Love at On Deck Café (Mapleton 1), by Leah Dobrinska

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The first book I read this year was the prequel novella to Leah Dobrinska's clean, contemporary romance Mapleton series, Choosing Love. I loved it so much and I knew I wanted to continue the series. Being the mostly seasonal reader and listener that I am, I waited until around the 4th of July to listen to Love at On Deck Café (narrated by Sean Patrick Hopkins and Sarah Naughton).

Julia Derks grew up in the small town of Mapleton, where she also started her business, On Deck Café (Isn't that a clever name for a café?) When a developer, Samson Baker, shows up with plans to make significant changes to the area, Julia makes it clear she is not happy. However, opposites soon attract and the two are faced with a different kind of challenge. Can they work through their differences and come to an understanding?

While this first full-length (but quick read/listen) book in the Mapleton series didn't have the same emotional impact as Choosing Love did, I still really enjoyed it. It felt a lot like a Hallmark movie (which I love) in the form of a book. A developer swooping in typically isn't my favorite trope. There was a bit too much business talk for my taste close to the end, but the majority of Julia's and Samon's story was delightful. Even more, this is the story of the fictional small town of Mapleton, which I enjoyed. There is a strong sense of community. And if you enjoy pets in small town romances, you will enjoy the character of Mr. Waffles.

The book is told from alternating points of view between Julia and Samson. I enjoyed listening to both narrators bring these characters to life. The two different points of view give us deeper insight into each character. 

In Love at On Deck Café, there's a lot of talk about an upcoming Fourth of July Festival. I'm so glad we actually got to spend time at the festival. It wasn't just something that was discussed. I felt like I was at the festival during those scenes. It was one of my favorite aspects of the book.

While this is part of a series, it can easily be read as a standalone. The town of Mapleton is the common thread, but the characters are different from the prequel novella. I love the idea of getting to know different characters on a deeper level, but still in the same charming small town.

The next one in the Mapleton series is Good to Be Home and I'm definitely planning to read or listen to it. If you enjoy sweet, clean, contemporary romances with a Hallmark vibe, I highly recommend picking up Leah Dobrinska's Mapleton series. It's light reading, not without conflict, but with feel-good vibes.