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Isle of Doughnut #1
Somewhere New
One witch. One werewolf. A remote Scottish island. Hundreds of pygmy goats.
Aster has been crushed romantically for the last time. To escape the pitying looks from his nearest and dearest, he jumps at the chance to finish his botany master's on a remote Scottish island. He has three months to study wild flowers and armour himself against the need for romance in his life.
Callum has lived alone in the mountains ever since he made a terrible mistake, which resulted in the deaths of most of his family. He’s perfectly happy caring for the island’s pygmy goats until his meddling sister thrusts a botany student into his life.
Callum can’t ignore Aster’s shifting scent or his kind words. As the pair get closer, Aster's resolve to be alone crumbles. But can their love last when Callum can't trust Aster with the secret of his true nature?
Perfect for fans of TJ Klune, Travis Baldree, and Tavia Lark, Somewhere New is the first novel in the Isle of Doughnut series – a low angst and low stakes cosy fantasy with two clueless men and a steamy romance that will leave you swooning.
Friends to lovers
Found family/pack
Forced proximity
Aster has been crushed romantically for the last time. To escape the pitying looks from his nearest and dearest, he jumps at the chance to finish his botany master's on a remote Scottish island. He has three months to study wild flowers and armour himself against the need for romance in his life.
Callum has lived alone in the mountains ever since he made a terrible mistake, which resulted in the deaths of most of his family. He’s perfectly happy caring for the island’s pygmy goats until his meddling sister thrusts a botany student into his life.
Callum can’t ignore Aster’s shifting scent or his kind words. As the pair get closer, Aster's resolve to be alone crumbles. But can their love last when Callum can't trust Aster with the secret of his true nature?
Perfect for fans of TJ Klune, Travis Baldree, and Tavia Lark, Somewhere New is the first novel in the Isle of Doughnut series – a low angst and low stakes cosy fantasy with two clueless men and a steamy romance that will leave you swooning.
Friends to lovers
Found family/pack
Forced proximity
330 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 28, 2024
7 people are currently reading
71 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
February 4, 2025
Super cute romance: a witch and a werewolf and a lot of goats and cuddles. There wasn't miscom but it relayed heavily on each character having preconceptions based on their own experiences before they were able to communicate. Which is a very human thing to do.
Loved the shy inexperienced werewolf and the funny sweet witch. All the feels and cuddles.
Loved the shy inexperienced werewolf and the funny sweet witch. All the feels and cuddles.
November 5, 2024
Somewhere New is an absolute gem of a cozy fantasy romance! With a lush, atmospheric setting on a remote Scottish island, this story brings together two endearing men who are both a bit broken but find healing—and love—in each other.
Aster, the hopeless romantic turned reluctant hermit, is so lovable as he tries to convince himself he doesn’t need anyone, all while falling hard for Callum. And Callum! Living in solitude, surrounded by a herd of utterly adorable pygmy goats, he’s the ultimate brooding hero with a heart of gold. Their chemistry is undeniable, and their slow, sweet journey from friends to lovers is sprinkled with such beautiful, tender moments.
The forced proximity and found family tropes are perfectly done here. Callum’s mysterious werewolf secret and Aster’s gentle persistence make for such a swoon-worthy dynamic. If you’re a fan of TJ Klune or Travis Baldree, you’ll adore Somewhere New. The low angst and cozy, comforting vibes make this book feel like a warm hug, with a steamy romance that leaves you blushing!
A must-read for anyone looking for a gentle, enchanting romance with characters who truly come alive. I’m already counting down the days until the next book in the Isle of Doughnut series!
Aster, the hopeless romantic turned reluctant hermit, is so lovable as he tries to convince himself he doesn’t need anyone, all while falling hard for Callum. And Callum! Living in solitude, surrounded by a herd of utterly adorable pygmy goats, he’s the ultimate brooding hero with a heart of gold. Their chemistry is undeniable, and their slow, sweet journey from friends to lovers is sprinkled with such beautiful, tender moments.
The forced proximity and found family tropes are perfectly done here. Callum’s mysterious werewolf secret and Aster’s gentle persistence make for such a swoon-worthy dynamic. If you’re a fan of TJ Klune or Travis Baldree, you’ll adore Somewhere New. The low angst and cozy, comforting vibes make this book feel like a warm hug, with a steamy romance that leaves you blushing!
A must-read for anyone looking for a gentle, enchanting romance with characters who truly come alive. I’m already counting down the days until the next book in the Isle of Doughnut series!
November 23, 2024
I think I was at the 20% mark when I decided that it is definitely a 5 star book. And then by the end of the book, I fell in love with it. All over again. So if you missed it, I loved loved loved the book.
And Aster, he is such a lovable person. And he is so wonderfully weird but not ashamed to ask for what he wants. And he acknowledges his emotions and is not afraid to cry. Can I love him more?
Callum, of course the brooding hero but the way he swoops in to help Aster, the time he is stuck and when he finds out he is crying, you know he is a gem, but just toughened. And then he cries too.
This book will make you want to get under your blanket, with a hot drink and never come out until you finish it. And I mean it will make you laugh, out loud (Aster is hilarious), and then it will make you cry, along with the characters.
This book actually showed us how much grief can affect a person, regardless of the gender, and the fact that Annie made their characters so vulnerable, yet so honest has my heart.
I usually fall for the hero with the tragic history but this book made me love Aster so much (not saying I don't love Callum, that's not even a question). The fact that they decided to have open honest conversations, added bonus.
Am I going on like Aster yet, or not? Oh and yes, I love the goats too 🐑
So I am already in for the next books too and I would recommend it to everyone looking for good writing, with deep characters, emotional maturity, found family and a touch of magic ✨.
I received an advance copy of the book and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
And Aster, he is such a lovable person. And he is so wonderfully weird but not ashamed to ask for what he wants. And he acknowledges his emotions and is not afraid to cry. Can I love him more?
Callum, of course the brooding hero but the way he swoops in to help Aster, the time he is stuck and when he finds out he is crying, you know he is a gem, but just toughened. And then he cries too.
This book will make you want to get under your blanket, with a hot drink and never come out until you finish it. And I mean it will make you laugh, out loud (Aster is hilarious), and then it will make you cry, along with the characters.
This book actually showed us how much grief can affect a person, regardless of the gender, and the fact that Annie made their characters so vulnerable, yet so honest has my heart.
I usually fall for the hero with the tragic history but this book made me love Aster so much (not saying I don't love Callum, that's not even a question). The fact that they decided to have open honest conversations, added bonus.
Am I going on like Aster yet, or not? Oh and yes, I love the goats too 🐑
So I am already in for the next books too and I would recommend it to everyone looking for good writing, with deep characters, emotional maturity, found family and a touch of magic ✨.
I received an advance copy of the book and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 3, 2024
I loved this book so much! It is a sweet story between a witch and a werewolf shifter, with a delicate look at grief and loss and moving on, and finding your forever person.
Here’s some things you can expect in this:
- Forced proximity
- Only one bed
- Found family
- Humor
- Steamy consent and spice
- Adorable baby goats!
Aster comes to the Island to study the flora and wildlife there. He doesn't know that he'll be staying with Callum for the 3 months he's staying. It's a small town, with an even smaller place to stay. I loved these two navigating their living situation together. Aster is very foot-in-mouth say whatever, and I loved his ramblings for the most part lol
We also have the added element of Aster being a witch and Callum being a werewolf. I wish a bit more attention and backstory had been given to Aster's powers and the world building of witches in this world? Same for werewolf rules - do they shift whenever? Is mates a thing? I also am honestly still not sure what Aster was doing for his degree LOL but let's focus on the low stakes cozy romance here, I know! :D
This book is cozy, emotional, steamy, is filled with consent and spicy scenes, has a bit of angst near the end that is very emotional, and a very sweet ending. And a great setup for the next book! (although I do hope we get to see plenty of Aster and Callum in the next book being meddling matchmakers LOL)
I received an arc in exchange for an honest review.
Here’s some things you can expect in this:
- Forced proximity
- Only one bed
- Found family
- Humor
- Steamy consent and spice
- Adorable baby goats!
Aster comes to the Island to study the flora and wildlife there. He doesn't know that he'll be staying with Callum for the 3 months he's staying. It's a small town, with an even smaller place to stay. I loved these two navigating their living situation together. Aster is very foot-in-mouth say whatever, and I loved his ramblings for the most part lol
We also have the added element of Aster being a witch and Callum being a werewolf. I wish a bit more attention and backstory had been given to Aster's powers and the world building of witches in this world? Same for werewolf rules - do they shift whenever? Is mates a thing? I also am honestly still not sure what Aster was doing for his degree LOL but let's focus on the low stakes cozy romance here, I know! :D
This book is cozy, emotional, steamy, is filled with consent and spicy scenes, has a bit of angst near the end that is very emotional, and a very sweet ending. And a great setup for the next book! (although I do hope we get to see plenty of Aster and Callum in the next book being meddling matchmakers LOL)
I received an arc in exchange for an honest review.
January 11, 2025
This is going to be more of a rant than a review.. I really liked the first half but the story took a dive from there and it ended with one of my BIGGEST pet peeves.
This is going to be all ending spoilers.
I couldn't properly enjoy this because even as they were falling in love Aster's return trip to London made it impossible for me to feel anything but angst until they talked about their future.
News flash: they didn't talk about it.
And Cal did the self sacrificing bullshit of making decisions for Aster. He assumed Aster would have a more fulfilling life in London so he told him he should go back instead of taking the job that let him stay on the island.
So Aster is falling apart and sobbing while going to stay with a new friend for his last days on the island. He even shows up to make a grand gesture in the spot that they first said they liked each other while Cal sits back and watches. He knows Aster is in pain but he doesn't say anything.
At this point we are well past the 90% mark and I'm already annoyed that the author left this crap to the very last second.
Aster is on the ferry to leave and turns around and sees Cal standing there and he starts declaring his love for him thinking Cal won't be able to hear him. But since Cal is a werewolf he heard everything so he finally gets his head out of his ass to have the ferry turn back around and gives one little apology before allowing Aster to joke with him like he hadn't been heart broken and sobbing for the past week.
Cal needed to apologize while sobbing, on his knees for Aster. 😒
Ya'know what would've been good after all that heart break? Seeing them doing the long distance thing until Aster moved back. Seeing Cal facetiming Aster. Seeing Cal FEEL BAD for almost losing Aster because his head was so far up his ass. 😒
Ya'know what could've also helped ? AN EPILOGUE FROM THEIR POV FOR THE REUNION AFTER 3 MONTHS.
But noooooo. We get Luke's POV and his meet cute with Kit ( I'm sure they'll be a lovely couple but if it's going to follow this same road map I'm not going to bother. )
The whole time they were together there was a looming end date. When the date got brought up all their communication went out the windows and Cal pushed Aster away for the rest of his stay. Aster is miserable and sobbing a lot while Cal is sad but going about his day. Then Aster declares his love on the ferry, Cal briefly returns the love declaration and we go straight into the epilogue of the MC for the next book.
I hate not being given time with the characters once they've gotten over their roadblocks and confessed their love. One or two chapters of them being blissfully happy and in love shouldn't be too much to ask for. 😒
I'm just mad it's too late in the night for me to start another book. *sigh*
This is going to be all ending spoilers.
I couldn't properly enjoy this because even as they were falling in love Aster's return trip to London made it impossible for me to feel anything but angst until they talked about their future.
News flash: they didn't talk about it.
And Cal did the self sacrificing bullshit of making decisions for Aster. He assumed Aster would have a more fulfilling life in London so he told him he should go back instead of taking the job that let him stay on the island.
So Aster is falling apart and sobbing while going to stay with a new friend for his last days on the island. He even shows up to make a grand gesture in the spot that they first said they liked each other while Cal sits back and watches. He knows Aster is in pain but he doesn't say anything.
At this point we are well past the 90% mark and I'm already annoyed that the author left this crap to the very last second.
Aster is on the ferry to leave and turns around and sees Cal standing there and he starts declaring his love for him thinking Cal won't be able to hear him. But since Cal is a werewolf he heard everything so he finally gets his head out of his ass to have the ferry turn back around and gives one little apology before allowing Aster to joke with him like he hadn't been heart broken and sobbing for the past week.
Cal needed to apologize while sobbing, on his knees for Aster. 😒
Ya'know what would've been good after all that heart break? Seeing them doing the long distance thing until Aster moved back. Seeing Cal facetiming Aster. Seeing Cal FEEL BAD for almost losing Aster because his head was so far up his ass. 😒
Ya'know what could've also helped ? AN EPILOGUE FROM THEIR POV FOR THE REUNION AFTER 3 MONTHS.
But noooooo. We get Luke's POV and his meet cute with Kit ( I'm sure they'll be a lovely couple but if it's going to follow this same road map I'm not going to bother. )
The whole time they were together there was a looming end date. When the date got brought up all their communication went out the windows and Cal pushed Aster away for the rest of his stay. Aster is miserable and sobbing a lot while Cal is sad but going about his day. Then Aster declares his love on the ferry, Cal briefly returns the love declaration and we go straight into the epilogue of the MC for the next book.
I hate not being given time with the characters once they've gotten over their roadblocks and confessed their love. One or two chapters of them being blissfully happy and in love shouldn't be too much to ask for. 😒
I'm just mad it's too late in the night for me to start another book. *sigh*
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 17, 2024
4.5 ⭐️
I was extremely lucky to be able to read Somewhere New by @anniethebennet as an ARC and let me just say OMG 😍
This novel gave off the most cosiest vibes and had such a beautiful storyline following both of our MMC’s, Aster and Callum. This book had everything you could ever want from a first in a series! We were introduced to our MMC’s who had me swooning and we had such beautiful world building of the cosiest small town set on an island in Scotland. Annie gave us a low stake fantasy set in the modern world which included werewolves, witches and of course the main stars (in my opinion) Pygmy goats! 🐐
I was extremely lucky to be able to read Somewhere New by @anniethebennet as an ARC and let me just say OMG 😍
This novel gave off the most cosiest vibes and had such a beautiful storyline following both of our MMC’s, Aster and Callum. This book had everything you could ever want from a first in a series! We were introduced to our MMC’s who had me swooning and we had such beautiful world building of the cosiest small town set on an island in Scotland. Annie gave us a low stake fantasy set in the modern world which included werewolves, witches and of course the main stars (in my opinion) Pygmy goats! 🐐
December 25, 2025
Had to reread this gem before I started the next in the series!! I can’t wait omg
This was one of those I knew i’d love it from the start
SO excited for the next!
This was one of those I knew i’d love it from the start
SO excited for the next!
November 18, 2024
I honestly don't know where to start with this review!
I absolutely adored everything about this book - From the cute cover, adorable characters and brilliant storyline all the way to, of course, the pygmy goats!
What more could you want from a cosy romance read.
So, as soon as I heard about pygmy goats, I have to admit to being totally sold on this book!
However, I was already completely in love with both Callum and Aster way before even meeting the goats.
These are two of the most gorgeous characters I've come across (and I read a lot!)
They're both so relatable - even though one is a witch and one a werewolf - but I absolutely loved the way that the author makes this almost secondary to the main storyline.
The magic and mystery is there throughout in the periphery, but the main focus is on the emerging friendship and blossoming relationship that Callum and Aster develop over the course of the book.
As both, have past traumas to work through, this was a bumpy ride and I might have cried just a little whilst reading.
The way that they helped each other through their issues was so lovely to read and even the miscommunications and frustrations felt totally believable and understandable.
Along with our main characters, we also meet a diverse selection of family and friends along the way and I loved them all - even the bossy Bonnie!
Callum's family backstory was so sad and I loved the way this worked itself out.
I also can't wait to see/hear more from Lucas and Aster's Dad too!
This read, in the main, as a cosy romance, but there were some really well written spicy scenes here too.
I'm not sure whether I was expecting them, but felt that they really enhanced the story and added extra power to this already emotive read.
The writing style was beautifully descriptive and I was completely immersed in this gorgeous setting from start to finish.
I could feel the sea breeze and smell the fresh mountain air - I wish that I could visit the isle for real!
This book will form the start of this fab new The Isle Of Doughnut series and I can't wait to see where the journey takes us next.
With so many elements cleverly woven into this book, there's so much potential for future development and I'm already excited for book 2.....
I absolutely adored everything about this book - From the cute cover, adorable characters and brilliant storyline all the way to, of course, the pygmy goats!
What more could you want from a cosy romance read.
So, as soon as I heard about pygmy goats, I have to admit to being totally sold on this book!
However, I was already completely in love with both Callum and Aster way before even meeting the goats.
These are two of the most gorgeous characters I've come across (and I read a lot!)
They're both so relatable - even though one is a witch and one a werewolf - but I absolutely loved the way that the author makes this almost secondary to the main storyline.
The magic and mystery is there throughout in the periphery, but the main focus is on the emerging friendship and blossoming relationship that Callum and Aster develop over the course of the book.
As both, have past traumas to work through, this was a bumpy ride and I might have cried just a little whilst reading.
The way that they helped each other through their issues was so lovely to read and even the miscommunications and frustrations felt totally believable and understandable.
Along with our main characters, we also meet a diverse selection of family and friends along the way and I loved them all - even the bossy Bonnie!
Callum's family backstory was so sad and I loved the way this worked itself out.
I also can't wait to see/hear more from Lucas and Aster's Dad too!
This read, in the main, as a cosy romance, but there were some really well written spicy scenes here too.
I'm not sure whether I was expecting them, but felt that they really enhanced the story and added extra power to this already emotive read.
The writing style was beautifully descriptive and I was completely immersed in this gorgeous setting from start to finish.
I could feel the sea breeze and smell the fresh mountain air - I wish that I could visit the isle for real!
This book will form the start of this fab new The Isle Of Doughnut series and I can't wait to see where the journey takes us next.
With so many elements cleverly woven into this book, there's so much potential for future development and I'm already excited for book 2.....
November 26, 2024
I ABSOLUTELY ADORED THE HECK OUT OF THIS BOOK!!! If I I could rate this higher than 5 stars, I would give it all the stars possible!
Thank you so so much for an ARC of this book Annie, it is my new obsession! I can't wait for book 2 to see more of the story and hopefully the new relationship that was hinted at towards the end of book 1.
First of all, the writing style is just fantastic! It is gripping, funny, relatable and I couldn't get through the pages quick enough. There would be no such thing as too much Aster and Callum. The way that Annie writes and portrays her characters is just something else. They are so relatable and you can't help but love them and root for them!
The story is about a neurodiverse witch, Aster, who has been terribly unlucky in his past relationships and has quite a bit of trauma to unpack from this, but he is a botanist and goes to the isle of doughnut to escape relationships and the complicated emotion of Love! However, he gets shoved in a cabin with our silent, reserved and oh so ruggedly handsome Callum who loves goats. Need I say more?! They both have the most adorable relationship based on trust, consent, open conversations (chapter 39 I'm giving you a dirty look for what you put me through 🤣), healing each other, recovering from past trauma and just accepting themselves and realising their worth and that they deserve to be happy.
This is the most cozy, hilarious and adorable low stakes fantasy I have read and is definitely one of my favourite books that I will be recommending to everyone! Plus there is some spicy spice in there 🥵
Thank you so so much for an ARC of this book Annie, it is my new obsession! I can't wait for book 2 to see more of the story and hopefully the new relationship that was hinted at towards the end of book 1.
First of all, the writing style is just fantastic! It is gripping, funny, relatable and I couldn't get through the pages quick enough. There would be no such thing as too much Aster and Callum. The way that Annie writes and portrays her characters is just something else. They are so relatable and you can't help but love them and root for them!
The story is about a neurodiverse witch, Aster, who has been terribly unlucky in his past relationships and has quite a bit of trauma to unpack from this, but he is a botanist and goes to the isle of doughnut to escape relationships and the complicated emotion of Love! However, he gets shoved in a cabin with our silent, reserved and oh so ruggedly handsome Callum who loves goats. Need I say more?! They both have the most adorable relationship based on trust, consent, open conversations (chapter 39 I'm giving you a dirty look for what you put me through 🤣), healing each other, recovering from past trauma and just accepting themselves and realising their worth and that they deserve to be happy.
This is the most cozy, hilarious and adorable low stakes fantasy I have read and is definitely one of my favourite books that I will be recommending to everyone! Plus there is some spicy spice in there 🥵
October 8, 2024
Somewhere New is the first book in the Isle of Doughnut Series.
It is billed as a "Cosy Romantacy" which advised me that I was getting into something COSY and ROMANTIC ... with some fantasy elements and this is exactly what I found inside the book!
It is VERY cosy. Hygge in a book ... with a rugged landscape, wildflowers, a cosy cottage, home cooking, blankets and an open fire!
It was VERY romantic .... Callum and Aster, both with their own secrets and previous struggles, are very believable, likeable characters; they have undeniable chemistry, and the pacing of their relationship felt very natural.
There were fantasy elements which were integral to the plot and added to the story.
There were also goats! Who doesn't love a goat?
There was also lots of sex! THANK GOODNESS I can report that Ms Bennet writes about sex .... very sexily...... (but also very cozily!) The slowly building sexual and romantic tension between Callum and Aster had me really hooked. Their relationship had ups and downs with a few misunderstandings as they gradually reveal their secrets to each there; but it was nice to read about a relationship which was loving, considerate and consensual .... and also, VERY HOT!
This is a book for times when you really need cosy and you really want sexy.
I'm looking forward to book 2!
It is billed as a "Cosy Romantacy" which advised me that I was getting into something COSY and ROMANTIC ... with some fantasy elements and this is exactly what I found inside the book!
It is VERY cosy. Hygge in a book ... with a rugged landscape, wildflowers, a cosy cottage, home cooking, blankets and an open fire!
It was VERY romantic .... Callum and Aster, both with their own secrets and previous struggles, are very believable, likeable characters; they have undeniable chemistry, and the pacing of their relationship felt very natural.
There were fantasy elements which were integral to the plot and added to the story.
There were also goats! Who doesn't love a goat?
There was also lots of sex! THANK GOODNESS I can report that Ms Bennet writes about sex .... very sexily...... (but also very cozily!) The slowly building sexual and romantic tension between Callum and Aster had me really hooked. Their relationship had ups and downs with a few misunderstandings as they gradually reveal their secrets to each there; but it was nice to read about a relationship which was loving, considerate and consensual .... and also, VERY HOT!
This is a book for times when you really need cosy and you really want sexy.
I'm looking forward to book 2!
November 21, 2024
Somewhere New by Annie Bennet is a must have for any lover of cosy romance with a sprinkle of fantasy ✨
From the first page I was instantly in love with this story and couldn’t keep myself away for long, i absolutely adore everything to do with this book from the Pygmy goats to the wonderful Isle of Doughnut and everything in between. Annie has created a beautiful and atmospherical setting for our loveable characters.
Our MMCs Aster and Callum are everything, although they both have their struggles and secrets, they both find healing within in each other, their friends to lovers relationship was sweet, heartwarming and felt like a big warm hug.
Tim and Albert needed a mention as these two little adorable Pygmy goats were also the star of the show, I hope to see more of them in the next book!
This is my first cosy romance/ fantasy and I am super excited to continue this series to fall even more in love with this incredible story!
Overall I am completely and utterly in love with this book and highly recommend everyone read this romantic tale of two loveable men.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️.5
Somewhere New is a low angst, low stakes cosy fantasy with two clueless men and a steamy romance that will leave you swooning!
From the first page I was instantly in love with this story and couldn’t keep myself away for long, i absolutely adore everything to do with this book from the Pygmy goats to the wonderful Isle of Doughnut and everything in between. Annie has created a beautiful and atmospherical setting for our loveable characters.
Our MMCs Aster and Callum are everything, although they both have their struggles and secrets, they both find healing within in each other, their friends to lovers relationship was sweet, heartwarming and felt like a big warm hug.
Tim and Albert needed a mention as these two little adorable Pygmy goats were also the star of the show, I hope to see more of them in the next book!
This is my first cosy romance/ fantasy and I am super excited to continue this series to fall even more in love with this incredible story!
Overall I am completely and utterly in love with this book and highly recommend everyone read this romantic tale of two loveable men.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️.5
Somewhere New is a low angst, low stakes cosy fantasy with two clueless men and a steamy romance that will leave you swooning!
December 2, 2024
Somewhere New is book 1 in the Isle of Doughnut series, by Annie Bennet.
I don't know how to write my review for this book because it was so so special. There were darker elements although it was a lighter book, so let me start by saying you may want to look for content notes from the author if you have any triggers..
Some things I loved about Somewhere New:
• The subbtle yet very important fantasy/paranormal elements.
• The goats 🐐 who become part of the MCs' everyday lives.
• The cuddles.... SO MANY CUDDLES.
• The one MC wearing the other's clothes.
• The side characters, one of which I'm desperate to learn more about 😉
• Aster's general optimism and way of talking. Also, his inner monologue is on point. He's just the most adorable character ever.
• Callum's selflessness. No spoilers.
• The way Aster is super open to communication and expresses his wants and needs, and how Callum isn't turned off by it and responds in return.
• The name Isle of Doughnut, as a place, is really awesome.
• The schmexy times, especially the first time they get naked.
• The funny bits and the crying bits.
• The whole vibe of the book.
Happy reading!
I don't know how to write my review for this book because it was so so special. There were darker elements although it was a lighter book, so let me start by saying you may want to look for content notes from the author if you have any triggers..
Some things I loved about Somewhere New:
• The subbtle yet very important fantasy/paranormal elements.
• The goats 🐐 who become part of the MCs' everyday lives.
• The cuddles.... SO MANY CUDDLES.
• The one MC wearing the other's clothes.
• The side characters, one of which I'm desperate to learn more about 😉
• Aster's general optimism and way of talking. Also, his inner monologue is on point. He's just the most adorable character ever.
• Callum's selflessness. No spoilers.
• The way Aster is super open to communication and expresses his wants and needs, and how Callum isn't turned off by it and responds in return.
• The name Isle of Doughnut, as a place, is really awesome.
• The schmexy times, especially the first time they get naked.
• The funny bits and the crying bits.
• The whole vibe of the book.
Happy reading!
November 29, 2024
I really enjoyed this book! It’s set in the mountains in Scotland, and it’s very cozy and wintery, so a perfect read for the colder months. It has the god-tier trope of found family, and I found the whole cast of characters, including the goats Albert and Tim, to be incredibly endearing. The romance initially felt a little insta-lovey, but Aster and Callum were so precious that I quickly got on-board with their romance. Overall, it had a lot of heart with a dash of humor. The ending was sweet, but Annie also did a great job of setting it up very nicely for the next book in the series.
Heads up though that, despite its adorable cover, this books is very, very spicy, more than I’m generally comfortable with. I definitely did a lot of skimming/skipping during the second half of the book! That being said, I know a lot of spice might be a selling point for a lot of people, and I could easily see this becoming a new Bookstagram favorite, but spice is just not my cup of tea.
Heads up though that, despite its adorable cover, this books is very, very spicy, more than I’m generally comfortable with. I definitely did a lot of skimming/skipping during the second half of the book! That being said, I know a lot of spice might be a selling point for a lot of people, and I could easily see this becoming a new Bookstagram favorite, but spice is just not my cup of tea.
May 17, 2025
I thoroughly enjoyed my time in Doughnut and, with the introduction of a new romance in the epilogue, I’m looking forward to more!
Somewhere New is a cosy, heartwarming achillean romance with a dash of the paranormal featuring a comically quirky bi witch and an overly independent, introverted grump of a love interest. Who is a werewolf, which is very hot. And also Scottish. And very caring when it comes to goats. And traumatised. *Swoon*. I would have loved more magic and shifting in a book like this but keeping the opposites-attract romance front and centre didn’t leave it lacking, as it was both wholesome and super spicy in an intimately raw way. The side characters were a joy to spend time with, too - I would like Bonnie to be mean to me.
Aster and Callum’s story includes all the best ingredients of a small-town romance, offering escape, humour, and an all-consuming love alongside familiar and fresh tropes! Thank you to the author for the ARC. 🌸
Somewhere New is a cosy, heartwarming achillean romance with a dash of the paranormal featuring a comically quirky bi witch and an overly independent, introverted grump of a love interest. Who is a werewolf, which is very hot. And also Scottish. And very caring when it comes to goats. And traumatised. *Swoon*. I would have loved more magic and shifting in a book like this but keeping the opposites-attract romance front and centre didn’t leave it lacking, as it was both wholesome and super spicy in an intimately raw way. The side characters were a joy to spend time with, too - I would like Bonnie to be mean to me.
Aster and Callum’s story includes all the best ingredients of a small-town romance, offering escape, humour, and an all-consuming love alongside familiar and fresh tropes! Thank you to the author for the ARC. 🌸
November 10, 2024
Somewhere New, is the biggest, warm hug for this time of year!
This cozy romantasy, set on the cutest Scottish Island is the perfect blend of spice and love. The fantasy elements are done with the lightest touch and intertwined with Bennet's wonderfully warm writing, you can't help but fall in love and be swept up in Aster and Callum's story.
With some forced proximity, miscommunication and the perfect found family this has all the tropes that every romantasy reader loves. And did I mention a herd of pygmy goats???
This is a must-read for everyone and the perfect gateway drug into cozy romantasy with characters you can't help but fall in love with. I can't wait to get my hands on the next book in the series!
🌶🌶🌶
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This cozy romantasy, set on the cutest Scottish Island is the perfect blend of spice and love. The fantasy elements are done with the lightest touch and intertwined with Bennet's wonderfully warm writing, you can't help but fall in love and be swept up in Aster and Callum's story.
With some forced proximity, miscommunication and the perfect found family this has all the tropes that every romantasy reader loves. And did I mention a herd of pygmy goats???
This is a must-read for everyone and the perfect gateway drug into cozy romantasy with characters you can't help but fall in love with. I can't wait to get my hands on the next book in the series!
🌶🌶🌶
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
January 21, 2025
Brilliant cosy PNR
This was rather brilliant.
Cosy, yet with enough background angst for the main characters that their stories pulled at the heartstrings.
The main couple are adorable, a brilliant grumpy-sunshine pairing. And the setting was wonderful – always good to get a British/Scottish setting for a paranormal romance.
Can't wait for book 2!
In this, you'll find:
❤️MM Paranormal Romance
❤️Reclusive Scottish werewolf ranger
❤️Outgoing botanist (& witch) from London
❤️Bisexual main characters
❤️Pygmy goats
❤️First times
❤️PTSD & Survivors guilt
❤️Past murder of family
❤️Past death of mother from cancer
❤️Loneliness
❤️Accident whilst hiking
❤️Death of wild livestock animal
❤️Fictional Scottish island setting
❤️A HEA
This was rather brilliant.
Cosy, yet with enough background angst for the main characters that their stories pulled at the heartstrings.
The main couple are adorable, a brilliant grumpy-sunshine pairing. And the setting was wonderful – always good to get a British/Scottish setting for a paranormal romance.
Can't wait for book 2!
In this, you'll find:
❤️MM Paranormal Romance
❤️Reclusive Scottish werewolf ranger
❤️Outgoing botanist (& witch) from London
❤️Bisexual main characters
❤️Pygmy goats
❤️First times
❤️PTSD & Survivors guilt
❤️Past murder of family
❤️Past death of mother from cancer
❤️Loneliness
❤️Accident whilst hiking
❤️Death of wild livestock animal
❤️Fictional Scottish island setting
❤️A HEA
November 30, 2024
I loved the relationship development between Aster and Callum, they had a refreshingly mature relationship (apart from the final act where they just needed to confess their love to each other 😅) and actually talked things through or at least gave the other some context to stop them overthinking things.
I was pleasantly surprised by Callum as I thought it would have been Aster who fell first, but Callum fell so hard and it was adorable 🥺.
Although Bonnie has a bit of a redemption arc towards the end, I’m still not her biggest fan, she was so rude at the beginning, I just couldn’t get past that.
I am looking forward to learning more about Kit and Lucas in the second book. It would be good to see a bit more of the fantasy element come through, so we can learn more about how being a witch or a werewolf affects their lives etc.
I was pleasantly surprised by Callum as I thought it would have been Aster who fell first, but Callum fell so hard and it was adorable 🥺.
Although Bonnie has a bit of a redemption arc towards the end, I’m still not her biggest fan, she was so rude at the beginning, I just couldn’t get past that.
I am looking forward to learning more about Kit and Lucas in the second book. It would be good to see a bit more of the fantasy element come through, so we can learn more about how being a witch or a werewolf affects their lives etc.
November 25, 2024
This was the definition of cozy. The secluded mountain cabin, the wilderness, the goats. Porridge and stew and hash browns. Rugged and vulnerable werewolf. Romantically challenged witch.
I really loved Aster and Callum together. Callum has a deeply troubled past and he secludes himself from his family and his pack. When Aster comes to live with him he slowly allows himself to feel.
And Aster? He is such a hoot! I love how open he is, even with his not so great love life, he truly does see the best in people. He gives Callum his space while also letting him know he is there for him.
I loved seeing them get closer, going from hugging to humping 😉 Callum had all of this guilt and shame built up over years and years and Aster was there to help him sort through it. I think that’s what I enjoyed the most- being each other’s rock, building them up and sheltering them in love and understanding.
My favorite parts?
•Albert and Tim 🐐🍼
•Callum’s refractory period 🍆
•Aster’s TV obsession
•Callum’s vulnerability
•The little smiles 🥹
I am so happy with this book and I am looking forward to the next story, it sounds good already!!! 🧣
I really loved Aster and Callum together. Callum has a deeply troubled past and he secludes himself from his family and his pack. When Aster comes to live with him he slowly allows himself to feel.
And Aster? He is such a hoot! I love how open he is, even with his not so great love life, he truly does see the best in people. He gives Callum his space while also letting him know he is there for him.
I loved seeing them get closer, going from hugging to humping 😉 Callum had all of this guilt and shame built up over years and years and Aster was there to help him sort through it. I think that’s what I enjoyed the most- being each other’s rock, building them up and sheltering them in love and understanding.
My favorite parts?
•Albert and Tim 🐐🍼
•Callum’s refractory period 🍆
•Aster’s TV obsession
•Callum’s vulnerability
•The little smiles 🥹
I am so happy with this book and I am looking forward to the next story, it sounds good already!!! 🧣
December 4, 2024
Such a lovely story of heart break and communication, seeing these two characters come together was so lovely and the cute goats were a clear bonus. Loved the magic and the werewolves community built into island life and look forward to more from this world.
Solid 2/3 on spice and 3 on cute cringe.
Solid 2/3 on spice and 3 on cute cringe.
January 6, 2025
a wonderfully cute time
I didn’t really know much about this book before going into it to be honest. But by maybe the fourth chapter I immediately put a physical copy in my Amazon cart and knew this book would be amazing and it was! Funny, cute, romantic with a bit of heat it was everything I wanted and more!! I can’t wait to read more.
I didn’t really know much about this book before going into it to be honest. But by maybe the fourth chapter I immediately put a physical copy in my Amazon cart and knew this book would be amazing and it was! Funny, cute, romantic with a bit of heat it was everything I wanted and more!! I can’t wait to read more.
October 29, 2024
The snuggliest of cosy romantasies. There's so much warmth in Annie Bennet's writing it will melt even the coldest of hearts. I want to be friends with Callum & Aster and I want to meet the perfect little house goats. A wonderful cosy read.
May 5, 2025
★★★ ½ - ★★★★
somewhere new = cozy, cute, and features a cinnamon-roll hero. my main critique? i wanted more from the supernatural elements.
‘It’s not selfish to tell someone you love them. It’s not selfish to tell Aster you want him to stay.’
somewhere new = cozy, cute, and features a cinnamon-roll hero. my main critique? i wanted more from the supernatural elements.
July 13, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
Aster & Callum are just so freaking precious together! The growth from both is so well done. Their communication (until certain aspects at the end) are a breath of fresh air. Really really enjoyable!
Aster & Callum are just so freaking precious together! The growth from both is so well done. Their communication (until certain aspects at the end) are a breath of fresh air. Really really enjoyable!
November 28, 2024
This was a thoroughly enjoyable read.
December 6, 2024
This was really good outside of the abhorrent third act forced breakup. Drove this down several notches.
February 3, 2025
It’s sweet and cozy but I felt like there were one element too many that didn’t really get anywhere. I’m guessing these will get addressed further along in the series.
February 11, 2025
Am I crazy or I've just read an undercover (wink wink) Sterek fanfiction
May 22, 2025
3.5 stars! Very cute. Predictable and a bit corny, but a fun, fluffy story to get lost in for an afternoon.
December 9, 2024
This is the most heartwarming Romantasy.
Reasons you'll love it.
🩷 Cosy - the sort of book that leaves you feeling so positive and hopeful.
🩷 Funny, and sweet. Genuinely gorgeous banter and adorable moments - I love a healing/helping scene
🩷 Goats! But in all seriousness, what a beautiful setting!
🩷 MM romance with a witch and werewolf that bond through past experiences.
Highly recommend. ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Oh and the spice is just the icing on top.
🌶️ 🌶️.5
Reasons you'll love it.
🩷 Cosy - the sort of book that leaves you feeling so positive and hopeful.
🩷 Funny, and sweet. Genuinely gorgeous banter and adorable moments - I love a healing/helping scene
🩷 Goats! But in all seriousness, what a beautiful setting!
🩷 MM romance with a witch and werewolf that bond through past experiences.
Highly recommend. ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Oh and the spice is just the icing on top.
🌶️ 🌶️.5
November 16, 2025
I loved this book so much, it was so sweet and interesting, but dang the last part of the book had me sobbing in the bathtub, despite knowing there was an HEA coming. So many feels! I can’t wait for the next book.
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