Pumpkin Everything by Beth Labonte
Author: Beth Labonte
Published: 2018
Genre: Contemporary Romance, Sweet Romance
Book One: Autumnboro Sweet Romace series
Synopsis From Goodreads:
After calling off her fall wedding, horror novelist Amy Fox is left with a broken heart, a mega case of writer’s block, and a serious aversion to all things pumpkin spice. When she receives news that her grandfather has broken his wrist driving through a Dunkin Donuts—literally straight through the front windows—five hundred miles away, in her hometown of Autumnboro, New Hampshire, Amy has no choice but to return to check on him. If she doesn’t make sure that he’s back on his feet, Grandpa may be moved into assisted living, and Amy’s beloved childhood home will be put on the market. Knowing she must return, Amy worries about the only thing worse than pumpkin spice—a reunion with Kit Parker—her childhood best friend, first love, and entire reason for skipping town in the first place. As the two reconnect, a second chance seems possible…if only Kit weren’t holding on to a secret that just might unravel everything.
My Take:
Pumpkin Everything is a cute, second-chance romance that will leave you longing to decorate your space with pumpkins, leaves and fall scented candles! Set in New Hampshire with the season in full swing, this book will certainly get you into the fall spirit. I had never read a contemporary romance before and wasn’t sure what to make of it at first. I am used to threats of demise, dragons, or (preferably) both! This book was slow to start for me due to the genre’s lack of action and “ticking clock” scenarios. But as I continued to read, I was utterly immersed in the small town of Autumnboro. I could see why this was made into a Hallmark movie and saw the film play out in my mind with every scene. I can’t wait to watch it!
The novel is fairly clean but not as clean as I expected. There are sexual innuendos and mentions of physical relationships throughout, but nothing is on page. Couples spend the night/weekend together. I haven’t seen Hallmarks go this direction, and I imagine much of this is stripped in the movie. I would still classify this novel as clean.
I loved the concept of this story, and I feel the author did a great job executing it. It is well-written and comical. The main characters are likable, and I rooted for them from the start. While I didn’t understand some of their choices, I chalked it up to the genre. Overall, this is a fantastic read if you are looking for a light, fall-focused sweet romance.
Book two in series: Maple Sugar Crush
Language:
Someone gestures with their middle finger, it is mentioned that someone “swore”, but no foul language is used.
Sexual Content:
Fairly clean but infidelity, couples spending the night together, and sexual innuendos are fairly frequent. Nothing graphic or on-page. A few kissing scenes, one that implies things may have gone further than kissing.
Drug/Alcohol Use:
Occasional wine use is mentioned, but it doesn’t play heavily in the book.
Violence:
None
Plot/Storytelling:
This was a quick and comical contemporary romance. It was well-written and will leave you guessing how things are going to work out. Vivid descriptions of fall in New England abound.