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Starr’s Fall #1
Coming Home to Starr's Fall
A totally gorgeous, brand new romance from million-copy bestselling author, Kate Hewitt! Welcome to the town of Starr’s Fall, where Autumn can feel like it goes on forever, and two people have a chance to fall in love… The leaves are falling, with a crispness to the air, along with the scents of coffee and pumpkin spice, past a half-empty street of shuttered storefronts and a bandstand that has seen better days…
Just like the whole town of Starr’s Fall, thinks Laurie Ellis – as she and her beloved dog Max head to collect the store keys. Maybe she has seen better days, too, but she’s certainly ready for a new start—and to leave her past behind. Still Laurie wonders whether she made a terrible mistake in coming to lovable but shabby Starr’s Fall. Will she even find customers for her pet store and bakery, never mind a community to welcome and accept her?
Not according to Joshua Reilly, the handsome but grumpy manager of the bookstore across the road, who claims he’s never heard of anything so ridiculous as a bakery for dogs.
But Laurie remains stubbornly undeterred. She’s starting over, right here. Not least because she has another secret reason for being here… one she isn’t telling anybody, at least not yet, as it involves her own tragic past.
What she doesn’t yet know is that a clue to the mystery is hidden deep in Joshua’s bookstore. And he doesn’t yet realize that Laurie herself might be the key to mending his own battered heart… for Laurie and Joshua and the whole town, it’s going to be a fall to remember.
Just like the whole town of Starr’s Fall, thinks Laurie Ellis – as she and her beloved dog Max head to collect the store keys. Maybe she has seen better days, too, but she’s certainly ready for a new start—and to leave her past behind. Still Laurie wonders whether she made a terrible mistake in coming to lovable but shabby Starr’s Fall. Will she even find customers for her pet store and bakery, never mind a community to welcome and accept her?
Not according to Joshua Reilly, the handsome but grumpy manager of the bookstore across the road, who claims he’s never heard of anything so ridiculous as a bakery for dogs.
But Laurie remains stubbornly undeterred. She’s starting over, right here. Not least because she has another secret reason for being here… one she isn’t telling anybody, at least not yet, as it involves her own tragic past.
What she doesn’t yet know is that a clue to the mystery is hidden deep in Joshua’s bookstore. And he doesn’t yet realize that Laurie herself might be the key to mending his own battered heart… for Laurie and Joshua and the whole town, it’s going to be a fall to remember.
258 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 18, 2024
923 people are currently reading
2133 people want to read
About the author
Kate Hewitt
905 books1,746 followersKate is the USA Today-bsetselling author of many books of both historical and contemporary fiction. Under the name Katharine Swartz, she is the author of the Tales from Goswell books, a series of time-slip novels set in the village of Goswell.
She likes to read women's fiction, mystery and thrillers, as well as historical novels. She particularly enjoys reading about well-drawn characters and avoids high-concept plots.
Having lived in both New York City and a tiny village on the windswept northwest coast of England, she now resides in a market town in Wales with her husband, five children, and two Golden Retrievers.
She likes to read women's fiction, mystery and thrillers, as well as historical novels. She particularly enjoys reading about well-drawn characters and avoids high-concept plots.
Having lived in both New York City and a tiny village on the windswept northwest coast of England, she now resides in a market town in Wales with her husband, five children, and two Golden Retrievers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 358 reviews
August 26, 2024
: ̗̀➛ 4 stars
I absolutely loved this small-town novel with its cozy fall vibe—Starr's Fall felt so real that I could almost hear the crunch of leaves and smell the bakery's sweet treats. The author crafted a beautiful, immersive story that was a breeze to read, making it hard to put down. Laurie, the female protagonist, moves to Starr's Fall in search of a community and finds herself opening up to new friendships and the possibility of romance with the gruff bookstore owner across the street. Her journey of self-discovery and connection was both heartwarming and engaging.
The book offers everything you'd expect from a feel-good fall romance, but it also dives deep into serious themes like grief, parental loss, and the challenges of growing up in the foster system. I loved the depth and emotional resonance the author brought to the story, which added richness to the sweet, wholesome narrative.
This novel is perfect for anyone who enjoys a good, clean romance with a strong sense of community. The characters and the town of Starr's Fall were so endearing, and I can't wait for the series to continue. I adored this book and am excited to explore more of the author's work!
Thank you, NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the ARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
I absolutely loved this small-town novel with its cozy fall vibe—Starr's Fall felt so real that I could almost hear the crunch of leaves and smell the bakery's sweet treats. The author crafted a beautiful, immersive story that was a breeze to read, making it hard to put down. Laurie, the female protagonist, moves to Starr's Fall in search of a community and finds herself opening up to new friendships and the possibility of romance with the gruff bookstore owner across the street. Her journey of self-discovery and connection was both heartwarming and engaging.
The book offers everything you'd expect from a feel-good fall romance, but it also dives deep into serious themes like grief, parental loss, and the challenges of growing up in the foster system. I loved the depth and emotional resonance the author brought to the story, which added richness to the sweet, wholesome narrative.
This novel is perfect for anyone who enjoys a good, clean romance with a strong sense of community. The characters and the town of Starr's Fall were so endearing, and I can't wait for the series to continue. I adored this book and am excited to explore more of the author's work!
Thank you, NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the ARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
September 19, 2024
EXCERPT: Seven miles outside of Starr's Fall, according to her GPS that was thankfully still working despite a less than stellar phone signal, the van gave a last gasp and then an alarming death rattle, before it rolled to a defeated stop. Laurie had had, at least, the foresight to jerk the wheel so the van came to its inglorious end on the shoulder of the road, away from traffic. Still, this was not good. Not good at all.
She sat in the driver's seat and stared up at the bright blue sky, trying to recover her optimism. Also trying to figure out what to do, because she still had no phone signal and she couldn't see anything, anywhere, besides trees and sky and warm, golden sunlight.
Max, sensing that things were not as they should be, clambered into her lap and put his paws up on the window. Laurie stroked his wiry fur and marshalled her thoughts.
Seven miles was too far to walk, bit at least it was a beautiful day, and she was in a beautiful place. She could lock up the van and walk down the road until her phone got a signal or she came to a house and could ask to make a phone call. Then she could find a garage to call, get the van towed, take a taxi into Starr's Fall . . .
Briefly, Laurie closed her eyes. It wasn't impossible, she told herself, but it still felt hard, several laborious steps she really didn't want to have to take at this particular moment in time when she wanted things to be, if not easy, then easier. Easier than they had been for most of her life, not that she was about to throw herself a pity party.
But today was meant to be her new start, the first chapter of the book of her life she was longing to write. Having adventures. Making friends. Maybe, if she was brave enough, even learning about her own history. It was all meant to happen here, in Starr's Fall, except she wasn't even there yet, and this did not feel like the kind of prologue she wanted to have to the book of her life. Far from it.
ABOUT 'COMING HOME TO STARR'S FALL': Welcome to the town of Starr’s Fall, where Autumn can feel like it goes on forever, and two people have a chance to fall in love… The leaves are falling, with a crispness to the air, along with the scents of coffee and pumpkin spice, past a half-empty street of shuttered storefronts and a bandstand that has seen better days…
Just like the whole town of Starr’s Fall, thinks Laurie Ellis – as she and her beloved dog Max head to collect the store keys. Maybe she has seen better days, too, but she’s certainly ready for a new start—and to leave her past behind. Still Laurie wonders whether she made a terrible mistake in coming to lovable but shabby Starr’s Fall. Will she even find customers for her pet store and bakery, never mind a community to welcome and accept her?
Not according to Joshua Reilly, the handsome but grumpy manager of the bookstore across the road, who claims he’s never heard of anything so ridiculous as a bakery for dogs.
But Laurie remains stubbornly undeterred. She’s starting over, right here. Not least because she has another secret reason for being here… one she isn’t telling anybody, at least not yet, as it involves her own tragic past.
What she doesn’t yet know is that a clue to the mystery is hidden deep in Joshua’s bookstore. And he doesn’t yet realize that Laurie herself might be the key to mending his own battered heart… for Laurie and Joshua and the whole town, it’s going to be a fall to remember.
MY THOUGHTS: I picked up Coming Home to Starr's Fall because I love Hewitt's historical writing, and while I liked this, I didn't love it.
The premise is great, as is the setting, but there's some essence missing from this story that I have found in this author's other books. Sentences are often overly long, meandering and, occasionally, pointless. In fact, there were whole paragraphs like that.
Character development is minimal.
I did enjoy the thread about Laurie trying to trace her mother and the associated thread with Henrietta Starr. These were the most interesting parts of the book for me but were underdeveloped and almost completely overshadowed by the romance thread, which I could have done without.
Overall, this is a quick, easy and perfectly pleasant read with a very predictable romance. I guess I expected more . . .
⭐⭐.5
#ComingHometoStarrsFall #NetGalley
THE AUTHOR: Kate likes to read women's fiction, mystery and thrillers, as well as historical novels. She particularly enjoys reading about well-drawn characters and avoids high-concept plots.
Having lived in both New York City and a tiny village on the windswept northwest coast of England, she now resides in a market town in Wales with her husband, five children, and two Golden Retrievers.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Boldwood Books via NetGalley for providing a digital ARC of Coming Home to Starr's Fall by Kate Hewitt for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
She sat in the driver's seat and stared up at the bright blue sky, trying to recover her optimism. Also trying to figure out what to do, because she still had no phone signal and she couldn't see anything, anywhere, besides trees and sky and warm, golden sunlight.
Max, sensing that things were not as they should be, clambered into her lap and put his paws up on the window. Laurie stroked his wiry fur and marshalled her thoughts.
Seven miles was too far to walk, bit at least it was a beautiful day, and she was in a beautiful place. She could lock up the van and walk down the road until her phone got a signal or she came to a house and could ask to make a phone call. Then she could find a garage to call, get the van towed, take a taxi into Starr's Fall . . .
Briefly, Laurie closed her eyes. It wasn't impossible, she told herself, but it still felt hard, several laborious steps she really didn't want to have to take at this particular moment in time when she wanted things to be, if not easy, then easier. Easier than they had been for most of her life, not that she was about to throw herself a pity party.
But today was meant to be her new start, the first chapter of the book of her life she was longing to write. Having adventures. Making friends. Maybe, if she was brave enough, even learning about her own history. It was all meant to happen here, in Starr's Fall, except she wasn't even there yet, and this did not feel like the kind of prologue she wanted to have to the book of her life. Far from it.
ABOUT 'COMING HOME TO STARR'S FALL': Welcome to the town of Starr’s Fall, where Autumn can feel like it goes on forever, and two people have a chance to fall in love… The leaves are falling, with a crispness to the air, along with the scents of coffee and pumpkin spice, past a half-empty street of shuttered storefronts and a bandstand that has seen better days…
Just like the whole town of Starr’s Fall, thinks Laurie Ellis – as she and her beloved dog Max head to collect the store keys. Maybe she has seen better days, too, but she’s certainly ready for a new start—and to leave her past behind. Still Laurie wonders whether she made a terrible mistake in coming to lovable but shabby Starr’s Fall. Will she even find customers for her pet store and bakery, never mind a community to welcome and accept her?
Not according to Joshua Reilly, the handsome but grumpy manager of the bookstore across the road, who claims he’s never heard of anything so ridiculous as a bakery for dogs.
But Laurie remains stubbornly undeterred. She’s starting over, right here. Not least because she has another secret reason for being here… one she isn’t telling anybody, at least not yet, as it involves her own tragic past.
What she doesn’t yet know is that a clue to the mystery is hidden deep in Joshua’s bookstore. And he doesn’t yet realize that Laurie herself might be the key to mending his own battered heart… for Laurie and Joshua and the whole town, it’s going to be a fall to remember.
MY THOUGHTS: I picked up Coming Home to Starr's Fall because I love Hewitt's historical writing, and while I liked this, I didn't love it.
The premise is great, as is the setting, but there's some essence missing from this story that I have found in this author's other books. Sentences are often overly long, meandering and, occasionally, pointless. In fact, there were whole paragraphs like that.
Character development is minimal.
I did enjoy the thread about Laurie trying to trace her mother and the associated thread with Henrietta Starr. These were the most interesting parts of the book for me but were underdeveloped and almost completely overshadowed by the romance thread, which I could have done without.
Overall, this is a quick, easy and perfectly pleasant read with a very predictable romance. I guess I expected more . . .
⭐⭐.5
#ComingHometoStarrsFall #NetGalley
THE AUTHOR: Kate likes to read women's fiction, mystery and thrillers, as well as historical novels. She particularly enjoys reading about well-drawn characters and avoids high-concept plots.
Having lived in both New York City and a tiny village on the windswept northwest coast of England, she now resides in a market town in Wales with her husband, five children, and two Golden Retrievers.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Boldwood Books via NetGalley for providing a digital ARC of Coming Home to Starr's Fall by Kate Hewitt for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
September 23, 2024
Coming Home to Starr’s Fall was a captivating and touching novel that was written by author Kate Hewitt. It had the cozy feelings of small town living where a strong sense of community existed. Starr’s Fall was not a thriving or popular destination but the people of Starr’s Fall had each other’s backs and supported each other in every way. It was a town that was tucked away in the state of Connecticut. Starr’s Fall was not a popular destination for the average person or tourist. You had to know about its existence to find your way there. Most of the people that lived in Starr’s Fall had lived there for generations. Why then was Laurie Ellis and her small, timid dog Max headed to Starr’s Fall? Why had Laurie Ellis chosen Starr’s Fall as the place she wanted to begin her life in?
Laurie Ellis was abandoned by her biological mother as a baby and she grew up in the foster care program. Her experiences in the foster care system were not happy ones for Laurie. She was finally placed in a group home until she aged out at ahe eighteen. There was a kind woman there who influenced Laurie’s life more than she realized. Upon that woman’s death, the woman left Laurie a sum of money. She also provided Laurie with the name of a town where it was believed that her biological mother came from. Now in early twenties, Laurie made two important decisions. She was going to make Starr’s Fall her new home and she was going to open a doggie bakery and pet shop there. Laurie had decided on the name “Max’s Place” for her new store and had googled all the information she thought she needed to give this venture a go. She arrived during Autumn and immediately had a good feeling about the people in this quaint and sleepy town when one of its locals stopped to help her when her rented car broke down just a few miles away from Starr’s Fall. Laurie felt that for the first time in her life she might be blessed with real friends. Laurie was harboring a secret about her real reason for choosing Starr’s Fall as her new home. She wasn’t ready to divulge or share her secret yet. Laurie wanted to keep it to herself until she felt the time was right to tell others about it.
Laurie soon discovered and made the acquaintance of her neighbor, Joshua Reilly, who owned the Antiquarian bookstore across the street from her new shop. It was Joshua’s aunt’s cat and her dog, Max, who opened the door for their friendship to evolve. Over time, both Laurie and Joshua shared personal information about their pasts that endeared them to each other and a romance blossomed between the two of them. Joshua had earned the reputation of the “grinch of Starr’s Fall” over the years. No one bothered to uncover the reasons why Joshua had become such a grumpy man. He also had not had a very happy life and dealt with it by closing himself off from the people he grew up with. Joshua had been living like this for so long that he knew no other way…until Laurie Ellis came along. She had a way of always looking on the bright side of things and avoiding confrontations. Can these two help each other bury their demons and find the romance they both crave for?
Coming Home to Starr’s Fall was the second book that I had the pleasure of reading by Kate Hewitt. This was the first book in a new series. I look forward to reading more books in this series and discovering more about the people in Starr’s Fall. I really enjoyed getting to know Laurie’s character, her dreams and desires and how she tried to make Starr’s Fall her new home. Kate Hewitt is a gifted storyteller and she managed to create complex but likable characters that touched my heart in this lovely book. I really enjoyed the relationship that Laurie forged with the monarch of Starr’s Fall and whose family the town was named after. Kate Hewitt was able to address the issues of friendship, grief, abandonment, loss, lack of parental guidance and love, community support and the toll the foster care system has on the lives of the children in its grips. There was also the element of romance that was present in the most unexpected moments between two unassuming characters but welcomed by both. I really enjoyed reading Coming Home to Starr’s Fall by Kate Hewitt and recommend it highly.
Thank you to Boldwood Books that allowed me to read Coming Home to Starr’s Fall by Kate Hewitt through Netgalley in exchange for an unbiased review.
Laurie Ellis was abandoned by her biological mother as a baby and she grew up in the foster care program. Her experiences in the foster care system were not happy ones for Laurie. She was finally placed in a group home until she aged out at ahe eighteen. There was a kind woman there who influenced Laurie’s life more than she realized. Upon that woman’s death, the woman left Laurie a sum of money. She also provided Laurie with the name of a town where it was believed that her biological mother came from. Now in early twenties, Laurie made two important decisions. She was going to make Starr’s Fall her new home and she was going to open a doggie bakery and pet shop there. Laurie had decided on the name “Max’s Place” for her new store and had googled all the information she thought she needed to give this venture a go. She arrived during Autumn and immediately had a good feeling about the people in this quaint and sleepy town when one of its locals stopped to help her when her rented car broke down just a few miles away from Starr’s Fall. Laurie felt that for the first time in her life she might be blessed with real friends. Laurie was harboring a secret about her real reason for choosing Starr’s Fall as her new home. She wasn’t ready to divulge or share her secret yet. Laurie wanted to keep it to herself until she felt the time was right to tell others about it.
Laurie soon discovered and made the acquaintance of her neighbor, Joshua Reilly, who owned the Antiquarian bookstore across the street from her new shop. It was Joshua’s aunt’s cat and her dog, Max, who opened the door for their friendship to evolve. Over time, both Laurie and Joshua shared personal information about their pasts that endeared them to each other and a romance blossomed between the two of them. Joshua had earned the reputation of the “grinch of Starr’s Fall” over the years. No one bothered to uncover the reasons why Joshua had become such a grumpy man. He also had not had a very happy life and dealt with it by closing himself off from the people he grew up with. Joshua had been living like this for so long that he knew no other way…until Laurie Ellis came along. She had a way of always looking on the bright side of things and avoiding confrontations. Can these two help each other bury their demons and find the romance they both crave for?
Coming Home to Starr’s Fall was the second book that I had the pleasure of reading by Kate Hewitt. This was the first book in a new series. I look forward to reading more books in this series and discovering more about the people in Starr’s Fall. I really enjoyed getting to know Laurie’s character, her dreams and desires and how she tried to make Starr’s Fall her new home. Kate Hewitt is a gifted storyteller and she managed to create complex but likable characters that touched my heart in this lovely book. I really enjoyed the relationship that Laurie forged with the monarch of Starr’s Fall and whose family the town was named after. Kate Hewitt was able to address the issues of friendship, grief, abandonment, loss, lack of parental guidance and love, community support and the toll the foster care system has on the lives of the children in its grips. There was also the element of romance that was present in the most unexpected moments between two unassuming characters but welcomed by both. I really enjoyed reading Coming Home to Starr’s Fall by Kate Hewitt and recommend it highly.
Thank you to Boldwood Books that allowed me to read Coming Home to Starr’s Fall by Kate Hewitt through Netgalley in exchange for an unbiased review.
September 22, 2024
This is a lovely story and I think the start of a new series, I absolutely loved the setting Starr’s Fall, it is autumn and the leaves are turning and Laurie Ellis is making a big change in her life, packing up with her small dog Max and moving to firstly open up a new business, Max’s Place a pet store and pet bakery, but she is also there to see if she can find some answers about her biological mother.
Joshua Reilly grew up in Starr’s Fall and is now running the Antiquarian Bookstore that was started by his grandfather then run by his father, a lot has happened to Joshua and he is known for his grumpiness in the town, and meeting his new neighbour with her ideas for a pet bakery, sounds silly to him, but he can’t help noticing her.
Soon thanks to a cat and Max Joshua and Laurie are spending more time together and opening up about their pasts could this be love growing and with help searching for her mother not only from Joshua but the patriarch of the town Henrietta Starr, Laurie is soon making friends and feeling very at home in Starr’s Fall.
This is a thoroughly enjoyable story a beautiful romance that is slow to start but then moves very nicely, I do recommend this one if you are a romance reader looking for a moving story that will have you feeling like you are in this beautiful town. I do look forward to more stories set in Starr’s Fall.
My thanks to Netgalley and Boldwood Books for my copy to read and review.
Joshua Reilly grew up in Starr’s Fall and is now running the Antiquarian Bookstore that was started by his grandfather then run by his father, a lot has happened to Joshua and he is known for his grumpiness in the town, and meeting his new neighbour with her ideas for a pet bakery, sounds silly to him, but he can’t help noticing her.
Soon thanks to a cat and Max Joshua and Laurie are spending more time together and opening up about their pasts could this be love growing and with help searching for her mother not only from Joshua but the patriarch of the town Henrietta Starr, Laurie is soon making friends and feeling very at home in Starr’s Fall.
This is a thoroughly enjoyable story a beautiful romance that is slow to start but then moves very nicely, I do recommend this one if you are a romance reader looking for a moving story that will have you feeling like you are in this beautiful town. I do look forward to more stories set in Starr’s Fall.
My thanks to Netgalley and Boldwood Books for my copy to read and review.
September 20, 2024
Coming Home To Starr's Fall was a very sweet and touching read.
Laurie Ellis decided to move to Connecticut to pursue her dream of opening a pet shop, and to find her family.
Laurie doesn't know her parents, she only has a small hint that brought her to Starr's Fall. She is a nice woman, with a positive attitude even if life hasn't been kind with her, who deserves to find her place in the World and to call it home.
I enjoyed to see Laurie easily integrate into the community, becoming friends with most of the towners. I followed with the most interest the developping relationship between Laurie and the grumpy bookseller Joshua, because there was a little spark from the start between them.
I've loved this world that Kate Hewitt created, the writing was good and evocative. I'm already looking forward to next story in the series.
I recommend to read this sweet novel that helped me to escape the heat of this Summer.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for kindly giving me an advanced copy of this book to read.
August 23, 2024
Laurie decides to open a pet store in a small town in Connecticut. She is moving there because she is looking for some answers. I liked getting to know the individuals in this community.
August 31, 2024
I received a free copy of, Coming Home to Starr's Fall, by Kate Hewitt, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. I have enjoyed other books by Kate Hewitt, she writes books set in UK and the USA. Laurie Ellis is starting over, she has moved t Starr;s Fall, to find her mother. This town sounds so beautiful, I love Autumn, its such a special time of year. I enjoyed reading this book.
January 1, 2025
Coming home to Starr's Fall
2.5✨
A book for dog people
2.5✨
A book for dog people
August 30, 2024
I don’t know about you but I’m so ready for some cooler temperatures, yes I’m wishing summer away but I’m so over the heat. If you are feeling like you’re ready for fall this was a delightful little seasonal read that I enjoyed. I wanted the feeling of a cozy fall in a quaint town and that’s exactly what I got. Things aren’t exactly perfect in Starr’s Fall though and I appreciated that it wasn’t exactly your typical small town romance, it still delivered in its own unique way. Laurie was the sweetest character with some sad trauma in her past and I really like the journey the author took her on. Her relationship with Joshua was a slow burn and this one is closed door so just a little kissing which made this one really sweet and tender. Definitely recommended if you want a cute romance, fun fall activities and a charming and quirky small town.
August 25, 2024
I really enjoyed this. It was set in a small town in Connecticut in the fall, which really worked for me. It had some tough topics, but the writing kept things light and cozy. Definitely recommend for anyone looking for a feel-good read.
This is the start of a series, so I will be keeping an eye out for the next one.
Thanks so much to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
This is the start of a series, so I will be keeping an eye out for the next one.
Thanks so much to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
October 20, 2024
4.5 stars
I absolutely loved this fall romance! It was my first time reading this author, and I’m definitely planning to pick up more of her books. I also noticed that this is the first installment in a series, and I can’t wait to dive into the second book next spring.
While it wasn't quite a five-star read for me, it was very close. One of the standout aspects of this story is the cozy autumn atmosphere and the small-town vibes. If you enjoy Gilmore Girls or The Good Witch, you’ll definitely appreciate the setting. It captures that comforting sense of community and found family perfectly!
I really enjoyed getting to know Laurie and Joshua. Both of them have tumultuous childhoods that have shaped who they are today. Even though their stories are quite different, they share feelings of loneliness and abandonment, making it difficult for them to trust others. Laurie grew up in the foster system and is trying to find her biological mother, which is a significant subplot in her life. Hearing her heartbreaking story was tough, but I loved watching Laurie face her struggles and emerge stronger on the other side.
On the other hand, Joshua had a difficult relationship with his father after losing his mother during his teenage years. With his father now gone, he grapples with feelings of resentment and guilt. Together, both characters help each other navigate their deep, raw emotions and traumatic pasts. I appreciated how the story balanced fun, light-hearted romcom moments with serious, profound romance.
I also adored the side characters and the sense of community in this sleepy small town in New England. Set during the autumn season, it’s perfect for this time of year. The vivid descriptions really drew me into the story, and I especially loved the fall festival element.
This is a sweet, clean romance with no profanity or spice. Although the story took an unexpected turn toward the end, it still concluded in a satisfying way. We also meet a few new characters who will be more central in the second book, and I’m excited to learn more about them in the future.
This book was such a delightful surprise—I didn’t expect to love it as much as I did! It was sweet, charming, and captivating. If you enjoy the grumpy/sunshine romance trope, you’ll definitely enjoy this one. I highly recommend it!
**If you want to listen to all of my thoughts and get my real-time reactions to this book, check out my episode on the Booksmarks 'n Blankets podcast.
Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this advanced copy in exchange for an honest review. These are my own thoughts and opinions.
I absolutely loved this fall romance! It was my first time reading this author, and I’m definitely planning to pick up more of her books. I also noticed that this is the first installment in a series, and I can’t wait to dive into the second book next spring.
While it wasn't quite a five-star read for me, it was very close. One of the standout aspects of this story is the cozy autumn atmosphere and the small-town vibes. If you enjoy Gilmore Girls or The Good Witch, you’ll definitely appreciate the setting. It captures that comforting sense of community and found family perfectly!
I really enjoyed getting to know Laurie and Joshua. Both of them have tumultuous childhoods that have shaped who they are today. Even though their stories are quite different, they share feelings of loneliness and abandonment, making it difficult for them to trust others. Laurie grew up in the foster system and is trying to find her biological mother, which is a significant subplot in her life. Hearing her heartbreaking story was tough, but I loved watching Laurie face her struggles and emerge stronger on the other side.
On the other hand, Joshua had a difficult relationship with his father after losing his mother during his teenage years. With his father now gone, he grapples with feelings of resentment and guilt. Together, both characters help each other navigate their deep, raw emotions and traumatic pasts. I appreciated how the story balanced fun, light-hearted romcom moments with serious, profound romance.
I also adored the side characters and the sense of community in this sleepy small town in New England. Set during the autumn season, it’s perfect for this time of year. The vivid descriptions really drew me into the story, and I especially loved the fall festival element.
This is a sweet, clean romance with no profanity or spice. Although the story took an unexpected turn toward the end, it still concluded in a satisfying way. We also meet a few new characters who will be more central in the second book, and I’m excited to learn more about them in the future.
This book was such a delightful surprise—I didn’t expect to love it as much as I did! It was sweet, charming, and captivating. If you enjoy the grumpy/sunshine romance trope, you’ll definitely enjoy this one. I highly recommend it!
**If you want to listen to all of my thoughts and get my real-time reactions to this book, check out my episode on the Booksmarks 'n Blankets podcast.
Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this advanced copy in exchange for an honest review. These are my own thoughts and opinions.
August 7, 2024
I read an ARC copy of this novel courtesy of NetGalley and the author. I absolutely loved the fall cozy vibe of this small town novel and personally would love to visit Starts Fall.
The author wrote a great story in a way that felt like it was absolutely a breeze to read it and took me no time! I had trouble putting this book down and could picture the town, sounds of the leaves, and the smells of the bakery and other small shops!
Highly recommend this to Hallmark like fall story lovers, or to anyone who wants a good wholesome fall romance. I adored this and cannot wait to explore other novels by this author.
The author wrote a great story in a way that felt like it was absolutely a breeze to read it and took me no time! I had trouble putting this book down and could picture the town, sounds of the leaves, and the smells of the bakery and other small shops!
Highly recommend this to Hallmark like fall story lovers, or to anyone who wants a good wholesome fall romance. I adored this and cannot wait to explore other novels by this author.
April 10, 2025
Laurie Ellis, a optimistic 25 year old is the new resident in Starr Falls accompanied by her four-legged friend Max. Laurie is in Starr Falls to start fresh, open her dream business (and pet bakery) but more importantly to track down and find her birth mother Helena Lysander.
During Laurie’s arrival, she is quick to meet some of the residents including Annie the farmer & apple cider producer, her mother Barbs, the famous yet forgotten Henrietta Starrs and the grumpy neighbour Joshua Rilley who has given up with the community, his family’s bookstore and himself.
This book was cute and contemporary and I enjoyed every page📖 Kate Hewitt created such a beautiful yet brutal book following the dreams of Laurie Ellis!
Fans of small town romances will love this novel too…☺️🏡
I very much look forward to reading the second instalment of Kate Hewitt’s Starr Falls’s Series!
4 ⭐️
During Laurie’s arrival, she is quick to meet some of the residents including Annie the farmer & apple cider producer, her mother Barbs, the famous yet forgotten Henrietta Starrs and the grumpy neighbour Joshua Rilley who has given up with the community, his family’s bookstore and himself.
This book was cute and contemporary and I enjoyed every page📖 Kate Hewitt created such a beautiful yet brutal book following the dreams of Laurie Ellis!
Fans of small town romances will love this novel too…☺️🏡
I very much look forward to reading the second instalment of Kate Hewitt’s Starr Falls’s Series!
4 ⭐️
October 21, 2024
A nice easy listen on audiobook. Perfect for driving around on New England fall days.
December 3, 2024
I have enjoyed reading Kate Hewitt's historical fiction novels, particularly the Far Horizons trilogy and the Amherst Island series but until now had never read her romance novels.
Seeing that Coming Home to Starr's Fall is the first book in a brand new series, was available as a Read Now option on NetGalley, plus that gorgeous cover 😍 convinced me to read it.
I wasn't disappointed. It has all the ingredients of a wholesome, clean cozy romance celebrating new beginnings, finding lasting friendships and found family, and would definitely make a good Hallmark movie.
My thanks to NetGalley, the publisher Boldwood Books and the author for the e-ARC of the book.
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Seeing that Coming Home to Starr's Fall is the first book in a brand new series, was available as a Read Now option on NetGalley, plus that gorgeous cover 😍 convinced me to read it.
I wasn't disappointed. It has all the ingredients of a wholesome, clean cozy romance celebrating new beginnings, finding lasting friendships and found family, and would definitely make a good Hallmark movie.
My thanks to NetGalley, the publisher Boldwood Books and the author for the e-ARC of the book.
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
August 24, 2024
This is a very sweet romantic story set in a small town that definitely gives Gilmore Girls vibes. We follow Laurie, a lovable girl, who has lived a very difficult life, make a new start at Starr’s Fall. There, she is welcomed, makes friends and gets to know the grumpy bookstore owner, Joshua. We watch how they form a special bond while Laurie is working on her mission to discover her roots. It’s a light emotional read where the focus is mainly on the MCs past hardships and the way they dealt with them and how they move on and grow as characters.
I would have liked to see some more interactions of them as a couple because they were so nice together but overall I really enjoyed this well-written book and I’m happy I got to read it.
-3rd person POV
-Spice: 0.25🌶️
Overall: 4/5 ⭐️
Thank you NetGalley & Boldwood Books for providing this arc in exchange for my honest review.
I would have liked to see some more interactions of them as a couple because they were so nice together but overall I really enjoyed this well-written book and I’m happy I got to read it.
-3rd person POV
-Spice: 0.25🌶️
Overall: 4/5 ⭐️
Thank you NetGalley & Boldwood Books for providing this arc in exchange for my honest review.
September 16, 2024
Laurie decides to start a new life in Starr’s Fall, Connecticut. She is hoping to find connections to her past. Along the way we meet a host of characters, but it never gets confusing. The author does a great job of setting up the perfect fall feelings. While this is a feel good, Hallmark type book, I appreciated the fact that not everything turned out perfectly which gave the book a more realistic feel. A great fall read. 3.5 stars
September 30, 2024
3.5 stars.
Laurie Ellis and her dog Max move to Starr’s Fall to start a new life and to open a pet store and bakery.
Queue the handsome neighbour, Joshua Reilly, who owns the bookstore across the road and thinks that a pet bakery for dogs is ridiculous.
Hiding the real reason that she has moved to Starr’s Fall, Laurie is unaware that a clue to her mystery is hidden within Joshua’s shop. Recovering from his own past trauma, could Laurie be the person who can help him move forward?
I have read quite a few autumnal books during my recovery from surgery and this one is definitely one of the better ones. The location is perfect – a small town with a cosy, autumn vibe. The author has done a great job with the atmosphere of the book, so much so that you can almost hear the crunching of the leaves as you walk down the main street.
I liked the characters and the tight community network. I particularly liked the fact that the romance was a slow burn, rather than full on and the book offers everything you could want for a cute romance in a quirky town.
Laurie Ellis and her dog Max move to Starr’s Fall to start a new life and to open a pet store and bakery.
Queue the handsome neighbour, Joshua Reilly, who owns the bookstore across the road and thinks that a pet bakery for dogs is ridiculous.
Hiding the real reason that she has moved to Starr’s Fall, Laurie is unaware that a clue to her mystery is hidden within Joshua’s shop. Recovering from his own past trauma, could Laurie be the person who can help him move forward?
I have read quite a few autumnal books during my recovery from surgery and this one is definitely one of the better ones. The location is perfect – a small town with a cosy, autumn vibe. The author has done a great job with the atmosphere of the book, so much so that you can almost hear the crunching of the leaves as you walk down the main street.
I liked the characters and the tight community network. I particularly liked the fact that the romance was a slow burn, rather than full on and the book offers everything you could want for a cute romance in a quirky town.
May 16, 2025
Thoroughly enjoyed book one of the series, which I read for the sheer enjoyment of it from my personal e-stack. The main characters had interesting backstories. Their positive traits made them likeable. It is a story that deals with foster care and its effects plus a woman seeking out her biological mother. The methods were clever in how she uncovered the truth. Even though her discovery was somewhat sad. But it led to a new beginning, a new love and a new home in a caring community. Rescue dogs and a pet business brought people and animals together. It filled a void in the community and gave many a chance to feel supported and loved. Lovely tender story. Now to read book two!
September 29, 2024
This book was as refreshing as walking down the street on a crisp autumn day, the leaves rustling on the ground in the breeze, and the smell of autumn in the air. I loved Starrs Fall and how the locals welcomed Laurie and Max with open arms! If I could close my eyes and transport myself into this town I would. The grumpy sunshine trope was present and accounted for and there was zero spice, which was nice for a change of pace. If you want to fully immerse yourself in a small town New England autumn, this book is for you! If you’re a fan of the Gilmore Girls, this book is also for you.
November 17, 2024
This was equally cute, cheesy, and a little predictable it actually took a turn I didn’t expect there in the end, but I’m glad Laurie seemed to find everything she wanted and even some she didn’t. This book is very Hallmark romance-y, but in an endearing way. You could find yourself returning to Starr’s Fall over and over again, like a comfy and cozy blanket.
October 24, 2025
Honestly, this was the book that I needed to read to kick me out of my audiobook slump. Recently even though I've also been physically reading, I haven't been enjoying audiobooks the same which caused me to take a breather from them. This is unfortunate because I really like to listen to audiobooks during my daily walks and/or commutes but I haven't really liked any that I have been listening to and haven't been able to focus on them. It really was more of a me problem instead of the fault of the audiobooks.
Anyway. Long story short: this was the cozy small town romance that I needed to kick me out of that slump and was able to enjoy casually listening to.
I understand why this book is being compared to Gilmore Girls. The stories are very different but there's a charming small town and a grumpy-sunshine relationship similar (kind of) to Luke and Lorelei.
This book was a cozy and enjoyable read. It's not necessarily a favourite but not every book will be. It served its purpose and was entertaining.
Anyway. Long story short: this was the cozy small town romance that I needed to kick me out of that slump and was able to enjoy casually listening to.
I understand why this book is being compared to Gilmore Girls. The stories are very different but there's a charming small town and a grumpy-sunshine relationship similar (kind of) to Luke and Lorelei.
This book was a cozy and enjoyable read. It's not necessarily a favourite but not every book will be. It served its purpose and was entertaining.
August 24, 2025
This is exactly what I needed 🍂🍁🎃
September 17, 2025
Easy and fun read
September 20, 2025
Easy fall read. That ending hurt my heart a little bit though 😢
March 24, 2025
A bit "Meh"
October 2, 2024
I expected easy, clean reading, and that's what I got. Actually I could have done without the romance altogether, I found Laurie's search for her mother a lot more interesting. And I find that ended too abruptly.
(All the time I felt some Gilmore Girls vibes, sadly without Lorelai's sparkling repartee and Luke's prickly kindheartedness ...)
(All the time I felt some Gilmore Girls vibes, sadly without Lorelai's sparkling repartee and Luke's prickly kindheartedness ...)
August 21, 2025
A cozy fall read.
September 23, 2024
3.5 stars rounded up. Laurie Ellis has two wishes: one is to open her own pet store/bakery and the second is to find her mother. She was put up for adoption as a baby, but unfortunately grew up in foster care when her adoptive parents could no longer keep her. Her only clue is what was on her birth certificate: her mother's name and the town she lived in. Based on this information, Laurie moves to Starr's Fall in Connecticut to pursue her dreams. Shortly after arriving she meets grumpy bookstore owner, Joshua Reilly, who thinks a bakery for dogs is ridiculous. He is cat sitting, and Laurie's little dog, Max is scared to death. As the animals get accustomed to one another, Laurie and Joshua begin spending more time together and there is definitely chemistry. Laurie continues to try and get information about her mother, but keeps hitting dead ends. It isn't until she meets town recluse and the only living member of the founding family, Henrietta Starr, that Laurie begins to feel at home and welcome in Starr's Fall. When she finally opens up to Joshua about her past, he is able to help her in her search. Will sharing secrets help them get together?
Coming to Starr's Falls is not a heavy hitter, but an easy read, predictable romance. I enjoyed the setting and characters. I loved seeing how Laurie becomes friends with Henrietta Starr and finding out about her past. As time passes, Laurie and Joshua feel the chemistry and eventually the spark ignites. I liked how the town accepted her into their community and supported her business. This is a slow story, with an enemies to friends to more theme. I've read many stories where adoptive children find their parents and all goes well, but this isn't always the case in real life, so it was nice to see this story buck that trend. There are themes of new beginnings, grief, found family, multi-generational friendship, and romance. The story was not deep, but the characters were wonderful in the town. I did enjoy this one, but it was somewhat predictable. I listened to the audiobook narrated by Kate Handford. This is not an author I have listened to often, but she does a perfectly nice job with the story and voices. If you are looking for an easy read, romance, coming of age story, then check this book.
Coming to Starr's Falls is not a heavy hitter, but an easy read, predictable romance. I enjoyed the setting and characters. I loved seeing how Laurie becomes friends with Henrietta Starr and finding out about her past. As time passes, Laurie and Joshua feel the chemistry and eventually the spark ignites. I liked how the town accepted her into their community and supported her business. This is a slow story, with an enemies to friends to more theme. I've read many stories where adoptive children find their parents and all goes well, but this isn't always the case in real life, so it was nice to see this story buck that trend. There are themes of new beginnings, grief, found family, multi-generational friendship, and romance. The story was not deep, but the characters were wonderful in the town. I did enjoy this one, but it was somewhat predictable. I listened to the audiobook narrated by Kate Handford. This is not an author I have listened to often, but she does a perfectly nice job with the story and voices. If you are looking for an easy read, romance, coming of age story, then check this book.
September 5, 2024
I received a free copy of, Coming Home to Starr's Fall, by Kate Hewitt, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
This book was a cute small-town romance set in a beautiful fall atmosphere. I really enjoyed the characters and the town-atmosphere. If you're a fan of Gilmore Girls, you will really like this book. Hoping to see more books following Laurie and Joshua.
This book was a cute small-town romance set in a beautiful fall atmosphere. I really enjoyed the characters and the town-atmosphere. If you're a fan of Gilmore Girls, you will really like this book. Hoping to see more books following Laurie and Joshua.
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