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There’s Pumpkin About You
'Autumn vibes year-round? Yes please!' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐🍁🍁🍁🍁
One determined party planner + one grumpy pumpkin farmer = a fall to remember…
Given the chance to plan her bestie’s 30th birthday bash, Wren Southwick is determined to create an experience so big and so bold that the name of her party planning business spreads beyond the confines of her own small town.
The key to her plan? The Finch family’s Goldleaf Pumpkin Farm. It’s not just the perfect venue but also the perfect supply partner for the autumnal-themed bash Wren envisions. But to get what she wants – and needs – she’ll have to get gorgeous grouch August Finch on board.
The table is set, and the battle is about to begin … but who will fall first?
🍁🍁🍁🍁
One determined party planner + one grumpy pumpkin farmer = a fall to remember…
Given the chance to plan her bestie’s 30th birthday bash, Wren Southwick is determined to create an experience so big and so bold that the name of her party planning business spreads beyond the confines of her own small town.
The key to her plan? The Finch family’s Goldleaf Pumpkin Farm. It’s not just the perfect venue but also the perfect supply partner for the autumnal-themed bash Wren envisions. But to get what she wants – and needs – she’ll have to get gorgeous grouch August Finch on board.
The table is set, and the battle is about to begin … but who will fall first?
🍁🍁🍁🍁
302 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 22, 2025
1109 people are currently reading
4436 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 746 reviews
August 20, 2025
REVIEW TO COME😍🍁💞🎃!!!!!!!!!!
September 20, 2025
More autism rep in books PLEASE!!!! This was so good! 🫶🏼🍂
September 27, 2025
3/5
- This was a really cute read! I always find myself leaning into cozy romances like this in autumn and this was the perfect book to read while snuggling under the covers!
- I wish there had been little to no spice in this book. I don’t know why, but cozy cutesy reads stand so well on their own without spice so sometimes is jarring when the spice jumps into the story!
- The mmc was grumpy and I don’t usually enjoy that in books but I really loved it in this one! I love how we really got to see where he struggled and loved the autism representation too!
- This was a really cute read! I always find myself leaning into cozy romances like this in autumn and this was the perfect book to read while snuggling under the covers!
- I wish there had been little to no spice in this book. I don’t know why, but cozy cutesy reads stand so well on their own without spice so sometimes is jarring when the spice jumps into the story!
- The mmc was grumpy and I don’t usually enjoy that in books but I really loved it in this one! I love how we really got to see where he struggled and loved the autism representation too!
June 25, 2025
I received a free copy of, There's Pumpkin About You, by Athena Carstairs, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Wren has a partying planning business, her bff is turning 30 and she wants to plan a great birthday party for her. I did not care for Wren or her attitude, or the language in this book. I thought this would be a great fall read, but it was not.
September 28, 2025
3.5 stars rounded up.
This book had the word "whilst" in it 58 TIMES!
That's an average of once every 8 minutes in the audiobook, it was honestly so distracting!
*takes deep breath*
Aside from that this was a cute story. The autism rep was done well and I enjoyed the side characters. Sometimes the grumpiness felt a little mean but Wren seemed to take it better than I did.
Wish Wren's hair had been curly on the cover since that is how it's described in the book.
This book had the word "whilst" in it 58 TIMES!
That's an average of once every 8 minutes in the audiobook, it was honestly so distracting!
*takes deep breath*
Aside from that this was a cute story. The autism rep was done well and I enjoyed the side characters. Sometimes the grumpiness felt a little mean but Wren seemed to take it better than I did.
Wish Wren's hair had been curly on the cover since that is how it's described in the book.
July 28, 2025
This was such a gorgeous, cosy autumn read with a grumpy-sunshine romance, and a neurodiverse perspective.
Wren is a party planner who has been given a very important job - to organise her best friend's 30th birthday party at a local pumpkin farm. But when she arrives at the venue and finds it somewhat lacking, she strikes up a deal with the brothers who run it to help them renovate the place. One of the brothers is August ("Gus"/"Auggie") Finch, who she immediately butts heads with after his goat bites her on the behind! I'm sure you can figure out where this story goes!
This book had the most immaculate fall vibes - we might be in the middle of summer as I was reading it, but mentally, I was there in Eagletown's small town getting ready for autumn.
The characters were brilliant, especially August who struggles to make himself understood through his autism. As someone who describes myself as "probably neurospicy", it was interesting to see parallels in some areas, and see how different it can be for others. I did feel at times it was overdone in the narrative as I think the author tried to put in more explanation than was needed, especially I think the people who are likely to pick up this book don't need to be taught about it, but I can see why it was there. It was a new angle in a romance book for me though, and I really enjoyed it.
Overall, it's a pretty light, fluffy read - a perfect palette cleanser book for the autumn months. Not as outstanding as other romances, but I think it holds its own well against them thanks to the vibes and sassy characters - definite Gilmore Girls feel! It's not the author's debut, but it did feel like an early piece of writing in their career, and I think we can expect to see more works that get better and better from her!
Thank you to Netgalley, the author and the publishers for a review copy of this book.
Wren is a party planner who has been given a very important job - to organise her best friend's 30th birthday party at a local pumpkin farm. But when she arrives at the venue and finds it somewhat lacking, she strikes up a deal with the brothers who run it to help them renovate the place. One of the brothers is August ("Gus"/"Auggie") Finch, who she immediately butts heads with after his goat bites her on the behind! I'm sure you can figure out where this story goes!
This book had the most immaculate fall vibes - we might be in the middle of summer as I was reading it, but mentally, I was there in Eagletown's small town getting ready for autumn.
The characters were brilliant, especially August who struggles to make himself understood through his autism. As someone who describes myself as "probably neurospicy", it was interesting to see parallels in some areas, and see how different it can be for others. I did feel at times it was overdone in the narrative as I think the author tried to put in more explanation than was needed, especially I think the people who are likely to pick up this book don't need to be taught about it, but I can see why it was there. It was a new angle in a romance book for me though, and I really enjoyed it.
Overall, it's a pretty light, fluffy read - a perfect palette cleanser book for the autumn months. Not as outstanding as other romances, but I think it holds its own well against them thanks to the vibes and sassy characters - definite Gilmore Girls feel! It's not the author's debut, but it did feel like an early piece of writing in their career, and I think we can expect to see more works that get better and better from her!
Thank you to Netgalley, the author and the publishers for a review copy of this book.
November 21, 2025
This started off fine with typical fall book vibes feeling like the book form of a cheesy Hallmark movie and then it took a sharp left. The decision to mix the grumpy x sunshine trope with autism did not work well here. Most of the mmc Gus' grumpiness came off as asshole behavior and it didn't help that the fmc Wren called him an asshole herself multiple times on page. The constant bickering in an attempt at enemies to lovers banter came across as childish. Wren is supposed to be planning a 30th birthday party for her best friend and this planning is supposed to be bring her and the Gus together. But she rarely does any planning and just seems to hang around the time.
Small gripe that she doesn't look on the cover how she's described on page.
Small gripe that she doesn't look on the cover how she's described on page.
July 21, 2025
I actually DNF’d this book at 33% but I need to write a review anyways. Normally I hate when people do that but it’s important that you know the ASD representation in this book is abysmal, there is a reoccurring fatphobic plot point, and many other issues that will boil your blood. I want to support a young, brown author so I’ll try her next book and you should too. But I cannot in good consciousness recommend anyone read this book specifically.
September 30, 2025
There’s pumpkin about you by Athena Carstairs
This was an adorable small town fall romance, grumpy x sunshine, love the fall and pumpkin vibe. Omg Gus I love my big grumpy bear. I love the autism representation with his character. Wren is so sweet and understanding. Loved their back, forth and small bickering. I love them together. The trope where one has to help take care of the other gobble gobble. This book was adorable ate this up 🥰.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This was an adorable small town fall romance, grumpy x sunshine, love the fall and pumpkin vibe. Omg Gus I love my big grumpy bear. I love the autism representation with his character. Wren is so sweet and understanding. Loved their back, forth and small bickering. I love them together. The trope where one has to help take care of the other gobble gobble. This book was adorable ate this up 🥰.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
September 22, 2025
I received a copy of this book for free for promotional purposes.
This was a super cute fall romance!
The set up is not the greatest and is the weakest part of the book. The party at the pumpkin farm and fixing up the barn premise didn’t quite work. But since this is a romance I just rolled with it. The book is also a bit of a slow burn, so it takes a bit for the story to really get going.
The two leads, Wren and August, were cute together. I loved seeing their relationship slowly develop. August was so sweet to Wren and Wren became very understanding towards August. As for the side characters, I hope some of them get their own books. I am really curious about Bash and Raven and what went down between the two of them.
I liked that there was an epilogue that gave you a small glimpse into August and Wren’s future. Sometimes romances end right when the couple gets together, so I enjoyed seeing what happened after.
Since the book features an autistic male lead, the author included a note at the beginning stating her intentions and that autism is a spectrum. I loved the autism representation and thought it was well done. There was a lot of explanation within the story about August’s autism and how it affects him.
I loved the playlist that the author included. I am such a fan of music being incorporated into the reading experience. The playlist was absolute fire. It included artists such as Lana Del Rey, Taylor Swift, Harry Styles, Lorde, and Hozier. It even included the most underrated Sabrina Carpenter song, “Tornado Warnings.”
Overall, this was an adorable romance with lots of fall vibes!
This was a super cute fall romance!
The set up is not the greatest and is the weakest part of the book. The party at the pumpkin farm and fixing up the barn premise didn’t quite work. But since this is a romance I just rolled with it. The book is also a bit of a slow burn, so it takes a bit for the story to really get going.
The two leads, Wren and August, were cute together. I loved seeing their relationship slowly develop. August was so sweet to Wren and Wren became very understanding towards August. As for the side characters, I hope some of them get their own books. I am really curious about Bash and Raven and what went down between the two of them.
I liked that there was an epilogue that gave you a small glimpse into August and Wren’s future. Sometimes romances end right when the couple gets together, so I enjoyed seeing what happened after.
Since the book features an autistic male lead, the author included a note at the beginning stating her intentions and that autism is a spectrum. I loved the autism representation and thought it was well done. There was a lot of explanation within the story about August’s autism and how it affects him.
I loved the playlist that the author included. I am such a fan of music being incorporated into the reading experience. The playlist was absolute fire. It included artists such as Lana Del Rey, Taylor Swift, Harry Styles, Lorde, and Hozier. It even included the most underrated Sabrina Carpenter song, “Tornado Warnings.”
Overall, this was an adorable romance with lots of fall vibes!
July 3, 2025
made it out alive, but i think i lost it.
i am very, very disappointed. i know i was reading this out of season, but i don't think reading it in the fall would've changed my opinion on it. between them sharing one (1) conversation, which just so happened to be antagonistic as heck, and gus' brother telling him "oh you like her", gus indirectly calling wren a bitch, and wren's determination to make everyone do her bidding, i did not have fun.
the setting was my favorite part. the side characters weren't particularly memorable and had little going on for them besides their role in the story (the bff! the brother! the GRUMPY brother! the side couple!) and they were just there to serve the main characters' purpose.
overall, i think the author is dedicated. i can't speak on behalf of the ASD representation, but she claims to have done her research and wanted to come from a place of empathy.
thanks to netgalley and the publisher for sending me an arc in exchange for an honest review
i am very, very disappointed. i know i was reading this out of season, but i don't think reading it in the fall would've changed my opinion on it. between them sharing one (1) conversation, which just so happened to be antagonistic as heck, and gus' brother telling him "oh you like her", gus indirectly calling wren a bitch, and wren's determination to make everyone do her bidding, i did not have fun.
the setting was my favorite part. the side characters weren't particularly memorable and had little going on for them besides their role in the story (the bff! the brother! the GRUMPY brother! the side couple!) and they were just there to serve the main characters' purpose.
overall, i think the author is dedicated. i can't speak on behalf of the ASD representation, but she claims to have done her research and wanted to come from a place of empathy.
thanks to netgalley and the publisher for sending me an arc in exchange for an honest review
September 12, 2025
2.5⭐️ The cover of this is absolutely adorable, but unfortunately the book itself was all over the place for me. Some moments were heartfelt and made me start to feel invested, but then so many other moments fell flat.
Both MCs were rude to each other to the point where it felt borderline like bullying. And while I did really appreciate some aspects of the hero’s autism representation, I found it odd that he labeled himself out loud within a minute of meeting her and then it felt like that was used as the reason why he got away with swearing at her and saying some lowkey fatphobic comments. I just didn’t believe that Wren would want to dig deeper to get to know and fall for him when he was SO rude to her through a good chunk of the book. Not saying the representation was bad by any means, but I’m just sure how I felt about some of the aspects of it.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for a free eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Both MCs were rude to each other to the point where it felt borderline like bullying. And while I did really appreciate some aspects of the hero’s autism representation, I found it odd that he labeled himself out loud within a minute of meeting her and then it felt like that was used as the reason why he got away with swearing at her and saying some lowkey fatphobic comments. I just didn’t believe that Wren would want to dig deeper to get to know and fall for him when he was SO rude to her through a good chunk of the book. Not saying the representation was bad by any means, but I’m just sure how I felt about some of the aspects of it.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for a free eARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 5, 2025
I am too feminist for this book. Like, sorry, but autism is not an excuse for being an asshole. Even when reading in the light most favourable to August, he is an asshole. For like a solid third of the book. And I just am not into "oh, but he's an asshole because he likes you." Nope. This is not 1952. Emotionally stunted men who can't handle feeling anything other than anger or lust are not my thing. It is not a woman's job to coddle men who refuse to go to therapy.
The writing wasn't terrible. I'll give it that. Have definitely read worse books. There were some serious formatting issues, though, and I'm not sure where Carstairs is from but it's pretty obviously not the US. UK, if I had to take a guess. Which isn't inherently a problem, but when writing American characters it's a good idea to at least have an American run through to remove things like "whilst" and "dodgy".
The writing wasn't terrible. I'll give it that. Have definitely read worse books. There were some serious formatting issues, though, and I'm not sure where Carstairs is from but it's pretty obviously not the US. UK, if I had to take a guess. Which isn't inherently a problem, but when writing American characters it's a good idea to at least have an American run through to remove things like "whilst" and "dodgy".
July 12, 2025
ARC - 2.5/5⭐️ (rounded up) I was really vibing with the fall themes and the setting of this book 🍂🎃😎 however, I just didn’t love this one. It was good, but I wish there was more romance and I wish it picked up faster. The disappointment is partly my fault though because I was really hoping for it to be like The Pumpkin Spice Cafe book 😬
Some of the interactions between characters just seemed disingenuous to me. I found myself cringing at some of these interactions. I couldn’t really put my finger on it but something was missing. I liked Wren as a main character; she had a spunky personality. I really liked how she wasn’t afraid to speak her mind and say how she felt; I think Gus needed someone like that.
It really seemed like the author did her research about ASD when incorporating characters with this; I just can’t really speak on how accurate the representation was though but the effort seemed to be there.
Thank you to NetGalley for the advance reader copy 🧡
Some of the interactions between characters just seemed disingenuous to me. I found myself cringing at some of these interactions. I couldn’t really put my finger on it but something was missing. I liked Wren as a main character; she had a spunky personality. I really liked how she wasn’t afraid to speak her mind and say how she felt; I think Gus needed someone like that.
It really seemed like the author did her research about ASD when incorporating characters with this; I just can’t really speak on how accurate the representation was though but the effort seemed to be there.
Thank you to NetGalley for the advance reader copy 🧡
August 27, 2025
Shelving this bc quite frankly I did not like it & im not forcing myself to finish even though I spent my lil coins on it. Hows the author going to make the female lead a party planner yet she does none of the actual party planning???????? The autism rep was half assed & the writing is just corny. Not my taste at all.
September 22, 2025
Wren Southwick receives a plea from her best friend Oakleigh to plan the best 30th birthday party a girl could ever wish for. A party planner by trade this could be the event to turn her recently slow business around. Oakleigh knows of a local pumpkin farm that might just be able to supply the backdrop to this fall themed extravaganza. Armed with determination and the farmers favourite caffeinated beverages (thanks to everyone’s favourite small town barista) Wren arrives with her original plan becoming instantly altered. There’s a barn space that would be absolutely perfect to house her event. The problem? It’s in need of much repair. The solution? Her contractor big brother. The problem again? The surly pumpkin farmer himself. He’s not interested in partnering with Wren despite how good her business proposal. Wren knows her plan is a good one and she’ll do what it takes to show him they would be good together.
Fall is my absolute favourite so reading this book with all its cozy fall energy felt nothing short of perfect. Not only does this book give you all of the fall feels I mean literally there’s a pumpkin farm as the main backdrop it also gives you all the other feels a good romance strives for. You’ve got a FMC that’s been recently wronged in love and is afraid of opening her heart again. You’ve got a MMC who holds a diagnosis of autism and feels alienated on a daily basis by his town and has a hard time understanding people’s motivations/ wanting to engage with those outside of his main circle and you’ve got supporting characters who’ll cheer these two on and encourage them to see outside of their own pain to a future that could be just as magic as the fall season. These grumpy-shine shine opposites defiantly attract and I loved reading their journey.
Shout out for the excellent adult living with autism depiction. It was equal parts touching and heartbreaking to read how difficult August’s life had been with his disorder. How Wren interacted with Gus and tried to meet him where he was/asked him to recount his lived experiences was everything. The way her presence in his life made him want to be a more kind and thoughtful version of himself even though that’s not how he’s always been treated- exquisite.
Fall is my absolute favourite so reading this book with all its cozy fall energy felt nothing short of perfect. Not only does this book give you all of the fall feels I mean literally there’s a pumpkin farm as the main backdrop it also gives you all the other feels a good romance strives for. You’ve got a FMC that’s been recently wronged in love and is afraid of opening her heart again. You’ve got a MMC who holds a diagnosis of autism and feels alienated on a daily basis by his town and has a hard time understanding people’s motivations/ wanting to engage with those outside of his main circle and you’ve got supporting characters who’ll cheer these two on and encourage them to see outside of their own pain to a future that could be just as magic as the fall season. These grumpy-shine shine opposites defiantly attract and I loved reading their journey.
Shout out for the excellent adult living with autism depiction. It was equal parts touching and heartbreaking to read how difficult August’s life had been with his disorder. How Wren interacted with Gus and tried to meet him where he was/asked him to recount his lived experiences was everything. The way her presence in his life made him want to be a more kind and thoughtful version of himself even though that’s not how he’s always been treated- exquisite.
November 4, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ 3.5 stars!!!
This was a cute and cozy fall read. Perfect for the season. I loved the setting on a pumpkin farm and the small town vibes were incredible.
While I did enjoy this, I did find the second half harder to get through than the first. Wren and Gus hooking up before exchanging "i love yous" personally didn't work for me. I also think this would have benefited from being closed door because the random spice scene gave us nothing and felt forced and unnecessary.
This book has not one but TWO third act break ups and that's officially when it went from a solid 4 stars to a 3.5 because why?? I also didn't like how dramatic and fickle the main characters were with one another. They're supposed to be in their 30s yet they book freak out about catching feelings for each other and it felt very juvenile to react that way. Needing an intervention to sort out your feelings feels emotionally immature.
The biggest complaint I have with this book is that the MMC on the cover of this book does not match the way he is described inside the actual book. Where are his glasses? Where is his sling? I personally love a hero with glasses so I was especially disappointed to see that they didn't give up proper artwork to enjoy.
This was a cute and cozy fall read. Perfect for the season. I loved the setting on a pumpkin farm and the small town vibes were incredible.
While I did enjoy this, I did find the second half harder to get through than the first. Wren and Gus hooking up before exchanging "i love yous" personally didn't work for me. I also think this would have benefited from being closed door because the random spice scene gave us nothing and felt forced and unnecessary.
This book has not one but TWO third act break ups and that's officially when it went from a solid 4 stars to a 3.5 because why?? I also didn't like how dramatic and fickle the main characters were with one another. They're supposed to be in their 30s yet they book freak out about catching feelings for each other and it felt very juvenile to react that way. Needing an intervention to sort out your feelings feels emotionally immature.
The biggest complaint I have with this book is that the MMC on the cover of this book does not match the way he is described inside the actual book. Where are his glasses? Where is his sling? I personally love a hero with glasses so I was especially disappointed to see that they didn't give up proper artwork to enjoy.
November 6, 2025
Sweet, cute, full of autumnal cosy vibes, There's Pumpkin About You is a charming easy read perfect for an afternoon curled up under the blanket.
August 14, 2025
This mastered the fall vibes! The small town of Eaglewood felt so cozy, with its failing pumpkin farm run by three brothers. Wren Southwick, a determined party planner, is set on throwing her best friend an unforgettable 30th birthday and boosting her business in the process. Her dream venue is the Goldleaf Farm’s barn, but securing it means convincing its grumpy owner, August Finch, to get on board.
I thought the autism representation was really heartfelt. August is blunt, self-assertive, sometimes painfully honest, and avoids people because of the constant judgment and misunderstanding he gets from the locals. I really felt for him. He tries SO HARD (and fails) to keep his guard up around Wren. Their acceptance of each other for exactly who they are was probably my favourite part.
As for the romance, it’s what I’d call “slow burn insta-love.” Very tropey and fun, and I know ten years ago I would have devoured it without question. But now, I think I just wanted more. The chemistry felt a little forced and formulaic at times, and some of their reactions—especially considering they’d just met—were a bit over the top, like the story was working extra hard to sell the enemies-to-lovers aspect. But overall, it was a sweet, easy read that left me excited for the fall season!
(heat level: 1 open-door scene, explicit details)
I voluntarily read and reviewed and advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I thought the autism representation was really heartfelt. August is blunt, self-assertive, sometimes painfully honest, and avoids people because of the constant judgment and misunderstanding he gets from the locals. I really felt for him. He tries SO HARD (and fails) to keep his guard up around Wren. Their acceptance of each other for exactly who they are was probably my favourite part.
As for the romance, it’s what I’d call “slow burn insta-love.” Very tropey and fun, and I know ten years ago I would have devoured it without question. But now, I think I just wanted more. The chemistry felt a little forced and formulaic at times, and some of their reactions—especially considering they’d just met—were a bit over the top, like the story was working extra hard to sell the enemies-to-lovers aspect. But overall, it was a sweet, easy read that left me excited for the fall season!
(heat level: 1 open-door scene, explicit details)
I voluntarily read and reviewed and advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 28, 2025
2⭐️
I knew before starting There’s Pumpkin About You that it wasn’t exactly loved by the masses. Still, I went in hoping to find something that others might’ve missed—something I could love.
I guess to start with the good, I loved the world! The idea of five little towns all connected by a river was such a charming and cozy backdrop. Add in the autumnal vibes, farm animals, and small town quirks, and it had all the makings of a perfect seasonal read.
That said, it was immediately apparent to me that Athena Carstairs style of writing and my expectations for good storytelling wouldn’t align. The overwhelming use of “tell, not show” was a major letdown. There are solid bones to this story—autism representation, family conflict, deeper emotional threads—but the execution left a lot to be desired.
I want to be careful and respectful when discussing the autism representation. I did read Carstairs’ disclaimer at the beginning, and I appreciate the intent. However, the portrayal felt more like a textbook definition than a nuanced, lived in experience. Gus’s autism wasn’t woven naturally into his character—it became his entire character. The story didn’t show us how his neurodivergence shaped his life or relationships; it was instead delivered in long winded explanations that spanned the entire novel.
The biggest issue, though, was how this representation was paired with some very questionable romantic tropes. Gus made repeated comments about Wren’s intelligence, appearance, and weight. Unfortunately, it was all brushed off under the umbrella of “neurodivergence.” That excuse felt weak at best and deeply uncomfortable at worst. Autism representation deserves better than what was delivered here.
When you take all of that into consideration, it’s hard for me to feel any chemistry between these two characters. I wish this book had of worked for me, as I said, the bones for a great story is there. I just could never wrap my mind around Athena Carstairs execution. 🚜🍂
I knew before starting There’s Pumpkin About You that it wasn’t exactly loved by the masses. Still, I went in hoping to find something that others might’ve missed—something I could love.
I guess to start with the good, I loved the world! The idea of five little towns all connected by a river was such a charming and cozy backdrop. Add in the autumnal vibes, farm animals, and small town quirks, and it had all the makings of a perfect seasonal read.
That said, it was immediately apparent to me that Athena Carstairs style of writing and my expectations for good storytelling wouldn’t align. The overwhelming use of “tell, not show” was a major letdown. There are solid bones to this story—autism representation, family conflict, deeper emotional threads—but the execution left a lot to be desired.
I want to be careful and respectful when discussing the autism representation. I did read Carstairs’ disclaimer at the beginning, and I appreciate the intent. However, the portrayal felt more like a textbook definition than a nuanced, lived in experience. Gus’s autism wasn’t woven naturally into his character—it became his entire character. The story didn’t show us how his neurodivergence shaped his life or relationships; it was instead delivered in long winded explanations that spanned the entire novel.
The biggest issue, though, was how this representation was paired with some very questionable romantic tropes. Gus made repeated comments about Wren’s intelligence, appearance, and weight. Unfortunately, it was all brushed off under the umbrella of “neurodivergence.” That excuse felt weak at best and deeply uncomfortable at worst. Autism representation deserves better than what was delivered here.
When you take all of that into consideration, it’s hard for me to feel any chemistry between these two characters. I wish this book had of worked for me, as I said, the bones for a great story is there. I just could never wrap my mind around Athena Carstairs execution. 🚜🍂
June 18, 2025
in the mood or in need for some cozy autumn vibes? well u should pick this short n’ sweet book and put in on your tbr because it checks all the boxes that u have imagined by that gorgeous and lovely cover 🧡.
firstly i truly need to say that i loved the playlist of the book because i found a lot of favourite songs by some of my favs and for the vibes those are perfect so 👏🏻👏🏻
then i have to say that i’ve read this book in one sitting and not just because it was really short but also because it was a very adorable world to immerse and escape! i truly enjoyed the cozy atmosphere and mood described that it made me want even more to be in the fall season with my blankets and cozy drinks ☕️ .
we are set in eaglewood a small town that gives the stars hollow vibes (ikyk) with its various characters and among them we have a farmer with his brother and his farm full of funny and cute animals! this farmer’s called august and he’s autistic and grumpy when he wants to be and well he’s very grumpy because he meets wren our party planner everything will change and not for him but also for her since the start they had chemistry combined with a lot of truly delightful and funny moments that i truly loved and made me smile while reading and i have to say that there were some hints at other characters relationships that made me feel very curious 👀 so i would be interested in reading about their stories in future if there is the occasion but among the romance aspect we also got the chance to explore the perception of people and how it can affect your life and it made me feel very protective about gus especially in certain situations and we also saw how is it important to be the better version of ourselves by putting ourselves as our first priority thanks to wren story and i think that these aspects were very important in the story!!
a lot of thanks to netgalley, harpercollins uk and one more chapter for sending me the e-arc of this cozy story in exchange for my honest opinion!!
firstly i truly need to say that i loved the playlist of the book because i found a lot of favourite songs by some of my favs and for the vibes those are perfect so 👏🏻👏🏻
then i have to say that i’ve read this book in one sitting and not just because it was really short but also because it was a very adorable world to immerse and escape! i truly enjoyed the cozy atmosphere and mood described that it made me want even more to be in the fall season with my blankets and cozy drinks ☕️ .
we are set in eaglewood a small town that gives the stars hollow vibes (ikyk) with its various characters and among them we have a farmer with his brother and his farm full of funny and cute animals! this farmer’s called august and he’s autistic and grumpy when he wants to be and well he’s very grumpy because he meets wren our party planner everything will change and not for him but also for her since the start they had chemistry combined with a lot of truly delightful and funny moments that i truly loved and made me smile while reading and i have to say that there were some hints at other characters relationships that made me feel very curious 👀 so i would be interested in reading about their stories in future if there is the occasion but among the romance aspect we also got the chance to explore the perception of people and how it can affect your life and it made me feel very protective about gus especially in certain situations and we also saw how is it important to be the better version of ourselves by putting ourselves as our first priority thanks to wren story and i think that these aspects were very important in the story!!
a lot of thanks to netgalley, harpercollins uk and one more chapter for sending me the e-arc of this cozy story in exchange for my honest opinion!!
July 31, 2025
Ugh I wanted to like this so badly. But I couldn’t stand the way the FMC Wren treated the MMC Gus. They bickered constantly and it was as though the author was trying to make it flirty but it just wasn’t.
Some key plot points also irked me -
*Spoilers below this point!
Wren is a party planner, but realistically what did she plan? Gus organised all the food, sweets, flowers, drinks and then he also worked at fixing up the barn.
The ‘big’ fight at the end seemed super unnecessary. It felt shoehorned in to add conflict and make a resolution happen.
Wren said she wanted to understand Gus’s autism but then snapped at him every time he reacted to something in a way she didn’t like.
There’s probably more but I’m sad this didn’t live up to what I thought it would be! Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC.
Some key plot points also irked me -
*Spoilers below this point!
Wren is a party planner, but realistically what did she plan? Gus organised all the food, sweets, flowers, drinks and then he also worked at fixing up the barn.
The ‘big’ fight at the end seemed super unnecessary. It felt shoehorned in to add conflict and make a resolution happen.
Wren said she wanted to understand Gus’s autism but then snapped at him every time he reacted to something in a way she didn’t like.
There’s probably more but I’m sad this didn’t live up to what I thought it would be! Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC.
September 18, 2025
If you are in Booked on a Feelin', scroll fast please! We can talk about it at book club....everyone else, please continue reading.
I wanted to love this, I really did. Fall is my favorite theme of romance books, and this one just fell really flat for me. The MMC has autism, love that the author wanted to include that, but it was brought up the entire book. It did not really feel like anyone was growing from conversations or willing to understand. That was a miss for me.
The best characters in my opinion were Nigel and Jamie, loved them!
I wanted to love this, I really did. Fall is my favorite theme of romance books, and this one just fell really flat for me. The MMC has autism, love that the author wanted to include that, but it was brought up the entire book. It did not really feel like anyone was growing from conversations or willing to understand. That was a miss for me.
The best characters in my opinion were Nigel and Jamie, loved them!
November 18, 2025
-foarte drăguțe personajele.
-povestea este clasică, două extreme care se îndrăgostesc treptat și încearcă să ajungă la un numitor comun.
-sunt descrise destul de bine gândurile și stările lui, am înțeles mai bine cum este să te afli în spectrul autist.
-simt că e un prim volum dintr-o serie, a fost ceva tensiune între două personaje secundare
-povestea este clasică, două extreme care se îndrăgostesc treptat și încearcă să ajungă la un numitor comun.
-sunt descrise destul de bine gândurile și stările lui, am înțeles mai bine cum este să te afli în spectrul autist.
-simt că e un prim volum dintr-o serie, a fost ceva tensiune între două personaje secundare
November 5, 2025
3,5⭐️ positief verrast, zat meer diepgang in dan gedacht
August 23, 2025
4.5/5 stars This is a cutesy book that will have you giggling. I am a huge fan of grumpy, sunshine romances. I absolutely love them. But add that main character has Autism and it’s 1000% better. Gus is rigid and grumpy, set in his ways. Then along comes Wren who makes him second guess all of his choices and makes him feel things he didn’t know he could. As part owner of a pumpkin farm Gus is working on ensuring his family makes ends meet. Until Wren comes in like a whirlwind and horrors Gus’ entire world. This romance is everything you didn’t know you needed.
November 9, 2025
She’s got gumption and he’s got his grumpy on. His brother sees love at first sight, but that looked more like fight at first sight. Autumn vibes and a fun grumpy-sunshine romance brought me to new to me author, Athena Carstair’s standalone There’s Pumpkin About You.
Wren’s got big plans to make her bestie’s party THE “Event”. She has stars in her eyes for leaving the small town for the big time with a successful launch of her career to the broader world. The pumpkin farm run by August “Gus” and his brother is spot on for venue and supplier. Only, erm, she and Gus get off on the wrong foot- a goat bite in the tush will do it.
From Gus’ perspective, the one-woman whirlwind is an itch he can’t scratch. Neurodivergent and treated poorly by his local community, Gus’ world is the farm that isn’t doing well financially. He can’t read people’s expressions and is direct to the point of rudeness in other’s eyes, but on the inside, he’s warmhearted and lonely. This pair get off to a firecracker start, but Wren’s ways, as abrasive as Gus’, work for them. He gets her and, bless her, Wren for her faults gets Gus.
There’s Pumpkin About You was a surprise both good and not-so good. I was unaware there was a neuro-divergent hero and Wren’s forcefulness took me aback. I didn’t like her at first and for a long while, to be frank, and, when I think about it- the party planner might actually want to roll up her sleeves and party plan.
I really appreciated the author’s choice to tell this from both their perspectives. I needed to see the story from both sides. And, without personal knowledge, I felt Gus’ character and thoughts were authentic. Some happenings near the end got me muttering, but all around the fall flavor and this romance pair when they ironed it out and fell for each other hit the caramel apple level of sweetness I was anticipating.
Pour a cup of There’s Pumpkin About You to spice up your fall reading.
I rec'd an eARC via NetGalley to read in exchange for an honest review.
My full review will post at Caffeinated Reviewer 10.28.25.
Wren’s got big plans to make her bestie’s party THE “Event”. She has stars in her eyes for leaving the small town for the big time with a successful launch of her career to the broader world. The pumpkin farm run by August “Gus” and his brother is spot on for venue and supplier. Only, erm, she and Gus get off on the wrong foot- a goat bite in the tush will do it.
From Gus’ perspective, the one-woman whirlwind is an itch he can’t scratch. Neurodivergent and treated poorly by his local community, Gus’ world is the farm that isn’t doing well financially. He can’t read people’s expressions and is direct to the point of rudeness in other’s eyes, but on the inside, he’s warmhearted and lonely. This pair get off to a firecracker start, but Wren’s ways, as abrasive as Gus’, work for them. He gets her and, bless her, Wren for her faults gets Gus.
There’s Pumpkin About You was a surprise both good and not-so good. I was unaware there was a neuro-divergent hero and Wren’s forcefulness took me aback. I didn’t like her at first and for a long while, to be frank, and, when I think about it- the party planner might actually want to roll up her sleeves and party plan.
I really appreciated the author’s choice to tell this from both their perspectives. I needed to see the story from both sides. And, without personal knowledge, I felt Gus’ character and thoughts were authentic. Some happenings near the end got me muttering, but all around the fall flavor and this romance pair when they ironed it out and fell for each other hit the caramel apple level of sweetness I was anticipating.
Pour a cup of There’s Pumpkin About You to spice up your fall reading.
I rec'd an eARC via NetGalley to read in exchange for an honest review.
My full review will post at Caffeinated Reviewer 10.28.25.
September 22, 2025
3 stars
1 for spice
I loved the cute fall cover of this one. The small-town setting was perfect, with the struggling but beautiful pumpkin farm, coffee shop, and the adorable farm animals. It just had that autumn atmosphere, with neighbors ready to lend a hand and two struggling businesses helping each other out. It had a disability representation in this story, which I love seeing in stories as well as diverse characters in this book. That being said I had a couple of issues, one of them being with how the folks of the town interacted and spoke about the MMC. They felt like they were all warning Wren, to go away and not to get close to the family. There was just a lot of miscommunication and closed mindedness, around him and I really wanted more from the ending of this story in regards acceptance, growth, and happiness. Finally, I really wanted to feel more of a romantic connection to grow, it really felt more like a friendship. I find the plot and pacing ok, overall, the book was fine, and I did enjoy reading certain parts of it.
I received an advanced ebook, via Netgalley. This review is my own honest opinion.
1 for spice
I loved the cute fall cover of this one. The small-town setting was perfect, with the struggling but beautiful pumpkin farm, coffee shop, and the adorable farm animals. It just had that autumn atmosphere, with neighbors ready to lend a hand and two struggling businesses helping each other out. It had a disability representation in this story, which I love seeing in stories as well as diverse characters in this book. That being said I had a couple of issues, one of them being with how the folks of the town interacted and spoke about the MMC. They felt like they were all warning Wren, to go away and not to get close to the family. There was just a lot of miscommunication and closed mindedness, around him and I really wanted more from the ending of this story in regards acceptance, growth, and happiness. Finally, I really wanted to feel more of a romantic connection to grow, it really felt more like a friendship. I find the plot and pacing ok, overall, the book was fine, and I did enjoy reading certain parts of it.
I received an advanced ebook, via Netgalley. This review is my own honest opinion.
October 21, 2025
Mais um romance de outono simplesmente lindo e muito fofo!!
É por situações como esta que eu amo ler autores novos e livros "não famosinhos". Gostei tanto deste livro!! Amei as personagens e as tropes de Grumpy Pumpkin Farmer x Sunshine Party Planner! Ele era mesmo grumpy e a picardia entre eles era super divertida! PAra além disso, algo que amo nos livros é quando há representação de pessoas neurodivergentes e aqui o Gus tem autismo, o que o torna ainda mais especial.
Amei todo o envolvimento de small town e o livro está cheio de animais que é algo que também amo!! Só gostava que se calhar tivesse um pouco mais de ação. Para além disso, não sei precisar o que faltou para ser um 5 estrelas, mas sei dizer que foi muito fofo e lindo e é daqueles romances de outono que irei sempre recomendar! Quero ler mais livros da autora!
É por situações como esta que eu amo ler autores novos e livros "não famosinhos". Gostei tanto deste livro!! Amei as personagens e as tropes de Grumpy Pumpkin Farmer x Sunshine Party Planner! Ele era mesmo grumpy e a picardia entre eles era super divertida! PAra além disso, algo que amo nos livros é quando há representação de pessoas neurodivergentes e aqui o Gus tem autismo, o que o torna ainda mais especial.
Amei todo o envolvimento de small town e o livro está cheio de animais que é algo que também amo!! Só gostava que se calhar tivesse um pouco mais de ação. Para além disso, não sei precisar o que faltou para ser um 5 estrelas, mas sei dizer que foi muito fofo e lindo e é daqueles romances de outono que irei sempre recomendar! Quero ler mais livros da autora!
September 23, 2025
i usually try to thug it out and finish but this was a no for me dog
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