy cops who look like sin and scowl like it’s their job.
Marcus King likes rules, routine, and keeping his distance. But Julie? She’s chaos in cupcake form. When a tragedy pulls them together, sparks fly, and one night of heat turns into something neither of them saw coming.
Marcus wants to keep things simple. Julie wants more than a fling. In a town full of nosy neighbors, meddling friends, and second chances, these total opposites will have to decide if they’re willing to risk it all for the sweetest reward.
Just Desserts is a steamy small-town romance featuring a sunshine-sweet baker, a broody cop with a protective streak a mile wide, and enough heat to fog up every window in the bakery.
Julie Harper is sunshine in an apron, serving up sweet treats and sass at her new bakery, Seaside Sweets. She’s got big dreams, a loyal girl gang, and zero time for complicated men, especially grumpy cops who look like sin and scowl like it’s their job.
Marcus King likes rules, routine, and keeping his distance. But Julie? She’s chaos in cupcake form. When a tragedy pulls them together, sparks fly, and one night of heat turns into something neither of them saw coming.
Marcus wants to keep things simple. Julie wants more than a fling. In a town full of nosy neighbors, meddling friends, and second chances, these total opposites will have to decide if they’re willing to risk it all for the sweetest reward.
Just Desserts is a steamy small-town romance featuring a sunshine-sweet baker, a broody cop with a protective streak a mile wide, and enough heat to fog up every window in the bakery.
- GenresRomance
158 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 25, 2025
78 people are currently reading
45 people want to read
About the author
Annie Carlisle
55 books70 followersAnnie Carlisle is the author of steamy romantic suspense novels, including the beloved Hibiscus Harbor series. She crafts stories with resilient women and challenging men, offering readers a perfect mix of love, intrigue, and excitement.
A Florida native, Annie has worn many hats throughout her life, including working as a street paramedic and flight medic, but her favorite role has always been storytelling.
When she’s not writing, Annie is a lover of all animals, especially dogs. She’s an avid collector of all things Goofy and believes in the magic of happily ever after, both on and off the page. Married to a retired Sheriff’s Deputy, Annie enjoys spending time with her husband and their dogs, whether at the beach, the dog park, or relaxing at home.
To learn more about her work, visit her website: www.AnnieCarlisle.com.
A Florida native, Annie has worn many hats throughout her life, including working as a street paramedic and flight medic, but her favorite role has always been storytelling.
When she’s not writing, Annie is a lover of all animals, especially dogs. She’s an avid collector of all things Goofy and believes in the magic of happily ever after, both on and off the page. Married to a retired Sheriff’s Deputy, Annie enjoys spending time with her husband and their dogs, whether at the beach, the dog park, or relaxing at home.
To learn more about her work, visit her website: www.AnnieCarlisle.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
April 25, 2025
Super cute story. A grumpy cop and a sunshine baker. Great afternoon read when you want to just get away. Fun story and precious ending. A delicious treat 😊
May 11, 2025
SUGAR, SPICE, AND SUNSHINE
The story is the beginning of the Pelican Point series, a small coastal town with a delightful cast of unique characters. A group of friends who band together, have their game nights, and support each other—especially at Seaside Sweets, owned and operated by Julie Harper.
A former Army Ranger and present-day law enforcement officer is a haunted man by past missions that took the lives of friends. He is a man of routine, but has added a trip to Seaside Sweets for a take-out coffee and raspberry Danish.
The story’s plot revolves around a group of friends who support one another. One fixture in the town will be Violet Waverly, who owns the florist, Waverly Blooms, next to Seaside Sweets. She believed in Julie and even gave her a check to back her faith in her. The sudden death of Violet will have Julie and Marcus pull together, where he offers her support during the crisis. Before they know it, they will go to game night together and take their attraction to an intimate level. But a moment of panic leaves both of them confused and hurt. Will they find their way back to one another?
“I’d rather be scared with you than safe without you.”
The story is the beginning of the Pelican Point series, a small coastal town with a delightful cast of unique characters. A group of friends who band together, have their game nights, and support each other—especially at Seaside Sweets, owned and operated by Julie Harper.
A former Army Ranger and present-day law enforcement officer is a haunted man by past missions that took the lives of friends. He is a man of routine, but has added a trip to Seaside Sweets for a take-out coffee and raspberry Danish.
The story’s plot revolves around a group of friends who support one another. One fixture in the town will be Violet Waverly, who owns the florist, Waverly Blooms, next to Seaside Sweets. She believed in Julie and even gave her a check to back her faith in her. The sudden death of Violet will have Julie and Marcus pull together, where he offers her support during the crisis. Before they know it, they will go to game night together and take their attraction to an intimate level. But a moment of panic leaves both of them confused and hurt. Will they find their way back to one another?
“I’d rather be scared with you than safe without you.”
May 11, 2025
sweet story
This was a sweet story, an enjoyable quick read. Short and sweet, nice when you want a quick read without a lot of depth.
This was a sweet story, an enjoyable quick read. Short and sweet, nice when you want a quick read without a lot of depth.
Read
July 22, 2025great
April 20, 2025
A quick read somewhere between instalove and slow burn. The author does a lovely job of transporting the reader to Pelican Point. There's a boardwalk, winery, flower shop, and bakery which is where this story is based. Julie owns her own bakery and has a fun group of friends and a group of elder women in the community who guide them. She doesn't have a love life, but her life is full in other ways. She protects her heart well as she's experienced loss in the past. Marcus is a local police officer and former Army Ranger who longs for a deeper relationship with Julie, but fears his past makes him unworthy of someone so special. It takes a bit, but with open communication together they can overcome their fears. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 12, 2025
This story delivers a compelling blend of instalove and slow burn, capturing the essence of what a small-town romance should be. The author expertly transports readers to the vibrant setting of Pelican Point, featuring a boardwalk, winery, flower shop, and, of course, a charming bakery where the story unfolds.
Julie is a strong, independent bakery owner with a spirited group of friends and wise elder women in the community who provide invaluable guidance. While she may not be focused on romance, her life is richly fulfilling in other aspects. Having experienced loss in the past, she deftly protects her heart.
Conversely, Marcus, a local police officer and former Army Ranger, longs for a deeper connection with Julie. However, his insecurities about his past lead him to believe he is unworthy of her. It takes time, but they find a way to overcome their fears through open communication.
This is how a small-town romance should look: a remarkable heroine, a captivating yet grumpy hero, excellent supporting characters, and a delightful bakery that adds to the charm. The continuation of this story within the world of "Love, Lies, and Celtic Knots" showcases a seamless integration of beloved characters, further solidifying the narrative's cohesion. Two enthusiastic thumbs up!
Julie is a strong, independent bakery owner with a spirited group of friends and wise elder women in the community who provide invaluable guidance. While she may not be focused on romance, her life is richly fulfilling in other aspects. Having experienced loss in the past, she deftly protects her heart.
Conversely, Marcus, a local police officer and former Army Ranger, longs for a deeper connection with Julie. However, his insecurities about his past lead him to believe he is unworthy of her. It takes time, but they find a way to overcome their fears through open communication.
This is how a small-town romance should look: a remarkable heroine, a captivating yet grumpy hero, excellent supporting characters, and a delightful bakery that adds to the charm. The continuation of this story within the world of "Love, Lies, and Celtic Knots" showcases a seamless integration of beloved characters, further solidifying the narrative's cohesion. Two enthusiastic thumbs up!
April 27, 2025
A FANTASTIC beginning to this new series! Julie Harper struggled to make her Seaside Sweets bakery a success and life is finally good. She has a great, supportive group of friends, but hasn’t found that special one…yet. Officer Marcus King stops by the bakery, and places the same order, every morning. He is a former Army Ranger and is still haunted by the past, the mission that went wrong. He is attracted to Julie, but believes that he is not good enough for someone like her. She is attracted to him and they begin to spend more time together as he builds a table for her bakery. After a tragic loss, he consoles her and she begins to hope that there may be something more for them. When he arrives to find that the bakery is being robbed, all bets are off as he takes care of her and finally admits his feelings for her. Why then, after a wonderful evening, does he pull away from her? Will he finally decide that he is willing to fight for her, for her love, for their love? Two amazing main characters, a lovely heartwarming story and a group of charming and protective friends. Loved it and can’t wait for what is next! I received an advance review copy at no cost and without obligation for an honest review. (paytonpuppy)
May 10, 2025
This book is the first in the Pelican Pointe series by Annie Carlisle. The storyline is expertly written to portray the small town vibe which incorporates strong grumpy men, independent sunshine filled women and the best older group of women pedaling off beat one liners within their much needed advice. The characters will make your heart fill with joy and soothe your soul. You will laugh and cry in all the appropriate place because we all want people like this in our life. I could vividly picture and almost taste the sweets within this story as they jumped of the page at me. If you love instalove as well as slow burn Marcus and Julie will keep you turning pages and you will be rooting for them.
September 16, 2025
Marcus is the towns grumpy one word ex Ranger police officer. Smiling and laughing is not on his agenda. Julie is the town baker, who is full of sunshine happiness and is breaking Marcus’s walls down. The two of them slowly stop the chit chat and start to have conversations. One attempted hold up and Marcus knows he is a lost cause to the sunshine baker.
Let’s say it is not plain sailing but wow these two are perfect
Marcus is a man in man and doesn’t his darkness effect Julie, but she doesn’t let him get away with his non talking. She may be sunshine and softness but that woman has one spine of steel.
The right amount of angst, drama and spice.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
Let’s say it is not plain sailing but wow these two are perfect
Marcus is a man in man and doesn’t his darkness effect Julie, but she doesn’t let him get away with his non talking. She may be sunshine and softness but that woman has one spine of steel.
The right amount of angst, drama and spice.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
April 24, 2025
Julie has recently opened a pastry shop in Pelican Point, has made good friends and seems to be doing well. Marcus, on the other hand, is still struggling with his experience in the army, but has made it a point to stop in for his coffee and danish every morning. Still hesitant to make friends, he is sure to keep an eye on her.
I can't say much more as I will give away the story. suffice to say, we all need a group of friends so close that every situation is covered. A short romantic story from Annie Carlisle is always welcome and soothing.
I received a copy from BookSprout and this is my honest and voluntary review.
I can't say much more as I will give away the story. suffice to say, we all need a group of friends so close that every situation is covered. A short romantic story from Annie Carlisle is always welcome and soothing.
I received a copy from BookSprout and this is my honest and voluntary review.
August 30, 2025
Annie Carlisle has created a small community, feel good town like she did with her Hibiscus 🌺 Harbor series (which I also loved). I fell in love with the characters right from the beginning. I also loved the references to neighboring Hibiscus Harbor and their characters.
It was easy to imagine being part of the community. I'm ready to go grab a cup of coffee and a pastry of the day from Julie's Seaside Sweets & know that I'd be safe with Marcus on duty.
Can't wait to read the other books in this series & get to know these new friends in Pelican Point.
I received a free advance review copy from BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
It was easy to imagine being part of the community. I'm ready to go grab a cup of coffee and a pastry of the day from Julie's Seaside Sweets & know that I'd be safe with Marcus on duty.
Can't wait to read the other books in this series & get to know these new friends in Pelican Point.
I received a free advance review copy from BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 22, 2025
Just Desserts in Pelican Point is the 1st short story in the multi-author Pelican Point series published on its own. While it can be read as a standalone, all the couples from the introductory anthology make appearances, so to get the full background, I'd recommend reading that first. Marcus and Julie are both very likeable and relatable characters and their insta-attraction turned slow-burn romance is an entertaining, quick read.
I received an early copy and am leaving this review voluntarily and honestly.
I received an early copy and am leaving this review voluntarily and honestly.
May 18, 2025
A bit of a will he won’t he take a chance read.
I enjoyed this one. It was a shorter read, but a lot was packed into it. A feisty heroine, a broody hero, and loads of sweet treats to go with the heat between the couple. Some great supporting characters that will probably get their own stories as this series develops.
Not all books will be by this author, so look out for more stories with a” Pelican Point” search
I received a review reader’s copy of the book, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
I enjoyed this one. It was a shorter read, but a lot was packed into it. A feisty heroine, a broody hero, and loads of sweet treats to go with the heat between the couple. Some great supporting characters that will probably get their own stories as this series develops.
Not all books will be by this author, so look out for more stories with a” Pelican Point” search
I received a review reader’s copy of the book, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
July 10, 2025
Love and relationships, support and solidarity in a small beach town. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This was a quick read with some good character development and a girl squad that is a lot of fun!
There is some drama, a little sadness, some sexy times, some personal demons to deal with...and then the couple get their HFN (happy for now) ending. While the epilogue was sweet, it really left me wanting more for Julie and Marcus. Maybe that will come in the next book in the series?
This was a quick read with some good character development and a girl squad that is a lot of fun!
There is some drama, a little sadness, some sexy times, some personal demons to deal with...and then the couple get their HFN (happy for now) ending. While the epilogue was sweet, it really left me wanting more for Julie and Marcus. Maybe that will come in the next book in the series?
July 23, 2025
This is my first, but the second book in a multi author series. The book really sets up a whole cast of characters I look forward to seeing more of.
A small town sweet ans slightly spicy romance with Marcus, a grumpy ex military cop and Julie a baker who is as weet as the confections she sells.
They've been eyeing each other for a while now and when events bring them outside of the coffee and danish that is their usual conversations will Marcus and Julie be able to move their frendly moves into something more?
I short sweet read that left me interested in reading more in this series.
A small town sweet ans slightly spicy romance with Marcus, a grumpy ex military cop and Julie a baker who is as weet as the confections she sells.
They've been eyeing each other for a while now and when events bring them outside of the coffee and danish that is their usual conversations will Marcus and Julie be able to move their frendly moves into something more?
I short sweet read that left me interested in reading more in this series.
May 9, 2025
This was a cute and romantic book that took place mostly, but not all, in a cozy coffee shop. Marcus is a quiet former military man who is now a police officer and Julie is more outgoing trying to make a go of her coffee shop but things just click between them. Seems every time Julie needed him he was there. This is #1 in the Pelican Bay series and I’m anxious to read the next one. But enjoy this one first.
May 11, 2025
“Just Desserts in Pelican Point” by Annie Carlisle
-A short, feel-good read perfect for fans of cinnamon roll heroes. I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily sharing my honest opinion.
A grumpy cop and a sunny baker spark sweet chemistry in a cozy small-town romance.
Charming side characters and laugh-out-loud moments add warmth and depth.
The story balances heartfelt emotion with delicious bakery details.
Lovely story with wonderful characters.
-A short, feel-good read perfect for fans of cinnamon roll heroes. I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily sharing my honest opinion.
A grumpy cop and a sunny baker spark sweet chemistry in a cozy small-town romance.
Charming side characters and laugh-out-loud moments add warmth and depth.
The story balances heartfelt emotion with delicious bakery details.
Lovely story with wonderful characters.
Read
May 15, 2025Part of Pelican Point story for Julie Harper and Marcus King. Well maybe it’s this town but this one was a heart stealing story with drama, good times, a passing of a dear member of this incredible town, and a romance that will have you laughing, crying, and kind of mad at Marcus just for a little bit. Definitely worth reading.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 25, 2025
Pelican Point is the small town haven where friends are the family you crave. Julie’s bakery is thriving. This cheery blast of sunshine makes everyone’s day shine. Even the grumpy, steady and oh so hot police officer, Marcus King. Love the chemistry between these two broken souls. Finding each other was meant to be. Loved it.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 22, 2025
This is book 1 in a multi author series that can be read as a standalone. This book is by Carlisle and our main characters are Julie Harper and Marcus King. I really enjoyed this quick, small-town romance read. I loved this heartwarming storyline that flows beautifully. Super enjoyed it and looking forward to more!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 24, 2025
ABSOLUTLY LOVE PELICAN POINT
Marcus and Julie. A new bakery. No time for a relationship. All sunshine. Former military ops. Still follows the rules. Everythinbg in its place. Doesnt want a relationship. Chaos clashes with control. Her sunshine seems to melt his control. In a good way. They seem to relax and click with a little help from a town. Short and sizziling.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Marcus and Julie. A new bakery. No time for a relationship. All sunshine. Former military ops. Still follows the rules. Everythinbg in its place. Doesnt want a relationship. Chaos clashes with control. Her sunshine seems to melt his control. In a good way. They seem to relax and click with a little help from a town. Short and sizziling.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 28, 2025
This was a quick read, with a slow burn between Julie (a bakery shop owner) and Marcus, who is a local police officer. I love the support of her older friend group, and how they encourage this couple.
Both of these characters have pasts that they feel make a pairing/connection not possible, but with open communication, they find their HEA. This was cute, easy to connect with, in a idyllic small town setting.
I received an ARC and my thoughts are my own.
Both of these characters have pasts that they feel make a pairing/connection not possible, but with open communication, they find their HEA. This was cute, easy to connect with, in a idyllic small town setting.
I received an ARC and my thoughts are my own.
May 8, 2025
Pelican Point is a sweet town with neighbors who are nosy but mean well. Marcus is a police officer and Julie is the owner of Seaside Sweets. These two have their issues but each realizes that they are there for the other whenever needed. Communication is the key to it all. Can't wait for more of this series. I received a free copy of this book and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
May 8, 2025
Sweet small town romance, set in the world created by the Love, Lies & Celtic Knots series. Julie, successful bakery owner & Marcus the reserved cop who is afraid to let anyone in. Loved the support offered to these two by their friends and community. Definitely a feel good romance with a happy ending.
May 12, 2025
Marcus and Julia's story
Julia owns the bakery in Pelican Point, baking muffins, scones, danish and breads along with coffees and teas...Marcus is local police man, coming to Pelican Point after his time in the service. She is sunshine and light, while he is a grump who works with wood in his spare time to sooth his mind...but could these two be meant for each other?
Julia owns the bakery in Pelican Point, baking muffins, scones, danish and breads along with coffees and teas...Marcus is local police man, coming to Pelican Point after his time in the service. She is sunshine and light, while he is a grump who works with wood in his spare time to sooth his mind...but could these two be meant for each other?
May 13, 2025
Just Desserts In Pelican Point by Annie Carlisle, this was a sweet story. I enjoyed the chemistry between Julie and Marcus, and I enjoyed the way the community was so entwined. I definitely would recommend this book to others.
I received and ARC from BookSirens, and I am leaving my review voluntarily.
I received and ARC from BookSirens, and I am leaving my review voluntarily.
August 20, 2025
Just Desserts in Pelican Point Book 2 in the Pelican Point series by Annie Carlisle is a sweet, smalltown grumpy/sunshine romance. I really enjoyed reading about smalltown life, reminded me of summers in the country when I was young. Recommend.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 26, 2025
I like this community of friends. They look after each other and come running in good times and bad. She's decided she's going to make the best of her life, and be positive, and he is not getting over the loss of his teammates in the military. She is teaching him there is a good life to be had, and he is showing her that he will protect her and be there for her in all situations.
November 20, 2025
Life and Death
When Julie’s girl gang picks up on the vibes flowing between her and Officer Marcus King, they encourage her to invite him to the winery game night. Their connection is off the charts but several things happen that could possibly derail this beginning love. Must read
When Julie’s girl gang picks up on the vibes flowing between her and Officer Marcus King, they encourage her to invite him to the winery game night. Their connection is off the charts but several things happen that could possibly derail this beginning love. Must read
November 21, 2025
Sweetness & fun, with a danish or two on the side
Sweet and thoroughly enjoyable novella in the Pelican Point series. Marcus and Julie's story. Loved everything about Mrs Waverly and her flower shop. The newly instituted game nights at the winery barn are genius level fun. And we get cameos from the couples we've already read about.
Sweet and thoroughly enjoyable novella in the Pelican Point series. Marcus and Julie's story. Loved everything about Mrs Waverly and her flower shop. The newly instituted game nights at the winery barn are genius level fun. And we get cameos from the couples we've already read about.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews