With its picturesque setting and sizzling chemistry, Valerie Bowman’s The Honeycrisp Orchard Inn is a delightful escape into the world of small-town romance that I will be sharing with you in my latest book review. Set for release on September 9, this story is one that follows a familiar, yet wonderfully executed, trope: two strong-willed people forced to work together, discovering that their differences might be exactly what makes them perfect for each other.
Disclaimer: Some links found on this page might be affiliate links. If you click an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
A Recipe for Romance
Ellie Lawson, a city event planner, finds her life turned upside down when a series of misfortunes sends her scurrying back to her family’s Long Island inn. She anticipates a quiet retreat to mend her wounds, but instead finds her intended sanctuary occupied by Aiden, the handsome, and infuriatingly stubborn, son of the orchard owners. Their initial clash is palpable, a battle of city vs. country values that set the stage for a compelling romance.
The real heart of the novel is their unwilling collaboration on the inn’s annual Harvest Festival. As Ellie and Aiden are thrown together, their professional conflict bleeds into a personal one, sparking an electrifying tension between them. Watching their grudging respect for another as it evolves into genuine affection is the kind of slow-burn pleasure that makes a romance deliciously satisfying. Bowman does a great job at capturing the enchanting disorder of small-town life, making the orchard feel like a character in its own right.
A Thematic Deep Dive
Beyond the charming romance, the book explores several compelling themes. A central one is the journey of her self-discovery, as Ellie, forced to return to the life she left behind, finds unexpected fulfillment and realizes that the city may not have been where she truly belonged. The novel also effectively contrasts the fast-paced nature of city life with the slower, community-focused values of a small town. This provides not only a backdrop for the romance but also highlights the importance of family, collaboration, and finding purpose.
A Bittersweet Note
While the romance and setting are sweet, the book falls a little flat in its portrayal of the main character, Ellie. Her quick assumption that her parents’ simple forgetfulness is a sign of dementia feels insensitive and a bit exasperating. While other characters, like Aiden, had their own flaws, Ellie’s thoughtlessness was particularly difficult to overlook. The way this topic is handled could have shown more discretion and care that the condition deserves. It’s plausible that the parents’ “forgetfulness” and the odd living arrangements are deliberate motives to bring the characters together, but this slight plot convenience still doesn’t excuse the humorous, and at times insensitive approach to a serious topic.
My Final Thoughts
The Honeycrisp Orchard Inn discussed here in this book review is more than just a love story; it’s a journey of rediscovery, proving that sometimes, the life you ran from is exactly where you belong. It’s a perfect read for anyone looking for a sweet, sexy, and an utterly engaging tale that will leave you with a warm feeling and a craving for apple cider. This cozy romance book promises to be a fall favorite on many peoples reading lists.
Thanks to HarperCollins for this #gifted book for this review.
