Thursday, 26 June 2025

2025/155 | SARAH MAYBERRY - "SWEETHEART"


SYNOPSIS

I just wanted to get my hands on his beans

Four years ago, I had a ridiculous crush on my sister's boyfriend. But when they moved away together, I put Beck out of my mind and my heart. But now he's back, and roasting the best coffee in Vermont. I need to convince him to supply the Busy Bean. And I need more of those kisses we accidentally shared outside the coffee shop. He still makes my heart race faster than a triple shot of espresso.

She should be off limits, but instead she's pushing mine

Her sister burned my life to the ground, so Haley Elliot is the last woman I should bring into my bed. Although our business relationship is giving way to something more than a fine grind. Neither of us can help ourselves. And what’s worse, I think I’m falling for her.

But it’s a small town, and ours is a big secret. And when her sister blows back into town, suddenly the coffee isn’t the only thing brewing...

Content note: this fun and sexy romance contains a secondary character with mental health challenges. While that story is merely a small part of the book, we mention it out of an abundance of caution.


READING EXPERIENCE

This was so good—feet-kicking-high-in-the-air good! I felt so content and full after finishing the book… it was the kind of story that lingers in your heart.

It was truly an emotional roller coaster. The way the story portrayed the toll of mental health struggles—not just on the person suffering, but on everyone around them—was raw and real. It was painful to witness the consequences of avoiding help, and how those around them reacted, often out of fear or helplessness. This story powerfully shows how important it is to seek help when needed. It reinforces that asking for help is a brave act, not a shameful one.

The dynamic between the parents and their children was also hard to read. The way love is focused on only one child while another tries to not be a burden… reading that part was truly heartbreaking.

Despite all the heaviness, I absolutely loved the two main characters. They were caring, thoughtful, sincere, and brave—not in loud or dramatic ways, but in quiet, meaningful ones. What I especially appreciated was how transparent they were in their relationship. They communicated about everything, and that honest, open connection was such a beautiful foundation. It’s the little things—those small, everyday acts—that kept their love flowing. They supported each other, appreciated each other, and had each other’s backs. That kind of sweetness? Truly admirable. The whole book radiated a sweet, gentle warmth.

I honestly wish there had been more. A few months of their relationship just didn’t feel like enough—I was hoping to see their wedding, maybe a pregnancy announcement, the joy of raising a child together, growing old side by side… but I guess I’ll just have to imagine the rest (sigh).

I also loved the unique topics woven into the story—coffee brewing and being a cordwainer. I found myself wanting to learn more and truly appreciate the author for introducing those elements.

One quote that hit me hard:

"Only a person who has survived emotional abuse can understand how hard it is to reclaim yourself when you finally make the decision to leave. How much effort it takes to forgive yourself and understand that it’s never your fault."


RATINGS

Hero rating: 5

Heroine rating: 5

Sex scenes rating: 4

Sex scenes frequency: 4

Storyline concept rating: 4

Storytelling skills rating: 5

Story ending rating: 5

Book editing rating (5 = no edits spotted): 5

Overall rating: 4.5★

Would I recommend this book: No

Would I re-read this book: No

Would I read future books by this author: Yes

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