This is the first (straight) romance novel I've read in more than a decade. I didn't expect much but it was surprisingly good. I've found it on a random list of books associated with autumn. That's funny because the plot takes place during the summer months. But I agree with the list; apples, harvest, orchard, making of cider, it all screamed autumn to me. It did not disappoint as a mood read.

The romance part of the book was more subtle than I expected. Both protagonists had their own agenda, their own problems, and life stories, and they were aware of what was important to them and their families (and it was not their relationship, at least not at first). Despite an instant attraction, it was a beautiful slow burn. They became family first and partners later. I liked that a lot.

I think I might even reread it sometime in the future.