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The Hemlock #1
A New Leaf
It’s never too late to turn over a new leaf…
Charlie
Returning to my hometown was never part of my plan. Suddenly, I find myself back where I grew up and taking over my late parents’ beloved plant store. With a permanent scowl and zero customer service skills, I have no idea how to run a business—or keep plants alive. One night, a wild dog crashes into my store, creating an absolute mess in his path. The owner? Confident, charismatic, and utterly captivating. He’s determined to break down my carefully constructed walls one brick at a time.
Finn
Burnt out, exhausted, and a bit directionless, no one warned me that moving forward could feel like moving backward. After leaving my stressful corporate job, I packed up my life and returned to my home state of Oregon, eagerly chasing my dream of opening a coffee shop. One night, my overly energetic dog barrels into a quaint plant store, causing a complete disaster. The owner? Grouchy, gorgeous, and guarded. She’s exactly what I’ve been searching for all along.
Although our paths collide in a hectic disaster, we embark on a journey to discover the true meaning of turning over a new leaf.
Charlie
Returning to my hometown was never part of my plan. Suddenly, I find myself back where I grew up and taking over my late parents’ beloved plant store. With a permanent scowl and zero customer service skills, I have no idea how to run a business—or keep plants alive. One night, a wild dog crashes into my store, creating an absolute mess in his path. The owner? Confident, charismatic, and utterly captivating. He’s determined to break down my carefully constructed walls one brick at a time.
Finn
Burnt out, exhausted, and a bit directionless, no one warned me that moving forward could feel like moving backward. After leaving my stressful corporate job, I packed up my life and returned to my home state of Oregon, eagerly chasing my dream of opening a coffee shop. One night, my overly energetic dog barrels into a quaint plant store, causing a complete disaster. The owner? Grouchy, gorgeous, and guarded. She’s exactly what I’ve been searching for all along.
Although our paths collide in a hectic disaster, we embark on a journey to discover the true meaning of turning over a new leaf.
390 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 11, 2025
242 people are currently reading
3283 people want to read
About the author
Samm Wilde
3 books75 followersSamm Wilde is a romance author who weaves words into worlds filled with humor and heart.
When she isn’t obsessing over word count, second-guessing plot points, or anxiously deciding between synonyms—you can find her lying on the ground with her dog or eating emotional support cake.
Samm writes to remind us all that love, even with all its imperfect quirks, is a feeling worth embracing.
Find her on Instagram @AuthorSammWilde
When she isn’t obsessing over word count, second-guessing plot points, or anxiously deciding between synonyms—you can find her lying on the ground with her dog or eating emotional support cake.
Samm writes to remind us all that love, even with all its imperfect quirks, is a feeling worth embracing.
Find her on Instagram @AuthorSammWilde
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 285 reviews
April 3, 2025
"I see a woman turning over a new leaf." 🥹🥹
This was incredible! I'm actually blown away that this was a debut novel because it had me in my feels the entire time. I envisioned this entire book to a T.
I AM CHARLIE, CHARLIE IS ME. I have quite literally never felt so seen in a book before. Charlie feeling antisocial and overwhelmed by small talk and people is so unbelievably real and we don't read about too many of these FMC's. I truly related to and appreciated her character.
THIS QUOTE IS ME
"I'm a people pleaser to my core, and even though I dislike 92 percent of the population, saying "no" to anyone is still difficult for me."
Finn is perfection. Period. He is the character that brings Charlie out of her shell and makes her feel like she is understood and worthy.
The grief in this book got me, especially towards the end. The writing was so well done!
Marnie (Charlie's best friend) is literally an angel. I love her so much and hope to get a book about her in the future! Charlie and Marnie are so lucky to have such an amazing friendship!
I will read anything Samm Wilde writes after this. A++++, I am obsessed!
moments:
"I see you, Charlie. In every form. And I want to be with you because you're you and no one else."
"The way I would drop to my knees for this woman."
"Get some sleep, sweetheart. I'll see you tomorrow." THIS PART HAD ME A PUDDLE.
✨small town
✨grumpy x sunshine
✨plant shop owner x coffee shop owner
✨antisocial FMC
✨nerdy MMC
✨he falls first & hard
✨grief
This was incredible! I'm actually blown away that this was a debut novel because it had me in my feels the entire time. I envisioned this entire book to a T.
I AM CHARLIE, CHARLIE IS ME. I have quite literally never felt so seen in a book before. Charlie feeling antisocial and overwhelmed by small talk and people is so unbelievably real and we don't read about too many of these FMC's. I truly related to and appreciated her character.
THIS QUOTE IS ME
"I'm a people pleaser to my core, and even though I dislike 92 percent of the population, saying "no" to anyone is still difficult for me."
Finn is perfection. Period. He is the character that brings Charlie out of her shell and makes her feel like she is understood and worthy.
The grief in this book got me, especially towards the end. The writing was so well done!
Marnie (Charlie's best friend) is literally an angel. I love her so much and hope to get a book about her in the future! Charlie and Marnie are so lucky to have such an amazing friendship!
I will read anything Samm Wilde writes after this. A++++, I am obsessed!
moments:
"I see you, Charlie. In every form. And I want to be with you because you're you and no one else."
"The way I would drop to my knees for this woman."
"Get some sleep, sweetheart. I'll see you tomorrow." THIS PART HAD ME A PUDDLE.
✨small town
✨grumpy x sunshine
✨plant shop owner x coffee shop owner
✨antisocial FMC
✨nerdy MMC
✨he falls first & hard
✨grief
February 3, 2025
This was the definition of lovely! It was so calming to read and the love shared between our MC’s was so tender and kind. This book feels like a safe space. To grieve, to overcome, to love. It’s casual and soft in its delivery but the representation is on point.
It’s perfect if you’re also looking for a book with zero drama and angst.
This was a lovely debut and I am very much looking forward to reading what Samm writes next! (And thank you for the ARC 🥰)
It’s perfect if you’re also looking for a book with zero drama and angst.
This was a lovely debut and I am very much looking forward to reading what Samm writes next! (And thank you for the ARC 🥰)
February 5, 2025
What a debut this was! Major snaps for you Samm. I ADORED this story. The scene setting, the characters, the storyline, the wholesome low angst vibes, it was like a big warm hug. It was beautifully heartwarming, witty + emotional. I laughed, I cried, I swooned. I’m still thinking about them days later.
Throughout this entire book I was nodding like a bobble head as I understood and related to these characters unlike any I’ve read before. It’s rare we get mid 30 year old characters who are fumbling their way through life, feeling real life challenges and struggling with totally relatable anxieties and complexities. Samm has this ability to pull you in with her writing so you’re feeling everything along with them, their emotions palpable through the pages.
And now for a list of all the things I loved and reasons you should read it…
⊹ right from the first line i loved charlie. literally the first line. charlie is me, i am charlie.
⊹ charlie + marnie’s friendship was a highlight. their banter + verbal sparring is unmatched.
⊹ love that the MCs were mid 30s. I could relate so much to them and their struggles.
⊹ finn is adorable. i love him. the way he got flustered around her was so endearing.
⊹ he wears glasses + sweater vests. convinced? you should be.
⊹ the meet cute was so good.
⊹ their easy banter + comfort with one another.
⊹ frank + vera were giving main character energy + i loved them. franks antics especially had me cackling.
⊹ charlie’s grief journey was beautifully done, realistic + handled with care.
⊹ enjoyed charlie’s siblings, their dynamic + banter.
⊹ first kiss was perfection. melttttt.
⊹ she looks after him while he’s sick. that’s it.
⊹ the beautiful + natural progression of their relationship.
⊹ his patience + understanding with her.
⊹ the way he worked to earn her trust.
⊹ marnie may be one of my favourite side characters ever.
⊹ i giggled every time finn called marnie morticia.
𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗲𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗰𝘁: small town, romcom vibes, black cat x golden retriever, he falls first, curvy fmc x nerdy mmc, grief rep, low angst.
Throughout this entire book I was nodding like a bobble head as I understood and related to these characters unlike any I’ve read before. It’s rare we get mid 30 year old characters who are fumbling their way through life, feeling real life challenges and struggling with totally relatable anxieties and complexities. Samm has this ability to pull you in with her writing so you’re feeling everything along with them, their emotions palpable through the pages.
And now for a list of all the things I loved and reasons you should read it…
⊹ right from the first line i loved charlie. literally the first line. charlie is me, i am charlie.
⊹ charlie + marnie’s friendship was a highlight. their banter + verbal sparring is unmatched.
⊹ love that the MCs were mid 30s. I could relate so much to them and their struggles.
⊹ finn is adorable. i love him. the way he got flustered around her was so endearing.
⊹ he wears glasses + sweater vests. convinced? you should be.
⊹ the meet cute was so good.
⊹ their easy banter + comfort with one another.
⊹ frank + vera were giving main character energy + i loved them. franks antics especially had me cackling.
⊹ charlie’s grief journey was beautifully done, realistic + handled with care.
⊹ enjoyed charlie’s siblings, their dynamic + banter.
⊹ first kiss was perfection. melttttt.
⊹ she looks after him while he’s sick. that’s it.
⊹ the beautiful + natural progression of their relationship.
⊹ his patience + understanding with her.
⊹ the way he worked to earn her trust.
⊹ marnie may be one of my favourite side characters ever.
⊹ i giggled every time finn called marnie morticia.
𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗲𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗰𝘁: small town, romcom vibes, black cat x golden retriever, he falls first, curvy fmc x nerdy mmc, grief rep, low angst.
April 6, 2025
Such a cute romance.
It all starts because a blind pup wanders into the “wrong” store. He fell hard for her and he cares so much for her. This poor girl has gone through so much and this was the most amazing thing that could happen to her.
They are so funny when they’re flirting because he gets bold and then she has no idea what to do.
The dogs are so cute that they cuddle each other. And then adding a cat. Their son being the perfect mix of them. I love it!
It all starts because a blind pup wanders into the “wrong” store. He fell hard for her and he cares so much for her. This poor girl has gone through so much and this was the most amazing thing that could happen to her.
They are so funny when they’re flirting because he gets bold and then she has no idea what to do.
The dogs are so cute that they cuddle each other. And then adding a cat. Their son being the perfect mix of them. I love it!
February 12, 2025
A New Leaf by Samm Wilde
4/5⭐
2,5/5🌶️
"I've always felt unsettled. And now, with her by my side, I finally feel something inside my chest settle."
This was such a delightful debut novel! I enjoyed diving into it. The writing was easy to follow, and I found it especially relatable since the main characters are in their mid-30s, just like me. The romance was sweet, and I loved how they took their time getting to know each other first. Their relationship developed naturally, and I found their banter and humor enjoyable! Plus, the two dogs in the story added such a cute touch.
Finn is a finance geek who has lived in New York for years, but lately, he’s feeling burnt out and lonely. So, he boldly decides to open a coffee shop in a small town. On the other hand, Sam is an engineer who returns home to run her parents' plant store after they sadly passed away in an accident.
"Don't be afraid to share every part of yourself with me. You're safe with me."
Finn and Charlie are the perfect examples of opposites attract! Finn is like a golden retriever—so positive, funny, honest, and kind. His blushes and awkwardness make him so endearing! I loved how he treated Charlie; he understood her and never pushed her to change. He makes her feel comfortable being herself. Charlie, on the other hand, comes off as a bit grumpy and aloof. She has a tough exterior, but deep down, she’s a total sweetheart who wants to help everyone around her. She's also dealing with the grief of losing her parents, and I admired her character growth throughout the story. Watching her navigate life, become a business owner, and eventually fall in love was fantastic!
The grief representation struck a chord with me because I experienced something similar not too long ago. I could relate to Charlie, and a few scenes made me tear up. Overall, this is a wonderful debut novel, and I can’t wait to see what this author has in store for us next!
"Brick by brick, Finn was demolishing my walls, crumbling them into unrecognizable dust."
4/5⭐
2,5/5🌶️
"I've always felt unsettled. And now, with her by my side, I finally feel something inside my chest settle."
This was such a delightful debut novel! I enjoyed diving into it. The writing was easy to follow, and I found it especially relatable since the main characters are in their mid-30s, just like me. The romance was sweet, and I loved how they took their time getting to know each other first. Their relationship developed naturally, and I found their banter and humor enjoyable! Plus, the two dogs in the story added such a cute touch.
Finn is a finance geek who has lived in New York for years, but lately, he’s feeling burnt out and lonely. So, he boldly decides to open a coffee shop in a small town. On the other hand, Sam is an engineer who returns home to run her parents' plant store after they sadly passed away in an accident.
"Don't be afraid to share every part of yourself with me. You're safe with me."
Finn and Charlie are the perfect examples of opposites attract! Finn is like a golden retriever—so positive, funny, honest, and kind. His blushes and awkwardness make him so endearing! I loved how he treated Charlie; he understood her and never pushed her to change. He makes her feel comfortable being herself. Charlie, on the other hand, comes off as a bit grumpy and aloof. She has a tough exterior, but deep down, she’s a total sweetheart who wants to help everyone around her. She's also dealing with the grief of losing her parents, and I admired her character growth throughout the story. Watching her navigate life, become a business owner, and eventually fall in love was fantastic!
The grief representation struck a chord with me because I experienced something similar not too long ago. I could relate to Charlie, and a few scenes made me tear up. Overall, this is a wonderful debut novel, and I can’t wait to see what this author has in store for us next!
"Brick by brick, Finn was demolishing my walls, crumbling them into unrecognizable dust."
March 12, 2025
(3.75 ⭐️) Fue PRECIOSO DE INICIO A FIN. Estuve sonriendo sin parar, Charlie y Finn son súper adorables. La historia NO TIENE TRAMA pero la disfrutas por los personajes. Me habría gustado que fuera un poquito más corto pero X, ME ENCANTÓ.
February 21, 2025
An absolutely phenomenal debut novel. I was blown away.
This book really hit home for me personally since our main characters are in their mid 30s, and as many of my 30 something year old friends may know, it can feel like so much changes during this season of life. Even if that's not your age group, change is hard, regardless of what age you are.
Samm, you had me smiling, laughing out loud, kicking my feet, and at the end, crying into my kindle. Well freaking done. You wrote a phenomenal story.
Our FMC, Charlie, is going through a lot. She just recently lost her parents, she's now taking care of their plant shop with no prior knowledge of how to care for said plants, and she's also now the proud new owner of a lazy golden retriever, Vera, who also used to live with her parents... Needless to say, Charlie is just trying to make it through life one day at a time. That is until a tall, handsome nerd and his adorable, blind, kleptomaniac Australian shepherd come barreling into her life (quite literally).
Finn, our MMC, is new to town and has just opened up a coffee shop down the road from Charlie's plant store. When Finn's dog, Frank, happens to barrel his way into A New Leaf, Charlie and Finn get their meet cute moment.
Charlie is our introverted, curmudgeonly (her own words lol), sarcastic, FMC who's sick of dating men who only want her to change things about herself. The dating world is no fun place to be, and she'd rather be curled up on her couch with Vera and a romance book with a man in a kilt on the cover.
Finn is our kind-hearted, understanding, patient, gentle giant MMC (the man is nearly 6'8", y'all). He's the new guy in town, focused on building up his new coffee shop business and making sure his blind dog doesn't steal anything rather important.
The relationship that begins to build between Charlie and Finn throughout this book is so wholesome. The patience and understanding that Finn has for Charlie is totally endearing. He accepts her as she is, flaws and all, and loves her wholeheartedly. And Charlie is finally able to open up and be vulnerable about everything she is going through after her parents passing. She finds her safe space in Finn, and she's able to trust him completely. All of this and more made their love story so beautiful to read about.
Samm, you did such an incredible job with these two that I want more lol. I want more love stories where the FMC is grumpy, and the MMC is a tall, handsome nerd. I want the most adorable side character doggos who had me laughing up a storm. I want best friends like Marnie who ask questions like "How long has it been since someone explored your gremlin cave?" (iykyk because I cackled during this scene). I want all the sarcasm, the "are you flittering with me?" moments, and beautiful sentiments exchanged between two characters in love.
This book officially has a special place in my heart, and I highly recommend giving Samm's debut a shot, because you won't be disappointed.
Thank you so much to Samm for my eARC!
This book really hit home for me personally since our main characters are in their mid 30s, and as many of my 30 something year old friends may know, it can feel like so much changes during this season of life. Even if that's not your age group, change is hard, regardless of what age you are.
Samm, you had me smiling, laughing out loud, kicking my feet, and at the end, crying into my kindle. Well freaking done. You wrote a phenomenal story.
Our FMC, Charlie, is going through a lot. She just recently lost her parents, she's now taking care of their plant shop with no prior knowledge of how to care for said plants, and she's also now the proud new owner of a lazy golden retriever, Vera, who also used to live with her parents... Needless to say, Charlie is just trying to make it through life one day at a time. That is until a tall, handsome nerd and his adorable, blind, kleptomaniac Australian shepherd come barreling into her life (quite literally).
Finn, our MMC, is new to town and has just opened up a coffee shop down the road from Charlie's plant store. When Finn's dog, Frank, happens to barrel his way into A New Leaf, Charlie and Finn get their meet cute moment.
Charlie is our introverted, curmudgeonly (her own words lol), sarcastic, FMC who's sick of dating men who only want her to change things about herself. The dating world is no fun place to be, and she'd rather be curled up on her couch with Vera and a romance book with a man in a kilt on the cover.
Finn is our kind-hearted, understanding, patient, gentle giant MMC (the man is nearly 6'8", y'all). He's the new guy in town, focused on building up his new coffee shop business and making sure his blind dog doesn't steal anything rather important.
The relationship that begins to build between Charlie and Finn throughout this book is so wholesome. The patience and understanding that Finn has for Charlie is totally endearing. He accepts her as she is, flaws and all, and loves her wholeheartedly. And Charlie is finally able to open up and be vulnerable about everything she is going through after her parents passing. She finds her safe space in Finn, and she's able to trust him completely. All of this and more made their love story so beautiful to read about.
Samm, you did such an incredible job with these two that I want more lol. I want more love stories where the FMC is grumpy, and the MMC is a tall, handsome nerd. I want the most adorable side character doggos who had me laughing up a storm. I want best friends like Marnie who ask questions like "How long has it been since someone explored your gremlin cave?" (iykyk because I cackled during this scene). I want all the sarcasm, the "are you flittering with me?" moments, and beautiful sentiments exchanged between two characters in love.
This book officially has a special place in my heart, and I highly recommend giving Samm's debut a shot, because you won't be disappointed.
Thank you so much to Samm for my eARC!
February 10, 2025
4.5⭐️, 1.5🔥/3
I love them so much I could cry. Like I just want to hug Charlie and Finn forever and never let them go
🍃A New Leaf by Samm Wilde🍃
“𝕀 𝕤𝕖𝕖 𝕪𝕠𝕦, ℂ𝕙𝕒𝕣𝕝𝕚𝕖. 𝕀𝕟 𝕖𝕧𝕖𝕣𝕪 𝕗𝕠𝕣𝕞. 𝔸𝕟𝕕 𝕀 𝕨𝕒𝕟𝕥 𝕥𝕠 𝕓𝕖 𝕨𝕚𝕥𝕙 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕓𝕖𝕔𝕒𝕦𝕤𝕖 𝕪𝕠𝕦’𝕣𝕖 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕟𝕠 𝕠𝕟𝕖 𝕖𝕝𝕤𝕖.”
•••
You know when you read a book and it just feels like the coziest hug? Yeah that’s what this was.
•••
Finn is restarting his life in a small town after feeling lost. So he goes to Hemlocke where he meets Charlie, the grumpy and cute owner of a plant store. Together, with the help of their mischievous dogs, Charlie and Finn figure out how to navigate life and love after loss, uncertainty and being in your 30s.
•••
Finn and Charlie are so precious. They compliment each other so well. We have Charlie, who gives cactus vibes because she’s a bit prickly and closed off, but it’s just to protect herself after the loss of her parents. And then we have sweet, caring and patient Finn who wants to find his place in the world, and finds it as Charlie’s partner.
•••
I adored Charlie. It feels so nice to feel seen by a character who isn’t perfect and who is just trying to figure out her way through life. Life is hard but she’s always trying which is why I admire her so so much. Finn is the dream man because he SEES her, he understands her and it’s so beautiful to read about.
•••
Also to Marnie, my icon, Frank my fave klepto dog and Vera my spirit animal…thank you for being the most lovable characters.
•••
I’m so thankful for the opportunity to have received this book as an ARC. I feel so privileged to have been able to read the words my friend has written. Samm is genuinely the most pure and kind souls and I’m so grateful to have met her!! I’m so so so proud of you🫶🏻
Rating: 4.5⭐️
Steam: 1.5🔥/3
I love them so much I could cry. Like I just want to hug Charlie and Finn forever and never let them go
🍃A New Leaf by Samm Wilde🍃
“𝕀 𝕤𝕖𝕖 𝕪𝕠𝕦, ℂ𝕙𝕒𝕣𝕝𝕚𝕖. 𝕀𝕟 𝕖𝕧𝕖𝕣𝕪 𝕗𝕠𝕣𝕞. 𝔸𝕟𝕕 𝕀 𝕨𝕒𝕟𝕥 𝕥𝕠 𝕓𝕖 𝕨𝕚𝕥𝕙 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕓𝕖𝕔𝕒𝕦𝕤𝕖 𝕪𝕠𝕦’𝕣𝕖 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕟𝕠 𝕠𝕟𝕖 𝕖𝕝𝕤𝕖.”
•••
You know when you read a book and it just feels like the coziest hug? Yeah that’s what this was.
•••
Finn is restarting his life in a small town after feeling lost. So he goes to Hemlocke where he meets Charlie, the grumpy and cute owner of a plant store. Together, with the help of their mischievous dogs, Charlie and Finn figure out how to navigate life and love after loss, uncertainty and being in your 30s.
•••
Finn and Charlie are so precious. They compliment each other so well. We have Charlie, who gives cactus vibes because she’s a bit prickly and closed off, but it’s just to protect herself after the loss of her parents. And then we have sweet, caring and patient Finn who wants to find his place in the world, and finds it as Charlie’s partner.
•••
I adored Charlie. It feels so nice to feel seen by a character who isn’t perfect and who is just trying to figure out her way through life. Life is hard but she’s always trying which is why I admire her so so much. Finn is the dream man because he SEES her, he understands her and it’s so beautiful to read about.
•••
Also to Marnie, my icon, Frank my fave klepto dog and Vera my spirit animal…thank you for being the most lovable characters.
•••
I’m so thankful for the opportunity to have received this book as an ARC. I feel so privileged to have been able to read the words my friend has written. Samm is genuinely the most pure and kind souls and I’m so grateful to have met her!! I’m so so so proud of you🫶🏻
Rating: 4.5⭐️
Steam: 1.5🔥/3
November 13, 2025
this man is 6'8, a big ol' nerdy sweetheart who wears glasses and sweater vests... diabolical!!!! You could not have written a man who is more my type!
there’s a scene where their pinkies barely touch and this man gets WORKED UP!! yes, please.
a tad cheesy overall, BUT it barely affected my enjoyment. I had such a fun time and loved this sweet and spicy romance.
I am also obsessed with Frank the blind kleptomaniac dog.
there’s a scene where their pinkies barely touch and this man gets WORKED UP!! yes, please.
a tad cheesy overall, BUT it barely affected my enjoyment. I had such a fun time and loved this sweet and spicy romance.
I am also obsessed with Frank the blind kleptomaniac dog.
January 31, 2025
A New Leaf
by Samm Wilde
Read if you like:
🫂 Forced proximity
🏘️ Small town
☕ He owns the new coffee shop in town
🫶 Grief and anxiety rep
🦮 A blind, klepto dog
👕 'Slutty sweater vests'
🎂 He bakes her a cake
🪴 She owns the plant store in town
💬 Text messages
👨 He falls first. and HARD
"Maybe home isn't a place. Maybe home is wherever your person is. And maybe, just maybe, Charlie is my person."
I came for the two cute dogs on the cover and stayed for Charlie and Finn◡̈
Jokes aside: Samm Wilde's debut romance is sweet, sexy, and is guaranteed to make you laugh. I loved absolutely everything about this book. As an anxious introvert who loves my golden and is constantly doubting her capabilities, I feel seen by Charlie. I loved spending time with her, and I'm so glad she found the love and support she deserves. Finn is just like my partner. Nerdy, a shamelessly goofy flirt, and so selflessly supportive of his partner. His love for Charlie is kind and gentle but so loud.
I am so proud of Samm for writing and releasing such a wonderful debut romance. I can't wait to see what's next for her author journey!
Here are some more quotes I loved:
"My hands was getting cold, and it needed yours."
"You got anxious. It's my job to ease your worries and fears, no matter how large or small they may seem. If it's important to you, it's important to me. Simple as that."
"You're safe with me."
"Charlie, you're everything I've ever hoped for and more. Hell, I'm not even sure I deserve someone like you."
"I see you."
"You're it for me, Charlie."
"Do you have any fucking idea how beautiful you are?"
by Samm Wilde
Read if you like:
🫂 Forced proximity
🏘️ Small town
☕ He owns the new coffee shop in town
🫶 Grief and anxiety rep
🦮 A blind, klepto dog
👕 'Slutty sweater vests'
🎂 He bakes her a cake
🪴 She owns the plant store in town
💬 Text messages
👨 He falls first. and HARD
"Maybe home isn't a place. Maybe home is wherever your person is. And maybe, just maybe, Charlie is my person."
I came for the two cute dogs on the cover and stayed for Charlie and Finn◡̈
Jokes aside: Samm Wilde's debut romance is sweet, sexy, and is guaranteed to make you laugh. I loved absolutely everything about this book. As an anxious introvert who loves my golden and is constantly doubting her capabilities, I feel seen by Charlie. I loved spending time with her, and I'm so glad she found the love and support she deserves. Finn is just like my partner. Nerdy, a shamelessly goofy flirt, and so selflessly supportive of his partner. His love for Charlie is kind and gentle but so loud.
I am so proud of Samm for writing and releasing such a wonderful debut romance. I can't wait to see what's next for her author journey!
Here are some more quotes I loved:
"My hands was getting cold, and it needed yours."
"You got anxious. It's my job to ease your worries and fears, no matter how large or small they may seem. If it's important to you, it's important to me. Simple as that."
"You're safe with me."
"Charlie, you're everything I've ever hoped for and more. Hell, I'm not even sure I deserve someone like you."
"I see you."
"You're it for me, Charlie."
"Do you have any fucking idea how beautiful you are?"
February 15, 2025
this was so cute and sweet 🥹
I love a good bespectacled MMC
I love a good bespectacled MMC
February 2, 2025
Oh this was so sweet! Lots of things to love in this with a relatable, introverted fmc and a nerdy, caring mmc. Plus two of the cutest dogs I’ve ever read about in a book. I loved the small town Pacific Northwest setting with both of them running shops on the same street. It was super cozy.
I really loved both the main characters. Both had pieces that made them relatable for me. Shoutout to the introverted, dog owners that prefer nights in snuggled up on the couch over anything else. They were perfect for each other. The way they unquestionably accepted their quirks and mannerism made my heart so happy and the relationship they offered each other allowed them to be their true selves.
Such a lovely debut and I can’t wait to read more from Samm!
😊 strangers to lovers
🐾 includes dogs
🤍 he falls first
🤒 caretaking
🐈⬛ black cat / golden retriever
👏🏻 no third act breakup
dual POV
4/5 stars ⭐️
2/5 spice level 🌶️
I really loved both the main characters. Both had pieces that made them relatable for me. Shoutout to the introverted, dog owners that prefer nights in snuggled up on the couch over anything else. They were perfect for each other. The way they unquestionably accepted their quirks and mannerism made my heart so happy and the relationship they offered each other allowed them to be their true selves.
Such a lovely debut and I can’t wait to read more from Samm!
😊 strangers to lovers
🐾 includes dogs
🤍 he falls first
🤒 caretaking
🐈⬛ black cat / golden retriever
👏🏻 no third act breakup
dual POV
4/5 stars ⭐️
2/5 spice level 🌶️
February 15, 2025
✨ grumpy x sunshine
✨ two dog side kicks
✨ small town
✨ plant shop owner x coffee shop owner
An out of this world stunning debut about a new flower shop owner wrapped in grief, a new coffee shop owner who is stuck speechless by the stunning brunette in overalls adding a blind kleptomaniac dog and a stunning golden retriever named Vera.
This book was so much fun from beginning to end. The banter between these two had me cracking up from the very first golf club threatening moment, to all the small moments Finn took to learn Charlie and accept who she is despite what she thinks are big faults. Charlie is an introverted character, some would say prickly slow to trust and preferring to be alone. I love being able to relate to her so hard about things and feeling seen in a character.
Finn was the perfect balance to Charlie, he was outgoing and charismatic but also had such a gentle heart and soul. He was so soft and slow with Charlie seemingly to learn what she needed and letting Charlie move at the right pace for her.
This book was filled with so much tenderness, swoony moments, hilarious back and forth. Such compelling and fun loving side characters. I truly could not have adored this story more.
It’s available now to KU and when I tell you to run I mean it!!
✨ two dog side kicks
✨ small town
✨ plant shop owner x coffee shop owner
An out of this world stunning debut about a new flower shop owner wrapped in grief, a new coffee shop owner who is stuck speechless by the stunning brunette in overalls adding a blind kleptomaniac dog and a stunning golden retriever named Vera.
This book was so much fun from beginning to end. The banter between these two had me cracking up from the very first golf club threatening moment, to all the small moments Finn took to learn Charlie and accept who she is despite what she thinks are big faults. Charlie is an introverted character, some would say prickly slow to trust and preferring to be alone. I love being able to relate to her so hard about things and feeling seen in a character.
Finn was the perfect balance to Charlie, he was outgoing and charismatic but also had such a gentle heart and soul. He was so soft and slow with Charlie seemingly to learn what she needed and letting Charlie move at the right pace for her.
This book was filled with so much tenderness, swoony moments, hilarious back and forth. Such compelling and fun loving side characters. I truly could not have adored this story more.
It’s available now to KU and when I tell you to run I mean it!!
May 29, 2025
Having to hide my face because it’s red, why am I blushing so hard?
Is this man that perfect… is this fmc too relatable… this is the kind of book you want to step into and live in.
The dogs are so cute, funny and the literal sprinkles on the cake for this book.
The amount of heart warming and funny moments add to the charm of this book.
The banter was so sweet and soft, Fin is such a reassuring king.
I too believe Charlie’s theory on golden doodles.
An fmc who is a fellow Scorpio curvy brunette who loves dogs, hell yeah 🙂↕️
If someone could wipe my memory so I could read this for the first time again that’d be great, thanks.
Thank you Samm Wilde for this incredible ARC I loved it 💋
Is this man that perfect… is this fmc too relatable… this is the kind of book you want to step into and live in.
The dogs are so cute, funny and the literal sprinkles on the cake for this book.
The amount of heart warming and funny moments add to the charm of this book.
The banter was so sweet and soft, Fin is such a reassuring king.
I too believe Charlie’s theory on golden doodles.
An fmc who is a fellow Scorpio curvy brunette who loves dogs, hell yeah 🙂↕️
If someone could wipe my memory so I could read this for the first time again that’d be great, thanks.
Thank you Samm Wilde for this incredible ARC I loved it 💋
February 10, 2025
3.75 stars, 2.5 spice
This feels like drinking coffee while perusing a plant store.
Thank you to the author for the e-arc! As a huge plant girl (I am foliage_and_fiction after all 🪴) and a mother to a crazy Australian shepherd, I was sold the second I saw the cover of this book.
Charlie (Charlotte) lost her parents a year ago in a car accident. She takes over their Plant store (which she knows nothing about), and their golden retriever. Finn was a ‘finance bro’, but it was sucking the life out of him, so with a toss of a dart at a map, he picks the same small town to open a coffee shop - he also has a blind Aussie. Both Charlie and Finn, are entering a new time in their lives and trying to find their footing. They meet partially through a super cute dog meet-cute.
It feels weird starting over at this age—a little uncomfortable and a lot terrifying. You think that you’ll have it all figured out once you’re in your thirties. In reality, you’re just putting on a mask every day, making people believe you have your shit together.
This story was very sweet and warm. Definitely a trigger for grief over loss of a parent(s). Samm Wilde did a great job incorporating how grief can pop up out of nowhere for no reason, or for just a small reason. Working through grief is not linear.
Grief is like the weather. Sometimes, it’s just this weird fog that follows you around as you go about your day, and other times, it’s a category five hurricane. All of your emotions are dulled, yet heightened at the same time.
The story overall was very low angst and low conflict. It is two people finding their way, and supporting one another. Accepting each other for their quirkiness, and finding joy in the small things.
If you are wanting something sweet and hopeful, something that could make you feel warm, or maybe give you a break between really intense reads I would recommend picking this up!
“Just like that night when we first met. I see you.”
“What do you mean?”
“I see the person you show your friends. I see the person you show your family . . . and I see the person you try to hide from the world. I see you, Charlie. In every form. And I want to be with you because you’re you and no one else.”
*oh and I feel like Finn was a bit more in the spicy scenes than I was expecting, and I loveeed it hehehe
Tropes:
- Main Characters in their 30s
- Small Town (Oregon)
- Slutty little sweater vests (on him)
- Cute Dog shenanigans
- Friends to lovers, kinda?
- 'Fuck it'
Just as an aussie owner I want to note that I was surprised that nothing was mentioned about why the aussie was blind - most australian shepherds that are blind are because of being Double Merle (many of which are also deaf) this happens when Backyard breeders allow (or even purposefully) breed two merle dogs - NEVER do this, you must breed either two tri's together or a Tri and a Merle. 25% of the merle/merle pups will be blind and/or deaf, and will likely have excessive white on their heads. Please if anyone is looking in the breed, do research into quality breeders or adopt responsibility. Please know aussies (especially poorly bred ones) can be extremely aloof or reactive with strangers, and suffer from anxiety. As much as I love my adopted boy, his anxiety, reactivity and exercise needs are not something just anyone or family could handle.
I don't doubt that Finn's character is one that would have adopted him that way - but I felt it was a missed important learning opportunity!
This feels like drinking coffee while perusing a plant store.
Thank you to the author for the e-arc! As a huge plant girl (I am foliage_and_fiction after all 🪴) and a mother to a crazy Australian shepherd, I was sold the second I saw the cover of this book.
Charlie (Charlotte) lost her parents a year ago in a car accident. She takes over their Plant store (which she knows nothing about), and their golden retriever. Finn was a ‘finance bro’, but it was sucking the life out of him, so with a toss of a dart at a map, he picks the same small town to open a coffee shop - he also has a blind Aussie. Both Charlie and Finn, are entering a new time in their lives and trying to find their footing. They meet partially through a super cute dog meet-cute.
It feels weird starting over at this age—a little uncomfortable and a lot terrifying. You think that you’ll have it all figured out once you’re in your thirties. In reality, you’re just putting on a mask every day, making people believe you have your shit together.
This story was very sweet and warm. Definitely a trigger for grief over loss of a parent(s). Samm Wilde did a great job incorporating how grief can pop up out of nowhere for no reason, or for just a small reason. Working through grief is not linear.
Grief is like the weather. Sometimes, it’s just this weird fog that follows you around as you go about your day, and other times, it’s a category five hurricane. All of your emotions are dulled, yet heightened at the same time.
The story overall was very low angst and low conflict. It is two people finding their way, and supporting one another. Accepting each other for their quirkiness, and finding joy in the small things.
If you are wanting something sweet and hopeful, something that could make you feel warm, or maybe give you a break between really intense reads I would recommend picking this up!
“Just like that night when we first met. I see you.”
“What do you mean?”
“I see the person you show your friends. I see the person you show your family . . . and I see the person you try to hide from the world. I see you, Charlie. In every form. And I want to be with you because you’re you and no one else.”
*oh and I feel like Finn was a bit more in the spicy scenes than I was expecting, and I loveeed it hehehe
Tropes:
- Main Characters in their 30s
- Small Town (Oregon)
- Slutty little sweater vests (on him)
- Cute Dog shenanigans
- Friends to lovers, kinda?
- 'Fuck it'
Just as an aussie owner I want to note that I was surprised that nothing was mentioned about why the aussie was blind - most australian shepherds that are blind are because of being Double Merle (many of which are also deaf) this happens when Backyard breeders allow (or even purposefully) breed two merle dogs - NEVER do this, you must breed either two tri's together or a Tri and a Merle. 25% of the merle/merle pups will be blind and/or deaf, and will likely have excessive white on their heads. Please if anyone is looking in the breed, do research into quality breeders or adopt responsibility. Please know aussies (especially poorly bred ones) can be extremely aloof or reactive with strangers, and suffer from anxiety. As much as I love my adopted boy, his anxiety, reactivity and exercise needs are not something just anyone or family could handle.
I don't doubt that Finn's character is one that would have adopted him that way - but I felt it was a missed important learning opportunity!
March 28, 2025
I absolutely ADORE this!!!! What a gorgeous, fun, sweet novel. And to find out this is the author’s debut novel? Absolutely love. Finn and Charlie both feel like such REAL characters - After reading their story, I feel like I’ve known them for ages and could genuinely hang out with them. So so so many good things in this book!! The banter, the beautiful representation and expression of grief and loss, and the sweet, tender, fun love that Charlie and Finn share. Honestly everyone should read this, I loved these characters and this book so so much!
January 28, 2025
I had the distinct pleasure of receiving an ARC of A New Leaf. From the first page, Wilde drew me into Hemlock through her characters. Charlie and Finn have a warmth and life to them that makes their romantic journey a joy to read. I laughed aloud at much of the dialogue, and loved the antics of the dogs, Vera and Frank. The intimate scenes had just the right amount of spice for my taste, and Wilde had me rooting for these two the whole book.
Read
October 25, 2024Beta // can't wait for everyone to meet Charlie + Finn! 🧡
February 13, 2025
This book completely stole my heart and it’s a debut!!!! Charlie and Finn’s love story felt so real and intimate, like watching two people with the biggest crushes slowly fall head over heels. Charlie’s grumpy exterior hides a deeply caring heart, and her journey through grief and self-discovery was beautifully written. Finn, the earnest, sweater-vest-wearing, coffee shop-owning dreamboat, is patient, funny, and exactly what Charlie needs. Their chemistry? Off the charts—there’s a certain desk scene that still lives rent-free in my mind! But beyond the romance and spice, the portrayal of grief was incredibly moving and so well done.
I laughed out loud so many times in this book, the humor is sarcastic and fun, and the blind dog jokes had me cackling. Knowing there were themes of grief in this book, I didn’t expect that at all, but it also didn’t feel out of place with this story and was honestly healing in so many ways. I also can’t write this review without mentioning Marnie, Charlie’s unhinged employee/friend, because their back and forth banter was a definite highlight and she is also an important person in Charlie’s journey.
TROPES
🧲Opposites Attract
🐈⬛Black Cat
🐕Golden Retriever
🏡Small Town
💙He Falls First
💞Mid 30s MCs
😥Grief Rep
🗣️Banter
I laughed out loud so many times in this book, the humor is sarcastic and fun, and the blind dog jokes had me cackling. Knowing there were themes of grief in this book, I didn’t expect that at all, but it also didn’t feel out of place with this story and was honestly healing in so many ways. I also can’t write this review without mentioning Marnie, Charlie’s unhinged employee/friend, because their back and forth banter was a definite highlight and she is also an important person in Charlie’s journey.
TROPES
🧲Opposites Attract
🐈⬛Black Cat
🐕Golden Retriever
🏡Small Town
💙He Falls First
💞Mid 30s MCs
😥Grief Rep
🗣️Banter
May 24, 2025
a really adorable read!
July 22, 2025
A cheesy poorly-written interconnected small town romance with one dimensional characters and no plot HATES to see me coming. Despite the rating, I love it every time
October 22, 2025
4.25⭐️
February 13, 2025
This was so cute!
No third act break up
Black cat x golden retriever
Cute pups
Small town
No third act break up
Black cat x golden retriever
Cute pups
Small town
April 16, 2025
Fucking adorable. Everyone should read this book for the blind kleptomaniac dog and the hot sexy nerd.
January 29, 2025
I love this couple and this book. This is a story about grieving and love and new beginnings with a couple of very cute dogs thrown in. I love how Charlie and Finn accept each other as they are and how Finn falls first and harder and pursues Charlie in a kind and gentle way. I also appreciated the steamy scenes. Thank you to author, Samm Wilde, for an early copy in exchange for an honest review.
January 21, 2025
ARC REVIEW: 5💫
5 stars is not enough for this incredible debut. A New Leaf had me giggling, fist pumping the air, crying, and then laughing out loud all over again.
Finn and Charlie have impeccable banter, palpable chemistry, and so much love between them. These characters bring so much joy to my heart and I know I will be thinking about them for a long time.
A New Leaf is an amazing debut novel. It has altered my brain chemistry with its sarcasm and talk about grief in the realest ways while also giving you a love story between two special dogs too. I’m gonna need everyone to read this book.
5 stars is not enough for this incredible debut. A New Leaf had me giggling, fist pumping the air, crying, and then laughing out loud all over again.
Finn and Charlie have impeccable banter, palpable chemistry, and so much love between them. These characters bring so much joy to my heart and I know I will be thinking about them for a long time.
A New Leaf is an amazing debut novel. It has altered my brain chemistry with its sarcasm and talk about grief in the realest ways while also giving you a love story between two special dogs too. I’m gonna need everyone to read this book.
February 17, 2025
What a beautiful read! I loved these characters and their slow burn together. Their story felt lovely, honest and true. And funny! I laughed out loud, but still felt my heart flutter along with their rising passion. Most of all I loved that there were no contrivances and no villains here, but a deeply human story of two people working together through the grief and anxiety that stands in their way. And dogs! They have the best pet dogs - can’t decide which one I loved more. A wonderful story full of compassion and hope. Highly recommend!
February 13, 2025
this was really cute! charlie and finn’s relationship felt like it progressed quite naturally and i could actually feel the chemistry between them, he was persistent but in a way that allowed her to be comfortable. parts had me audibly laughing, especially poor sweet frank, and i liked how the author didn’t try too hard to run home the ‘small town vibe’ and include half the population as i’ve read in others, it was refreshing tbh
side note: finn is quite possibly the most cinnamon roll man i have ever come across??? he kind of gave me bo from out on a limb vibes (but maybe it’s the hot nerd thing)
also this book was one of the rare times i actually liked the epilogue, the ending to the last chapter set it up so perfectly imo
my only critique is i found a bit of the writing to be repetitive, but knowing this was a debut it was easy for me to look past as i did genuinely enjoy this novel. i’m excited to see what comes next in this series, and from this author
side note: finn is quite possibly the most cinnamon roll man i have ever come across??? he kind of gave me bo from out on a limb vibes (but maybe it’s the hot nerd thing)
also this book was one of the rare times i actually liked the epilogue, the ending to the last chapter set it up so perfectly imo
my only critique is i found a bit of the writing to be repetitive, but knowing this was a debut it was easy for me to look past as i did genuinely enjoy this novel. i’m excited to see what comes next in this series, and from this author
March 24, 2025
Probably a 2.5ish read, but rounding up for debut. I didn’t love this. The idea was very sweet and the characters had good bones, but things didn’t completely smooth out for me. I found the characters lives and characteristics to be a bit bland. Neither MC was incredibly unique and, while that isn’t a deal breaker, I want something that sets them apart from the 100’s of other MC’s swimming in my brain. I think I could have lived with, and even loved, the predictability if the writing was less standard. I needed humor, or cleverness, or more exciting vocabulary for this to stand on its own.
I think for a debut this was quite good. There weren’t many errors (and this had no critical flaws that made me DNF- yay!) and I think most of the problems can be fixed with a thesaurus, practice, and a good editor. I look forward to seeing how high Wilde’s ceiling is- because I don’t think this book is necessarily indicative of how good her writing can become.
I think for a debut this was quite good. There weren’t many errors (and this had no critical flaws that made me DNF- yay!) and I think most of the problems can be fixed with a thesaurus, practice, and a good editor. I look forward to seeing how high Wilde’s ceiling is- because I don’t think this book is necessarily indicative of how good her writing can become.
May 27, 2025
DNF at 30%
I feel bad quitting on this one, because it really sounded like something I would like based on the blurb. I just think that there's a specific audience for this book and I'm just not that audience. The 30% that I read wasn't bad, but I was not jiving with it. Truthfully I wanted to stop much, much earlier, but told myself to give it until 30% and see if things improved and I did and it didn't.
Soooo... there's that.
I feel bad quitting on this one, because it really sounded like something I would like based on the blurb. I just think that there's a specific audience for this book and I'm just not that audience. The 30% that I read wasn't bad, but I was not jiving with it. Truthfully I wanted to stop much, much earlier, but told myself to give it until 30% and see if things improved and I did and it didn't.
Soooo... there's that.
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