What do you think?
Rate this book
Love at the Fall Fair
Librarian Katy Caterby is obsessed with cinnamon lattes and mini libraries. To save the summer reading program, she must pull off the greatest used book sale at the Fall Fair. Captain Luke Taylor is “volun-told” to lead a special literacy initiative for kids living on Dover Air Force Base. Literacy is completely outside his wheelhouse, so he reaches out to the only expert he knows—Katy.
After having her heart broken by Luke years ago, Katy is nervous about working together. But she can’t say no when young readers can be reached. With his potential move, they both know they can’t be anything more than friends. Can one mini library heal her heart and help him realize what he’s always been missing?
After having her heart broken by Luke years ago, Katy is nervous about working together. But she can’t say no when young readers can be reached. With his potential move, they both know they can’t be anything more than friends. Can one mini library heal her heart and help him realize what he’s always been missing?
- GenresRomance
274 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 15, 2025
7 people are currently reading
60 people want to read
About the author
J.R. Boles
9 books59 followersJR Boles is the bestselling author of the Shadow Knight, Singer’s Call, and the Bringer Trilogy. She was born and raised in Kansas City, where she now lives with her husband, fearless daughters, and two rescue pups. JR is a coffee-obsessed voracious reader.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
September 20, 2025
“Never underestimate a library.”
This book will confirm for you that there’s value in random acts of kindness. Just ask Air Force Officer Luke Taylor. If it weren’t for Katy Caterby buying a coffee for the next person in line behind her at Brewed Awakenings, she’d never have reconnected with Luke. Katy practices a Random Act of Kindness every Friday; Luke is the lucky recipient!
Luke, a.k.a. High School Heartbreak or Durant Guy, is stationed in Dover, working on a literacy initiative for kids living on base. He hasn’t seen Katy since high school, but the spark between them is still there. Katy has moved to Dover and is known as the Mini Community Library Whisperer. She works at the Dover Public Library and is fully immersed in planning the fundraiser for the Fall Fair. The challenge in reigniting their blossoming romance? Katy doesn’t want to become attached to someone (a) with security clearance, as she knows some topics between them can’t be discussed, and (b) whose career means constantly moving under orders. Will this make or break their future?
I love Katy’s nicknames and the fact that she has coffee dance tunes! I do the same thing. I understood her doubts and empathized with Luke. He is just one big cinnamon roll sweetheart. When he addressed the mistakes of their past and declared, “I can’t go back and fix my mistakes, but I can tell you I’m sorry,” I lost it. Admitting mistakes is a necessary quality on my relationship checklist! When Katy agonized, wondering if “a chance with Luke was worth losing the closeness she shared with her friends,” I could identify, as I’ve been there! There was just so much in this sweet story to identify with, and perhaps that’s why I loved it so much. My highlighter worked overtime.
I loved these reminders:
💜“Book people are the best people.”
💜“Success is all about putting the right book in the right hand at the right moment. Reading is a lifelong journey.”
💜“I’m counting on you to pay it forward.”
💜“We all need people who want us to thrive.”
I was gifted this copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.
This book will confirm for you that there’s value in random acts of kindness. Just ask Air Force Officer Luke Taylor. If it weren’t for Katy Caterby buying a coffee for the next person in line behind her at Brewed Awakenings, she’d never have reconnected with Luke. Katy practices a Random Act of Kindness every Friday; Luke is the lucky recipient!
Luke, a.k.a. High School Heartbreak or Durant Guy, is stationed in Dover, working on a literacy initiative for kids living on base. He hasn’t seen Katy since high school, but the spark between them is still there. Katy has moved to Dover and is known as the Mini Community Library Whisperer. She works at the Dover Public Library and is fully immersed in planning the fundraiser for the Fall Fair. The challenge in reigniting their blossoming romance? Katy doesn’t want to become attached to someone (a) with security clearance, as she knows some topics between them can’t be discussed, and (b) whose career means constantly moving under orders. Will this make or break their future?
I love Katy’s nicknames and the fact that she has coffee dance tunes! I do the same thing. I understood her doubts and empathized with Luke. He is just one big cinnamon roll sweetheart. When he addressed the mistakes of their past and declared, “I can’t go back and fix my mistakes, but I can tell you I’m sorry,” I lost it. Admitting mistakes is a necessary quality on my relationship checklist! When Katy agonized, wondering if “a chance with Luke was worth losing the closeness she shared with her friends,” I could identify, as I’ve been there! There was just so much in this sweet story to identify with, and perhaps that’s why I loved it so much. My highlighter worked overtime.
I loved these reminders:
💜“Book people are the best people.”
💜“Success is all about putting the right book in the right hand at the right moment. Reading is a lifelong journey.”
💜“I’m counting on you to pay it forward.”
💜“We all need people who want us to thrive.”
I was gifted this copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.
September 4, 2025
Love at the Fall Fair 🧡
Firstly,I want to thank LoveNotes PR & J.R. Boles for trusting me with this ARC!🍁
Kathy is obsessed with cinnamon lattes & mini libraries.So,when the opportunity to save the summer reading program comes she will make it her mission to have the best book sale in all years.
However,when she understands that she has to work with her highschool heartbreak to make it happen,things will take an other turn.
To start with,I loved the aura of this book.It was PURE autumn,with the cinnamon lattes,pastries,places and the wonderful weather.Although this is great,it does not stop there.
This book was so,so BOOKISH.
Everything was around books,bookstores,reads & libraries.Just the vibe was TOP-I was curled in my nice warm blanket with a book about books,I AM SURE IT DOESN'T GET ANY BETTER 📚.
To continue with,Boles is the QUEEN of slow burn.At some point I was like are they even gonna kiss?So,for my slow burn girlies,there you have it!
Yet,the romance was constantly here in every page.We see a lot inner thoughts from both sides,with that making it super clear to the reader that those people are IN LOVE.
Added,that we have an adult romance,so I found the way the relationship unfolded so mature,not with fast childish acts,they wanted to fell seen & secure before getting into that next step.
An another aspect I enjoyed is how friendship was potrayed in the story.Boles reminds us that girlhood has no age limits and maybe you will find your girls later in life and that is how is supposed to be!-loved it so much🥹.
So far I would have rated this book 5-stars however,some things gave me a little bit of an ick.
Firstly,I did not like something really particular that happens with an ex.I get why it happens,but I was like NO GIRL,why would you write that?
I would prefer never happening,and a statement that one of our two main character does for the ex was not my cup of tea.
I understand that people change/develop,but if I had been literally traumatised by a person I would want my partner to support me in any way.
Also,I did not love how long were the chapters.
I found it tiring sometimes and my reading pace slowed down because of that.Generally,that made the book not so easy to read,and even though the story was so good this characteristic made it lose some of its magic.
out on Sept,15th☕
4⭐
Firstly,I want to thank LoveNotes PR & J.R. Boles for trusting me with this ARC!🍁
Kathy is obsessed with cinnamon lattes & mini libraries.So,when the opportunity to save the summer reading program comes she will make it her mission to have the best book sale in all years.
However,when she understands that she has to work with her highschool heartbreak to make it happen,things will take an other turn.
To start with,I loved the aura of this book.It was PURE autumn,with the cinnamon lattes,pastries,places and the wonderful weather.Although this is great,it does not stop there.
This book was so,so BOOKISH.
Everything was around books,bookstores,reads & libraries.Just the vibe was TOP-I was curled in my nice warm blanket with a book about books,I AM SURE IT DOESN'T GET ANY BETTER 📚.
To continue with,Boles is the QUEEN of slow burn.At some point I was like are they even gonna kiss?So,for my slow burn girlies,there you have it!
Yet,the romance was constantly here in every page.We see a lot inner thoughts from both sides,with that making it super clear to the reader that those people are IN LOVE.
Added,that we have an adult romance,so I found the way the relationship unfolded so mature,not with fast childish acts,they wanted to fell seen & secure before getting into that next step.
An another aspect I enjoyed is how friendship was potrayed in the story.Boles reminds us that girlhood has no age limits and maybe you will find your girls later in life and that is how is supposed to be!-loved it so much🥹.
So far I would have rated this book 5-stars however,some things gave me a little bit of an ick.
Firstly,I did not like something really particular that happens with an ex.I get why it happens,but I was like NO GIRL,why would you write that?
I would prefer never happening,and a statement that one of our two main character does for the ex was not my cup of tea.
I understand that people change/develop,but if I had been literally traumatised by a person I would want my partner to support me in any way.
Also,I did not love how long were the chapters.
I found it tiring sometimes and my reading pace slowed down because of that.Generally,that made the book not so easy to read,and even though the story was so good this characteristic made it lose some of its magic.
out on Sept,15th☕
4⭐
September 15, 2025
✅ For Fans of:
- second chance
- SLOWWW burn
- small town
- community coming together
- librarian x military
- banter
- fall vibes
- Native American representation
- Special Needs representation
✏️ Spoiler-Free ARC Review
3.5 True
The thing that caught my attention most while reading this book was how realistic the banter was. As true a second chance meeting, it’s the awkwardness that slides into fun, poking banter “like we used to” before realizing it’s not the past and putting up walls again. The conversation flow felt so genuine that I felt like I was the friend sitting nearby cheering them on lol
While the book is about the slow burn second Chance romance, I also felt like it was also very much about community building and learning how to move past one’s own past.
That said, it was hard for this one to keep my attention until the second half. The chapters felt long and the slow burn was agonizing.
After the halfway mark, I was committed to the plot and just wanted good things for Katy, the main character. I did love all the fall and bookish things they did. It really set the tone and brought me into the autumnal spirit this year!
🖤 Thank you to author JR Boles, for the digital advanced reader copy. As always, my reviews are honest, my own, and voluntary.
- second chance
- SLOWWW burn
- small town
- community coming together
- librarian x military
- banter
- fall vibes
- Native American representation
- Special Needs representation
✏️ Spoiler-Free ARC Review
3.5 True
The thing that caught my attention most while reading this book was how realistic the banter was. As true a second chance meeting, it’s the awkwardness that slides into fun, poking banter “like we used to” before realizing it’s not the past and putting up walls again. The conversation flow felt so genuine that I felt like I was the friend sitting nearby cheering them on lol
While the book is about the slow burn second Chance romance, I also felt like it was also very much about community building and learning how to move past one’s own past.
That said, it was hard for this one to keep my attention until the second half. The chapters felt long and the slow burn was agonizing.
After the halfway mark, I was committed to the plot and just wanted good things for Katy, the main character. I did love all the fall and bookish things they did. It really set the tone and brought me into the autumnal spirit this year!
🖤 Thank you to author JR Boles, for the digital advanced reader copy. As always, my reviews are honest, my own, and voluntary.
September 22, 2025
the slow burn of the century 🔥
September 6, 2025
I was given an ARC of this for my honest review. Below are some spoilers. I loved this book so much!
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Tropes:
❤️ Slow Burn
🤭 Second Chance
🫂 Reunion Romance
🏡 Small Town
🪖 Military Romance
🍂 Fall Romance
🎃 The One Who Got Away
*~*~**~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Katy Caterby is a sweet, shy librarian. She loves coffee, books, and Mini Community Libraries, or MCL.
Luke Taylor is a Captain in the Air Force. He loves books and coffee. He is also starting to feel something for the sweet librarian.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
I found the story cozy and sweet. Katy had some insecurities I could relate to. I found her to be such a fun, loving character. Luke was also such a great character. I was rooting for them so much.
I learned more about Mini Community Libraries, and I never knew they had a term. I love them! After reading this, now all I want is my own MCL outside my home, with a big cup of pumpkin spice coffee!
If you love fall, slow & sweet romances, and books with a satisfying ending, I definitely would recommend this book. It put me even more in the fall mood.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Tropes:
❤️ Slow Burn
🤭 Second Chance
🫂 Reunion Romance
🏡 Small Town
🪖 Military Romance
🍂 Fall Romance
🎃 The One Who Got Away
*~*~**~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Katy Caterby is a sweet, shy librarian. She loves coffee, books, and Mini Community Libraries, or MCL.
Luke Taylor is a Captain in the Air Force. He loves books and coffee. He is also starting to feel something for the sweet librarian.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
I found the story cozy and sweet. Katy had some insecurities I could relate to. I found her to be such a fun, loving character. Luke was also such a great character. I was rooting for them so much.
I learned more about Mini Community Libraries, and I never knew they had a term. I love them! After reading this, now all I want is my own MCL outside my home, with a big cup of pumpkin spice coffee!
If you love fall, slow & sweet romances, and books with a satisfying ending, I definitely would recommend this book. It put me even more in the fall mood.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 15, 2025
Thank you to LoveNotes PR and the author J.R. Boles for providing me with an ARC of ‘Love at the Fall Fair’, in exchange for an honest review.
Librarian Katy Caterby is obsessed with cinnamon lattes and mini libraries. To save the summer reading program, she must pull off the greatest used book sale at the Fall Fair. Captain Luke Taylor is leading a special literacy initiative for kids living on Dover Air Force Base. Literacy is completely outside his wheelhouse, so he reaches out to the only expert he knows—Katy.
What to expect:
🧡 Forced Proximity
🪖 Military Romance 🏡 Small Town 🤭 Second Chance 🍁 Found family
🎃 Community spirit
Having met in high school, fate brings Katy and Luke back together in a small town in Delaware. As they spend more time together, their feelings for each other grow slowly. For fans of slow burn romances, this is definitely one for you. Their relationship is refreshing and feels totally normal rather than a love at first sight, rushed relationship, which seems to be popular at the moment.
I liked both the FMC and the MMC as well as the side characters. The book was filled with community spirit and small-town vibes, which I absolutely loved.
Overall, I enjoyed this book. It was most definitely fall themed and full of cinnamon lattes, pumpkins and crisp autumnal leaves. But what I loved the most was that the entire book focused on books, books and more books! The perfect read to curl up with a blanket and your favourite seasonal drink.
Out on 15th September!
Librarian Katy Caterby is obsessed with cinnamon lattes and mini libraries. To save the summer reading program, she must pull off the greatest used book sale at the Fall Fair. Captain Luke Taylor is leading a special literacy initiative for kids living on Dover Air Force Base. Literacy is completely outside his wheelhouse, so he reaches out to the only expert he knows—Katy.
What to expect:
🧡 Forced Proximity
🪖 Military Romance 🏡 Small Town 🤭 Second Chance 🍁 Found family
🎃 Community spirit
Having met in high school, fate brings Katy and Luke back together in a small town in Delaware. As they spend more time together, their feelings for each other grow slowly. For fans of slow burn romances, this is definitely one for you. Their relationship is refreshing and feels totally normal rather than a love at first sight, rushed relationship, which seems to be popular at the moment.
I liked both the FMC and the MMC as well as the side characters. The book was filled with community spirit and small-town vibes, which I absolutely loved.
Overall, I enjoyed this book. It was most definitely fall themed and full of cinnamon lattes, pumpkins and crisp autumnal leaves. But what I loved the most was that the entire book focused on books, books and more books! The perfect read to curl up with a blanket and your favourite seasonal drink.
Out on 15th September!
September 9, 2025
A big thank you to LoveNotes PR and J.R. Boles for sending me an ARC of this book - I had so much fun with this read 🥰
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This was the sweetest, most romantic book I have read in a long time!
There was chemistry, love, lust and attraction all wrapped into one and it was portrayed absolutely beautifully.
The setting and the overall vibe is one of my favourite parts! Think fall, pumpkin spice lattes, pumpkin patches and the love of your life. Perfection, am I right? 😍
I loved every minute of this book and loved the character development of both the FMC and MMC.
Their stories were written in a magical way and I adored how we got glimpse of the past so we could really see their growth.
An absolutely stellar book - Well done Mrs Boles! ✨
-
Katy Caterby loves all things books, cinnamon lattes and adored her job as a librarian. She especially had a sweet spot for creating little library’s in and around her community (MCL’s) and aspired to spend her days doing everything she could to make those around fall in love with literature.
Life was good, Katy was happy and content. Nothing could interrupt that.
That is until she comes face to face with the man who unknowingly broke her heart in high school..
Luke Taylor is a military captain, Air Force specifically. He is extremely dedicated and committed to his job but Luke isn’t the type to settle in one place for too long, after all, his job requires him to move around - he gets the best of both worlds. Luke’s next adventure awaits, almost in his grasp, and he is itching to leave Dover and start again.
But stepping into Brewed Awakenings coffee shop changed everything in an instant. Katy Caterby stood before him and everything changed, though Luke didn’t then know it.
“A librarian afraid to let anyone down.
An officer unwilling to stay.
One little library could bring them together.
If they’re brave enough to take a chance”
Tropes:
🔥 | Slow burn
🤭 | Second chance
🏡 | Small town
🍂 | Fall romance
♾️ | The one that got away
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This was the sweetest, most romantic book I have read in a long time!
There was chemistry, love, lust and attraction all wrapped into one and it was portrayed absolutely beautifully.
The setting and the overall vibe is one of my favourite parts! Think fall, pumpkin spice lattes, pumpkin patches and the love of your life. Perfection, am I right? 😍
I loved every minute of this book and loved the character development of both the FMC and MMC.
Their stories were written in a magical way and I adored how we got glimpse of the past so we could really see their growth.
An absolutely stellar book - Well done Mrs Boles! ✨
-
Katy Caterby loves all things books, cinnamon lattes and adored her job as a librarian. She especially had a sweet spot for creating little library’s in and around her community (MCL’s) and aspired to spend her days doing everything she could to make those around fall in love with literature.
Life was good, Katy was happy and content. Nothing could interrupt that.
That is until she comes face to face with the man who unknowingly broke her heart in high school..
Luke Taylor is a military captain, Air Force specifically. He is extremely dedicated and committed to his job but Luke isn’t the type to settle in one place for too long, after all, his job requires him to move around - he gets the best of both worlds. Luke’s next adventure awaits, almost in his grasp, and he is itching to leave Dover and start again.
But stepping into Brewed Awakenings coffee shop changed everything in an instant. Katy Caterby stood before him and everything changed, though Luke didn’t then know it.
“A librarian afraid to let anyone down.
An officer unwilling to stay.
One little library could bring them together.
If they’re brave enough to take a chance”
Tropes:
🔥 | Slow burn
🤭 | Second chance
🏡 | Small town
🍂 | Fall romance
♾️ | The one that got away
September 19, 2025
✨ ARC Review✨
What a sweet cozy, slow-burn romance!
The whole vibe of Love at the Fall Fair is sooo autumnal — from the actual fall fair itself, to the cinnamon -scented coffees, crunchy leaves, and that bookish, small-town charm 🍂☕.
JR Boles is truly the queen of slow burn — the romance unfolds so naturally and patiently, which I find really accurate, especially between two grown-up adults with real-life baggage and pasts. It never felt rushed, and I appreciated how realistic the emotional progression was. It gave the story so much depth and warmth.
That said, the chapters are quite long, which sometimes made it harder to sneak in "just one more" before bed 😅. And a few character reactions didn’t land perfectly for me — not a dealbreaker at all, just little moments that felt slightly off. But honestly, those were marginal compared to how much I loved the overall journey.
🍂If you love slow-burns, seasonal settings, and mature characters finding love in the coziest ways — this one’s for you!
Thank you to the author and Love Notes PR for the ARC, I truly loved reading this one.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
What a sweet cozy, slow-burn romance!
The whole vibe of Love at the Fall Fair is sooo autumnal — from the actual fall fair itself, to the cinnamon -scented coffees, crunchy leaves, and that bookish, small-town charm 🍂☕.
JR Boles is truly the queen of slow burn — the romance unfolds so naturally and patiently, which I find really accurate, especially between two grown-up adults with real-life baggage and pasts. It never felt rushed, and I appreciated how realistic the emotional progression was. It gave the story so much depth and warmth.
That said, the chapters are quite long, which sometimes made it harder to sneak in "just one more" before bed 😅. And a few character reactions didn’t land perfectly for me — not a dealbreaker at all, just little moments that felt slightly off. But honestly, those were marginal compared to how much I loved the overall journey.
🍂If you love slow-burns, seasonal settings, and mature characters finding love in the coziest ways — this one’s for you!
Thank you to the author and Love Notes PR for the ARC, I truly loved reading this one.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
September 11, 2025
I loved Katy. She was super relatable. S book girlie who was obsessed with drinking cinnamon lattes!! What's not to love?!
I do think she forgave Luke way too easy. He hurt her when they were younger and she kept being around him without having him explain his own feelings and emotions back then. Luke was also so wishy washy. He wants to be her friend only because he was more interested in leaving their small town but still walked around holding her hand and being super possessive of her. He needed to pick a lane and it took him way too long to do so.
I do think she forgave Luke way too easy. He hurt her when they were younger and she kept being around him without having him explain his own feelings and emotions back then. Luke was also so wishy washy. He wants to be her friend only because he was more interested in leaving their small town but still walked around holding her hand and being super possessive of her. He needed to pick a lane and it took him way too long to do so.
September 11, 2025
What a perfect cozy, slow-burn romance! This is the ultimate fall read to add to your autumn TBR—full of cinnamon lattes ☕, pumpkins 🎃, books 📚, and crisp autumn leaves 🍁.
Meet Katy, a sweet small-town librarian 🧣📖 who loves cinnamon lattes and mini libraries, and Luke, an Air Force captain 💼✈️ who once broke her heart back in high school 💔. Years later, fate brings them back to the same little town in Delaware 🏡. Their bond slowly rekindles as they work on a heartfelt project together: building a mini library 📦📚 on base for military families. As they spend more time together, old feelings resurface… and maybe never really left. 💞
Katy is such a lovable heroine—smart 🧠, driven 💪, and deeply connected to her community 🤝. I adored how authentic she felt. Her journey with Luke is sweet, emotional, and full of hope ✨. Their shared passion—for their work, for children 🧒👧, and especially for BOOKS 📚—made their relationship feel so real and grounded. The flashbacks ⏳ to their past added so much emotional depth, making their second chance even more meaningful 💫. Their chemistry ⚡ and emotional tension had me rooting for them the entire time 📣💖.
This story isn’t just a romance—it’s a love letter to BOOKS 📚, healing 🩹, and second chances 🔁. It’s the kind of book you want to curl up with under a blanket 🛋️, warm drink in hand ☕, and let those cozy autumn vibes take over 🍂.
If you love: 🍁 Cozy autumn vibes 📚 Bookish settings 🏡 Small-town charm 💔 Second chances
…then this is the fall read for you. 🧡
Thank you to J.R. Boles and Love Notes PR for the ARC! 💌
Meet Katy, a sweet small-town librarian 🧣📖 who loves cinnamon lattes and mini libraries, and Luke, an Air Force captain 💼✈️ who once broke her heart back in high school 💔. Years later, fate brings them back to the same little town in Delaware 🏡. Their bond slowly rekindles as they work on a heartfelt project together: building a mini library 📦📚 on base for military families. As they spend more time together, old feelings resurface… and maybe never really left. 💞
Katy is such a lovable heroine—smart 🧠, driven 💪, and deeply connected to her community 🤝. I adored how authentic she felt. Her journey with Luke is sweet, emotional, and full of hope ✨. Their shared passion—for their work, for children 🧒👧, and especially for BOOKS 📚—made their relationship feel so real and grounded. The flashbacks ⏳ to their past added so much emotional depth, making their second chance even more meaningful 💫. Their chemistry ⚡ and emotional tension had me rooting for them the entire time 📣💖.
This story isn’t just a romance—it’s a love letter to BOOKS 📚, healing 🩹, and second chances 🔁. It’s the kind of book you want to curl up with under a blanket 🛋️, warm drink in hand ☕, and let those cozy autumn vibes take over 🍂.
If you love: 🍁 Cozy autumn vibes 📚 Bookish settings 🏡 Small-town charm 💔 Second chances
…then this is the fall read for you. 🧡
Thank you to J.R. Boles and Love Notes PR for the ARC! 💌
September 16, 2025
Love at the Fall Fair draws you in with the descriptions of fall and the promise of second chances!
Following Katy and Luke through the journey was such a riveting and fun read.
Loved the depth of the love story…Choctaw heritage, community focus and military romance. What an amazing story of community and hope. Perfect fall book!
Highly recommend getting a cinnamon latte (or your favorite fall drink)and sitting down with this book for a page-turning feel good read!
Following Katy and Luke through the journey was such a riveting and fun read.
Loved the depth of the love story…Choctaw heritage, community focus and military romance. What an amazing story of community and hope. Perfect fall book!
Highly recommend getting a cinnamon latte (or your favorite fall drink)and sitting down with this book for a page-turning feel good read!
September 15, 2025
Thank you Love Notes PR & Boles for the opportunity to read this book with an ARC this month for an honest review of the book🍂🧡
With that said, I felt this story fell flat for me. I didn’t connect to the characters. I felt there was no plot and yet no character development. The writing style was not the greatest and the story just dragged and felt slow. Not to mention the chapters were soooo long.
95% of the book felt like outside noise and unnecessary lack of miscommunication. There were other characters that I was happy to see introduced but again too much of this was not focused on character development in my opinion.
Its a cozy read yes but besides that, i wont remember this book or the characters in it.
):
With that said, I felt this story fell flat for me. I didn’t connect to the characters. I felt there was no plot and yet no character development. The writing style was not the greatest and the story just dragged and felt slow. Not to mention the chapters were soooo long.
95% of the book felt like outside noise and unnecessary lack of miscommunication. There were other characters that I was happy to see introduced but again too much of this was not focused on character development in my opinion.
Its a cozy read yes but besides that, i wont remember this book or the characters in it.
):
January 14, 2026
Such a cute story about two people trying to figure out their feelings for each other, and what to do about them. I couldn’t help but root for their happy ending.
September 7, 2025
✦ 𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 - 4.2✨
✦ 𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞 - September 15, 2025
✦ 𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬 -
• second chance romance
• small town vibes
• cinnamon latte & library love
• bookish heroine
• military hero
• wholesome and cozy
• community bonding
• feel-good fall romance
✦ 𝐌𝐲 𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬 -
This book was pure autumn magic. Katy is such a relatable heroine, a librarian who loves her books and cares deeply for her community. Luke, the Air Force captain, comes back into her life when he’s asked to lead a kids’ literacy program. The catch is, he needs Katy’s help, and that’s how their story begins again.
The whole vibe of the fall fair made me feel like I was right there pumpkin spice in the air, book stalls all around, warm cinnamon drinks, and that cozy small-town charm. It’s the kind of romance that feels gentle but still gives you all the heart flutters. Their second chance was written with so much tenderness, and the way they slowly opened up to each other melted my heart.
I loved how the author showed that love, like books, can heal and bring people together. Katy and Luke’s journey was sweet, emotional, and full of hope. The mini libraries were such a cute and unique touch, making this story extra special for book lovers. This was a warm hug in the form of a romance, and it’s a perfect fall read.
Thank you so much lovenotepr for the free ARC!
✦ 𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞 - September 15, 2025
✦ 𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬 -
• second chance romance
• small town vibes
• cinnamon latte & library love
• bookish heroine
• military hero
• wholesome and cozy
• community bonding
• feel-good fall romance
✦ 𝐌𝐲 𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬 -
This book was pure autumn magic. Katy is such a relatable heroine, a librarian who loves her books and cares deeply for her community. Luke, the Air Force captain, comes back into her life when he’s asked to lead a kids’ literacy program. The catch is, he needs Katy’s help, and that’s how their story begins again.
The whole vibe of the fall fair made me feel like I was right there pumpkin spice in the air, book stalls all around, warm cinnamon drinks, and that cozy small-town charm. It’s the kind of romance that feels gentle but still gives you all the heart flutters. Their second chance was written with so much tenderness, and the way they slowly opened up to each other melted my heart.
I loved how the author showed that love, like books, can heal and bring people together. Katy and Luke’s journey was sweet, emotional, and full of hope. The mini libraries were such a cute and unique touch, making this story extra special for book lovers. This was a warm hug in the form of a romance, and it’s a perfect fall read.
Thank you so much lovenotepr for the free ARC!
September 22, 2025
Man oh man... where do I start👀. So I have to preface, I REALLY REALLY wanted to love this book😭. I was excited to get this ARC cause it seemed very Pumpkin Spice Cafe w/ like a lil Stars Hallow small town vibes, but with the military twist. I was soo hopeful...
Unfortunately my hopes were crushed like a pumpkin fallin off Luke's truck.
The overall theme and concept of the story is super cute- Nerdy Librarian runs into old high school crush in a small town & they realize how much they miss & have feelings for each other. BUT...
thats just it. The whole narrative just fell flat and became too repetitive of "wanting to be friends". Dont get me wrong Im all for a push pull dynamic for characters to get their shit together & figure out their feelings, but this.. was like 224 pages of not being able to figure it out & literally miscommunication between the 2 characters was just unnecessary dialogue. There was a lot "background" filler that I never felt like I could connect to the characters & just dragged the story on that made me bored. This book is a total of 274 pages which I should've gotten through in like a day.. you guys it took me 4. It was SO cozy I couldn't keep my eyes open to finish😴.
I'm genuinely sad that this book ended up being a flop for me, as it was my 1st fall read to kick off the season. The writing style was also hard for me to follow, as it just didn't feel fluid enough to keep the story moving. Also a BIG pet peeve is the chapter headers- hopefully this was only because I had an ARC e-book and the physical copy is printed differently.
Oh & if you were hoping for a lil spice🌶️, uh you will be disappointed, cause the only consistent spice you'll get throughout this book is the cinnamon that Katy adds to her "Caterby" lattes.
Honestly this book had soo much potential & J.R even set it up where there could've been a book 2 diving into Ava & Ryan's characters. Easily could've been the next PSC series of this year, so just super sad that this fell so far from the fall tree.
Unfortunately my hopes were crushed like a pumpkin fallin off Luke's truck.
The overall theme and concept of the story is super cute- Nerdy Librarian runs into old high school crush in a small town & they realize how much they miss & have feelings for each other. BUT...
thats just it. The whole narrative just fell flat and became too repetitive of "wanting to be friends". Dont get me wrong Im all for a push pull dynamic for characters to get their shit together & figure out their feelings, but this.. was like 224 pages of not being able to figure it out & literally miscommunication between the 2 characters was just unnecessary dialogue. There was a lot "background" filler that I never felt like I could connect to the characters & just dragged the story on that made me bored. This book is a total of 274 pages which I should've gotten through in like a day.. you guys it took me 4. It was SO cozy I couldn't keep my eyes open to finish😴.
I'm genuinely sad that this book ended up being a flop for me, as it was my 1st fall read to kick off the season. The writing style was also hard for me to follow, as it just didn't feel fluid enough to keep the story moving. Also a BIG pet peeve is the chapter headers- hopefully this was only because I had an ARC e-book and the physical copy is printed differently.
Oh & if you were hoping for a lil spice🌶️, uh you will be disappointed, cause the only consistent spice you'll get throughout this book is the cinnamon that Katy adds to her "Caterby" lattes.
Honestly this book had soo much potential & J.R even set it up where there could've been a book 2 diving into Ava & Ryan's characters. Easily could've been the next PSC series of this year, so just super sad that this fell so far from the fall tree.
October 29, 2025
This was such a perfect read for fall weather vibes! I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and I was lucky enough to get this as an advanced copy. This is my first time reading J.R Boles and I truly enjoyed reading a book with a second chance romance trope. Lately, I have started to read more books in that genre and this one did not disappoint at all! However, it did break my heart at first :/
This is the story of Katy, who is a librarian in the small town of Dover, where she moves to begin a new life and be her own person. She didn’t expect to run into Luke, who is an Air Force captain, and the boy who broke her heart back in high school. Katy tries her best to move on and not remember how it used to be with Luke in high school. Slowly, they start to talk, and hang out again, reigniting the flame that once sparked between them. Little by little, Katy starts to realize that she might still have feelings for Luke but is scared that he will break her heart again.
On the other hand, Luke realizes that this is his second chance with Katy and he doesn’t want to mess up. Or let her go again. So he does whatever he can to demonstrate to Katy that he isn’t who he used to be and that he is all in it for a second chance at being in a relationship. It was so sweet and amazing to see them working together to create a library on the military base for military families. And don’t get me started on those flashbacks of their past! I love when we get to read what happened between them when they were in high school and why Katy is the way she is.
The chemistry between them is off the charts and I was rooting for them from the start when they first saw each other! I loved reading this book by the park, with the perfect fall vibes happening as if I was in Dover as well 🤭
Rating: 5/5
Steamy scenes: 🔥🔥🔥
This is the story of Katy, who is a librarian in the small town of Dover, where she moves to begin a new life and be her own person. She didn’t expect to run into Luke, who is an Air Force captain, and the boy who broke her heart back in high school. Katy tries her best to move on and not remember how it used to be with Luke in high school. Slowly, they start to talk, and hang out again, reigniting the flame that once sparked between them. Little by little, Katy starts to realize that she might still have feelings for Luke but is scared that he will break her heart again.
On the other hand, Luke realizes that this is his second chance with Katy and he doesn’t want to mess up. Or let her go again. So he does whatever he can to demonstrate to Katy that he isn’t who he used to be and that he is all in it for a second chance at being in a relationship. It was so sweet and amazing to see them working together to create a library on the military base for military families. And don’t get me started on those flashbacks of their past! I love when we get to read what happened between them when they were in high school and why Katy is the way she is.
The chemistry between them is off the charts and I was rooting for them from the start when they first saw each other! I loved reading this book by the park, with the perfect fall vibes happening as if I was in Dover as well 🤭
Rating: 5/5
Steamy scenes: 🔥🔥🔥
September 3, 2025
Second-chance small-town romance is my absolute favorite, and this book did not disappoint! It delivered all the warm fuzzies, emotional depth, and swoony moments I crave in a feel-good love story, especially one set against the backdrop of crisp autumn leaves and pumpkin spice everything.
Everything about this story is peak fall vibes:
Second chances that tug at the heart
A beautifully bittersweet reunion romance
A cozy small-town setting full of charm
A swoony military hero (who doesn’t love a man in uniform?)
Fall fairs, mini libraries, and cinnamon lattes
And yes… The One Who Got Away
As an Army Brat myself, I connected deeply with the themes of constant moving, struggling to find lasting friendships, and the loneliness that can come with it when. Those moments were written with care and authenticity, and they made the story hit even harder for me.
Katy was such a lovable heroine. Smart, passionate, and dedicated to her community. And Luke? Total heartthrob. I needed a happily ever after for these two. Their chemistry, the emotional tension, and their shared history had me turning pages late into the night. I was absolutely hoping they'd find their way back to each other.
That said, I did find myself wishing they’d just make up their minds sooner. The back-and-forth dragged a bit, and I was practically yelling at the book, “Just kiss already!” 😂 Still, the slow burn paid off in the end, and the emotional resolution felt well-earned.
If you love clean, closed-door romances with tons of heart and zero steam, this one’s for you. It’s all about the feels, not the heat.
Thank you to Love Notes PR and the author for providng me an opportunity to read this ARC.
Everything about this story is peak fall vibes:
Second chances that tug at the heart
A beautifully bittersweet reunion romance
A cozy small-town setting full of charm
A swoony military hero (who doesn’t love a man in uniform?)
Fall fairs, mini libraries, and cinnamon lattes
And yes… The One Who Got Away
As an Army Brat myself, I connected deeply with the themes of constant moving, struggling to find lasting friendships, and the loneliness that can come with it when. Those moments were written with care and authenticity, and they made the story hit even harder for me.
Katy was such a lovable heroine. Smart, passionate, and dedicated to her community. And Luke? Total heartthrob. I needed a happily ever after for these two. Their chemistry, the emotional tension, and their shared history had me turning pages late into the night. I was absolutely hoping they'd find their way back to each other.
That said, I did find myself wishing they’d just make up their minds sooner. The back-and-forth dragged a bit, and I was practically yelling at the book, “Just kiss already!” 😂 Still, the slow burn paid off in the end, and the emotional resolution felt well-earned.
If you love clean, closed-door romances with tons of heart and zero steam, this one’s for you. It’s all about the feels, not the heat.
Thank you to Love Notes PR and the author for providng me an opportunity to read this ARC.
October 14, 2025
If October has you swooning, you need to treat yourself to LOVE AT THE FALL FAIR by J.R. Boles. This tender, clean romance, offering a heartfelt, Hallmark-style love story set against an autumnal backdrop, is the perfect accompaniment to the coziest reading season.
In LOVE AT THE FALL FAIR, Kate Caterby (an MC with such earnest Kathleen Kelly energy that Nora Ephron would be proud) unexpectedly bumps in the boy who once broke her heart. Though Luke Taylor has grown into a decorated officer, he must work to regain Katy's trust. When they join forces to spearhead a literacy initiative and to save a summer reading program, sparks fly.
All the while, Boles breathes new life into the classic "opposites attract" trope as his wanderlust clashes with her yearning to make a home. You will root hard for Katy and Luke as they attempt to chart a path forward - at times, through a pumpkin patch:)
As an aside, readers with an affection for the Delmarva region will especially enjoy this warm, rich portrayal of coastal communities in the off-season.
I opened this book expecting its sweet romance but also found myself enchanted with the characters' enthusiasm for the written word. Boles reminds us of the power of books to unite and to spread joy. The classic slogan, "Bookish people are the best people," makes an appearance. By the end of LOVE AT THE FALL FAIR, Katy and Luke will prove it right.
In LOVE AT THE FALL FAIR, Kate Caterby (an MC with such earnest Kathleen Kelly energy that Nora Ephron would be proud) unexpectedly bumps in the boy who once broke her heart. Though Luke Taylor has grown into a decorated officer, he must work to regain Katy's trust. When they join forces to spearhead a literacy initiative and to save a summer reading program, sparks fly.
All the while, Boles breathes new life into the classic "opposites attract" trope as his wanderlust clashes with her yearning to make a home. You will root hard for Katy and Luke as they attempt to chart a path forward - at times, through a pumpkin patch:)
As an aside, readers with an affection for the Delmarva region will especially enjoy this warm, rich portrayal of coastal communities in the off-season.
I opened this book expecting its sweet romance but also found myself enchanted with the characters' enthusiasm for the written word. Boles reminds us of the power of books to unite and to spread joy. The classic slogan, "Bookish people are the best people," makes an appearance. By the end of LOVE AT THE FALL FAIR, Katy and Luke will prove it right.
September 11, 2025
I am so grateful to receive an ARC copy of this book. I enjoyed the story line a lot. Fall vibes and cooler weather can not come soon enough. Best Friends that reconnect after time away where past feelings come back into play. Such a cute store. I loved seeing the Air Force play into the story and how they learn that the community wants to contribute. The best friends and side characters rooting for them added so much to their story. I wish we got more of a back story about what happened between her and her bully and him and the girlfriend. What would go down between them to cause a total silence? We do not get a whole lot of back story.
What made me post a 3 stars is that I felt like some of the writing was lacking. The transition's between scenes in the book were non existence which had me so confused. They go from talking in a restaurant to outside going toward their vehicle. He had a jump scare, but nothing leading up to it so you have to figure that out on your own. Also, at some points when they are in groups talking you get confused on which character is talking. There is no he turned to her and said, it just starts talking and you have to figure out who is talking. It got better towards the end of the book, the writing evolved more. You finally get to see some of their emotions on their face.
What made me post a 3 stars is that I felt like some of the writing was lacking. The transition's between scenes in the book were non existence which had me so confused. They go from talking in a restaurant to outside going toward their vehicle. He had a jump scare, but nothing leading up to it so you have to figure that out on your own. Also, at some points when they are in groups talking you get confused on which character is talking. There is no he turned to her and said, it just starts talking and you have to figure out who is talking. It got better towards the end of the book, the writing evolved more. You finally get to see some of their emotions on their face.
September 22, 2025
ARC Review:
•
Love at the Fall Fair by J.R. Boles
•
Thank you @jrbolesauthor and @lovenotes.pr for this fall time read! So typically slow burns give me anxiety, but this was the perfect mix. Coupled with the idea that kindness goes a long way, was the cherry on the top! What makes a more perfect fall book than one that has a cinnamon latte obsessed librarian, a love interest that wants to leave their small town, and the spirit of what having a community is all about.
•
Review Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
•
What to expect:
🤭 Second Chance
🫂 Reunion Romance
🏡 Small Town
🪖 Military Romance
🍂 Fall Romance
🎃 The One Who Got Away
Librarian Katy Caterby is obsessed with cinnamon lattes and mini libraries. To save the summer reading program, she must pull off the greatest used book sale at the Fall Fair. Captain Luke Taylor is “volun-told” to lead a special literacy initiative for kids living on Dover Air Force Base. Literacy is completely outside his wheelhouse, so he reaches out to the only expert he knows—Katy. After having her heart broken by Luke years ago, Katy is nervous about working together. But she can’t say no when young readers can be reached. With his potential move, they both know they can’t be anything more than friends. Can one mini library heal her heart and help him realize what he’s always been missing?
•
Love at the Fall Fair by J.R. Boles
•
Thank you @jrbolesauthor and @lovenotes.pr for this fall time read! So typically slow burns give me anxiety, but this was the perfect mix. Coupled with the idea that kindness goes a long way, was the cherry on the top! What makes a more perfect fall book than one that has a cinnamon latte obsessed librarian, a love interest that wants to leave their small town, and the spirit of what having a community is all about.
•
Review Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
•
What to expect:
🤭 Second Chance
🫂 Reunion Romance
🏡 Small Town
🪖 Military Romance
🍂 Fall Romance
🎃 The One Who Got Away
Librarian Katy Caterby is obsessed with cinnamon lattes and mini libraries. To save the summer reading program, she must pull off the greatest used book sale at the Fall Fair. Captain Luke Taylor is “volun-told” to lead a special literacy initiative for kids living on Dover Air Force Base. Literacy is completely outside his wheelhouse, so he reaches out to the only expert he knows—Katy. After having her heart broken by Luke years ago, Katy is nervous about working together. But she can’t say no when young readers can be reached. With his potential move, they both know they can’t be anything more than friends. Can one mini library heal her heart and help him realize what he’s always been missing?
September 21, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
Love at the Fall Fair is an adorable, fall-themed second chance romance set right in my home state—which made reading it extra special! It was so fun to see familiar places featured throughout the story, and I loved the cozy autumn vibes, from fun fall drinks to the fair itself.
The sense of community really shines in this book, especially the focus on helping local children with literacy, which added heart and purpose beyond the romance.
That said, I did struggle with a few aspects. Luke's character often felt self-centered, with most of the decisions revolving around his wants and needs, without enough consideration for how they'd impact Katy and those around her. Katy’s past pain and trauma were also glossed over at times, especially by Luke, which made some emotional moments feel a bit shallow. I also found the transitions between scenes and chapters a little jarring—some smoother flow would have helped the pacing.
Still, if you’re looking for a sweet, clean small-town romance with a second chance love story, military elements, quirky side characters, and strong found-family vibes, this book will be right up your alley—especially if you love fall as much as I do!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Love at the Fall Fair is an adorable, fall-themed second chance romance set right in my home state—which made reading it extra special! It was so fun to see familiar places featured throughout the story, and I loved the cozy autumn vibes, from fun fall drinks to the fair itself.
The sense of community really shines in this book, especially the focus on helping local children with literacy, which added heart and purpose beyond the romance.
That said, I did struggle with a few aspects. Luke's character often felt self-centered, with most of the decisions revolving around his wants and needs, without enough consideration for how they'd impact Katy and those around her. Katy’s past pain and trauma were also glossed over at times, especially by Luke, which made some emotional moments feel a bit shallow. I also found the transitions between scenes and chapters a little jarring—some smoother flow would have helped the pacing.
Still, if you’re looking for a sweet, clean small-town romance with a second chance love story, military elements, quirky side characters, and strong found-family vibes, this book will be right up your alley—especially if you love fall as much as I do!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 19, 2025
Love at the Fall Fair was written in a third person point of view, something I not very often read but don’t at all mind. It was advertised as a slow burn and I thought it wouldn’t gonna be that slow, but I was wrong!
It was such a slow burn, really requiring my patience. The storyline itself was cute, haven’t read a librarian x military person story so far, so that was nice to dive into. It also talked about Mini Community Libraries which was lovely! Katy was super relatable to me as I also love reading and coffee! At some point within the book I sadly had to force myself a bit to keep reading as I didn’t really feel the vibes between the two main characters. It did get better, but it almost put me off, which I thought was really sad. The conclusion was nicely written and I ended up actually loving the characters. I hope there will be more stories about some of the characters, but in the meantime this was such a cozy and cute read for the fall season. Made me want to decorate and drink coffee!
It was such a slow burn, really requiring my patience. The storyline itself was cute, haven’t read a librarian x military person story so far, so that was nice to dive into. It also talked about Mini Community Libraries which was lovely! Katy was super relatable to me as I also love reading and coffee! At some point within the book I sadly had to force myself a bit to keep reading as I didn’t really feel the vibes between the two main characters. It did get better, but it almost put me off, which I thought was really sad. The conclusion was nicely written and I ended up actually loving the characters. I hope there will be more stories about some of the characters, but in the meantime this was such a cozy and cute read for the fall season. Made me want to decorate and drink coffee!
September 16, 2025
Rating: ⭐⭐.5 / 5
Spice rating: Clean romance
Love at the Fall Fair was a cozy, very bookish second chance romance with a strong seasonal atmosphere. I really appreciated that the characters were adults, with Katy’s librarian perspective adding warmth and depth to the story, and the autumn fair setting gave me all the fall vibes.
That said, this wasn’t quite my kind of read. The pacing felt very slow, with long chapters that made the story move even more slowly. The romance is a true slow burn—so much so that the kiss doesn’t happen until the final chapter. While I liked the idea of rediscovering a once-best-friend, Luke was so focused on keeping Katy in the “friend zone” that I often wondered if there would be any romance at all.
If you’re looking for a gentle, slow-burn, second-chance romance filled with bookish details and fall coziness, this might be the right fit for you—but it wasn’t fully mine.
Spice rating: Clean romance
Love at the Fall Fair was a cozy, very bookish second chance romance with a strong seasonal atmosphere. I really appreciated that the characters were adults, with Katy’s librarian perspective adding warmth and depth to the story, and the autumn fair setting gave me all the fall vibes.
That said, this wasn’t quite my kind of read. The pacing felt very slow, with long chapters that made the story move even more slowly. The romance is a true slow burn—so much so that the kiss doesn’t happen until the final chapter. While I liked the idea of rediscovering a once-best-friend, Luke was so focused on keeping Katy in the “friend zone” that I often wondered if there would be any romance at all.
If you’re looking for a gentle, slow-burn, second-chance romance filled with bookish details and fall coziness, this might be the right fit for you—but it wasn’t fully mine.
September 22, 2025
Pumpkin patches, book sales, reading nooks, and coffee shops with friends - Love at the Fall Fair is full of feel-good fall treats. This book is a fun and sweet romance for fall, but at the same time, takes on themes with depth, like struggling to overcome pain from childhood, seeking a brand new place to call home, being used in a relationship with someone who isn't right for you, living cultural identity and connection with the ancestors, supporting loved ones on the autism spectrum, and being in relationships in the military. The author incorporates these easily and thoughtfully. There is a lot that brings Katy and Luke together, despite the things that keep them holding back. I was really impressed with the care the author took sharing perspectives from both of the main characters. It is a really enjoyable read and I was happy to root for them until the end. I can't wait to share this book with others.
September 23, 2025
This book gave me all the cozy fall vibes. I love the small town feeling in the book and the loving sense of community. This is a second chance, SLOW burn romance. I rated this on 3.5, rounded up for 4.
The romance is sweet and wholesome, the kind that makes you smile as you’re reading. I really liked how the characters felt genuine and down to earth, a little flawed, but easy to root for. Their connection had that slow burn warmth that fit perfectly with the fall setting, and I loved how the fair itself became part of the story rather than just a backdrop.
If you’re looking for something light, heartwarming, and perfectly seasonal, this one is such a cute pick. It honestly felt like the book version of a cozy fall movie. There were a few instances that I struggled keeping attention during this one. Also, the slow burn was just a little too slow for my liking.
Thank you Love Notes Pr for the arc for my review.
The romance is sweet and wholesome, the kind that makes you smile as you’re reading. I really liked how the characters felt genuine and down to earth, a little flawed, but easy to root for. Their connection had that slow burn warmth that fit perfectly with the fall setting, and I loved how the fair itself became part of the story rather than just a backdrop.
If you’re looking for something light, heartwarming, and perfectly seasonal, this one is such a cute pick. It honestly felt like the book version of a cozy fall movie. There were a few instances that I struggled keeping attention during this one. Also, the slow burn was just a little too slow for my liking.
Thank you Love Notes Pr for the arc for my review.
September 21, 2025
thank you love notes PR for this arc.
I really wanted to enjoy this book as my first autumn read but unfortunately I just couldn't click with it. I loved the parts about raising literacy rates in children as I do believe that reading is one of the best and most important things for children to be able to connect and discover new ways, however the pacing of the book felt disjointed, there wasn't a proper flow and dom of the dialogue just didn't make sense or fit together. the last few pages were all over the place with feelings, one minute he's annoyed with her texting someone else and then next she's cuddled into him and he's holding her hand theres miscommunication tropes and then there's this. I liked the representation of the military and the back ground characters were lovely to hear about but over all unfortunately it wasn't for me
I really wanted to enjoy this book as my first autumn read but unfortunately I just couldn't click with it. I loved the parts about raising literacy rates in children as I do believe that reading is one of the best and most important things for children to be able to connect and discover new ways, however the pacing of the book felt disjointed, there wasn't a proper flow and dom of the dialogue just didn't make sense or fit together. the last few pages were all over the place with feelings, one minute he's annoyed with her texting someone else and then next she's cuddled into him and he's holding her hand theres miscommunication tropes and then there's this. I liked the representation of the military and the back ground characters were lovely to hear about but over all unfortunately it wasn't for me
September 21, 2025
Love at the Fall Fair had all the ingredients I usually adore….
Small town Dover with its cozy charm, the sweet first meet between Katy and Luke at McKenna’s Café (an act of kindness that really hooked me), and the whole MCL project that brought the entire town together with so much warmth and enthusiasm. Those parts gave me the exact vibes I look for in a comfort read.
But as much as I wanted to love this book, the extremely slow pace, endless miscommunication, and constant hindrances made it hard to stay connected. I kept waiting for the relationship and story to truly develop, and it just never quite got there for me.
That said, I still appreciated the fall atmosphere, the second-chance romance element, and all the lovely bookish conversations sprinkled throughout. For those cozy feels alone, it lands at 3 stars for me.
Small town Dover with its cozy charm, the sweet first meet between Katy and Luke at McKenna’s Café (an act of kindness that really hooked me), and the whole MCL project that brought the entire town together with so much warmth and enthusiasm. Those parts gave me the exact vibes I look for in a comfort read.
But as much as I wanted to love this book, the extremely slow pace, endless miscommunication, and constant hindrances made it hard to stay connected. I kept waiting for the relationship and story to truly develop, and it just never quite got there for me.
That said, I still appreciated the fall atmosphere, the second-chance romance element, and all the lovely bookish conversations sprinkled throughout. For those cozy feels alone, it lands at 3 stars for me.
September 11, 2025
ARC REVIEW** If you like books about books, and that cute/cheesy Hallmark vibe, this book is for you!
Katy is a librarian in Dover, but her heart lies with helping communities incorporate free little libraries. She gets asked to help with the book sale at the fall fair - which is where the lirbary gets a lot of their funds from. So she's busy working on this. And then Luke, an Air Force captain in the area, who broke Katy's heart years ago when they were in high school & lived in Oklahoma. He is in charge of a literacy program that the Air Force is sponsoring and he feels like he needs help. So he asks Katy. She's reluctant at first because of their past, but of course ends up saying yes. So the book is the two of them helping one another - her helping with his project and him helping her with the fall fair - while trying to stop their feelings for one another.
Katy is a librarian in Dover, but her heart lies with helping communities incorporate free little libraries. She gets asked to help with the book sale at the fall fair - which is where the lirbary gets a lot of their funds from. So she's busy working on this. And then Luke, an Air Force captain in the area, who broke Katy's heart years ago when they were in high school & lived in Oklahoma. He is in charge of a literacy program that the Air Force is sponsoring and he feels like he needs help. So he asks Katy. She's reluctant at first because of their past, but of course ends up saying yes. So the book is the two of them helping one another - her helping with his project and him helping her with the fall fair - while trying to stop their feelings for one another.
September 13, 2025
Katy and Luke were friends in high school but fell out of touch after they left. Until they both end up living in the same town without knowing the other lives there. With Luke needing a project to help him further his career in the air force and Katy being a librarian they pair up to bring more reading opportunities to the kids on base. Between that and preparing for the Fall Fair the pair end up spending a lot of time together. Luke unknowingly broke Katy’s heart in high school. Can she trust him not to do it again?
This book was full of Autumn goodness and absolutely no spice which I enjoyed. The story didn’t need it. If you’re a ‘no spice’ reader and love all things Autumn then this book is for you.
I was given this book for free in exchange for a review.
This book was full of Autumn goodness and absolutely no spice which I enjoyed. The story didn’t need it. If you’re a ‘no spice’ reader and love all things Autumn then this book is for you.
I was given this book for free in exchange for a review.
September 15, 2025
This story is the definition of a comfort read. It’s warm, heartfelt, and filled with the kind of autumn magic that makes you want to curl up with a blanket and a cup of something cinnamon-spiced. At its core, it’s about second chances, rediscovering yourself, and finding love where you least expect it.
What I loved most is how the book balances tender romance with themes of family, tradition, and community—it’s not just about falling in love, but about learning to open your heart again.
Favorite quote:
“We have to listen to the world. It’s always telling us something we need to know.”
If you’re searching for a read that feels like a hug and captures the golden glow of fall, this one belongs on your shelf. 🍁✨
What I loved most is how the book balances tender romance with themes of family, tradition, and community—it’s not just about falling in love, but about learning to open your heart again.
Favorite quote:
“We have to listen to the world. It’s always telling us something we need to know.”
If you’re searching for a read that feels like a hug and captures the golden glow of fall, this one belongs on your shelf. 🍁✨
Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews