Finding Harmony

by C.F. Frizzell

The last thing rock star Harper Cushing needs right now is this attraction to her grandmother’s helper, Frankie, even if she is sneaky-good on the guitar. Returning to her favorite childhood spot, Gram’s nostalgic general store, Harper confronts life-altering Gram’s future welfare, selling the store, and reassessing her own fast-paced “high life.” If only she could pull it all off without breaking everyone’s heart—including her own.

Having made her own life-altering decision three years ago, Frankie Cosgrove is guardedly single and set to harvest her first cranberry crop. She’s devoted to her elderly storekeeper friend, so when the famous Harper arrives, hell-bent on making changes, Frankie’s defenses rise.

At least they admit to mutual concerns for Gram and the store, and even each other’s heartfelt intentions. But the unexpected musical accord they strike sounds a whole lot like falling in love. Has harmony finally found them?

312 pages, Paperback

Published January 14, 2025

About the author

A life-long Massachusetts resident, CF Frizzell (“Friz”) endures the telecom industry in Boston for a living but dreams of retirement days spent writing at the seashore or in an Adirondack cabin. She grew up in community newspapers and established an award-winning twenty-two-year career that culminated in the role of founder/publisher. Friz discovered her passion for writing in high school, but credits powerhouse authors Lee Lynch, Radclyffe, and the generous family that is Bold Strokes Books for inspiration. She’s into history, acoustic guitar, New England pro sports—and, most of all, her partner, Kathy, with whom she makes a home in Sandwich on Cape Cod.

Reviews

[Cherie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is story about Harper Cushing who is a heavy rock singer and guitar player. She grew up in rural Massachusetts with her grandmother who owned a country store. So when her grandmother, Stella, starts struggle running the store, Harper goes to visit and help out for the summer. Frankie Cosgrove owns a cranberry farm next door to Stella’s store and helps her out in her free time. Frankie and some other neighbors like you sing oldies on the store’s front porch in the evenings. Harper and Frankie are drawn to each other but take their time. They are each pretty mature and know Harper is only visiting over the summer to rest her voice.

I liked the musical parts of the book and the cranberry farming. Overall it was a sweet story and kind of a comfort read. Both MCs were well developed and the side characters were realistic people that added to the story. I would have liked more back story on Frankie’s past to enrich her character.

Thanks yo NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.

[Rosi · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a love story, kinda normal, and it happens in the countryside. One of the main , Harper, goes back home to look after her grandma, she's getting old and forgetful, and Harper has to figure out what to do with her grandma's business since she can't run it anymore.

The other main, Frankie, lives nearby and knows Grandma's been having trouble. So, Frankie's helps out without even being asked.

Harper's also a rock singer, and her band is getting popular, but she's got somo problem in the vocal cords and needs to rest. This break is actually good timing so she can help her grandma and alsio recover. In addition, Harper's parents are not too great, and they're not very helpful and kinda selfish. They just want Harper to fix everything quickly.

So, Harper and Frankie are getting closer, but it's tricky. They're dealing with Grandma's situation and they're attracted to each other. It's complicated because Frankie's happy living in the country, but Harper's hoping to capitalize on the band's popularity, and those things don't really go together.

Harper can be a bit annoying sometimes, while Frankie is super patient and helpful. It's a bit of an unbalanced friendship. But, the other people around them help Harper and Frankie realize what's really important and to stop worrying about the small stuff.


Bold Strokes Books was kind enough to send me a copy via Netgalley for an honest review

[Sue Plant · Rating 5 out of 5]

would like to thank netgalley and the publisher for letting me read this awesome book

a popstar and a farmer .... what ever could they have in common

when harper turned up at her grandmothers place with the aim of getting her grandmother into a home and selling up poor frankie didnt know what to do..... she had been helping harpers gran for several years now and had come to love her

but knowing she didnt have a leg to stand on she did her best to help both of them

what harper and frankie hadnt taken into account was the feelings they both started to have for each other and how gran might have had something to do with it all

but harpers career was still in orbit and as lead singer for storm she was needed else where

what a lovely storyline this one was.... the frustrations on both sides were evident along with the struggles everyone was having.... what a brilliant book to start my new year of reading off with

looking forward to more from this author

[Fiona Sawyer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finding Harmony is the first book from CF Frizzell that I have read and I can say that I will certainly be looking for more of this author's work. With a great story line and strong characters, I was gripped from the word go.

In this story we meet two single-minded characters, Frankie and Harper who are battling their own demons while facing the challenges that life throws their way. Harper has always wanted to be a famous musician and has succeeded in becoming the founder and lead performer in a rock band that is starting to take off. However, the intense vocals required are playing havoc with her voice and she needs to make the most of the opportunity between band obligations to give her voice a rest, if she wants any hope of continuing in her chosen career. Meanwhile, Frankie is a farmer who is battling the elements to ensure that her first crop of cranberries is a success to ensure that she has the funds available to keep the farm operating. She is a giver who also gives up much of her spare time to assist her elderly neighbour (Harper’s Gran) with the running of her store while also trying to do all the work on her farm alone without asking for help.

While at first it might seem that these two women would have very little in common and no way of finding a way to come together, with the help of a meddling grandmother and their shared love of music (albeit very different types of music), it soon becomes apparent that there may be a chance for their obvious chemistry to grow stronger. However, first Harper needs to realise that there are other options for her if she can’t continue performing and Frankie needs to learn to ask for help. What follows is a beautiful example of character development and growth through love and finding your true path. It is a story that will appeal to anyone who loves an emotionally enriching small-town romance full of fun characters and lots of friendship and music.

I am grateful to CF Frizzell, the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an advanced copy of this beautiful story. I am leaving this review voluntarily and all opinions are my own.

[Carol Hutchinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

So sweet!

Harper has been forced to take a break from the rock star lifestyle, which just so happens to be timely with her family calling her in to try and influence her grandmother to sell her beloved general store because they are worried about her wellbeing. It’s heartbreaking for Harper and just made all the more complicated by the charismatic helper at her Gran’s store, Frankie.

I loved how this went very quickly from fast paced to a slower, more serene way of life that helped me to connect with what Harper was going through. The nostalgic feel surrounding this story, of Harper stepping back into her past in a way, made it feel warm and cosy, even if it came with heartache for Harper both personal and on her grandmother’s behalf. It was obvious Harper found the whole situation difficult but it felt as though her own wellbeing issues gave her a better grounding to empathise with her grandmother’s feelings but also be rational with weighing up the situation to find the best solution for everyone to be happy with change, including herself. It can’t have been easy, but she really did handle it all so much better than most people probably would.

Frankie was so charismatic and was definitely an advocate for enjoying the simplicity in a slower pace of life. She wasn’t phased by Harper, not really knowing who she was, and wary of what she was there to do. She was so protective of Harper’s grandmother, which was most admirable, but did understand in the end why some change was needed. She and Harper had an instant connection, even if it took them a while to realise, but when they started working together the stars were definitely aligning to change their worlds on a pure basis of need. I adored the way they harmonised with one another and hoped Harper wouldn’t be ripped away back to her life leaving Frankie broken hearted.

Such a great romance, with lots of happy and uplifting moments to buffer the bigger blows for all the characters.

[Aleana · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an ARC copy of this book from the Publisher via Netgalley and voluntarily leaving my review.


Harmony is the lead singer in a band called Storm she an always wanted to perform. After long tour she needs to rest she goes to visit het grandma Stella who is struggling she goes to help her. Frankie is running a cranberry farm when she not doing that she helping her elderly neighbor Stella who she grows very fond of but when Stella granddaughter arrive she put up a defense and they clash a little until they both realize they have Stella best interest at heart. They both soon to realize how much they actually have in common as they both took their time. I enjoy the read both characters are likable the chemistry was there enjoy their relationship with Stella.

[Michelle Schuler · Rating 4 out of 5]

My second book by CF Frizzell was good. For me, it was slow paced, but not a slow burn.
The chemistry was good between the MCs. I enjoyed the secondary characters. They added to the storyline nicely.
The angst was not superficial. Characters stayed true to their actions, so no big third act breakup. However, there still was the expected angst. It was a refreshing take on the whole angst that has become formulated in other books.
I will continue to follow CF Frizzell's work.

[Minna Perälä]

I had to DNF/pause the book after 65 percent. I struggled with it for weeks. The beginning and plot are promising and interesting but the book is just too long and uneventful. There's two sets in the whole book, the store and Frankie's home. There's just not enough happening for the number of pages. I love good slow burn and vacation romance and even long romances (300+ pages) but Finding Harmony didn't work for me.

I received ARC of the book from the publisher.

[TheLisaD · Rating 4 out of 5]

CF Frizzell’s Finding Harmony is a heartfelt and beautifully crafted sapphic romance that delivers a perfect blend of character depth, emotional resonance, and a touch of spice. With its strong focus on personal growth and connection, this story draws readers into the lives of its protagonists, making them impossible not to root for.

One of the standout aspects of this book is its rich character development. Frizzell takes the time to build her characters layer by layer, allowing readers to truly understand and connect with them. This investment in the characters’ journeys makes their struggles, triumphs, and eventual romance all the more satisfying.

The concept of Finding Harmony is fresh and engaging, and Frizzell executes it with skill, balancing emotional depth with lighter, romantic moments. The chemistry between the characters is undeniable, and the story’s slightly spicy elements add an extra layer of intimacy without overshadowing the emotional core of the narrative.

Overall, Finding Harmony is a compelling and uplifting romance that celebrates love, growth, and finding your true self. CF Frizzell has delivered a story that is as emotionally enriching as it is entertaining, making it a must-read for fans of sapphic romance. This is a book you’ll want to savor and revisit.

[Kaye · Rating 4 out of 5]

Harper Cushing is coming off a tour with her rising hard rock band, Storm. She needs to rest her voice. Her mother asks her to spend time with her grandmother who owns and runs a small store. Grams' neighbor, Frankie Cosgrove has been helping out as often as she can at the store and with Grams herself. In addition Frankie has been working her land in preparation of her first cranberry crop.

Harper and Frankie easily connect but go slowly. Harper is only there for the summer and Frankie has had her heart broken before. Much of the story is taken up with how to make changes that will allow Gram to continue to stay in her home and keep the store. But that allows time for some sweet moments as the pair work together to help Gram. The two women are both hard working but come from different worlds. As the title suggests they need to find Harmony when both get to stay true to themselves but can be together. I think the only thing missing for me in the story was more of Frankie’s background.

This is my second novel from the author and both have been thoughtful and emotionally real. There is humor, angst with just the right amount of heat. It’s an added bonus if you like music as several songs are mentioned in the storyline. Thank you to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for the ARC and I am leaving an honest review.

[Anne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Harper is a big time rock star on the verge of superstardom. Coming off a massive tour, she needs some R&R and to rest her voice. Her raucous style is shredding her vocal cords. Her grandmother’s health is deteriorating and it’s an opportunity to visit and reconnect with her childhood at her family’s general store in the middle of nowhere.

Frankie is a rookie farmer trying to cultivate a massive cranberry harvest. She’s ‘adopted’ Harper’s grandmother and has been discretely taking care of her.

Harper and Frankie meet up and tiptoe round each other trying not to claim ‘territory’ but they’re also acknowledging a real pull to each other. But they are so different, a relationship will never work.

There are some beautiful scenes in this book and the characters are well developed and it’s easy to empathise with their dilemmas. Gram is wonderful and I’d adopt her too… I’d also love to sit round with the locals and enjoy an evening of good food and music.

Recommended if you need a story with good characters, good writing, and a satisfying ending.

I was given a copy of this book by NetGalley

[Patty · Rating 5 out of 5]

This romance is so touching. I love that it is a slow burn romance. Yes, the two main characters were attracted to each other but they realized there were many challenges that they had to overcome. To work their way through these life challenges, they had to give and take and make compromises. All to often the main character meet, jump into bed, and don't work on or even think of day-to-day problems that couples face.

I have read several of Ms. Frizzell book and enjoyed them all. The characters she creates -- main and secondary ones -- are so well developed that you really feel like they are you friends. You are cheering for them throughout their journey. Yes, there are bumps along their travels, but this is real life.

The story is interesting and will keep you interested throughout the whole book. Solid story, interesting characters, and well written. I give this book 5 out of 5 stars.

Bold Strokes Books was kind enough to send me a copy via Netgalley for an honest review.

[Bee Sherrard · Rating 4 out of 5]

When rockstar Harper Cushing was young she spent most of her summers with her grandmother, helping with the little family owned business. Now she returns after a few years and it’s not going to be that much fun. Her mother wanted Harper to convince Grams to move into a seniors home. Not going to be an easy job.
In the years that have roasted Grams has relied on the help provided by Frankie Cosgrove. Frankie came to start a cranberry farm but she always finds ways to help. While seeing her grandmother Harper had to decide if she wanted to continue her singing career. Her voice keeps telling her it’s time to take a back seat but….
When Harper hears Frankie play and sing she wants to be with her. Just have fun, sing and of course playhouse with Frankie every chance she got. Harper has a lot on her plate but so does Frankie who needs to have a good crop to keep her farm running.
Ms Frizzell has written a romance that grabs your interest and keeps you turning the pages. A very enjoyable read.
ARC via NetGalley/ Bold Stroke Books

[Shannon Luchies · Rating 4 out of 5]

Alongside issues with her band (and her voice) Harper Cushing must rush to her Grandmother, as her health is in decline. On arriving she soon meets Frankie Cosgrove , whom has been helping Gran and is surprisingly charming. As country girl and rock star interact they quickly become friends, and both feel a strong attraction. But Harper has obligations to her band and a life far away from there, and Frankie has been burned in love before....

Good read, I liked Harper, Frankie and Gran, and the romance worked for me. I did find Harper's bandmates very unsympathetic... which might have been deliberate, but it made it hard to buy why Harper would be so loyal to them.

3.5 stars out of five.

[Maria · Rating 4 out of 5]

The story is cute, Harper a rock star goes back to a small town to take care of her grandmother and help with her shop. It is nice to read about how Frankie has helped the elderly Stella even though she is more than fully booked with her own farm. When Harper shows up during her summer break from her band to help her grandmother and heal her voice no real conflict, they just work together in an amazing way and of course fall for each other. Frankie a bit reluctant to start with since Harper just there for the summer and then back to the high life and her band so it only can be a fling.

Too bad the romance is not as much in focus as I could have wished for, and the story is dragging a bit with the extreme detailed description on the struggles to run a cranberry farm.

[Meghan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Finding Harmony is a sweet, low-angst romance following Harper, the lead singer of a rising rock band, and Frankie, Harper’s grandmother’s neighbor.

One of best aspects of this book is its character development. Frizzell takes the time to build her characters and make you invest in them and connect which doesn't always happen in books nowadays. It made the book even better honestly.

Both main characters are likable and relatable. There is a fun cast of friends and side characters and I highly enjoyed it.

I received an ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Steph · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finding Harmony is a sweet, low-angst romance following Harper, the lead singer of a rising rock band, and Frankie, Harper’s grandmother’s neighbor. Both main characters are likable and their demons and struggles are relatable and there is a fun cast of friends and side characters. This was a different spin on a city/small town trope, and I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a book that fits that theme.

I received an ARC of this novel from NetGalley.

[Kasley.K · Rating 4 out of 5]

Finding Harmony was a lovely story of two voices meeting and complementing each other so well that they make magic.
I particularly appreciated the contrast between Harper’s and Frankie’s relationship with music not only regarding genre but also in term of mainstream vs indie/folk. I also enjoyed learning about harvesting cranberries and overall, I loved the whole small city atmosphere.
Harper and Frankie’s love story is heartwarming, and I appreciated how they connected but also dealt with their differences.
I had a great time reading Finding Harmony and would recommend it to anyone who loves a chill small town low angst book.

[AJ Sneed · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Finding Harmony" is a heartwarming, low-angst romance that puts a fresh spin on the city-meets-small-town trope. Harper and Frankie are likable, relatable characters with great chemistry, supported by a lively cast of friends and side characters. The author’s engaging writing style kept me hooked from start to finish Highly recommend to fans of feel-good romance.

[Joyce · Rating 5 out of 5]

I recommend this book

Very enjoyable romance. The story is sweet with some angish . the characters are well written and interesting. The secondary characters are interesting and add to the story. Thanks for a very enjoyable read.

[Kexx · Rating 4 out of 5]

Enjoyed the first 40% of the book but then sort of skip read and it didn’t hold my attention as I hoped it would. All right.

[Cellen A · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent character portrayals and enough musical knowledge to keep you in the moment without feeling overwhelmed by terminology.