A Cozy Fall Disappointment: My Review of Pumpkin Spice & Everything Nice
As the leaves begin to turn and the air becomes crisp, there’s something undeniably enticing about a cozy fall read—especially one that promises all the warm and nostalgic vibes akin to Gilmore Girls. When I first laid eyes on the cover of Pumpkin Spice & Everything Nice by Katie Cicatelli-Kuc, I felt the flutter of excitement; it screamed autumn, with rich colors and delightfully inviting imagery. Add in the promise of a YA romance, and I was hooked. But, alas, as I turned the pages, I found myself yearning for more than what this story served up.
Set in the charming small town of Briar Glen, the backdrop of pumpkin festivals, baking contests, and Halloween celebrations held such promise. The heart of the story revolves around Lucy, our enthusiastic protagonist who helps her single mother run their quaint coffee shop, Cup o’ Jo. The arrival of a competing coffee chain, Java Junction, adds a layer of conflict that I initially thought would lead to a juicy confrontation. Adding fuel to the fire, Lucy’s crush turns out to be the son of the chain’s owners—now that’s some classic YA drama!
At the outset, I felt the familiar Gilmore Girls warmth—the close-knit community vibe, the mouth-watering descriptions of fall treats, and a sprinkle of witty banter. But here lies my first point of contention: the banter felt more jarring than charming. Lucy’s interactions often came off as rude rather than playful, making it difficult to connect with her. I found myself wishing for those witty exchanges that made Rory and Lorelai such beloved characters.
As for the romance—which is quite literally at the heart of YA fiction—oh my, what a letdown. It’s billed as a sweet romantic escapade, but I can’t help but wonder where it even existed. A hug? Really? The promise of feelings and connection hovered in the air, but never materialized on the pages. The romance was overshadowed by endless discussions on perfecting the ideal pumpkin spice latte, veering away from what could have been an enchanting love story.
The character development was minimal, leaving me wanting more depth and intrigue. Lucy seemed almost one-dimensional, as her close relationship with her mother was presented, yet didn’t delve into real emotional complexities. There were glimpses of potential—of a coming-of-age story rich in local lore and familial love—but the experience felt juvenile, lacking the resonance I yearned for.
Despite its flaws, there were enjoyable aspects, like the picturesque setting and wholesome concept. I appreciated the author’s intention to create a festive atmosphere and a story that would appeal to fans of charming small towns. It’s just unfortunate that the execution didn’t quite hit the mark.
If you’re a reader looking for light-hearted escapism and don’t mind a romance that may remain elusive, Pumpkin Spice & Everything Nice might still tickle your fancy. However, if you’re like me and hoping for that cozy, heartwarming autumn story with layers of emotional depth and romance, you might want to look elsewhere.
In the end, I wanted to love this book so desperately, but it left me feeling as flat as a deflated pumpkin. This tale of seasonal charm reminded me that not every autumn story can capture the wonder of falling leaves and warm lattes. But the quest for that perfect cozy read continues! 🍂
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