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Caterpillars in Glass Jars
Jaynie Hall lives in the same small town she grew up in, perfectly content waitressing at her Grams’ little café, painting and hanging out with her best friend Luke Culver at the lake. Until budding country music artist Gage Evans strolls into town with the annual Bootlegger Country Music Festival and shakes up her world.
Already self-conscious about her weight, Jaynie battles insecurities when Gage shows interest in more than friendship.
When Luke sees what’s happening between Jaynie and this stranger, he’s struck with a truth he never grasped before. Jaynie isn’t just his friend, she’s the only girl he’s ever felt deep affection for.
Seeing the threat Gage poses for a future he didn’t realize he wanted, Luke attempts to show Jaynie how he truly feels. Will his efforts come too late or will he prove his love before Jaynie makes a decision she might regret?
Already self-conscious about her weight, Jaynie battles insecurities when Gage shows interest in more than friendship.
When Luke sees what’s happening between Jaynie and this stranger, he’s struck with a truth he never grasped before. Jaynie isn’t just his friend, she’s the only girl he’s ever felt deep affection for.
Seeing the threat Gage poses for a future he didn’t realize he wanted, Luke attempts to show Jaynie how he truly feels. Will his efforts come too late or will he prove his love before Jaynie makes a decision she might regret?
394 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 19, 2024
About the author
Sarah Hill
11 books70 followersSARAH HILL, lives in Idaho with her husband, 3 dogs and cat. When she isn't feeding, playing or doctoring one of her fur babies, you can find her watching a chick flick or favorite Hallmark movie, hanging with family and friends, reading or taking pictures (because photos are important!) Some of her favorite things include the world of Harry Potter, Mexican food, camping, playing pranks, laughing and kissing her husband.
Sarah continues to listen to the characters who find her and whisper their stories in her ear and plans to get their stories out to the world.
Sarah continues to listen to the characters who find her and whisper their stories in her ear and plans to get their stories out to the world.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
January 19, 2024
To say reading this book was an honour is an understatement. It goes much further than just reading it. There’s been a group of us who’ve had the pleasure of becoming Sarah’s friends throughout the process of this book, and it’s been such an amazing experience to see it come to fruition from start to finish, and know that we got to be a part of that. Thank you Sarah for trusting us, and thank you for the link to the pickle hoodie ✌🏻😉.
With all that aside this book is an absolute five star read for me. I could not stop reading and, in a lot of cases, crying. My emotions were all over the place and I was very torn as far as the love story went. I had such a soft spot for Jay because she was such a sheltered young adult and I desperately wanted her to fall in love with herself and find her confidence.
The love story between Jay and Luke was so tender and so delicate. I think Sarah did a beautiful job of building their history for the reader so that we were invested in the friendship before we even became invested in their relationship. It gave me this edge of my seat feeling because I was so scared something would spoil it all.
If you are looking for a story that puts you in your feels and leaves you there then this is the one!
With all that aside this book is an absolute five star read for me. I could not stop reading and, in a lot of cases, crying. My emotions were all over the place and I was very torn as far as the love story went. I had such a soft spot for Jay because she was such a sheltered young adult and I desperately wanted her to fall in love with herself and find her confidence.
The love story between Jay and Luke was so tender and so delicate. I think Sarah did a beautiful job of building their history for the reader so that we were invested in the friendship before we even became invested in their relationship. It gave me this edge of my seat feeling because I was so scared something would spoil it all.
If you are looking for a story that puts you in your feels and leaves you there then this is the one!
January 21, 2024
What happens when a young girl needs to love herself before she can truly give her heart away to the one it belongs to?
What happens when a boy finally sees that girl for what she’s always been? Will it be too late?
This story captures a journey of self-discovery and self-love in such a relatable and beautiful way.
What happens when a boy finally sees that girl for what she’s always been? Will it be too late?
This story captures a journey of self-discovery and self-love in such a relatable and beautiful way.
January 20, 2025
Sarah Hill writes wonderful small town romances, and Caterpillars in Glass Jars is no exception! What would it take to realize a lifelong friendship was destined to be more? In Luke’s case, it was the chance of losing his love to another man. As Hill’s characters burrowed their way into my heart, I felt their joy and their pain, not to mention their passion! Hometown vibes and a full cast of darn good folk add to the charm of this feel-good read.
January 8, 2024
All I can really say is that I LOVED this book! Taking place in a small mountain town is one of my weaknesses. Jaynie is a young woman feeling invisible under her best friend Luke’s shadow. It’s not until a handsome stranger rolls into town showing Jaynie her worth that Luke starts to question his feelings for Jaynie. The characters were great. I fell hard for each of them at the end in different ways. The lesson that came from this book would be one that I think many people can relate to. Questioning that long ago, quick, and young love that makes you wonder what you’re suppose to have taken from it. Having one myself, I think that this book is such a cute read. A second chance romance, friends to lovers, love triangle in a small town. I will be suggesting this to ALL my romance lovers and begging my library to order a copy. I’m going to include a few quotes and excerpts that stuck with me from this book:
“‘Plus, fairytales only exist in books.’
‘They exist where we create them.’”
“I want her to know how important she still is, how I never stopped thinking about her and that my heart has only ever beat for her.”
“‘If we focus on the bad, it feels like that’s all we get. There’s food to be found in every single day if we just take the time to look.’”
“‘Sometimes we go through life looking for something we WANT. When being happy has less to do with getting what you want and more to do with having what you need.’”
“I turn to face this man who has laid the world at my feet but has to go.”
“‘All this time, I tricked myself into thinking I was keeping you safe. Turns out caterpillars don’t keep in glass jars.’”
“‘Plus, fairytales only exist in books.’
‘They exist where we create them.’”
“I want her to know how important she still is, how I never stopped thinking about her and that my heart has only ever beat for her.”
“‘If we focus on the bad, it feels like that’s all we get. There’s food to be found in every single day if we just take the time to look.’”
“‘Sometimes we go through life looking for something we WANT. When being happy has less to do with getting what you want and more to do with having what you need.’”
“I turn to face this man who has laid the world at my feet but has to go.”
“‘All this time, I tricked myself into thinking I was keeping you safe. Turns out caterpillars don’t keep in glass jars.’”
January 13, 2024
I really enjoyed this book.
Jaynie is the FMC who has insecurities about her body. She believes no one can love her for who she is and often puts herself down. I liked that I could relate to Jaynie as most people do feel insecure and have parts of them that they don't love.
Luke is the best friend who calls Jaynie 'pretty' as a nickname, and Jaynie assumes that's because he has to say them things because his her best friend. Luke can get any girl he wants but has never wanted to settle down....why? Without releasing it, Jaynie is the only girl for him, and it takes for Gage to show up for him to realise!!
Gage comes into town for a festival and is instantly drawn to Jaynie. He makes Jaynie feel seen. Gage was so gentle with Jaynie that it was so beautiful, but he was honest that he wasn't there to stay as he was chasing his dreams of becoming a musician.
It was lovely to see Jaynie grow as a person and for Gage to teach her to chase her dreams.
Does Luke get the girl? Does Jaynie fall into Lukes arms? Does Gage show back up? Guess you need to read it to find out 😂😂
Jaynie is the FMC who has insecurities about her body. She believes no one can love her for who she is and often puts herself down. I liked that I could relate to Jaynie as most people do feel insecure and have parts of them that they don't love.
Luke is the best friend who calls Jaynie 'pretty' as a nickname, and Jaynie assumes that's because he has to say them things because his her best friend. Luke can get any girl he wants but has never wanted to settle down....why? Without releasing it, Jaynie is the only girl for him, and it takes for Gage to show up for him to realise!!
Gage comes into town for a festival and is instantly drawn to Jaynie. He makes Jaynie feel seen. Gage was so gentle with Jaynie that it was so beautiful, but he was honest that he wasn't there to stay as he was chasing his dreams of becoming a musician.
It was lovely to see Jaynie grow as a person and for Gage to teach her to chase her dreams.
Does Luke get the girl? Does Jaynie fall into Lukes arms? Does Gage show back up? Guess you need to read it to find out 😂😂
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 22, 2023
I love all things Sarah Hill- this book was another quality read from her! I really liked Jaynie and Luke as both friends and lovers! I really enjoyed both of their perspectives on this story as well as the dual timeline! A fun read for anyone who wants something fairly light.
*If you are sensitive to discussion of weight and looks, know that this book will discuss that throughout (and often in a critical way from the FMC’s pov). Read with care dear friends 💕
*If you are sensitive to discussion of weight and looks, know that this book will discuss that throughout (and often in a critical way from the FMC’s pov). Read with care dear friends 💕
November 4, 2024
This book will have you staying up too late, flipping through pages quickly, wanting to know what will happen next to characters you will instantly fall in love with.
Jaynie is a young woman who feels invisible and struggles with positive body image, something i feel a majority of people are easily able to relate to. She thinks she's perfectly content with being in the small town she grew up in, just kind of living day to day. That is until she meets Gage. A stranger who paints an entirely new picture for her and what life could be.
Luke is a childhood friend who lives next door and has the nickname 'pretty' for Jaynie. She believes the name is just something that he calls her and insists that he would just tell her that she's pretty out of pity or just to be nice, something along the lines of brotherly love. It takes him years to really acknowledge what it actually is, but will she be able to accept it?
Gage is a handsome fellow who comes into town for a festival and is instantly drawn to Jaynie, making her feel seen for who she is. He is honest from the beginning with her. He has dreams he is chasing and does not plan to stick around even as he and Jaynie become close in the short amount of time they spend together.
I truly believe that some people do come into our lives, not really to stay but just temporarily, long enough to teach us valuable lessons that otherwise would have remained invisible to ourselves.
""All this time, I tricked myself into thinking I was keeping you safe. Turns out Caterpillars don't keep in glass jars""
Jaynie is a young woman who feels invisible and struggles with positive body image, something i feel a majority of people are easily able to relate to. She thinks she's perfectly content with being in the small town she grew up in, just kind of living day to day. That is until she meets Gage. A stranger who paints an entirely new picture for her and what life could be.
Luke is a childhood friend who lives next door and has the nickname 'pretty' for Jaynie. She believes the name is just something that he calls her and insists that he would just tell her that she's pretty out of pity or just to be nice, something along the lines of brotherly love. It takes him years to really acknowledge what it actually is, but will she be able to accept it?
Gage is a handsome fellow who comes into town for a festival and is instantly drawn to Jaynie, making her feel seen for who she is. He is honest from the beginning with her. He has dreams he is chasing and does not plan to stick around even as he and Jaynie become close in the short amount of time they spend together.
I truly believe that some people do come into our lives, not really to stay but just temporarily, long enough to teach us valuable lessons that otherwise would have remained invisible to ourselves.
""All this time, I tricked myself into thinking I was keeping you safe. Turns out Caterpillars don't keep in glass jars""
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 3, 2024
“I’m not a damn caterpillar you can keep in a glass jar.” 👉🏼The title was so confusing to me but this right here makes the title everything and then some! Once you read it you’ll know.
“I’ve always been so wrapped up worrying about what other people think about me, I didn’t stop to dream.” Felt this one in my soul!
My thoughts ⬇️
•Such a cute friends to lover read.
•Highlighted on self love and self respect.
•A great reminder to see yourself the way your loved ones see you.
•I’m a sucker for the over protective friend turned lover.
•I’m a sucker for a romance with some spice.
•I’m a sucker for a happy ending.
I went from loving Jaynie
To loving Luke
To disliking Gage
To liking Gage
To disliking Jaynie
To liking Jaynie
•open door romance•
👉🏼 Are you a fan of friends to lovers love triangles & second chance tropes ?
“I’ve always been so wrapped up worrying about what other people think about me, I didn’t stop to dream.” Felt this one in my soul!
My thoughts ⬇️
•Such a cute friends to lover read.
•Highlighted on self love and self respect.
•A great reminder to see yourself the way your loved ones see you.
•I’m a sucker for the over protective friend turned lover.
•I’m a sucker for a romance with some spice.
•I’m a sucker for a happy ending.
I went from loving Jaynie
To loving Luke
To disliking Gage
To liking Gage
To disliking Jaynie
To liking Jaynie
•open door romance•
👉🏼 Are you a fan of friends to lovers love triangles & second chance tropes ?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 17, 2025
Oh my heart! Stretched thin, then expanded to fill the whole world. Great romance.
November 13, 2025
Sweet love story of friends to lovers and dealing with body insecurities.
January 4, 2024
This story y’all. The synopsis had me from the beginning and I couldn’t wait to start reading this book by Sarah Hill. Country music. Small town romance. Full-figured FMC. Second chance love. I needed this book in my life.
Everything felt so life-like to me like I was reading someone’s diary. It had real thoughts and emotions behind each character from dual POVs and an alternating timeline. I related so much to Jaynie. As someone who has struggled with body issues my entire life, it was a nice change to read a book about a FMC who was not your average size woman. At times, I feel it could be triggering to read about how Jaynie felt about herself and her weight, but I know that is part of her journey. It takes time to work on those things and she showed tremendous growth and strength by the end. I felt so incredibly proud of her like a best friend you’re rooting for the entire time.
The love interests were two attractive MC and I couldn’t get enough of them. Gage is the country singer and he was pretty smooth and swoon-worthy. He reminded me of someone I used to know back in the day. And Luke, her best friend growing up, infuriated me so much. I wanted to smack him so many times, but I loved seeing his growth as well. It really is a story of growing up and becoming the best version of yourself.
I will say, the ending absolutely made this book. If you feel any apprehension through the beginning and middle of this book, keep going. It feels so much like a real life story to me and the ending just made me feel all the feels. Trust me on this y’all. I’ve never read anything like it. And I’ve read a lot of romance. I loved this story so much and I’m still thinking about these characters. I’m so thankful for Sarah Hill and I loved that this was my first read of 2024!🥰
Keywords and trigger warnings: open door romance, body image issues, possible eating disordered thinking, second chance romance
Everything felt so life-like to me like I was reading someone’s diary. It had real thoughts and emotions behind each character from dual POVs and an alternating timeline. I related so much to Jaynie. As someone who has struggled with body issues my entire life, it was a nice change to read a book about a FMC who was not your average size woman. At times, I feel it could be triggering to read about how Jaynie felt about herself and her weight, but I know that is part of her journey. It takes time to work on those things and she showed tremendous growth and strength by the end. I felt so incredibly proud of her like a best friend you’re rooting for the entire time.
The love interests were two attractive MC and I couldn’t get enough of them. Gage is the country singer and he was pretty smooth and swoon-worthy. He reminded me of someone I used to know back in the day. And Luke, her best friend growing up, infuriated me so much. I wanted to smack him so many times, but I loved seeing his growth as well. It really is a story of growing up and becoming the best version of yourself.
I will say, the ending absolutely made this book. If you feel any apprehension through the beginning and middle of this book, keep going. It feels so much like a real life story to me and the ending just made me feel all the feels. Trust me on this y’all. I’ve never read anything like it. And I’ve read a lot of romance. I loved this story so much and I’m still thinking about these characters. I’m so thankful for Sarah Hill and I loved that this was my first read of 2024!🥰
Keywords and trigger warnings: open door romance, body image issues, possible eating disordered thinking, second chance romance
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 9, 2024
If this book isn’t on your TBR list, honey, it NEEDS to be! I was hooked from chapter one, and what a roller coaster it was! The writing style of Sarah Hill always keeps me glued to the page. It was almost depressing to read the final page because I knew I had to say goodbye to the characters that I felt like I knew so well.
Jaynie Hall seems content with her simple life in a small mountain town. Aside from her never ending negative thoughts about her body image. That is until she meets up and coming country star Gage Evans. Let me tell you, he is indeed 10/10 swoon worthy. Sweet, honest, and refreshing.
My emotions were thrown around like a rag doll over who I wanted Jaynie to end up with. The hot new music star? Or should she explore her new emotions with her lifetime best friend, Luke. Luke had been there for her practically her whole life, but was he only being sweet because he had to be? I couldn’t decide who i wanted her to be with more for 80% of the book, each and every character made me happy, mad, and screaming to just SAY WHATS ON YOUR MIND. But boy was I happy with the outcome!
There is some spice sprinkled in, but not too much. So if you’re trying to dip your toes into the world of spicy books this would be the perfect starting point!
TW: Body Image Issues, Negative Self Thoughts, Open Door Romance
Jaynie Hall seems content with her simple life in a small mountain town. Aside from her never ending negative thoughts about her body image. That is until she meets up and coming country star Gage Evans. Let me tell you, he is indeed 10/10 swoon worthy. Sweet, honest, and refreshing.
My emotions were thrown around like a rag doll over who I wanted Jaynie to end up with. The hot new music star? Or should she explore her new emotions with her lifetime best friend, Luke. Luke had been there for her practically her whole life, but was he only being sweet because he had to be? I couldn’t decide who i wanted her to be with more for 80% of the book, each and every character made me happy, mad, and screaming to just SAY WHATS ON YOUR MIND. But boy was I happy with the outcome!
There is some spice sprinkled in, but not too much. So if you’re trying to dip your toes into the world of spicy books this would be the perfect starting point!
TW: Body Image Issues, Negative Self Thoughts, Open Door Romance
January 14, 2024
I just read my first ARC and it was for this amazing book. Caterpillars in Glass Jars by Sarah Hill
I don’t wanna give too much away…
Jaynie is a young woman who loves to paint and is also a waitress. Jaynie struggles with her curves & weight which; I really related to and it just drew me that much further in her story!
She’s been best friends with her neighbor Luke since they were little kids in elementary school. They spend all the time together & Luke and Jaynie have never admitted to having feelings for each other. They’ve just always had this protective friendship toward each other.
That all changes for Luke when a country singer named Gage Evans comes into town for the Bootleggers music festival and meets Jaynie at her Grandma’s Restaurant. Gage is drawn to Jaynie right away. Gage makes Jaynie feel seen and beautiful! He gives Jaynie attention she’s never received from a man. Gage is so caring with her and patient. He shows her that her curves are truly beautiful!
Jaynie discovers that her dream is to become an artist once she finally sees the love and inspiration Gage has as becoming an up and coming country singer.
Does Luke confess his feelings too late?
Is Jaynie the one Luke let get away?
Does Jaynie fall in love with Gage?
this is a great book on self-discovery and self-love!
Caterpillars in Glass Jars gets released on January 19th and I think everyone should read it.
I don’t wanna give too much away…
Jaynie is a young woman who loves to paint and is also a waitress. Jaynie struggles with her curves & weight which; I really related to and it just drew me that much further in her story!
She’s been best friends with her neighbor Luke since they were little kids in elementary school. They spend all the time together & Luke and Jaynie have never admitted to having feelings for each other. They’ve just always had this protective friendship toward each other.
That all changes for Luke when a country singer named Gage Evans comes into town for the Bootleggers music festival and meets Jaynie at her Grandma’s Restaurant. Gage is drawn to Jaynie right away. Gage makes Jaynie feel seen and beautiful! He gives Jaynie attention she’s never received from a man. Gage is so caring with her and patient. He shows her that her curves are truly beautiful!
Jaynie discovers that her dream is to become an artist once she finally sees the love and inspiration Gage has as becoming an up and coming country singer.
Does Luke confess his feelings too late?
Is Jaynie the one Luke let get away?
Does Jaynie fall in love with Gage?
this is a great book on self-discovery and self-love!
Caterpillars in Glass Jars gets released on January 19th and I think everyone should read it.
February 10, 2024
My thoughts: I adored this book and was so thrilled at the chance to read this prior to its release! @authorsarahhill you are incredibly talented and incredible and your passion for you characters and storytelling shines through on every page.
Now to the story, I absolutely loved the messages throughout about body positivity and Jaynie’s loved one encouraging and supporting her through learning to love her body as a larger character. However, Jaynie was just absolutely beautiful inside and out - her vulnerability and fear of being loved and accepted absolutely crushed my soul.
Luke, you charming, sweet, man - the bestfriend that everybody needs. His feelings for Jaynie were blatant to the reader but hid within the subtlety of friendship to Jaynie. The fact he helps her grandparents despite their fall out - 🥹🥹 - no words.
Luke represents the safety blanket, the homely choice and of course the person who loves Jaynie the absolute most, but I was screaming “TELL HER LUKE!” In every single chapter. Gage represents the fun, thrill and sexiness of a first love that captivates but also capsizes.
Please support @authorsarahhill and give this a read!!
Now to the story, I absolutely loved the messages throughout about body positivity and Jaynie’s loved one encouraging and supporting her through learning to love her body as a larger character. However, Jaynie was just absolutely beautiful inside and out - her vulnerability and fear of being loved and accepted absolutely crushed my soul.
Luke, you charming, sweet, man - the bestfriend that everybody needs. His feelings for Jaynie were blatant to the reader but hid within the subtlety of friendship to Jaynie. The fact he helps her grandparents despite their fall out - 🥹🥹 - no words.
Luke represents the safety blanket, the homely choice and of course the person who loves Jaynie the absolute most, but I was screaming “TELL HER LUKE!” In every single chapter. Gage represents the fun, thrill and sexiness of a first love that captivates but also capsizes.
Please support @authorsarahhill and give this a read!!
August 11, 2024
Caterpillars in Glass Jars by Sarah Hill
I had the absolute pleasure of reading the ARC of Caterpillars in Glass Jars. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Jaynie content living in a small town and waitressing at her Gram’s Cafe, painting and hanging out with her best friend Luke at the local lake.
Jaynie was very self-conscious of her weight and struggles with insecurities most of her life And then
Upcoming Country music artist Gage Evan’s comes to town for a music festival and shows interest in Jaynie and in more than just a friendship.
As the relationship grows between Jaynie and Gage, Luke realizes his own feelings for Jaynie. Will Luke be able to show Jaynie how he feels or will it be too late??? Well, I’m not telling you, you’ll have to run out and grab Caterpillars in Glass Jars and find out!!!! It’s such a great story and I totally related with the body image insecurities. Thank you again Sarah Hill for the opportunity to read your book!!! I will definitely be going back and reading your other books.
I had the absolute pleasure of reading the ARC of Caterpillars in Glass Jars. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Jaynie content living in a small town and waitressing at her Gram’s Cafe, painting and hanging out with her best friend Luke at the local lake.
Jaynie was very self-conscious of her weight and struggles with insecurities most of her life And then
Upcoming Country music artist Gage Evan’s comes to town for a music festival and shows interest in Jaynie and in more than just a friendship.
As the relationship grows between Jaynie and Gage, Luke realizes his own feelings for Jaynie. Will Luke be able to show Jaynie how he feels or will it be too late??? Well, I’m not telling you, you’ll have to run out and grab Caterpillars in Glass Jars and find out!!!! It’s such a great story and I totally related with the body image insecurities. Thank you again Sarah Hill for the opportunity to read your book!!! I will definitely be going back and reading your other books.
February 9, 2024
So relatable … another winner from Sarah Hill
Having enjoyed Sarah Hill’s previous books, and having witnessed snippets of her journey as an author, I was looking forward to reading Caterpillars in Glass Jars ... and it certainly didn’t disappoint.
Sarah always creates realistic characters and, for me, this was her best work so far. Not only did the three main characters seem real, but I could see elements of myself in all of them: Luke, with his small-town view, still blind to what is under his nose; Gage, with the world at his feet, a zest for adventure and living for the moment; and Jaynie with her various self-confidence and body-image insecurities.
Contrasting characters, questionable feelings, bad-timing, dream-chasing, compromise, regret … so many aspects that make life so colourful. This is a wonderfully relatable story that will resonate with many. Why not try it?
Having enjoyed Sarah Hill’s previous books, and having witnessed snippets of her journey as an author, I was looking forward to reading Caterpillars in Glass Jars ... and it certainly didn’t disappoint.
Sarah always creates realistic characters and, for me, this was her best work so far. Not only did the three main characters seem real, but I could see elements of myself in all of them: Luke, with his small-town view, still blind to what is under his nose; Gage, with the world at his feet, a zest for adventure and living for the moment; and Jaynie with her various self-confidence and body-image insecurities.
Contrasting characters, questionable feelings, bad-timing, dream-chasing, compromise, regret … so many aspects that make life so colourful. This is a wonderfully relatable story that will resonate with many. Why not try it?
January 8, 2024
Sarah hill has done it again! I read this book in one sitting! I honestly loved the message and the story of this book! As someone who struggles with their weight I connected with this book instantly.
The FMC, Jayine, and the MMC, Luke, were absolutely amazing. I loved their relationship and how it developed! I was a bit unsure about Gale but he ended up growing on me and I loved how he turned up in the end!
“All this time, I tricked myself into thinking I was keeping you safe. Turns out caterpillars don’t keep inside glass jars.”
This book was beautifully written and I’m so glad I was able to review one of Sarah’s books again! Thank you so much! I have loved both books by her!
“"The work? Love isn't work, Pretty." She smiles. "Of course it is. It may not always be hard, but if you think couples don't work to stay together, you're blind. Love takes work. It takes working on your patience, and on compromising. Love is learning to love the little things that annoy you. It's dancing when you're at your happiest and having the hard talks when you're not. It takes work to stay together. I know, because I've had the best role models anyone could ever have in Grams and Pop."
The FMC, Jayine, and the MMC, Luke, were absolutely amazing. I loved their relationship and how it developed! I was a bit unsure about Gale but he ended up growing on me and I loved how he turned up in the end!
“All this time, I tricked myself into thinking I was keeping you safe. Turns out caterpillars don’t keep inside glass jars.”
This book was beautifully written and I’m so glad I was able to review one of Sarah’s books again! Thank you so much! I have loved both books by her!
“"The work? Love isn't work, Pretty." She smiles. "Of course it is. It may not always be hard, but if you think couples don't work to stay together, you're blind. Love takes work. It takes working on your patience, and on compromising. Love is learning to love the little things that annoy you. It's dancing when you're at your happiest and having the hard talks when you're not. It takes work to stay together. I know, because I've had the best role models anyone could ever have in Grams and Pop."
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 5, 2024
Sarah Hill did it again 👏🏼
Caterpillars in Glass Jars is my second book by this author. I will read anything she writes at this point, seriously.
Okay, I LOVED this one! I truly never knew where this book was headed. It was relatable, but never predictable. It’s everything you want in a small town romance. It’s a reminder to be kind to yourself, to give yourself grace, that we are more than the bodies that carry us. That message really hit home for me.
Be prepared to fall in love with all three main characters, and grandparents too. 🥺
The family dynamic is SO SWEET. You’ll want to adopt Grams and Pop as your own grandparents.
Spoiler alert: I totally get why Jaynie was confused with both Luke and Gage. I couldn’t choose who to root for! I love both of them!
Caterpillars in Glass Jars is my second book by this author. I will read anything she writes at this point, seriously.
Okay, I LOVED this one! I truly never knew where this book was headed. It was relatable, but never predictable. It’s everything you want in a small town romance. It’s a reminder to be kind to yourself, to give yourself grace, that we are more than the bodies that carry us. That message really hit home for me.
Be prepared to fall in love with all three main characters, and grandparents too. 🥺
The family dynamic is SO SWEET. You’ll want to adopt Grams and Pop as your own grandparents.
Spoiler alert: I totally get why Jaynie was confused with both Luke and Gage. I couldn’t choose who to root for! I love both of them!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 27, 2024
This is one of my favorite books I’ve ever read!
First off, I absolutely adored the characters. I agree with Sarah’s content warning about negative body image from the FMC, but I have also never related to a character more. It gave me such joy to watch the evolution of Jaynie and while she still struggled with things by the end, the progress showed. The MMCs were also so lovable and while communication skills needed work, it made sense as the plot unfolded. Also, the lyrics within the story are so good! I wish someone would record them so I could hear!
Definitely recommend this for anyone who loves small-town romance, is ok with some steamier scenes (nothing super crazy), and loves a great friends to lovers story!
First off, I absolutely adored the characters. I agree with Sarah’s content warning about negative body image from the FMC, but I have also never related to a character more. It gave me such joy to watch the evolution of Jaynie and while she still struggled with things by the end, the progress showed. The MMCs were also so lovable and while communication skills needed work, it made sense as the plot unfolded. Also, the lyrics within the story are so good! I wish someone would record them so I could hear!
Definitely recommend this for anyone who loves small-town romance, is ok with some steamier scenes (nothing super crazy), and loves a great friends to lovers story!
December 24, 2023
I loved this book. If was a book that was set up so differently than other books I’ve read lately and I loved that!
Jaynie ( FMC) was super relatable because she mentioned her struggle with body confidence and her weight affecting her wanting to love and be loved.
I loved Luke and Jaynie. It took me a chapter or two to warm up to Gage just because I wasn’t sure of his true intention which I think is a good suspense aspect that you wouldn’t guess would be in the book! Luke was an adorable character who seemed all tough and rough but just wanted his girl to know how loved she really was and always had been and I just love that. When I read “I’ve loved you since sixth grade” my heart melted. Loved it! I LOVED JAYNIES INDEPENDENCE. It was a great read and I would recommend this book to anyone!
Jaynie ( FMC) was super relatable because she mentioned her struggle with body confidence and her weight affecting her wanting to love and be loved.
I loved Luke and Jaynie. It took me a chapter or two to warm up to Gage just because I wasn’t sure of his true intention which I think is a good suspense aspect that you wouldn’t guess would be in the book! Luke was an adorable character who seemed all tough and rough but just wanted his girl to know how loved she really was and always had been and I just love that. When I read “I’ve loved you since sixth grade” my heart melted. Loved it! I LOVED JAYNIES INDEPENDENCE. It was a great read and I would recommend this book to anyone!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 29, 2023
Favorite Quote “All this time, I tricked myself into thinking I was keeping you safe. Turns out caterpillars don’t keep inside glass jars.”
Beautifully written and relatable. Jaynie is vulnerable and shy, but learns love herself regardless of her insecurities. Weight issues are discussed, for those that find that topic triggering. Friends to lovers and second chance romance, I couldn’t put this story down! I loved that The Cottonwoods made an appearance!
Favorite character- Luke
Beautifully written and relatable. Jaynie is vulnerable and shy, but learns love herself regardless of her insecurities. Weight issues are discussed, for those that find that topic triggering. Friends to lovers and second chance romance, I couldn’t put this story down! I loved that The Cottonwoods made an appearance!
Favorite character- Luke
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 5, 2024
I absolutely loved this book!
Jaynie is so relatable with her struggle with her body image and I loved reading about her journey finding herself and experiencing new things! Along with the love triangle, I was struggling with who I wanted her to pick and end up with just as much as she was 😂 I'm so glad I got the chance to arc read this book and the title definitely makes sense once you read it! 🥰
Jaynie is so relatable with her struggle with her body image and I loved reading about her journey finding herself and experiencing new things! Along with the love triangle, I was struggling with who I wanted her to pick and end up with just as much as she was 😂 I'm so glad I got the chance to arc read this book and the title definitely makes sense once you read it! 🥰
January 20, 2024
4.25 ⭐️
I really enjoyed this book!!! I loved the dual timeline especially in this story. I found myself on the edge of my seat wanting to know what was going to happen. as always love the small town romance vibes Sarah writes ♥️
I really enjoyed this book!!! I loved the dual timeline especially in this story. I found myself on the edge of my seat wanting to know what was going to happen. as always love the small town romance vibes Sarah writes ♥️
January 20, 2024
This Story was Great!!
The Characters are Interesting!!
The plot flows Wonderfully--
I read this book in one sitting.
The Characters are Interesting!!
The plot flows Wonderfully--
I read this book in one sitting.
February 7, 2026
This is a standard love story where a woman falls for one man but another loves her more. The chapters switch between characters, revealing to readers Jaynie’s personal insecurities and Luke’s true feelings while Gabe enters the town. The book reads like a diary and is written in the present tense so readers read the narrative in real-time. This is a personal pleasant way to read since nothing in the future can be foreseen and readers learn what happens at the same time as the characters.
I received a free copy and am leaving a review voluntarily
Thank you to StoryOrigin and author.
I received a free copy and am leaving a review voluntarily
Thank you to StoryOrigin and author.
January 29, 2024
Is it ever too late for love?
I truly loved this book and the overall theme and message of this book.
I truly loved this book and the overall theme and message of this book.
January 9, 2024
I have read Sarah Hill’s previous book, Since You, and I really enjoyed the cute aspect of her storytelling. When Caterpillars in Glass Jars was available for me to read, I was going to read a couple pages per day (because I read way too many books at once), but I knew I’d enjoy it.
I was NOT prepared for how MUCH I would enjoy it. I rarely binge read books, but I binged this book. It deserved to be binged. Everyone should binge it.
Caterpillars in Glass Jars has a friends to lovers plot (my absolute favorite), it talks about how the main character deals with her weight (relatable in so many ways), and it’s the kind of book that makes your heart pitter patter (it’s so sweet but never in a sickly sweet kind of way.)
If you want a book that takes your mind off things for a bit and instead, you want to be immersed in a fun plot and hang with lovable characters (even when they try to be grumpy), Caterpillars in Glass Jars is your book!
I was NOT prepared for how MUCH I would enjoy it. I rarely binge read books, but I binged this book. It deserved to be binged. Everyone should binge it.
Caterpillars in Glass Jars has a friends to lovers plot (my absolute favorite), it talks about how the main character deals with her weight (relatable in so many ways), and it’s the kind of book that makes your heart pitter patter (it’s so sweet but never in a sickly sweet kind of way.)
If you want a book that takes your mind off things for a bit and instead, you want to be immersed in a fun plot and hang with lovable characters (even when they try to be grumpy), Caterpillars in Glass Jars is your book!
April 19, 2026
There is something deeply unsettling but also validating to see the thoughts in your head plucked out and put on a page. Every thought that went through Jaynie’s head has passed through my own. Her reactions to everything were so real and I appreciated that so much.
I flipped back and forth between Luke and Gage, ultimately deciding on neither. I vote being single and staying away from your home town. If I had to pick, it would be Gage. At least he was honest and upfront from the beginning. Jaynies concerns about Luke being competitive were spot on. She should have trusted those instincts.
I do wish there was a little bit more tension. More of the back and forth will they won’t they vibe. In every scenario is just seemed to me like they jumped into the relationship without any lead up. Like yes I knew there were a lot of mixed feelings and intense emotions but a little more tension could have gone a long way here.
I flipped back and forth between Luke and Gage, ultimately deciding on neither. I vote being single and staying away from your home town. If I had to pick, it would be Gage. At least he was honest and upfront from the beginning. Jaynies concerns about Luke being competitive were spot on. She should have trusted those instincts.
I do wish there was a little bit more tension. More of the back and forth will they won’t they vibe. In every scenario is just seemed to me like they jumped into the relationship without any lead up. Like yes I knew there were a lot of mixed feelings and intense emotions but a little more tension could have gone a long way here.
January 22, 2024
“𝒢𝓇𝑜𝓌𝓉𝒽 𝒸𝒶𝓃’𝓉 𝒽𝒶𝓅𝓅𝑒𝓃 𝒾𝒻 𝓎𝑜𝓊’𝓇𝑒 𝓈𝑜 𝓌𝑜𝓇𝓇𝒾𝑒𝒹 𝒶𝒷𝑜𝓊𝓉 𝓅𝓇𝑜𝓉𝑒𝒸𝓉𝒾𝓃𝑔 𝓉𝒽𝑒 𝑜𝓃𝑒𝓈 𝓎𝑜𝓊 𝓁𝑜𝓋𝑒, 𝓎𝑜𝓊 𝒹𝑜𝓃’𝓉 𝓁𝑒𝓉 𝓉𝒽𝑒𝓂 𝑒𝓍𝓅𝑒𝓇𝒾𝑒𝓃𝒸𝑒 𝓁𝒾𝒻𝑒, 𝓉𝑜 𝑔𝑜 𝑜𝓊𝓉 𝒶𝓃𝒹 𝓁𝒾𝓋𝑒.”
“Caterpillars in Glass Jars” is my second of Sarah Hill’s novels, and I absolutely adored this one! Unfolding through dual timelines (2016 and 2019) and dual perspectives (Jaynie Hall, the main character, and her best friend/next-door neighbor, Luke Culver), the story weaves a sweet romance filled with emotional twists and abundant New Adult vibes.
I recommend this book to those who enjoy:
✨Small town energy
✨Love triangles
✨Friends-to-Lovers trope
✨Forced proximity
✨Self-growth/love/acceptance
✨Exploring body insecurities and weight issues
Jaynie grapples with self-confidence issues, particularly related to body image and weight insecurities. Her sheltered life takes a dramatic turn during the 2016 Bootleggers Country Music Festival, when an up-and-coming musician named Gage arrives. Ambitious and attractive, Gage sets his sights on Jaynie, leaving her unsure about how to interpret his attention. Meanwhile, Luke is now forced to confront his own feelings, fearing he may lose Jaynie to another man.
Woven throughout the narrative is the current state of their relationship in 2019, or lack thereof. Jaynie and Luke have transitioned from being the best of friends to hardly acquaintances after the pivotal events in 2016. Now, physically pushed back into each other’s presence, they must address the unspoken and determine if there is a future for them in each other’s lives.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and appreciated the Easter-egg tie-in with Hill’s previous novel, “Since You.” I look forward to her next novel!
Thank you to Sarah for the chance to read an e-ARC of this book - out now and available on Kindle Unlimited!
“Caterpillars in Glass Jars” is my second of Sarah Hill’s novels, and I absolutely adored this one! Unfolding through dual timelines (2016 and 2019) and dual perspectives (Jaynie Hall, the main character, and her best friend/next-door neighbor, Luke Culver), the story weaves a sweet romance filled with emotional twists and abundant New Adult vibes.
I recommend this book to those who enjoy:
✨Small town energy
✨Love triangles
✨Friends-to-Lovers trope
✨Forced proximity
✨Self-growth/love/acceptance
✨Exploring body insecurities and weight issues
Jaynie grapples with self-confidence issues, particularly related to body image and weight insecurities. Her sheltered life takes a dramatic turn during the 2016 Bootleggers Country Music Festival, when an up-and-coming musician named Gage arrives. Ambitious and attractive, Gage sets his sights on Jaynie, leaving her unsure about how to interpret his attention. Meanwhile, Luke is now forced to confront his own feelings, fearing he may lose Jaynie to another man.
Woven throughout the narrative is the current state of their relationship in 2019, or lack thereof. Jaynie and Luke have transitioned from being the best of friends to hardly acquaintances after the pivotal events in 2016. Now, physically pushed back into each other’s presence, they must address the unspoken and determine if there is a future for them in each other’s lives.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and appreciated the Easter-egg tie-in with Hill’s previous novel, “Since You.” I look forward to her next novel!
Thank you to Sarah for the chance to read an e-ARC of this book - out now and available on Kindle Unlimited!
February 14, 2024
Finally sharing my review for this book that I
absolutely loved, and I was right, it ruined me by the end…. In the best way possible.
This is Sarah’s first book in the new adult genre, and she did an amazing job! There wasn’t one thing I didn’t love about this book. Well, at first I didn’t like Luke, cause he was acting like a grumpy jerk (for good reason!), but it all comes to fruition and I forgave him 😆 I usually am not a huge fan of love triangles, but this one was done so well, I was actually rooting for both Luke and Gage at one point, because they brought out two different sides of Jaynie. But ultimately, well the boy next door who has loved her for years and has just realized what those feelings actually are? I’m sucker for that 🫠😍 The lead up to the ending of this book? Wrecked me. But then it put me back together again ❤️
But I especially loved how this book was a journey. A journey for Jaynie to learn to love herself before she could give her heart to who it belongs to. A journey for Luke, realizing (almost too late), what his feelings for his best friend actually mean. A journey for Gage, chasing after his dream, and figuring out how he dns have the dream, and not be alone on the journey as well.
I especially loved the side characters too- Jaynie’s grandparents! They were the best! Full of wisdom and wise cracks, made the book so much better. The friends group as well was great as well. I felt like I was with the group, having bonfires and going to the music festival!
Also, I’m not sure if I’m the only one who noticed that the main music act, Maddie Scheer, is a nod to Sarah’s previous book, Since You… (hopefully this is true and I’m not going crazy LOL)
Thank you so much Sarah for the arc of this book! I loved it so much! Make sure to add it your TBRs! It’s available on Amazon and KU!
absolutely loved, and I was right, it ruined me by the end…. In the best way possible.
This is Sarah’s first book in the new adult genre, and she did an amazing job! There wasn’t one thing I didn’t love about this book. Well, at first I didn’t like Luke, cause he was acting like a grumpy jerk (for good reason!), but it all comes to fruition and I forgave him 😆 I usually am not a huge fan of love triangles, but this one was done so well, I was actually rooting for both Luke and Gage at one point, because they brought out two different sides of Jaynie. But ultimately, well the boy next door who has loved her for years and has just realized what those feelings actually are? I’m sucker for that 🫠😍 The lead up to the ending of this book? Wrecked me. But then it put me back together again ❤️
But I especially loved how this book was a journey. A journey for Jaynie to learn to love herself before she could give her heart to who it belongs to. A journey for Luke, realizing (almost too late), what his feelings for his best friend actually mean. A journey for Gage, chasing after his dream, and figuring out how he dns have the dream, and not be alone on the journey as well.
I especially loved the side characters too- Jaynie’s grandparents! They were the best! Full of wisdom and wise cracks, made the book so much better. The friends group as well was great as well. I felt like I was with the group, having bonfires and going to the music festival!
Also, I’m not sure if I’m the only one who noticed that the main music act, Maddie Scheer, is a nod to Sarah’s previous book, Since You… (hopefully this is true and I’m not going crazy LOL)
Thank you so much Sarah for the arc of this book! I loved it so much! Make sure to add it your TBRs! It’s available on Amazon and KU!
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