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Larchdown Valley #1
Putting Down Roots
Can love bloom in a neglected garden in this small-town romance?
Jackson
My plan to start over had been a simple one. I’d fill the van with fuel and put down roots wherever I was when it ran dry. I was running away—from my ex-wife, my ex-boss, and my ex-life—and excited for a fresh start. What could be better than opening a plant nursery with no one I know around to bother me? But even the most open-ended plans can fall apart, something I learn when my van breaks down in a place called Larchdown. The longer I’m forced to stay in the strange village, the more it gets under my skin. When I meet the beautiful but troubled new owner of Larchdown House, my life gets a lot more complicated.
Luca
My art career is on the rocks after a spiteful review from my art critic ex-lover. Amid the scandal, I can't bring myself to leave my apartment or even think about picking up a paintbrush. Needing to escape my life in London and dismal new reality for a while, I head to the country home I’ve inherited from my great-aunt. After meeting the gorgeous gardener who’s been 'borrowing' the grounds for his plants, I might have found a reason to stay and perhaps find my muse again. Except the guy is straight… isn't he?
Both men must confront their demons if they want to find their way to each other and learn to trust again.
But no one can bury their past forever and when it finally pays a visit, are the new roots too shallow or have they done enough to cultivate them?
Putting Down Roots is a sweet but steamy MM Romance featuring an artist running away from a poor review to his latest show from his art critic ex-lover and a gardener trying to cultivate a new life after a failed marriage. Check content warnings with look inside or on the authors website. It is the first book in the Larchdown Valley Series set in a British village all with no 3rd act breakup and a guaranteed HEA
Jackson
My plan to start over had been a simple one. I’d fill the van with fuel and put down roots wherever I was when it ran dry. I was running away—from my ex-wife, my ex-boss, and my ex-life—and excited for a fresh start. What could be better than opening a plant nursery with no one I know around to bother me? But even the most open-ended plans can fall apart, something I learn when my van breaks down in a place called Larchdown. The longer I’m forced to stay in the strange village, the more it gets under my skin. When I meet the beautiful but troubled new owner of Larchdown House, my life gets a lot more complicated.
Luca
My art career is on the rocks after a spiteful review from my art critic ex-lover. Amid the scandal, I can't bring myself to leave my apartment or even think about picking up a paintbrush. Needing to escape my life in London and dismal new reality for a while, I head to the country home I’ve inherited from my great-aunt. After meeting the gorgeous gardener who’s been 'borrowing' the grounds for his plants, I might have found a reason to stay and perhaps find my muse again. Except the guy is straight… isn't he?
Both men must confront their demons if they want to find their way to each other and learn to trust again.
But no one can bury their past forever and when it finally pays a visit, are the new roots too shallow or have they done enough to cultivate them?
Putting Down Roots is a sweet but steamy MM Romance featuring an artist running away from a poor review to his latest show from his art critic ex-lover and a gardener trying to cultivate a new life after a failed marriage. Check content warnings with look inside or on the authors website. It is the first book in the Larchdown Valley Series set in a British village all with no 3rd act breakup and a guaranteed HEA
222 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 11, 2023
53 people are currently reading
170 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
January 4, 2024
"Darling, it's Rueben from Claverdale Gallery, Cynthia says, considering the, err, you know what, we can't display your work, just for a bit. You know how it is, sorry, anyway chow."
Really, chow ? Instead of ciao ? Was this done purposely or was this like an auto correction that wasn’t caught in editing???
I found this on GRR and since low-angst stories are my preferred reading material lately I was very interested especially when it also had hurt/comfort + small town. This book was $4 and I was very hesitant to buy it considering I use KU and libraries so it feels weird to have to pay for a book. I usually buy the physical copy of books I love but I don’t really care for owning digital copies.
ANYWAY, I pulled the trigger to buy this but I wish I didn’t. 🙈
This is probably a decent story with some wounded MCs that find love and acceptance in each other but I wasn’t able to immerse myself enough to enjoy it due to the writing format + typos. The lack of contractions was driving me insane, it made a lot of the dialogue feel robotic and stiff.
⚠️Big Spoilers below that are revealed around 60ish % in the story.
Now, I LOVE hurt/comfort which aligns with my love for caretakers but I always have a hard time when the subject matter is really dark in a book that I feel doesn’t have enough depth. I want to feel the emotions,the devastation and I want to feel put back together during the ‘comfort’ part but this didn’t invoke anything in me.
Luca has a very traumatic past, he suffers from panic attacks and used to self-harm ( cutting) around 60% we learn his secrets- he had a physically abusive father and his aunt rescued him from that but the father came back when he found out Luca was gay and beat him, forced himself into him while berating him then proceeded to spit on him. The aunt threw the father out threatening to expose what he did if he didn’t hand over full custody of her nephew. Shortly after the father killed Luca’s mother and himself. BUT WAIT, there’s more. Luca went to an all boy boarding school where he was bullied and was offered protection from the bullies by a group of boys who used his body as payment. At 19 he met his ex that promised to make him famous in return to being his lover and that had been going on for 6 years with them being on/off lovers.
All of this is dumped on us and then quickly moved on from 🤷🏻♀️
I was expecting drama to come near the end of the book and it did, both the exes showed up at once and were handled quickly and maybe it was supposed to be like a full circle moment where they stood up to their bullies but it was very bland, to me at least which I guess is reaction to this book, it was very bland even with all the intense topics.
✄┈┈┈┈
My ratings always reflect my enjoyment of the story. Just because it aligns or doesn’t align with my tastes does not mean it’ll be the same for you. These are just my rambling thoughts so try reading it for yourself ! ❀
Really, chow ? Instead of ciao ? Was this done purposely or was this like an auto correction that wasn’t caught in editing???
I found this on GRR and since low-angst stories are my preferred reading material lately I was very interested especially when it also had hurt/comfort + small town. This book was $4 and I was very hesitant to buy it considering I use KU and libraries so it feels weird to have to pay for a book. I usually buy the physical copy of books I love but I don’t really care for owning digital copies.
ANYWAY, I pulled the trigger to buy this but I wish I didn’t. 🙈
This is probably a decent story with some wounded MCs that find love and acceptance in each other but I wasn’t able to immerse myself enough to enjoy it due to the writing format + typos. The lack of contractions was driving me insane, it made a lot of the dialogue feel robotic and stiff.
⚠️Big Spoilers below that are revealed around 60ish % in the story.
Now, I LOVE hurt/comfort which aligns with my love for caretakers but I always have a hard time when the subject matter is really dark in a book that I feel doesn’t have enough depth. I want to feel the emotions,the devastation and I want to feel put back together during the ‘comfort’ part but this didn’t invoke anything in me.
Luca has a very traumatic past, he suffers from panic attacks and used to self-harm ( cutting) around 60% we learn his secrets- he had a physically abusive father and his aunt rescued him from that but the father came back when he found out Luca was gay and beat him, forced himself into him while berating him then proceeded to spit on him. The aunt threw the father out threatening to expose what he did if he didn’t hand over full custody of her nephew. Shortly after the father killed Luca’s mother and himself. BUT WAIT, there’s more. Luca went to an all boy boarding school where he was bullied and was offered protection from the bullies by a group of boys who used his body as payment. At 19 he met his ex that promised to make him famous in return to being his lover and that had been going on for 6 years with them being on/off lovers.
All of this is dumped on us and then quickly moved on from 🤷🏻♀️
I was expecting drama to come near the end of the book and it did, both the exes showed up at once and were handled quickly and maybe it was supposed to be like a full circle moment where they stood up to their bullies but it was very bland, to me at least which I guess is reaction to this book, it was very bland even with all the intense topics.
✄┈┈┈┈
My ratings always reflect my enjoyment of the story. Just because it aligns or doesn’t align with my tastes does not mean it’ll be the same for you. These are just my rambling thoughts so try reading it for yourself ! ❀
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 12, 2023
I loved this book, Jem is a new author to me and this is her debut into the MM world!! I love finding new authors and this is a great book.
We have Luca who has been ruined publicly by his ex, he’s an artist and because of one bad review his work has been pulled from galleries, to top it off his aunt recently passed and he found out he’s now the owner of her estate and gardens. Luca decides he needs a break so goes to see the house he spent some of his childhood in, it’s not all good memories so he’s not sure if he will keep the house or sell it. Then he sees Him, and his careful touch to seedlings in the green house unlocks something in Luca thats been locked away, only his best friend knows his story.
Jackson has lost everything, a messy divorce from his cheating wife has him wanting a fresh start, all he has is his seedlings, he’s a gardener hoping to one day open his own nurserie, but his van has other ideas and breaks down in a small village, holding him hostage for a few days! But in those few days he finds a peace settle in him and extends his stay, even chancing breaking and entering to keep his seedlings alive, until he’s caught by the owner!!!
This book was low angst but let me tell you, there are some high angst moments, my heart broke for Luca, he has big trauma, I’m so glad he found J-bear to help him and care for him they way he needed. Jackson had it pretty bad in life too, these two men were brought together to help heal each other, accept care and to love each other with no judgment. Oh did I mention cuddles!! Just scoop me up off the floor because I’m a puddle 🫠
I really enjoyed this book and I’m looking forward to reading more of this series.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Trigger warnings in book
🌸Hurt/Comfort
🌺Bi-Awakening
🌼Mental Health Rep
🌸Low Angst
🌺Small Town Romance
🌼Gardener/Artist
🌸Cuddles
We have Luca who has been ruined publicly by his ex, he’s an artist and because of one bad review his work has been pulled from galleries, to top it off his aunt recently passed and he found out he’s now the owner of her estate and gardens. Luca decides he needs a break so goes to see the house he spent some of his childhood in, it’s not all good memories so he’s not sure if he will keep the house or sell it. Then he sees Him, and his careful touch to seedlings in the green house unlocks something in Luca thats been locked away, only his best friend knows his story.
Jackson has lost everything, a messy divorce from his cheating wife has him wanting a fresh start, all he has is his seedlings, he’s a gardener hoping to one day open his own nurserie, but his van has other ideas and breaks down in a small village, holding him hostage for a few days! But in those few days he finds a peace settle in him and extends his stay, even chancing breaking and entering to keep his seedlings alive, until he’s caught by the owner!!!
This book was low angst but let me tell you, there are some high angst moments, my heart broke for Luca, he has big trauma, I’m so glad he found J-bear to help him and care for him they way he needed. Jackson had it pretty bad in life too, these two men were brought together to help heal each other, accept care and to love each other with no judgment. Oh did I mention cuddles!! Just scoop me up off the floor because I’m a puddle 🫠
I really enjoyed this book and I’m looking forward to reading more of this series.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Trigger warnings in book
🌸Hurt/Comfort
🌺Bi-Awakening
🌼Mental Health Rep
🌸Low Angst
🌺Small Town Romance
🌼Gardener/Artist
🌸Cuddles
December 3, 2023
He is running away from everything in his life so he fills his van up with fuel and he intends to drive until it runs out. Life will take a twist when he breaks down and he finds the town getting under his skin and meeting them may just change everything he thought he wanted. How will it all go? Can he find happiness? Will he stay? See just how it will all go for him
December 21, 2023
Just finished reading ‘ Putting down Roots by Jem Wendel, hard to believe it’s her debut book. The story is about Jackson Blake, a Gardner, recently ‘taken to the cleaners’ by his gold digger ex wife. Now he has lost his business, he is jobless, homeless, with little money to his name.
Wanting to get out of town and far away he heads away with all his worldly goods in the back of his ancient truck, Betsy. Unfortunately, when Betsy breaks down a few hours later he is stuck in a little town, Larchdown..
Jackson is lucky, but he doesn’t know that yet. His previous life holds awful memories of homophobic family members, his father and his brother made his life miserable just because he once tried on his sister’s tutu when he was A young kid. He’s never claimed to be anything other than straight. So, he’s happy to leave that life behind.
Larchdown turns out to be a very special place, with very special people living and working there. One such newly arrived inhabitant is Luca Winterton, an artist who had his reputation destroyed by his so called lover, who is a reviewer with a reputable Art Magazine.
Luca, has just returned to Larchdown where he was raised for several years by his beloved Aunt Frances. She has recently died and left him her beautiful home and famous gardens.
Luca is also very lucky and doesn’t realise it yet either.
When he discovers Gardner, Jackson Blake trespassing in his Greenhouse, it is both of these men’s lucky day. Luca has had a horrible childhood, rescued only by his Aunt Frances.
Face to face in the Greenhouse, Cupid has waved a wand over these two broken men. Are they ready to be put back together or they just too broken.
***********************
Haven’t read or heard of Jem Wendel before, her first book has impressed me. I’ve enjoyed it immensely and Larchdown sounds like a great place to live, with wonderful side characters to help you settle in there.
Ive downloaded her recently released latest book, ‘Bridging The Gap’ and I’m looking forward to enjoying it as much as her debut book.
Wanting to get out of town and far away he heads away with all his worldly goods in the back of his ancient truck, Betsy. Unfortunately, when Betsy breaks down a few hours later he is stuck in a little town, Larchdown..
Jackson is lucky, but he doesn’t know that yet. His previous life holds awful memories of homophobic family members, his father and his brother made his life miserable just because he once tried on his sister’s tutu when he was A young kid. He’s never claimed to be anything other than straight. So, he’s happy to leave that life behind.
Larchdown turns out to be a very special place, with very special people living and working there. One such newly arrived inhabitant is Luca Winterton, an artist who had his reputation destroyed by his so called lover, who is a reviewer with a reputable Art Magazine.
Luca, has just returned to Larchdown where he was raised for several years by his beloved Aunt Frances. She has recently died and left him her beautiful home and famous gardens.
Luca is also very lucky and doesn’t realise it yet either.
When he discovers Gardner, Jackson Blake trespassing in his Greenhouse, it is both of these men’s lucky day. Luca has had a horrible childhood, rescued only by his Aunt Frances.
Face to face in the Greenhouse, Cupid has waved a wand over these two broken men. Are they ready to be put back together or they just too broken.
***********************
Haven’t read or heard of Jem Wendel before, her first book has impressed me. I’ve enjoyed it immensely and Larchdown sounds like a great place to live, with wonderful side characters to help you settle in there.
Ive downloaded her recently released latest book, ‘Bridging The Gap’ and I’m looking forward to enjoying it as much as her debut book.
November 22, 2023
4 stars
This was a very sweet and lovely story. I particularly appreciate the setting: small town, beautiful gardens, old house. Jackson and Luca could nurture their relationship the same way they were taking care of the flowers.
I have to admit, their past was hard to read (SA is one of my hard limits), but I'm glad I gave this book a chance even if I knew the trigger warnings, because the way Jackson helps Luca to feel how amazing he is, was very beautiful. I love that he never hesitated, never took a step back.
There are a lot of emotional, tender moments between them and all the sex scenes reflect their grewing feelings.
What prevented me from giving a higher rate:
the confrontation with Claude and Natasha left me disappointed: their showing up (after months) was unnecessary and it would have had more sense if it led to a firm satisfying closure.
I plan to read the second book of this series, Cole the veterinary's story.
Recommended.
I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.
This was a very sweet and lovely story. I particularly appreciate the setting: small town, beautiful gardens, old house. Jackson and Luca could nurture their relationship the same way they were taking care of the flowers.
I have to admit, their past was hard to read (SA is one of my hard limits), but I'm glad I gave this book a chance even if I knew the trigger warnings, because the way Jackson helps Luca to feel how amazing he is, was very beautiful. I love that he never hesitated, never took a step back.
There are a lot of emotional, tender moments between them and all the sex scenes reflect their grewing feelings.
What prevented me from giving a higher rate:
the confrontation with Claude and Natasha left me disappointed: their showing up (after months) was unnecessary and it would have had more sense if it led to a firm satisfying closure.
I plan to read the second book of this series, Cole the veterinary's story.
Recommended.
I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.
September 22, 2024
4.5* - This book was really lovely and not like anything I've ever read! Luca is an artist whose career has just hit a major low, while Jackson is more of a go with the flow gardener plant guy (the actual name of someone who runs a plant nursery thing is escaping me at the moment sorry). At first I was put off by Jackson's thoughts about a cutesy, girly cupcake and his internalized homophobia inner monologue, but when his backstory is revealed it did become a lot more understandable to me.
The build-up to Luca and Jackson getting together was gradual, but very nice to watch. The early part where Jackson helps him through a panic attack was great and really showed the care between them, even before there was any romantic connection.
I really loved the small village vibe in general, and especially Ben and Keith were super cute. I don't know if it's a thing, but I feel like a little prequel about them would be so adorable!
The build-up to Luca and Jackson getting together was gradual, but very nice to watch. The early part where Jackson helps him through a panic attack was great and really showed the care between them, even before there was any romantic connection.
I really loved the small village vibe in general, and especially Ben and Keith were super cute. I don't know if it's a thing, but I feel like a little prequel about them would be so adorable!
December 3, 2023
I LOVED THIS WORLD!
I absolutely loved this world created by this new to me author and look forward to so much more from Larchdown’s characters and side characters!
““When you smile it is like you are my pole star, something to orient myself to. A fixed point to know who I am in this universe.”
“When I met you, I was drowning. I still am in some ways on some days, but you are my anchor, Jackson, my solid rock to cling to.”
Two broken souls find each other by chance when a van breaks down in a small little town called Larchdown and newly divorced Gardner Jackson Blake trespasses on artist Luca Winterton’s estate and the rest as they say is history…
This is their story which is aptly named and has so many depictions of homophobia, internalised homophobia and abuse woven together like branches of a tree in a sweet, poignant story about finding your true self with your perfect other person while creating beautiful art together!
I voluntarily received an ARC from GRR for an honest non biased review.
I absolutely loved this world created by this new to me author and look forward to so much more from Larchdown’s characters and side characters!
““When you smile it is like you are my pole star, something to orient myself to. A fixed point to know who I am in this universe.”
“When I met you, I was drowning. I still am in some ways on some days, but you are my anchor, Jackson, my solid rock to cling to.”
Two broken souls find each other by chance when a van breaks down in a small little town called Larchdown and newly divorced Gardner Jackson Blake trespasses on artist Luca Winterton’s estate and the rest as they say is history…
This is their story which is aptly named and has so many depictions of homophobia, internalised homophobia and abuse woven together like branches of a tree in a sweet, poignant story about finding your true self with your perfect other person while creating beautiful art together!
I voluntarily received an ARC from GRR for an honest non biased review.
August 11, 2023
I have never read a book like this before!
This book tells us the story of Jackson and Luca falling in love, of course everything isn’t smooth sailing between the pair, but they do get their well deserved happy ending.
Jackson is recently single and wants to move towards starting his own plant nursery, his plans are put on hold when he meets Luca.
Luca is my favourite character from this book, he’s had a hard life and he deserves the world.
I enjoyed reading the hurt/comfort in the story as things weren’t heavily detailed, but you still get all the sad emotions.
I think the mental health rep was done perfectly. Real life situations which negatively effected the MC’s mental health.
Content Warnings: Depression, anxiety and panic attacks. Homophobic slurs. Mention of - Historical violence, childhood sexual abuse and self-harm. Death and suicide of parents.
This book tells us the story of Jackson and Luca falling in love, of course everything isn’t smooth sailing between the pair, but they do get their well deserved happy ending.
Jackson is recently single and wants to move towards starting his own plant nursery, his plans are put on hold when he meets Luca.
Luca is my favourite character from this book, he’s had a hard life and he deserves the world.
I enjoyed reading the hurt/comfort in the story as things weren’t heavily detailed, but you still get all the sad emotions.
I think the mental health rep was done perfectly. Real life situations which negatively effected the MC’s mental health.
Content Warnings: Depression, anxiety and panic attacks. Homophobic slurs. Mention of - Historical violence, childhood sexual abuse and self-harm. Death and suicide of parents.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 7, 2023
I loved this beautiful hurt/comfort love story. Jackson and Lucas are beautiful together and well suited to each other.
Jackson is running away from his family and trying to build a new business and a new life for himself. He stumbles into Lucas, who has just inherited his auntie house, in the same village, Jackson's car has decided to break down.
Lucas is running from his ex, who has just cheated on him and gave him a bad review on his art exhibition.
Their love story is not an easy one, but they are able to find their happy ending.
The menthal health rep has a big part in this book, but it's very well done.
I can't wait for more.
I received an ARC copy of this ebook, and I'm leaving my review freely.
Jackson is running away from his family and trying to build a new business and a new life for himself. He stumbles into Lucas, who has just inherited his auntie house, in the same village, Jackson's car has decided to break down.
Lucas is running from his ex, who has just cheated on him and gave him a bad review on his art exhibition.
Their love story is not an easy one, but they are able to find their happy ending.
The menthal health rep has a big part in this book, but it's very well done.
I can't wait for more.
I received an ARC copy of this ebook, and I'm leaving my review freely.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 9, 2023
3.5 stars. Quite a charming book, with a surprisingly light feel despite the feelings related to the events listed in the trigger warnings. Jackson felt a little two dimensional to me, somehow the total implosion of his life didn't seem to affect him and he seemed to exist mostly to be a solid support for Luca. Luca felt a lot more real. The town has great potential for a lovely series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and am happy to leave a voluntary review.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and am happy to leave a voluntary review.
November 26, 2023
3.5 ⭐️
Very charming debut novel set in a village that could easily host more books in this series. Low angst, though still hit on some pretty heavy topics; though I think they were handled with care. The romance was slow to start, but very sweet. The MCs were both a bit broken but with the help of each other they were able to move forward and fall in loooove 🥰
My main reason for not rating the book higher is because it really needed another edit, there were a number of times where essentially the same thing was said in the next paragraph and the internal dialogue sometimes felt stilted. I can only imagine that this author’s books are going to improve with time so I’ll be back for the next installment in Larchdown ❤️
Very charming debut novel set in a village that could easily host more books in this series. Low angst, though still hit on some pretty heavy topics; though I think they were handled with care. The romance was slow to start, but very sweet. The MCs were both a bit broken but with the help of each other they were able to move forward and fall in loooove 🥰
My main reason for not rating the book higher is because it really needed another edit, there were a number of times where essentially the same thing was said in the next paragraph and the internal dialogue sometimes felt stilted. I can only imagine that this author’s books are going to improve with time so I’ll be back for the next installment in Larchdown ❤️
July 2, 2025
I really enjoyed this book. It was sweet and low angst even though both Jackson and Luca are both dealing with difficult pasts. I loved how they found each other and helped each other heal as they grew to love each other. It’s just a nice story. I’ll admit that I cringed a little when both their ex’s showed up at the same event, but that was a small blip in an otherwise good book.
August 2, 2023
Putting Down Roots was such a sweet story. Jackson is a gardener leaving his troubled past behind, Luca is an artist trying to do the same, and they find themselves in the same little village that has an irresistible draw for them both. The village is beautifully described and I wish somewhere like this really existed.
I have to be clear that readers definitely need to check the TWs. While the romance itself is sweet and low angst, the background story is not, and Wendel touches on some very difficult subjects such as child sexual assault, homophobia and abuse.
I'm always a sucker for insta love, and while this is not quite insta love, it's so beautiful when you read a book and the characters are just right for each other and find their special place.
There is some lovely writing in here and while this is a debut novel, I am really looking forward to what comes next from Wendel.
I have to be clear that readers definitely need to check the TWs. While the romance itself is sweet and low angst, the background story is not, and Wendel touches on some very difficult subjects such as child sexual assault, homophobia and abuse.
I'm always a sucker for insta love, and while this is not quite insta love, it's so beautiful when you read a book and the characters are just right for each other and find their special place.
There is some lovely writing in here and while this is a debut novel, I am really looking forward to what comes next from Wendel.
August 15, 2024
Truly an amazing story!
This is a story of overcoming your fears that lurk in the darkness of your mind. Luca and Jackson both find themselves in each other and are able to overcome their darkest secrets. The gardens bring them together for a new beginning.
This is a story of overcoming your fears that lurk in the darkness of your mind. Luca and Jackson both find themselves in each other and are able to overcome their darkest secrets. The gardens bring them together for a new beginning.
November 19, 2023
Sweet Hurt/Comfort Story
This took me a little bit to get into but eventually had me invested in how things would turn out for Jackson and Luca. It was a sweet and entertaining story.
I received an ARC and this is my unbiased opinion
This took me a little bit to get into but eventually had me invested in how things would turn out for Jackson and Luca. It was a sweet and entertaining story.
I received an ARC and this is my unbiased opinion
September 4, 2023
I saw an ad for Putting Down Roots and decided to give it a try. I’m so glad I did!
The characters are so compelling. And the story of two lost men finding their person was lovely.
Gardener Jackson has been financially ruined by a messy divorce and is starting over with nothing but his trusty van and some seedlings. Engine trouble has him stranded in Larchdown Valley for a few days. This enchanting village welcomes Jackson and he begins to feel at home.
Luca had his promising artistic career derailed thanks to a particularly awful review by a vindictive ex. Learning he inherited a house from an aunt who he spent a lot of his childhood with, he decides to head to Larchdown and lay low as well.
There’s an instant connection, and Luca is drawn to the gorgeous man with the gentle hands - impulsively offering Jackson a job bringing the estate’s garden back to its former glory. It’s the start of a beautiful relationship. As they work together, the begin to share their secrets.
You heart is going to hurt for Luca and all he’s been through. I loved this beautiful, broken man and wanted every good thing for him.
It was refreshing seeing Jackson so comfortable with his attraction to Luca. He’s always know he wasn’t quite straight, but had those feelings beaten out of him by a vicious older brother. (You’ll hate him for multiple reasons.)
I loved how sweet Jackson was with Luca. The tenderness he shows, allowing Luca to break free of boxes he’s been forced into, was everything. They thrive under the love they share, and the revitalized gardens give Luca the courage to start painting again.
The village is lovely, home to colorful characters who accept both men. And everyone should have a wingman like Luca’s friend Anna.
The opening of the gardens is a triumph, even if interloping exes try to ruin the day. Luca and Jackson’s joy at what they’ve accomplished, and plans for the future were magical.
I loved this book. It’s written with a delicate touch, but if you’re sensitive, heed the trigger warnings.
A beautiful debut. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The characters are so compelling. And the story of two lost men finding their person was lovely.
Gardener Jackson has been financially ruined by a messy divorce and is starting over with nothing but his trusty van and some seedlings. Engine trouble has him stranded in Larchdown Valley for a few days. This enchanting village welcomes Jackson and he begins to feel at home.
Luca had his promising artistic career derailed thanks to a particularly awful review by a vindictive ex. Learning he inherited a house from an aunt who he spent a lot of his childhood with, he decides to head to Larchdown and lay low as well.
There’s an instant connection, and Luca is drawn to the gorgeous man with the gentle hands - impulsively offering Jackson a job bringing the estate’s garden back to its former glory. It’s the start of a beautiful relationship. As they work together, the begin to share their secrets.
You heart is going to hurt for Luca and all he’s been through. I loved this beautiful, broken man and wanted every good thing for him.
It was refreshing seeing Jackson so comfortable with his attraction to Luca. He’s always know he wasn’t quite straight, but had those feelings beaten out of him by a vicious older brother. (You’ll hate him for multiple reasons.)
I loved how sweet Jackson was with Luca. The tenderness he shows, allowing Luca to break free of boxes he’s been forced into, was everything. They thrive under the love they share, and the revitalized gardens give Luca the courage to start painting again.
The village is lovely, home to colorful characters who accept both men. And everyone should have a wingman like Luca’s friend Anna.
The opening of the gardens is a triumph, even if interloping exes try to ruin the day. Luca and Jackson’s joy at what they’ve accomplished, and plans for the future were magical.
I loved this book. It’s written with a delicate touch, but if you’re sensitive, heed the trigger warnings.
A beautiful debut. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
October 26, 2025
Loved This Book💜
A lovely story of two men who happened to be in the right place at the right time and found their soulmate. Jackson was at rock bottom, his wife had divorced him taking everything and his boss, his cruel brother, was having an affair with his wife and fired him. All he had to his name was his old van and his precious seedlings. He was a gardener and hoped to one day have his own nursery.
He had no idea where he was heading and when his van started making strange noises he drove off the motorway into the countryside and limped into a garage in a small village called Larchdown.
Luca was in a world of pain. He was an artist and made the mistake of having a relationship with a manipulating art critic. On opening night of Luca’s latest art exhibition Claude turns up with his newest protege, an aspiring artist even younger than Luca. Luca finishes the relationship and Claude finishes his career with a scathing article the next day.
Luca has a very dark past which haunts him and gives him panic attacks and after reading the article loses himself in booze and loses his ability to paint until a lawyer finds him and says he has inherited his aunts house, a house he lived in when he was a teenager and the house just happens to be in Larchdown.
When Luca travels to Larchdown he meets Jackson who has been borrowing the deserted greenhouses for his seedlings and the chemistry between them is instant. The quaint little village with quirky, friendly and tolerant residents draws them in and leaving doesn’t seem like an option and Luca has rediscovered his muse and is working again.
Jackson is a calming influence on Luca and he finds his true self and has never been happier. This is a feel good read and one I recommend and I will be reading the next book in the series.
A lovely story of two men who happened to be in the right place at the right time and found their soulmate. Jackson was at rock bottom, his wife had divorced him taking everything and his boss, his cruel brother, was having an affair with his wife and fired him. All he had to his name was his old van and his precious seedlings. He was a gardener and hoped to one day have his own nursery.
He had no idea where he was heading and when his van started making strange noises he drove off the motorway into the countryside and limped into a garage in a small village called Larchdown.
Luca was in a world of pain. He was an artist and made the mistake of having a relationship with a manipulating art critic. On opening night of Luca’s latest art exhibition Claude turns up with his newest protege, an aspiring artist even younger than Luca. Luca finishes the relationship and Claude finishes his career with a scathing article the next day.
Luca has a very dark past which haunts him and gives him panic attacks and after reading the article loses himself in booze and loses his ability to paint until a lawyer finds him and says he has inherited his aunts house, a house he lived in when he was a teenager and the house just happens to be in Larchdown.
When Luca travels to Larchdown he meets Jackson who has been borrowing the deserted greenhouses for his seedlings and the chemistry between them is instant. The quaint little village with quirky, friendly and tolerant residents draws them in and leaving doesn’t seem like an option and Luca has rediscovered his muse and is working again.
Jackson is a calming influence on Luca and he finds his true self and has never been happier. This is a feel good read and one I recommend and I will be reading the next book in the series.
November 22, 2023
Putting Down Roots took me on a beautiful and emotional journey. I adored both Luca’s and Jackson’s characters from the beginning. Luca is so strong, brave, and very worthy. Jackson has the perfect profession, as he is so nurturing, loving, and patient. I really feel like I got to know these well-developed characters. They were surrounded by great secondary characters and it was all accentuated by a wonderful small town “everybody knows everybody and is rooting for everybody” vibe. The town and the beautiful gardens provided the perfect environment for Luca and Jackson to heal and discover how to live their true selves.
This book was well-written. In addition to great characters, it had humor, some well-addressed and well-delivered sensitive and serious topics, some conflict with just a touch of angst, and some spice.
I knew I had never read this author, but I was surprised to discover this is the author’s first novel. I cannot wait to see what the future has in store for the readers.
This book was well-written. In addition to great characters, it had humor, some well-addressed and well-delivered sensitive and serious topics, some conflict with just a touch of angst, and some spice.
I knew I had never read this author, but I was surprised to discover this is the author’s first novel. I cannot wait to see what the future has in store for the readers.
December 29, 2025
DNF @ 50%
Some paragraphs needed to be broken down more, particularly the ones giving descriptions of the setting since they were gigantic.
I liked that the story didn't immediately just lay out Jackson's problems, but have ample hints at what caused him to want to leave London. Ditto for Luca's issues with his panic attacks and dad (though looking at other reviews, I found that Luca's issues are very traumatizing and should've 100% been noted as a trigger warning + gotten more clear attention early on given how awful they were)
Jackson's sexual awakening was very disappointing though. It took one joke with sexual innuendo to have him suddenly realize that he was attracted to Luca? Boring. Might as well have had him start off as bi in the first place if it was just going to be that easy.
I called it when I got to 50% and realized there'd barely been any romance. I like a good slow burn, but this story was basically a no-burn with tons of pages that basically say nothing. 1.5 stars.
Some paragraphs needed to be broken down more, particularly the ones giving descriptions of the setting since they were gigantic.
I liked that the story didn't immediately just lay out Jackson's problems, but have ample hints at what caused him to want to leave London. Ditto for Luca's issues with his panic attacks and dad (though looking at other reviews, I found that Luca's issues are very traumatizing and should've 100% been noted as a trigger warning + gotten more clear attention early on given how awful they were)
Jackson's sexual awakening was very disappointing though. It took one joke with sexual innuendo to have him suddenly realize that he was attracted to Luca? Boring. Might as well have had him start off as bi in the first place if it was just going to be that easy.
I called it when I got to 50% and realized there'd barely been any romance. I like a good slow burn, but this story was basically a no-burn with tons of pages that basically say nothing. 1.5 stars.
April 20, 2025
4.5 stars rounded up
Putting down Roots es el primer libro de la serie Larchdown Valley , a hurt/confort small town romance novel. It is my second visit to the town of Larchdown and I just want to live there.
Jackson , after his divorce has been left with nothing, no job, no home, all he has left is an old van that by a quirk of fate breaks down in the town of Larchdown and some plant seeds to rebuild his life. To be able to pay for the repairs of the van he takes a temporary job in the inn where he is staying and to save his plants, he enters an uninhabited house where there is a greenhouse.
Luca is an artist living in London, after a bad review from a vindictive ex, his career is in the doldrums. He receives a visit from a lawyer who tells him that he has inherited his aunt's house in Larchdown.
Neither of them knows it, but that village will be the salvation of both of them, because it allows them to heal and find happiness and their true selves.
Putting down Roots es el primer libro de la serie Larchdown Valley , a hurt/confort small town romance novel. It is my second visit to the town of Larchdown and I just want to live there.
Jackson , after his divorce has been left with nothing, no job, no home, all he has left is an old van that by a quirk of fate breaks down in the town of Larchdown and some plant seeds to rebuild his life. To be able to pay for the repairs of the van he takes a temporary job in the inn where he is staying and to save his plants, he enters an uninhabited house where there is a greenhouse.
Luca is an artist living in London, after a bad review from a vindictive ex, his career is in the doldrums. He receives a visit from a lawyer who tells him that he has inherited his aunt's house in Larchdown.
Neither of them knows it, but that village will be the salvation of both of them, because it allows them to heal and find happiness and their true selves.
September 15, 2023
A charming introduction to the quirky, warm and inclusive community of Larchdown.
I enjoyed how we were introduced to this rural idyll by newcomer Jackson, whose van happens to break down as he's passing through the village and Luca, a sometime occupant, who is returning to inherit Larchdown House, a property just outside the village, from his great aunt.
Both men have demons from the past and are currently in flux. Gardener Jackson has lost everything in a bitter divorce and artist Luca is seeking refuge after his career is deliberately hijacked by an ex-lover. The way they find peace, friendship, passion and love together while restoring the overgrown gardens of Luca's house is beautifully depicted. I also enjoyed the supporting characters of the colourful villagers.
I look forward to my next visit to lovely Larchdown!
I enjoyed how we were introduced to this rural idyll by newcomer Jackson, whose van happens to break down as he's passing through the village and Luca, a sometime occupant, who is returning to inherit Larchdown House, a property just outside the village, from his great aunt.
Both men have demons from the past and are currently in flux. Gardener Jackson has lost everything in a bitter divorce and artist Luca is seeking refuge after his career is deliberately hijacked by an ex-lover. The way they find peace, friendship, passion and love together while restoring the overgrown gardens of Luca's house is beautifully depicted. I also enjoyed the supporting characters of the colourful villagers.
I look forward to my next visit to lovely Larchdown!
November 25, 2023
I simply adore this book. From the message it gives to the characters involved it is a delight. Watching the m/c’s come into themselves was a beautiful thing. Overcoming their pasts and embracing their future was extraordinary. Their journey was one of sweetness, extreme strength and painful growth but doing it together proved to be the ticket. The amount of drama involved was perfect. Their HEA after their pasts had been faced and put in it’s place, behind them, brought the story to a close in the best way possible. To this author I say, “Well done and thank you”. I voluntarily reviewed an arc of this book.
July 25, 2024
Loved Loved Loved this story! NTM author, but OMG the feels in this book. The anxiety, the depression, the loneliness, the insecurity, the deep crave to be loved. The want of wholeness that cannot be articulated accurately. I love a good bi-awakening story, but this was so much more than that. How do you recover from a deep hurt and a never-ending pain in your inner core? Both Jackson and Luca need healing and their road to finding it in each other is a rough one, but the journey to get there is both sweet and loving. This is also a story of acceptance, which we all want.
I will definitely be reading more by this author. Matter of fact, i'm off to buy book 2 in this series.
I will definitely be reading more by this author. Matter of fact, i'm off to buy book 2 in this series.
March 23, 2025
This one should have come with BIG trigger warnings. The story overall is very fluffy and sweet, but then there are these big, triggering themes just kind of sprinkled in without the care and awareness they need. Very horrible abuse in the past (including rape by a parent, said parent murdering another parent, extreme homophobia from a sibling, the list goes on).
I truly cannot recommend this book to anyone. I'm okay reading about horrible themes like these but only when they are handled right and with care. However, the author just mentions these truly horrific things and they are never handled properly. They bring nothing to the story.
I truly cannot recommend this book to anyone. I'm okay reading about horrible themes like these but only when they are handled right and with care. However, the author just mentions these truly horrific things and they are never handled properly. They bring nothing to the story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 3, 2023
Jem Wendel did an amazing job with this sweet novel!
The depth of the emotions pour through the pages, and the more difficult topics it touches on are handled delicately, making this novel be less-angsty than I would've expected.
I loved watching Jackson and Luca find their home and each other.
Their love story is sweet, steamy, and I couldn't put it down.
The second Jackson arrived at Larchdown, I could picture it perfectly, I fell in love with the side characters as well and I can't wait to read more about them in this series!!!
The depth of the emotions pour through the pages, and the more difficult topics it touches on are handled delicately, making this novel be less-angsty than I would've expected.
I loved watching Jackson and Luca find their home and each other.
Their love story is sweet, steamy, and I couldn't put it down.
The second Jackson arrived at Larchdown, I could picture it perfectly, I fell in love with the side characters as well and I can't wait to read more about them in this series!!!
November 24, 2023
Is this really a debut novel?!?!
Jackson and Luca are beautifully broken. Just trying to find a way out of the mess their lives have devolved into chaos ends up with them in Larchdown. The camaraderie of the small town where everyone not only knows each other but pulls together nudges Jackson and Luca closer each other. Jackson's backstory is sad, but Luca's backstory is heart retching. Restoring the gardens at Larchdown House gives both Luca and Jackson a purpose in life and a way to create a future.
Jackson and Luca are beautifully broken. Just trying to find a way out of the mess their lives have devolved into chaos ends up with them in Larchdown. The camaraderie of the small town where everyone not only knows each other but pulls together nudges Jackson and Luca closer each other. Jackson's backstory is sad, but Luca's backstory is heart retching. Restoring the gardens at Larchdown House gives both Luca and Jackson a purpose in life and a way to create a future.
May 8, 2024
I actually started the series with Carving Out A future! I loved that book so much and fell in love with Larchdown Valley that I wanted to read the rest of the series. Oh my goodness I am so happy that I did.
Jem Wendel has created a beautiful world with Larchdown Valley where being true to yourself is celebrated and the community is supportive of each other. I would love to live there.
Luca and Jackson lift each other up and make each other stronger. It was a beautiful relationship to witness. I was hooked from the beginning and didn't want the story to end.
Jem Wendel has created a beautiful world with Larchdown Valley where being true to yourself is celebrated and the community is supportive of each other. I would love to live there.
Luca and Jackson lift each other up and make each other stronger. It was a beautiful relationship to witness. I was hooked from the beginning and didn't want the story to end.
September 7, 2023
A beautiful love story between Jackson and Luca. Jackson is trying to rebuild his life starting a new business of which he’s really passionate about.
Luca is such a sweetheart and I loved every single bit of his character.
The book contains mental health representations which I think are well written and very well balanced.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and I can’t wait to read more from this author.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and am happy to leave a voluntary review
Luca is such a sweetheart and I loved every single bit of his character.
The book contains mental health representations which I think are well written and very well balanced.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and I can’t wait to read more from this author.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and am happy to leave a voluntary review
November 28, 2023
I have to say the bringing back to life of the garden was so romantic and such a stunning backdrop for this type of romance. Luca and Jackson are both such sensitive men trying to move on the best they know how. The planting and growing of the garden are such a poetic symbol of their relationship and how they grow to care for each other. This was absolutely sweet and full of hugs, but also surprisingly spicy in a very hot and tender way. Smalltown, hurt comfort romance at its finest.
December 4, 2023
This is a new to me author and there debut novel of there debut series and it is a great enjoyable read, both Jackson and Luca has recently dealt with toxic people, they end up in Larchdown valley for different reasons but when they meet they are drawn to each other, both have traumatic experiences in their past but they help each other overcome them and become stronger together, I’m really looking forward to reading book two in this series. Great debut, great start to the series.
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