There’s something so special about returning to a series you already love—and this second book absolutely delivered everything I was hoping for and more.
Maple & Moonlight by Daphne Elliot
Series: Maplewood #2
Genres: Contemporary Romance

As a single mom rebuilding my life from scratch, I don’t need help. And I definitely don’t need the attention of a six-foot-three maple farmer with a beard and a hero complex who looks at me like I’m a problem he didn’t sign up for.

My landlord is broad-shouldered, permanently unimpressed, and entirely too comfortable telling me when I’m wrong. I think he’s grumpy, rigid, and overprotective. He thinks I’m chaos in Crocs.

Falling for Josh Lawrence was never part of the plan.

But then he starts showing up.

For my son when he’s overwhelmed.

For my daughters when they need someone steady.

And for me when my hands won’t stop shaking.

I didn’t come to Vermont looking for a protector. I don’t need rescuing. But somewhere between harvest festivals, pumpkin canoe races, and quiet mornings in the sugar shack, the man I swore was just an annoyance becomes my safe place.

And when my dangerous past resurfaces and threatens the new life I’ve built, the grumpy maple farmer next door becomes my fiercest protector, ready to stand by my side while I fight for my family.

Because it turns out maple farmers are a lot like their trees: quiet, stubborn, and surprisingly sweet when the pressure builds.

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In this series: Sap & Secrets
Other books from this Author Sap & Secrets

I received this book for free from in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

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I loved the first book, but this one truly took things to another level. This story was such an emotional ride, and I felt completely invested from beginning to end.

Celine’s journey is powerful and deeply moving. Everything she’s been through, and the way she’s trying to rebuild her life for her children, felt so real and heartfelt. You can feel her struggle to trust again, and at the same time, her fierce love and protectiveness as a mother. That emotional depth made her incredibly easy to connect with.

Josh was the perfect counterpart to her story. He comes across a bit gruff at first, but underneath that is someone incredibly kind, patient, and steady. The way he interacts with the kids was one of my absolute favorite parts—those moments added so much warmth and heart to the story.

The romance builds slowly and naturally, which made it even more believable and satisfying. Watching their relationship develop over time, rather than rushing into it, really allowed their connection to shine.

Even in moments where the story felt a bit familiar, I was completely hooked. The writing is engaging, emotional, and easy to fall into, and I found myself not wanting to put the book down.

Overall, this was a beautiful, emotional, and heartwarming continuation of the series. I’m officially hooked and can’t wait to read more from this author.

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