What do you think?
Rate this book
Flora Valley #2
You’re So Vine
Whoever invented love at first sight should have left instructions for what to do when it only strikes one of you…
…is all Ava Durant can think as she watches the man of her dreams from across the room at her brother’s wedding. Handyman Cam Hollander takes the ‘strong, silent type’ label to new extremes and getting more than four words at a time out of him is Ava’s primary life goal. But when Ava’s health takes a hit it’s Cam who unexpectedly steps in to nurse her, and the dynamic between them is forever changed.
Ava may be impatience personified and Cam may be the steadiest man she’s ever met, but when they’re alone in Cam’s cosy quarters it’s soon not just the fire in the grate that’s burning between them.
…is all Ava Durant can think as she watches the man of her dreams from across the room at her brother’s wedding. Handyman Cam Hollander takes the ‘strong, silent type’ label to new extremes and getting more than four words at a time out of him is Ava’s primary life goal. But when Ava’s health takes a hit it’s Cam who unexpectedly steps in to nurse her, and the dynamic between them is forever changed.
Ava may be impatience personified and Cam may be the steadiest man she’s ever met, but when they’re alone in Cam’s cosy quarters it’s soon not just the fire in the grate that’s burning between them.
336 pages, Paperback
Published July 18, 2024
6 people are currently reading
180 people want to read
About the author
Catherine Robertson
18 books91 followersIf you like fast-paced plots, sparkling funny dialogue and heartfelt emotion, I'm the romcom author for you. I write about real people struggling with real stuff, but who each get their own happy ending. My brand of humor is perceptive and kind and I love jokes and wordplay. I love to write series with characters who develop through each book - basically, I hate to let them go! I live in the glorious wine country of New Zealand, and share my life with one husband, two grown sons, four cats, two dogs and a flock of no longer spring chickens. Get good (and free) stuff by signing up to my newsletter: google catherinejrobertson author
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
August 11, 2025
Even though Ava had already tried to ask Cam out on a date and he rejected her right away, that doesn't stop her from trying to at least befriend him at her brother's wedding. It might still be a bit difficult for her, but it somehow turns out well. Known for being reserved, Cam makes communication challenging for Ava. However, when Ava falls ill, Cam steps in as her unexpected caretaker, altering their relationship dynamics. Despite their differences, sparks fly between them in the cozy intimacy of Cam's home.
This book is sweet, a small-town romance where Ava and Cam "try again" after she falls ill at her brother's wedding. The characters are connected to the first book, and I appreciate that there's enough explanation about who is who, so this book can be read as a standalone. Cam and Ava are interesting characters, and I like how well-developed they become over the course of the book, even though it spans only a few days. Initially, the writing style felt a bit odd, but I quickly got used to it, and it’s easy to follow. The sex scenes are engaging and well-presented. I like how much Cam and Ava try to make the relationship work, even at the beginning, with small dramas that kept me glued to the book until I finished it. Although I've mentioned many positives, something feels missing. I didn't expect this kind of ending—it feels incomplete, as if many things are left unresolved. I still recommend reading the book; despite being part of a series, it’s easy to follow and perfect for a summer beach read.
*Thank you to NetGalley, to the author, Catherine Robertson, for providing me with this e-copy in exchange for an honest review.*
This book is sweet, a small-town romance where Ava and Cam "try again" after she falls ill at her brother's wedding. The characters are connected to the first book, and I appreciate that there's enough explanation about who is who, so this book can be read as a standalone. Cam and Ava are interesting characters, and I like how well-developed they become over the course of the book, even though it spans only a few days. Initially, the writing style felt a bit odd, but I quickly got used to it, and it’s easy to follow. The sex scenes are engaging and well-presented. I like how much Cam and Ava try to make the relationship work, even at the beginning, with small dramas that kept me glued to the book until I finished it. Although I've mentioned many positives, something feels missing. I didn't expect this kind of ending—it feels incomplete, as if many things are left unresolved. I still recommend reading the book; despite being part of a series, it’s easy to follow and perfect for a summer beach read.
*Thank you to NetGalley, to the author, Catherine Robertson, for providing me with this e-copy in exchange for an honest review.*
July 20, 2024
While the writing itself was good, and the characters and their backstory were nice, i found this story lacking. The plot was not there? Or at least went all over the place, there did not seem to be a main storyline, but there was an illness, a lost family member, a suspicious relationship, some family issues on the other side, all next to the romance story. If you could even call it a romance story, because im not gonna lie, this is the quickest instalove ever. Story: she asked him on a date before and he declined, now two months ago he decides to try with her (dance at a wedding), she falls ill, and he immediately goed with her to the hospital, takes her to his home, spends four consecutive days (or something) with her alone, they have s*x the morning after she gets (to his) home from the hospital. Everything just felt really weird. One night stands? I get. Fast falling in love? I get. Not having any sort of relationship and immediately being the main person to care when she falls ill, and also having s*x with her then and practically living with her? What is happening. I did get the idea, and robertson's writing itself is good, but i think the storyline needs more work.
I am sorry and i wish i could have loved it.
Thank you to netgalley and the author for sending me the book in exchange for an honest review
I am sorry and i wish i could have loved it.
Thank you to netgalley and the author for sending me the book in exchange for an honest review
July 25, 2024
Thanks to Net Galley and to Harper Collins for the E ARC of this book.
I really enjoyed this book as it was lighthearted and funny as well as sad at certain points. I loved the relationship between Cam and Ava and it was so sweet and I enjoyed their banter and how their relationship grew as the book progressed. Ava’s inter thoughts well also so well done and funny and sometimes a bit wild.
I would recommend this to any one who likes fast paced, friends to lovers, found family and funny banter.
I really enjoyed this book as it was lighthearted and funny as well as sad at certain points. I loved the relationship between Cam and Ava and it was so sweet and I enjoyed their banter and how their relationship grew as the book progressed. Ava’s inter thoughts well also so well done and funny and sometimes a bit wild.
I would recommend this to any one who likes fast paced, friends to lovers, found family and funny banter.
March 28, 2024
What a sweet book 🥹
Despite the blurb, I found this to be a lighthearted and fun read - purely because Ava was so funny and her inner thoughts were so wild sometimes I just couldn’t help but laugh.
I’ve no idea how Catherine Robertson balanced out a funny dialogue with raw and deep conversations. Catherine has great writing and knows how to really set the scene.
I loved Ava and Cam’s banter, their communication was fantastic - they seemed like a couple that was meant to be. I understood Cam’s friendship with Lee but it honestly hurt - it was giving unrequited love vibes at times and I was sad for Ava.
My only drawback of the book was that I wish I saw more of their friendship history, it felt like they jumped in quite fast and shared their feelings after only a few days - giving instalove - but I was confused because it sounded like she was longing for ages and then he switched it up real quick? I needed more of a build up 😅 a medium to slow burn for this book would’ve been perfect!
Nonetheless, I would recommend if you want a fast paced read, friends to lovers, found family, instalove and funny banter.
I would note that there are some heavier topics in the book such as ptsd, grief, guilt, cancer and death.
*I’m thankful for Netgalley, HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter and Catherine Roberson for this ARC, however I am voluntarily leaving my honest review
Despite the blurb, I found this to be a lighthearted and fun read - purely because Ava was so funny and her inner thoughts were so wild sometimes I just couldn’t help but laugh.
I’ve no idea how Catherine Robertson balanced out a funny dialogue with raw and deep conversations. Catherine has great writing and knows how to really set the scene.
I loved Ava and Cam’s banter, their communication was fantastic - they seemed like a couple that was meant to be. I understood Cam’s friendship with Lee but it honestly hurt - it was giving unrequited love vibes at times and I was sad for Ava.
My only drawback of the book was that I wish I saw more of their friendship history, it felt like they jumped in quite fast and shared their feelings after only a few days - giving instalove - but I was confused because it sounded like she was longing for ages and then he switched it up real quick? I needed more of a build up 😅 a medium to slow burn for this book would’ve been perfect!
Nonetheless, I would recommend if you want a fast paced read, friends to lovers, found family, instalove and funny banter.
I would note that there are some heavier topics in the book such as ptsd, grief, guilt, cancer and death.
*I’m thankful for Netgalley, HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter and Catherine Roberson for this ARC, however I am voluntarily leaving my honest review
March 29, 2024
Title: You’re So Vine By Catherine Robertson
Release Date: July,5th 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Stars
Catherine Robertson's "You’re So Vine" is like a refreshing breeze on a warm summer day! Overflowing with lovable characters, witty exchanges, and a cute storyline!
At her brother's wedding, Ava Durant finds herself smitten with the enigmatic Cam Hollander. However, Cam is notoriously reserved, making communication a challenge for Ava. When Ava falls ill, Cam unexpectedly becomes her caretaker, leading to a shift in their relationship dynamics. Despite their differences, sparks fly between them in the intimate setting of Cam's home.
In the scenic embrace of a vineyard, this novel intertwines romance and humour, I was whisked away to a delightful realm where heartfelt connections blossom amidst the grapevines. There is just something about this scenery that just screams romance.
Tropes:
Small-town Romance:
Second Chances
Opposites Attract
RomCom
Quirky Characters
I would recommend this to the RomCom girlies that like a light, cute read.
Thank you to HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter, Catherine Robertson & NetGalley for an advanced reader copy (ARC) in exchange for my honest review.
Release Date: July,5th 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Stars
Catherine Robertson's "You’re So Vine" is like a refreshing breeze on a warm summer day! Overflowing with lovable characters, witty exchanges, and a cute storyline!
At her brother's wedding, Ava Durant finds herself smitten with the enigmatic Cam Hollander. However, Cam is notoriously reserved, making communication a challenge for Ava. When Ava falls ill, Cam unexpectedly becomes her caretaker, leading to a shift in their relationship dynamics. Despite their differences, sparks fly between them in the intimate setting of Cam's home.
In the scenic embrace of a vineyard, this novel intertwines romance and humour, I was whisked away to a delightful realm where heartfelt connections blossom amidst the grapevines. There is just something about this scenery that just screams romance.
Tropes:
Small-town Romance:
Second Chances
Opposites Attract
RomCom
Quirky Characters
I would recommend this to the RomCom girlies that like a light, cute read.
Thank you to HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter, Catherine Robertson & NetGalley for an advanced reader copy (ARC) in exchange for my honest review.
August 20, 2024
3.5 ⭐️
First, a huge thank you to NetGalley and Catherine Robertson for the opportunity to read the advanced copy. The opinions in this review are honest and my own.
I very much liked the overall plot line for this. I liked the backstories and troubles of both Cam and Ava. I thought other the characters were all fun as well, and I have to admit I would love to see Jackson’s story next. I would give this a full 4 stars, but the writing style just didn’t do it for me. The sentences often felt stunted or incomplete, and tended to distract me. I think it got better towards the end, but I might have just gotten used to it. My only other “complaint” would be the timeline. This relationship escalates very quickly. It was a little difficult not to roll my eyes when they’d discuss forever after less than a week. I do however recognize that romance tends to be quicker stories and don’t hold it against the overall value of this book.
Ultimately, I think this is a fun, quirky story that is perfect for someone looking for a quick and lighthearted read.
Trigger Warning: There is discussion of cancer, PTSD, and chronic illness.
First, a huge thank you to NetGalley and Catherine Robertson for the opportunity to read the advanced copy. The opinions in this review are honest and my own.
I very much liked the overall plot line for this. I liked the backstories and troubles of both Cam and Ava. I thought other the characters were all fun as well, and I have to admit I would love to see Jackson’s story next. I would give this a full 4 stars, but the writing style just didn’t do it for me. The sentences often felt stunted or incomplete, and tended to distract me. I think it got better towards the end, but I might have just gotten used to it. My only other “complaint” would be the timeline. This relationship escalates very quickly. It was a little difficult not to roll my eyes when they’d discuss forever after less than a week. I do however recognize that romance tends to be quicker stories and don’t hold it against the overall value of this book.
Ultimately, I think this is a fun, quirky story that is perfect for someone looking for a quick and lighthearted read.
Trigger Warning: There is discussion of cancer, PTSD, and chronic illness.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 2, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley, One More Chapter, and Catherine Robertson for the early access copy of You're So Vine.
You’re So Vine is the second book in the Flora Valley series that follows Cam and Ava. At Ava’s brother’s wedding, Ava can’t keep her eyes off Cam. Cam is the strong-silent-type who turned Ava down the last time they saw each other. Cam, sees Ava for her direct and confident self. What he doesn’t see is the possibility of himself deserving to pursuit a relationship. When Ava suddenly experiences a health issue, Cam steps up to help. Thus, begins a dual POV, small-town, opposites attract romance.
The romance is anything, but a slow burn. It was a fast read, and hard to put down.
Trigger warning, topics of illness and death.
Catherine Robertson has a way of getting the readers invested into her secondary characters. I would LOVE to read more about Jordan and Brendan.
You’re So Vine is the second book in the Flora Valley series that follows Cam and Ava. At Ava’s brother’s wedding, Ava can’t keep her eyes off Cam. Cam is the strong-silent-type who turned Ava down the last time they saw each other. Cam, sees Ava for her direct and confident self. What he doesn’t see is the possibility of himself deserving to pursuit a relationship. When Ava suddenly experiences a health issue, Cam steps up to help. Thus, begins a dual POV, small-town, opposites attract romance.
The romance is anything, but a slow burn. It was a fast read, and hard to put down.
Trigger warning, topics of illness and death.
Catherine Robertson has a way of getting the readers invested into her secondary characters. I would LOVE to read more about Jordan and Brendan.
April 9, 2024
I am loving the Flora Valley series. I really enjoyed Nate and Shelby's story but I gotta say that I did like Cam and Ava's story even more!
After asking Cam out during the grape stomp all Ava wants to do is clear the air. She definitely intends to do just that so that she can get over feeling awkward but when she approaches Cam and they are interrupted by Lee, Shelby's mom and Cam's only friend she decides to walk away. Of course it's when she walks away after apologizing that Cam realizes he does want her but is just standing in his own way... as usual. Determined to have that conversation he approaches her on the dance floor and asks for a dance. Neither one is expecting to be thrown together with a health scare but they quickly find that even though they're opposites they can't get enough of each other.
I cannot wait for the next book in this series (please be Jordan and Brendan) overall they have been quick and great reads!
After asking Cam out during the grape stomp all Ava wants to do is clear the air. She definitely intends to do just that so that she can get over feeling awkward but when she approaches Cam and they are interrupted by Lee, Shelby's mom and Cam's only friend she decides to walk away. Of course it's when she walks away after apologizing that Cam realizes he does want her but is just standing in his own way... as usual. Determined to have that conversation he approaches her on the dance floor and asks for a dance. Neither one is expecting to be thrown together with a health scare but they quickly find that even though they're opposites they can't get enough of each other.
I cannot wait for the next book in this series (please be Jordan and Brendan) overall they have been quick and great reads!
May 13, 2024
Another Flora Valley work of art! I’m really enjoying this series so far and see a lot of background characters that have so much flare that I could only imagine what a book dedicated to them would be like! (Kiki…. Please give me more Kiki.)
This book follows Corkscrew You but can be read as a standalone (although it does have brief mentions of the book as You’re So Vine FMC is book 1’s MMC’s sister…. make sense? I hope so 😭)
Ava Durant has come to witness the holy matrimony of her brother Nate and his beautiful wine making lover girl, Shelby. Ava finds herself absolutely enamored with the big husky handyman, Cam Hollander. (YESSSS THIS IS HIS MOMENT HE SO DESERVES THIS)
Cam, as seen in book 1, is not much of a conversationalist. When Ava falls ill and Cam is the one taking care of her, the banter and the sparks of a beautiful romance were absolutely GIVING.
I truly love this series and I hope that it never ends because if it ends, I will also end.
This book follows Corkscrew You but can be read as a standalone (although it does have brief mentions of the book as You’re So Vine FMC is book 1’s MMC’s sister…. make sense? I hope so 😭)
Ava Durant has come to witness the holy matrimony of her brother Nate and his beautiful wine making lover girl, Shelby. Ava finds herself absolutely enamored with the big husky handyman, Cam Hollander. (YESSSS THIS IS HIS MOMENT HE SO DESERVES THIS)
Cam, as seen in book 1, is not much of a conversationalist. When Ava falls ill and Cam is the one taking care of her, the banter and the sparks of a beautiful romance were absolutely GIVING.
I truly love this series and I hope that it never ends because if it ends, I will also end.
March 31, 2024
Ava and Cam were so cute together. I swear I was falling out of bed laughing at this book. The banter is some of the best I've read. I do wish we got more story with the goose lol!!! I normally shy away from rom coms but this book may have just steered me towards them.
The only thing that caught me off guard was the insta love. This couple was practically moved in and in love with each other within 4 days. It was a roller coaster ride of emotions. I really did connect with Ava and her 2nd guessing and mind running a mile a minute. I honestly wouldn't change anything about Cam and Ava's dynamic.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
The only thing that caught me off guard was the insta love. This couple was practically moved in and in love with each other within 4 days. It was a roller coaster ride of emotions. I really did connect with Ava and her 2nd guessing and mind running a mile a minute. I honestly wouldn't change anything about Cam and Ava's dynamic.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
April 2, 2024
"You're So Vine" is a delightful rom-com that explores the dynamics of opposites attracting. Set against the charming backdrop of a small-town vineyard, Ava and Cam's whirlwind romance unfolds swiftly. While this rapid pace may appeal to fans of fast-paced romance and steamy encounters, those seeking a slower burn might find the pacing a bit rushed. Nonetheless, the novel is imbued with warmth, humor, and themes of love, friendship, and personal growth. Fans of romances featuring quirky characters, fast-paced plots, and humorous dialogue will find much to love in this charming tale.
Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 19, 2024
I loved
This, it was funny, sweat, cute, super romantic. Like a gorgeous Netflix romance. Cam was a troubled veteran and had been struggling to fit in back to civvy life after 10 years of service. Ava came from a super competitive family and becomes Ill. Her illness makes her evaluate her life. Ava has always had a crush on Cam but his PTSD pushes people away even though he is attracted to her too.
Thank you NetGalley for this arc in exchange of an honest review.
This, it was funny, sweat, cute, super romantic. Like a gorgeous Netflix romance. Cam was a troubled veteran and had been struggling to fit in back to civvy life after 10 years of service. Ava came from a super competitive family and becomes Ill. Her illness makes her evaluate her life. Ava has always had a crush on Cam but his PTSD pushes people away even though he is attracted to her too.
Thank you NetGalley for this arc in exchange of an honest review.
June 23, 2024
I absolutely loved this book. Something about Cam and Ava was just so good. They weren’t perfect but they tried and I loved watching their relationship grow and evolve!
December 12, 2024
3.6🌟 this one was fun, but Lee really irritated me along with cams friendship with her, other than that I liked the story.
June 25, 2025
Lovely little read, I’m enjoying the series
I just wish the timescale of the book gave us more rather than less than a weeks worth of events
But I love all the characters
I just wish the timescale of the book gave us more rather than less than a weeks worth of events
But I love all the characters
July 5, 2024
The Flora Valley saga continues to be uninteresting, especially now that Con and Ava have had their story. As for the latter, an insta-love tends to be not very believable, and indeed the author must have thought so too, considering how many other protagonists she has slipped into their story.
La saga di Flora Valley continua ad essere poco interessante, specialmente ora che Con e Ava hanno avuto la loro storia. Per quanto riguarda quest'ultima, un insta-love tendenzialmente poco credibile ed in effetti deve averlo pensato anche l'autrice, considerato quanti altri protagonisti ha infilato nella loro storia.
I received from the Publisher a complimentary digital advanced review copy of the book in exchange for a honest review.
La saga di Flora Valley continua ad essere poco interessante, specialmente ora che Con e Ava hanno avuto la loro storia. Per quanto riguarda quest'ultima, un insta-love tendenzialmente poco credibile ed in effetti deve averlo pensato anche l'autrice, considerato quanti altri protagonisti ha infilato nella loro storia.
I received from the Publisher a complimentary digital advanced review copy of the book in exchange for a honest review.
May 18, 2024
please note that the trigger warnings and topes/themes may contain spoilers
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
HEA: yes
POV: dual 1st person POV
spice: several open-door spicy scenes
TWs: mental health 9anxiety, PTSD), cheating (attempted, past), terminal illness (cancer), OW drama
standalone: book 2 in the Flora Valley series
final thoughts: once again there was so much about this book that was promising and ultimately it wasn’t for me and it all comes down to the MMC. AGAIN, we have the MMC calling another woman gorgeous, beautiful, pretty, “the most beautiful woman I’d ever seen in my life” and telling that to the FMC!!! I was honestly so turned off by him and his relationship with this woman that’s he’s so disgustingly infatuated with. I cannot and will never understand the obsession with the best friend. This had so much promise since I love a giant, silent, handyman mountain man who is ex-army, but I really couldn’t get over the friendship between him and his friend’s mother and he didn’t do nearly enough groveling when he kept messing up.
I like this writer’s style of writing but ultimately, I don’t like the MMCs who aren’t entirely dedicated to their chosen women after they get together. Everything moved way too fast (their relationship, his “recovery”, the relationships with additional characters) and felt too forced but has good bones for a good story.
I continued this series for Cam and Chiara and stayed for Chiara and Ava. I was pleasantly surprised with how much I liked Ava, but she needed to demand more groveling and she deserved better from everyone in this book.
.
read this book if you love
😬 angst
🏝️ forced proximity (living together)
💘 instalove
🔀 opposites attract
🏡 small town
🫡 big MMC
🤫 hidden secrets
👨🚒 men in uniform (past)
👨👩👧👦 found family
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
HEA: yes
POV: dual 1st person POV
spice: several open-door spicy scenes
TWs: mental health 9anxiety, PTSD), cheating (attempted, past), terminal illness (cancer), OW drama
standalone: book 2 in the Flora Valley series
final thoughts: once again there was so much about this book that was promising and ultimately it wasn’t for me and it all comes down to the MMC. AGAIN, we have the MMC calling another woman gorgeous, beautiful, pretty, “the most beautiful woman I’d ever seen in my life” and telling that to the FMC!!! I was honestly so turned off by him and his relationship with this woman that’s he’s so disgustingly infatuated with. I cannot and will never understand the obsession with the best friend. This had so much promise since I love a giant, silent, handyman mountain man who is ex-army, but I really couldn’t get over the friendship between him and his friend’s mother and he didn’t do nearly enough groveling when he kept messing up.
I like this writer’s style of writing but ultimately, I don’t like the MMCs who aren’t entirely dedicated to their chosen women after they get together. Everything moved way too fast (their relationship, his “recovery”, the relationships with additional characters) and felt too forced but has good bones for a good story.
I continued this series for Cam and Chiara and stayed for Chiara and Ava. I was pleasantly surprised with how much I liked Ava, but she needed to demand more groveling and she deserved better from everyone in this book.
.
read this book if you love
😬 angst
🏝️ forced proximity (living together)
💘 instalove
🔀 opposites attract
🏡 small town
🫡 big MMC
🤫 hidden secrets
👨🚒 men in uniform (past)
👨👩👧👦 found family
April 1, 2024
You’re so Vine by Catherine Robertson was a sweet read following Ava as she navigates a blooming relationship and unknown health issues. This book felt fast paced edging on rushed, but perhaps was just me wanting to know what was next. I haven’t read the first novel in the series, and while it can be read stand alone, I would recommend reading the first one for the context surrounding the secondary characters of the novel. Overall a fun read! Thanks to NetGalley, Catherine Robertson and One More Chapter for the ARC.
April 2, 2024
This was such an emotional book! I loved that the characters were so emotionally honest with one another right from the beginning.
Cam and Ava were such opposites but they really made it work, I loved that they brought out a different side in each other.
I can’t wait to see what’s in store for the next couple in the Flora Valley series!
Cam and Ava were such opposites but they really made it work, I loved that they brought out a different side in each other.
I can’t wait to see what’s in store for the next couple in the Flora Valley series!
March 28, 2024
Unfortunately this was a DNF for me at 35%.
I really enjoyed the banter between Ava and Cam, Ava is very lovable and strong. Catherine uses great descriptive language and really sets the scene in the book.
Sadly it just wasn’t for me. Cam has previously rejected her when she asks him on a date. Cam served in the military and he has a lot of emotional hang ups since leaving and he’s not ready for commitment. When Cam and Ava meet again all his problems seem to have been solved and they talk about starting a relationship. For me this just felt too fast paced that all his problems were just fixed? This would have been better as a low burn where he has to take care of Ava and slowly lowers his guard but they sleep together in the first 25%. I really think this could be a brilliant story with better pacing!
ARC kindly provided by NetGalley, all opinions are my own.
I really enjoyed the banter between Ava and Cam, Ava is very lovable and strong. Catherine uses great descriptive language and really sets the scene in the book.
Sadly it just wasn’t for me. Cam has previously rejected her when she asks him on a date. Cam served in the military and he has a lot of emotional hang ups since leaving and he’s not ready for commitment. When Cam and Ava meet again all his problems seem to have been solved and they talk about starting a relationship. For me this just felt too fast paced that all his problems were just fixed? This would have been better as a low burn where he has to take care of Ava and slowly lowers his guard but they sleep together in the first 25%. I really think this could be a brilliant story with better pacing!
ARC kindly provided by NetGalley, all opinions are my own.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 11, 2024
This was a really cute read with two very lovable main characters. However, it felt very disjointed and disorganized as a whole, and their relationship progressed so quickly. I feel like a little restructuring could go a long way to fix the pacing.
January 17, 2025
The heroes journey exists for a reason. It’s how you tell a story and this plot did not follow it - actually there was no plot. There was no tension, no suspense, no tension. So much potential, just unfulfilled. Will be keen to read more of this author in a few years though
Read
March 10, 2024NetGalley arc rtc
August 2, 2024
Both the main characters were kinda awful and unrelatable, there was no chemistry, and not really much plot either. Yet I still enjoyed it, I think because I found it all so strange. It was like a rom-com set in a parallel universe, where everything is just a bit mixed up from what you expect. Not sure I'd recommend it, but it was an interesting reading experience.
April 11, 2024
1⭐️
ARC kindly provided by publisher via NetGally for an honest review.
DNF @ 43%
This book was not it for me. At less than 20% of this book they are already in a relationship and it was a very FAST burn. Ava being hung up on Cam being friends with Lee went on FAR too long and was an issue that shouldn’t have even been an issue. Although it seems to be a book that can be read as a standalone, if you decide to read this i would definitely recommend reading the first book in the series before jumping into this one.
ARC kindly provided by publisher via NetGally for an honest review.
DNF @ 43%
This book was not it for me. At less than 20% of this book they are already in a relationship and it was a very FAST burn. Ava being hung up on Cam being friends with Lee went on FAR too long and was an issue that shouldn’t have even been an issue. Although it seems to be a book that can be read as a standalone, if you decide to read this i would definitely recommend reading the first book in the series before jumping into this one.
July 5, 2025
I truly believe this is one of the worst rom coms I’ve ever read. Slight spoilers ahead, but you need to know these things.
The FMC asked out the MMC before the book. He turned her down. She goes up to him at her brothers wedding, they dance, she faints, emergency room, she then stays with him, sex, the next day she’s talking about their relationship - honey what relationship?! YALL BARELY TALKED GOOD GOD.
I made it to 50% then skim read the rest bc I could not deal.
Thanks to NetGalley for an arc in exchange for an honest review.
The FMC asked out the MMC before the book. He turned her down. She goes up to him at her brothers wedding, they dance, she faints, emergency room, she then stays with him, sex, the next day she’s talking about their relationship - honey what relationship?! YALL BARELY TALKED GOOD GOD.
I made it to 50% then skim read the rest bc I could not deal.
Thanks to NetGalley for an arc in exchange for an honest review.
March 29, 2024
Thank you to Net Galley for this ARC!
I was looking forward to You're So Vine, second in the Flora Valley series, which pairs Ava, our high-achieving, fast-driving no nonsense sister with Cam, our silent-strong type barrel maker. We start off the novel at the wedding of Nate & Shelby, and with Ava re-asking Cam out, despite her better senses. As always, Chiara is such a fun matchmaking character, and a joy to read about. I'm also hoping that the next novel will cover Brandon and Jordan - I love a good grumpy grovel!!
You're So Vine centers around Ava and a new diagnosis of chronic illness, coming to terms of chronic fatigue syndrome. I think that was a great choice for her, given her driven personality, as she comes to terms with having this disorder that is poorly explained and ill-understood, as there's no direct organic cause that we know of in medicine yet. I appreciate that representation and fully enjoy Ava's character now as a protagonist too.
The way in which Ava and Cam are bumped together, by both Chiara and a fainting episode felt a little too fast for me. Don't get me wrong, I still love a fast-burn and early sex scene -- it just felt like the slotting into place was way too fast, and the certainty of their interest in each other. I think I also wanted more of that buildup and tension, when it ended up feeling rather lackluster - especially as Ava all but moves in with Cam from the get-go.
I appreciated that Cam's POV was written sort of like him, especially at the start, with shorter, more stilted sentences. I wonder, too, if this book would have benefitted from having just one POV, even though it breaks from the series tradition. As far as his continued interest and loyalty to Lee, Shelby's mom...I don't know. I get his shame about it. And I also don't understand his continued clinging to her as a "special person" or "best friend"- maybe because Lee didn't seem all that special to me? And also found it frustrating from Ava's perspective. This book showed healthy communication between the two, which is unusual for a romance book, AND man, I would be wayyyy more angry at Cam. It feels like he quite literally loses his mind over Lee, and I never see that emotion come through as strongly for Ava at the start, making this relationship feel just like the "more appropriate one" due to their age-match, and that if Lee ever came around, Cam might reconsider.
Ultimately, giving this book 3 stars with a 2.5 for spice. I didn't love Cam quite as much as I was hoping, nor their get-together, which fell very flat for me. But, I'm still in love with this cast of characters, felt like the writer had good writing and pacing - this book just needed a bit more..plot? or oomph.
I was looking forward to You're So Vine, second in the Flora Valley series, which pairs Ava, our high-achieving, fast-driving no nonsense sister with Cam, our silent-strong type barrel maker. We start off the novel at the wedding of Nate & Shelby, and with Ava re-asking Cam out, despite her better senses. As always, Chiara is such a fun matchmaking character, and a joy to read about. I'm also hoping that the next novel will cover Brandon and Jordan - I love a good grumpy grovel!!
You're So Vine centers around Ava and a new diagnosis of chronic illness, coming to terms of chronic fatigue syndrome. I think that was a great choice for her, given her driven personality, as she comes to terms with having this disorder that is poorly explained and ill-understood, as there's no direct organic cause that we know of in medicine yet. I appreciate that representation and fully enjoy Ava's character now as a protagonist too.
The way in which Ava and Cam are bumped together, by both Chiara and a fainting episode felt a little too fast for me. Don't get me wrong, I still love a fast-burn and early sex scene -- it just felt like the slotting into place was way too fast, and the certainty of their interest in each other. I think I also wanted more of that buildup and tension, when it ended up feeling rather lackluster - especially as Ava all but moves in with Cam from the get-go.
I appreciated that Cam's POV was written sort of like him, especially at the start, with shorter, more stilted sentences. I wonder, too, if this book would have benefitted from having just one POV, even though it breaks from the series tradition. As far as his continued interest and loyalty to Lee, Shelby's mom...I don't know. I get his shame about it. And I also don't understand his continued clinging to her as a "special person" or "best friend"- maybe because Lee didn't seem all that special to me? And also found it frustrating from Ava's perspective. This book showed healthy communication between the two, which is unusual for a romance book, AND man, I would be wayyyy more angry at Cam. It feels like he quite literally loses his mind over Lee, and I never see that emotion come through as strongly for Ava at the start, making this relationship feel just like the "more appropriate one" due to their age-match, and that if Lee ever came around, Cam might reconsider.
Ultimately, giving this book 3 stars with a 2.5 for spice. I didn't love Cam quite as much as I was hoping, nor their get-together, which fell very flat for me. But, I'm still in love with this cast of characters, felt like the writer had good writing and pacing - this book just needed a bit more..plot? or oomph.
June 23, 2024
This is an arc review from NetGalley.
An insta-love, found family romance. Cam turned Ava down for a date once, but when they're reunited at a wedding and Ava literally faints in his arms, their relationship goes from strangers to lovers quickly. But with Ava facing a health scare, can the two find happily ever after?
Pros:
- Cam's backstory is heartbreaking and believable.
- Cam's relationship with Lee and the Armstrong family is beautiful
- The siblings are great! I love Cam's found siblings (the Armstrongs) and Ava's siblings! They are fun, the banter is excellent, the relationships feel authentic, and the sibling rivalry paired with the sibling support is portrayed well.
- The health related tests and fear were treated and written in a conscious and empathetic way.
SPOILERS BELOW!!!!!!!!
Opportunities:
- The timeline is much too short. Ava and Cam go from "Hello again" to "I will be by your side through any health condition you have and I love you" in less than four days.
- There is an allusion to something in Cam's past and a reason he requires they use condoms... but then it is never explained or followed up on.
- Ava's jealousy over Cam's friendship with Lee is very demanding. Within hours of them even kind of being together she started asking him to choose her over the woman who has been his rock for 10 years and helped him recover from his military induced PTSD.
- I found Ava and Cam's entire relationship hard to stomach - Cam gives up so much for Ava and does so much for her while she just takes and takes and takes and expects and expects. She wants him to give up all of his priorities and his life story to her within 48 hours of even kind of being together.
- The housing situation at the end is confusing. The Armstrong siblings agree to rent it to Cam but Ava and Cam talk and act like it's a gift they've been given and Ava even calls it their forever home.
Overall - the characters were really well developed and written and the story had some great parts but but the relationship between the two main characters was off and needed more time and development.
An insta-love, found family romance. Cam turned Ava down for a date once, but when they're reunited at a wedding and Ava literally faints in his arms, their relationship goes from strangers to lovers quickly. But with Ava facing a health scare, can the two find happily ever after?
Pros:
- Cam's backstory is heartbreaking and believable.
- Cam's relationship with Lee and the Armstrong family is beautiful
- The siblings are great! I love Cam's found siblings (the Armstrongs) and Ava's siblings! They are fun, the banter is excellent, the relationships feel authentic, and the sibling rivalry paired with the sibling support is portrayed well.
- The health related tests and fear were treated and written in a conscious and empathetic way.
SPOILERS BELOW!!!!!!!!
Opportunities:
- The timeline is much too short. Ava and Cam go from "Hello again" to "I will be by your side through any health condition you have and I love you" in less than four days.
- There is an allusion to something in Cam's past and a reason he requires they use condoms... but then it is never explained or followed up on.
- Ava's jealousy over Cam's friendship with Lee is very demanding. Within hours of them even kind of being together she started asking him to choose her over the woman who has been his rock for 10 years and helped him recover from his military induced PTSD.
- I found Ava and Cam's entire relationship hard to stomach - Cam gives up so much for Ava and does so much for her while she just takes and takes and takes and expects and expects. She wants him to give up all of his priorities and his life story to her within 48 hours of even kind of being together.
- The housing situation at the end is confusing. The Armstrong siblings agree to rent it to Cam but Ava and Cam talk and act like it's a gift they've been given and Ava even calls it their forever home.
Overall - the characters were really well developed and written and the story had some great parts but but the relationship between the two main characters was off and needed more time and development.
July 4, 2024
Thank you to Netgalley, the author and the publisher for providing me with an ebook copy of this in exchange for an honest review.
DNF.
Ok, buckle up, it's another not-too-positive review from Charlie.
I love a romance book. Honestly, one of my all-time favourite genres. The only problem with that is that I end up reading a lot of romance books that don't quite hit the spot - especially when I am reading and reviewing. I was really excited about this book, but it, unfortunately, became one of those romance books that ended up not hitting the spot for me. And that's ok, not every book is meant to be enjoyed by the same person. I can see others really enjoying this book, I just really didn't.
I want to go over the negatives very quickly.
The FMC. From the very start of the book, I was annoyed. I think that maybe the author intended for the FMC to come across as a relatable tomboy who really doesn't understand the fuss but instead, she just came across as annoying and immature. There was very little about her that seemed very realistic. In the first scene she is at her brother's wedding and is making it all about her and her own feelings. The whole premise was that she might see a guy who rejected going on a date with her. It felt like she was unable to separate her feelings from the wedding and the appropriate reactions to have toward romance. I couldn't stand behind that. I found it very difficult to read her perspective in any way. To me, she came across as selfish and narcissistic. I ended up struggling so much that I wasn't able to finish the book in its entirety. I think that if the FMC had been a bit more relatable and her predicament possibly significantly less selfish, I would have actually enjoyed this book.
The writing style, however, was really great. I think it flowed really really well and that there was so much potential within the story. The FMC let the book down as a whole but, with a few changes to her, I think that this could be an amazing romance book.
3 stars.
DNF.
Ok, buckle up, it's another not-too-positive review from Charlie.
I love a romance book. Honestly, one of my all-time favourite genres. The only problem with that is that I end up reading a lot of romance books that don't quite hit the spot - especially when I am reading and reviewing. I was really excited about this book, but it, unfortunately, became one of those romance books that ended up not hitting the spot for me. And that's ok, not every book is meant to be enjoyed by the same person. I can see others really enjoying this book, I just really didn't.
I want to go over the negatives very quickly.
The FMC. From the very start of the book, I was annoyed. I think that maybe the author intended for the FMC to come across as a relatable tomboy who really doesn't understand the fuss but instead, she just came across as annoying and immature. There was very little about her that seemed very realistic. In the first scene she is at her brother's wedding and is making it all about her and her own feelings. The whole premise was that she might see a guy who rejected going on a date with her. It felt like she was unable to separate her feelings from the wedding and the appropriate reactions to have toward romance. I couldn't stand behind that. I found it very difficult to read her perspective in any way. To me, she came across as selfish and narcissistic. I ended up struggling so much that I wasn't able to finish the book in its entirety. I think that if the FMC had been a bit more relatable and her predicament possibly significantly less selfish, I would have actually enjoyed this book.
The writing style, however, was really great. I think it flowed really really well and that there was so much potential within the story. The FMC let the book down as a whole but, with a few changes to her, I think that this could be an amazing romance book.
3 stars.
June 2, 2024
Thank you NetGalley and HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter for access to this digital arc!
This small town romance opens from the perspective of Ava Durant, a woman on the brink of disaster. Despite her young age and presumed health, Ava has been feeling drained lately-- so tired in fact that she had to leave a job she was passionate about, because she simply couldn't make it through the day. With her dad's recent health scare in mind, Ava returns home to her family's mansion-- thinking she can just relax and her problems will disappear (ahh, privilege).
On top of her looming health issue, her personal life has been less than stellar. She was recently turned down by the handsome but aloof Cam, who is a good friend of the family her brother Nate just married in to. When she runs into him at Nate's wedding, Ava decides to try and put the whole thing behind them and befriend Cam. This backfires when Ava collapses after a few dances and is escorted to the hospital.
This is the point where the story went downhill for me, but I do still think it holds a lot for people to enjoy depending on tropes you enjoy! What happens next is a montage of insta love, trauma bonding (Cam dumps all his ex military trauma), an insane amount of jealousy, and confusingly a storyline that feels forced, in which there is a dying family member who is being kept a secret (no one knows this family member exists, save one person) who comes out of the woodworks to wrap up a happily ever after for Cam and Ava.
I won't share too many frustrations about storyline in order to keep from sharing spoilers, but for me this story moved too quickly- glazing over aspects that could definitely be expanded on. I could certainly see fans of Virgin River enjoying this series, particularly if it becomes a long series, as you will get to know and love the characters of this charming small town over the course of the series.
This small town romance opens from the perspective of Ava Durant, a woman on the brink of disaster. Despite her young age and presumed health, Ava has been feeling drained lately-- so tired in fact that she had to leave a job she was passionate about, because she simply couldn't make it through the day. With her dad's recent health scare in mind, Ava returns home to her family's mansion-- thinking she can just relax and her problems will disappear (ahh, privilege).
On top of her looming health issue, her personal life has been less than stellar. She was recently turned down by the handsome but aloof Cam, who is a good friend of the family her brother Nate just married in to. When she runs into him at Nate's wedding, Ava decides to try and put the whole thing behind them and befriend Cam. This backfires when Ava collapses after a few dances and is escorted to the hospital.
This is the point where the story went downhill for me, but I do still think it holds a lot for people to enjoy depending on tropes you enjoy! What happens next is a montage of insta love, trauma bonding (Cam dumps all his ex military trauma), an insane amount of jealousy, and confusingly a storyline that feels forced, in which there is a dying family member who is being kept a secret (no one knows this family member exists, save one person) who comes out of the woodworks to wrap up a happily ever after for Cam and Ava.
I won't share too many frustrations about storyline in order to keep from sharing spoilers, but for me this story moved too quickly- glazing over aspects that could definitely be expanded on. I could certainly see fans of Virgin River enjoying this series, particularly if it becomes a long series, as you will get to know and love the characters of this charming small town over the course of the series.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews