The Pumpkin Spice Café (Dream Harbor, Book 1) by Laurie Gilmore
on August 30, 2023
Genres: Fiction / Friendship, Fiction / General, Fiction / Mystery & Detective / General, Fiction / Romance / Contemporary, Fiction / Romance / General, Fiction / Romance / Holiday, Fiction / Romance / Workplace, Fiction / Small Town & Rural, Fiction / Thrillers / Suspense
Pages: 384
Format: Hardcover
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If you’re craving a cozy fall read that feels like a blend of Gilmore Girls and a Hallmark movie, The Pumpkin Spice Café by Laurie Gilmore is the perfect pick-me-up.
When Jeanie inherits her aunt’s beloved café in the charming small town of Dream Harbor, she seizes the chance to trade her dull desk job for a fresh start surrounded by cinnamon, coffee, and small-town gossip. Enter Logan—a local farmer with a gruff exterior and a firm dislike for change. Jeanie’s sunny optimism instantly clashes with his brooding nature, but as they’re pulled together by Dream Harbor’s cozy charm, their chemistry becomes impossible to ignore.
This was my first Laurie Gilmore book, and I really enjoyed it. The grumpy-sunshine dynamic between Jeanie and Logan felt genuine and well-balanced—it wasn’t overly dramatic, just enough spark and tension to make their slow-burn romance satisfying. And yes, there’s a touch of spice toward the end that adds the perfect little kick.
What truly stood out to me was the setting. Dream Harbor radiates warmth and community in a way that made me want to pack up and move there immediately (the same way I fantasize about living in Stars Hollow every time I rewatch Gilmore Girls). Every scene felt steeped in fall coziness—pumpkin spice lattes, crisp air, and small-town charm.
The Pumpkin Spice Café delivers exactly what it promises: a comforting, feel-good romance with a dash of spice and all the autumn vibes you could want. Perfect for curling up with a blanket and a warm drink.
English (US) · 