When I was deciding whether or not to read “The Pumpkin Spice Café” by Laurie Gilmore (yes, I see what you did there, Lorelai), I turned to the reviews. One in particular caught my eye, essentially saying: “I can’t believe this was recommended on GMA! I thought it was a lighthearted fall romance, but there’s a lot of spice in there and I am highly disturbed by it.”
* Immediately purchases. *
I went in expecting a Gilmore Girls episode in book form. And it is exactly that. Everyone knows everyone. There’s even a Taylor Doosey-esque mayor.
But what I really loved? It borders on cozy fantasy. No, there’s no magic. No enchanted forests or spellbound towns. But there are barely any problems either—and in a world that feels constantly on fire, that’s its own kind of fantasy. It’s a warm, smutty escape that pulled me out of a reading slump and gave my mind a much-needed break.
But what I really loved? It borders on cozy fantasy. No, there’s no magic. No enchanted forests or spellbound towns. But there are barely any problems either—and in a world that feels constantly on fire, that’s its own kind of fantasy. It’s a warm, smutty escape that pulled me out of a reading slump and gave my mind a much-needed break.
The book is part of a series called Dream Harbor, which follows friends and siblings of the original couple. Most of them are introduced in the first two books, so the world feels like it keeps growing—but never in a way that overwhelms.
Final Verdict: A resounding yes!
This book is for anyone looking to return to a Stars Hollow-like town, but with even lower stakes. The characters are charming in a way that doesn’t try too hard. Simple girls. Simple boys. People who fall fast and love faster—like the Flash toward a happily ever after.
And honestly? Sometimes that’s exactly what we need.
★ My Ratings ★
Overall: ★★★★
Spice meter: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Would I Recommend? Yes!
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