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Rosedale Seasons #5
A Small Town Spring
When the artist is as much a work of art as his paintings, how am I supposed to resist falling in love?
When I first meet Toby Wheaton, I’m forced to slot the gorgeous artist into the category of unattainable. After all, he lives with his girlfriend, complete with cat. He might not be available, but I admire his work and hire him to do an oil painting of my weekend cottage, the kind of self-indulgent thing I can afford to do as a successful book agent. Besides, I can handle being just friends with a guy I’m intensely attracted to. Easiest thing in the world.
Keeping my distance gets harder once he and the cat move into my cottage on a temporary basis. But just because his cat seems to adore me doesn’t mean her owner does, too. I’m not about to jeopardize our friendship by making a move.
As the seasons change and we get closer, Toby reveals a secret about what he’s been working on in his studio and I have to decide if continuing to live with the man I love is worth him never knowing the truth about how I feel.
A Small Town Spring is a steamy, stand-alone, slow burn, friends-to-lovers, small-town m/m romance with no cheating!
When I first meet Toby Wheaton, I’m forced to slot the gorgeous artist into the category of unattainable. After all, he lives with his girlfriend, complete with cat. He might not be available, but I admire his work and hire him to do an oil painting of my weekend cottage, the kind of self-indulgent thing I can afford to do as a successful book agent. Besides, I can handle being just friends with a guy I’m intensely attracted to. Easiest thing in the world.
Keeping my distance gets harder once he and the cat move into my cottage on a temporary basis. But just because his cat seems to adore me doesn’t mean her owner does, too. I’m not about to jeopardize our friendship by making a move.
As the seasons change and we get closer, Toby reveals a secret about what he’s been working on in his studio and I have to decide if continuing to live with the man I love is worth him never knowing the truth about how I feel.
A Small Town Spring is a steamy, stand-alone, slow burn, friends-to-lovers, small-town m/m romance with no cheating!
294 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 14, 2025
About the author
Elle Waters
15 books18 followersFueled by chocolate and canned wine, Elle Waters writes smutty small town romance with guaranteed happy endings. She lives with her family in Connecticut. Sign up for her newsletter to hear about her next release!
Elle loves to hear from readers at elle@ellewatersauthor.com.
Elle loves to hear from readers at elle@ellewatersauthor.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
May 14, 2025
I am sad that Elle Waters has indicated this will be the last entry in the wonderful Rosedale series. It is such a delight to read these books with themes of encouragement, found families, and, of course, the evolving community influenced by those who come to live there.
In this final book of the series, Kingston James enjoys his time away from Manhattan by spending it in his favorite place, Rosedale, where Toby Wheaton and Ivy have become the town’s newest creative duo. Toby is better known as a painter than for the other media he works in, and his self-esteem is low. Kingston finds him visually appealing and appreciates his personality, but sees him as unattainable since he is living with his girlfriend, who works in hardscapes.
At the same time, Kingston explores the idea of leaving the Finister Agency, where he has been the top producer in managing literary projects for years. With his financial security, he wishes to create something focused on projects he truly enjoys, including some of the school-aged books whose authors he brought to the agency.
He encourages Toby to consider involving a friend to help host an exhibition of his work in New York. The preparation for that includes a new portrait imagined by Toby of Kingston. Several people view the work, but not Kingston, since Toby used photographs he took when commissioned to do an architectural painting of his home.
The two men are not pressured into a romantic relationship but rather develop a bond that starts with friendship. Eventually, Toby and Ivy decide they are unlikely to take their relationship any further, parting ways as very supportive friends.
This is where Elle Waters’ magic shines through. Toby moves in with Kingston, who has an unused guest room and mostly visits Rosedale for special events and weekends. Kingston falls for Toby and his cat, encouraging him to reach beyond what he currently does. Elle Waters masterfully uses the supportive community in Rosedale to foster this encouragement, allowing Kingston and Toby to discover their feelings for each other.
Our author has built a community of supporters, giving us insight into Kingston’s life in Manhattan and his blissful existence in Rosedale. The love story is heartwarming and resonates in a changing world.
Elle Waters has also left us with hope for a future return to Rosedale in her acknowledgments, and I hope for a sixth book where this special place continues to champion art and maintain its unique charm. It is a community that has a community infrastructure that is supportive of all good things. It is a great aspiration.
I received an advanced reader's digital copy of this book, but this review reflects my opinion, and the author or her representatives did not influence me.
In this final book of the series, Kingston James enjoys his time away from Manhattan by spending it in his favorite place, Rosedale, where Toby Wheaton and Ivy have become the town’s newest creative duo. Toby is better known as a painter than for the other media he works in, and his self-esteem is low. Kingston finds him visually appealing and appreciates his personality, but sees him as unattainable since he is living with his girlfriend, who works in hardscapes.
At the same time, Kingston explores the idea of leaving the Finister Agency, where he has been the top producer in managing literary projects for years. With his financial security, he wishes to create something focused on projects he truly enjoys, including some of the school-aged books whose authors he brought to the agency.
He encourages Toby to consider involving a friend to help host an exhibition of his work in New York. The preparation for that includes a new portrait imagined by Toby of Kingston. Several people view the work, but not Kingston, since Toby used photographs he took when commissioned to do an architectural painting of his home.
The two men are not pressured into a romantic relationship but rather develop a bond that starts with friendship. Eventually, Toby and Ivy decide they are unlikely to take their relationship any further, parting ways as very supportive friends.
This is where Elle Waters’ magic shines through. Toby moves in with Kingston, who has an unused guest room and mostly visits Rosedale for special events and weekends. Kingston falls for Toby and his cat, encouraging him to reach beyond what he currently does. Elle Waters masterfully uses the supportive community in Rosedale to foster this encouragement, allowing Kingston and Toby to discover their feelings for each other.
Our author has built a community of supporters, giving us insight into Kingston’s life in Manhattan and his blissful existence in Rosedale. The love story is heartwarming and resonates in a changing world.
Elle Waters has also left us with hope for a future return to Rosedale in her acknowledgments, and I hope for a sixth book where this special place continues to champion art and maintain its unique charm. It is a community that has a community infrastructure that is supportive of all good things. It is a great aspiration.
I received an advanced reader's digital copy of this book, but this review reflects my opinion, and the author or her representatives did not influence me.
May 14, 2025
If you love your romance with a deliciously drawn-out build up, this book is for you. A Small Town Spring by Elle Waters is the slowest of slow burns, but with chemistry and tension that sparks from the first meeting, the build-up feels less like waiting and more like savoring each layered moment. The mutual, but unspoken want for each other builds steadily with each lingering glance, each loaded silence, and every moment of maybe-this-is-it, until you're practically vibrating with anticipation. And when they inevitably come together - because this is a romance, after all - it is worth the wait.
Kingston was exactly what I expected based on his appearances in other books - composed, reserved, polished - but somehow also completely different. There are layers to him that we don't see until this book, and that we don't see until Toby starts to peel them away. Beneath the cool, unbothered facade is a man filled with longing and want and a touch of jealousy as his friends have paired off. He has a soul-deep need to find the man that he connects with the way his friends have.
And Toby? On the surface, his distracted, chaotic artistic energy should clash with Kingston's order and precision. But somehow, their relationship - in all its iterations - just works. Toby brings out the sides of Kingston you didn't know existed and that you didn't know you wanted to see. Together, they are tender, electric, and beautifully balanced. Toby doesn't unsettle Kingston, he softens him.
This book is all about the subtle details - the quiet domesticity of their roommate situation, the way the seasons mirror the shifts in their relationship, and the way even Toby's cat becomes a kind of emotional translator. When the truth of their feelings finally breaks through, the outcome is so beautifully worth it that it feels like the world exhales. Every almost-touch and withheld confession has led to a breathtaking kind of love that is built on true companionship and trust.
If you love beautiful, gentle stories about what it means to see and be seen, that are tender and careful and deeply romantic in a way that lingers, this is the book for you.
[I received an advanced copy of this book. All reviews and ratings are my own.]
Kingston was exactly what I expected based on his appearances in other books - composed, reserved, polished - but somehow also completely different. There are layers to him that we don't see until this book, and that we don't see until Toby starts to peel them away. Beneath the cool, unbothered facade is a man filled with longing and want and a touch of jealousy as his friends have paired off. He has a soul-deep need to find the man that he connects with the way his friends have.
And Toby? On the surface, his distracted, chaotic artistic energy should clash with Kingston's order and precision. But somehow, their relationship - in all its iterations - just works. Toby brings out the sides of Kingston you didn't know existed and that you didn't know you wanted to see. Together, they are tender, electric, and beautifully balanced. Toby doesn't unsettle Kingston, he softens him.
This book is all about the subtle details - the quiet domesticity of their roommate situation, the way the seasons mirror the shifts in their relationship, and the way even Toby's cat becomes a kind of emotional translator. When the truth of their feelings finally breaks through, the outcome is so beautifully worth it that it feels like the world exhales. Every almost-touch and withheld confession has led to a breathtaking kind of love that is built on true companionship and trust.
If you love beautiful, gentle stories about what it means to see and be seen, that are tender and careful and deeply romantic in a way that lingers, this is the book for you.
[I received an advanced copy of this book. All reviews and ratings are my own.]
May 18, 2025
MY OPINION: I’ve read books 2-4 and enjoyed them all. This one, however, I think is the best. These two men I am enchanted by, and I couldn’t get enough of this story.
Elle isn’t kidding when this is a slow-burn trope, but it is so wonderful. The story is deep and rich with plenty of background on both men. Giving you a real sense of where their minds and their hearts are. It was fun to see them both grow and change.
Kingston is amazing, and he exuded confidence on the pages. You could feel the type of man he was by the words, making me feel connected to him as a character. I wanted to know him, be part of his friend group. Realizing he is only human, with real fears, and goals is a treat—it is written incredibly well in my opinion.
Toby struggles with where his place is in life. He has talent and is scared to step forward. It is time for him to share his art with the world and move ahead in his life. You have a good feel for how he paints, how he handles himself, and his fears. Again, I wanted to know him. Have him as a friend.
There is a slow simmer through the entire book, but the spice is on the low end, and it is perfect for this story. The tension between the two is there, but they both do the right thing until they talk. The book is filled with lots of heat, lots of love, and a whole lot of story about two guys figuring out how to be in love. You have plenty of cameos from characters in other books, and it’s a great romance.
Pick this up and enjoy a wonderful love story with a happily ever after. Read the other books as well, but this is my favorite, I think. I am so glad I got to read this as an ARC and am sad this is the last of the series.
Elle isn’t kidding when this is a slow-burn trope, but it is so wonderful. The story is deep and rich with plenty of background on both men. Giving you a real sense of where their minds and their hearts are. It was fun to see them both grow and change.
Kingston is amazing, and he exuded confidence on the pages. You could feel the type of man he was by the words, making me feel connected to him as a character. I wanted to know him, be part of his friend group. Realizing he is only human, with real fears, and goals is a treat—it is written incredibly well in my opinion.
Toby struggles with where his place is in life. He has talent and is scared to step forward. It is time for him to share his art with the world and move ahead in his life. You have a good feel for how he paints, how he handles himself, and his fears. Again, I wanted to know him. Have him as a friend.
There is a slow simmer through the entire book, but the spice is on the low end, and it is perfect for this story. The tension between the two is there, but they both do the right thing until they talk. The book is filled with lots of heat, lots of love, and a whole lot of story about two guys figuring out how to be in love. You have plenty of cameos from characters in other books, and it’s a great romance.
Pick this up and enjoy a wonderful love story with a happily ever after. Read the other books as well, but this is my favorite, I think. I am so glad I got to read this as an ARC and am sad this is the last of the series.
May 24, 2025
3.75⭐️
I really enjoyed this. The found family and community vibes are as immaculate as Kingston’s wardrobe, and I connected with both Kingston and Toby’s personalities. I love Kingston’s confidence and charisma paired with his big heart and romantic soul. He’s open in most ways but still holds a piece of himself back bc he feels like he needs to be in control and the provider of whatever someone needs.
Toby is just a sweetheart. He’s warm and a bit cheeky and has been avoiding taking his life in his own hands. He’s just depended on Ivy to steer the course. However, when he decides to make a change, he’s all in despite his doubts. His conflict about knowing his worth in theory but being scared to try is very relatable. It’s also complicated by his fear of turning into to his shite dad. His difficult relationship with his dad is addressed very quickly, but it lets Toby see what he needs to in order to release that pain.
I appreciated how Ivy and Toby’s relationship and break-up is handled. It isn’t dramatic and is realistic in its saddening ease of parting and awkwardness when a romantic partnership ends long before the relationship. The slow burn is executed very smartly. Their partial cohabitation gives Toby the space he needs to get himself together and not get lost in a romance with Kingston too soon. They spend enough time living together to learn and grow without creating an environment of unsustainable UST. I liked their consideration of one another as friends and as lovers. Although the sweetness got dialed way too high at the end for my taste. There are only so many back-to-back “honeys”, “I love yous”, “I need yous” I can enjoy.
I really enjoyed this. The found family and community vibes are as immaculate as Kingston’s wardrobe, and I connected with both Kingston and Toby’s personalities. I love Kingston’s confidence and charisma paired with his big heart and romantic soul. He’s open in most ways but still holds a piece of himself back bc he feels like he needs to be in control and the provider of whatever someone needs.
Toby is just a sweetheart. He’s warm and a bit cheeky and has been avoiding taking his life in his own hands. He’s just depended on Ivy to steer the course. However, when he decides to make a change, he’s all in despite his doubts. His conflict about knowing his worth in theory but being scared to try is very relatable. It’s also complicated by his fear of turning into to his shite dad. His difficult relationship with his dad is addressed very quickly, but it lets Toby see what he needs to in order to release that pain.
I appreciated how Ivy and Toby’s relationship and break-up is handled. It isn’t dramatic and is realistic in its saddening ease of parting and awkwardness when a romantic partnership ends long before the relationship. The slow burn is executed very smartly. Their partial cohabitation gives Toby the space he needs to get himself together and not get lost in a romance with Kingston too soon. They spend enough time living together to learn and grow without creating an environment of unsustainable UST. I liked their consideration of one another as friends and as lovers. Although the sweetness got dialed way too high at the end for my taste. There are only so many back-to-back “honeys”, “I love yous”, “I need yous” I can enjoy.
April 12, 2026
When it comes to slow-burn romances, I usually get antsy because it often feels like you're slogging through filler or Jello just to get to the payoff. This book was different in that the two men were well-written and actually interesting--especially Kingston. I was rooting for both of them to figure out how to get the party started which kept me turning the page. Their inner dialogues were both funny and romantic.
Kingston, upon seeing Toby for the first time is bowled over. He describes him in his mind as being "beautiful! stunning!" Toby is adorable, sweet, lacks some confidence in himself, and, in my opinion, sometimes acts a little bit younger than "going-on-thirty-three." He needs to make a decisive move regarding his career. He is a very talented artist/painter.
Kingston is a 37-year-old literary agent who is tired of being the fifth wheel among his friends who are all "booed-up." He has had a good many relationships but nothing serious enough to be a committed one. He has been having some fears lately of never meeting his person. He is very self-assured (except where Toby is concerned) and established in his career. He's a fashion horse though with questionable taste (IMHO) and can be a little bit closed off with his friends when they inquire about his love life or try to set him up on dates. They seem to be concerned about him also. But Kingston is also a very kind, thoughtful and chivalrous man especially towards Toby. Sometimes he appears to be ages older than Toby rather than just 4 years older.
The only character I wasn't sure I liked very much was Toby's girlfriend. Oh, and I thought the spice between Toby and Kingston was spicing.
Kingston, upon seeing Toby for the first time is bowled over. He describes him in his mind as being "beautiful! stunning!" Toby is adorable, sweet, lacks some confidence in himself, and, in my opinion, sometimes acts a little bit younger than "going-on-thirty-three." He needs to make a decisive move regarding his career. He is a very talented artist/painter.
Kingston is a 37-year-old literary agent who is tired of being the fifth wheel among his friends who are all "booed-up." He has had a good many relationships but nothing serious enough to be a committed one. He has been having some fears lately of never meeting his person. He is very self-assured (except where Toby is concerned) and established in his career. He's a fashion horse though with questionable taste (IMHO) and can be a little bit closed off with his friends when they inquire about his love life or try to set him up on dates. They seem to be concerned about him also. But Kingston is also a very kind, thoughtful and chivalrous man especially towards Toby. Sometimes he appears to be ages older than Toby rather than just 4 years older.
The only character I wasn't sure I liked very much was Toby's girlfriend. Oh, and I thought the spice between Toby and Kingston was spicing.
May 11, 2025
Blueberry pancakes, purple spats, the G-twins, paisley-philia, 'my must-have', Beck's sugar cookies, the Trafalgar Sq Xmas tree, Cleo & Luna
What a great finish to a fantastic series! I'll miss the Rosedale men. Pete & Jack, Van & Beck, Charlie & Drew, and Shay & Connor are all wonderful characters and couples. Now we can add Kingston & Toby to that list. This is their dance, their love story. I hope we get future stories with the gang from author Elle Waters. Also, Rosedale is a lovely small country town I'd love to revisit.
Kingston is an interesting and peculiar fellow. He's all polished and obsessed with paisley. He's also a fashionista with impeccable and expensive taste. Kingston is confident, yet down-to-earth. He knows what he wants. What, or who, he wants is Toby.
Toby, an English artist, moved to Rosedale with his longtime girlfriend, Ivy, a sculptor. Everyone but him can see his genius. They all encourage and try to bolster him to expose his talent and himself to the world. But paradoxically, he's afraid of failure and more afraid of success at the same time. Toby lacks Kingston's self-confidence. Toby's and Ivy's 10-year relationship has been stagnating for a long time. At this point, they're more best friends than lovers. Is it just Toby's artistic eye that's drawn to Kingston? It's going to be a hard-fought struggle for both men.
I relished reading this book. So much so that I enthusiastically, nay, rabidly recommend reading this book and series!
What a great finish to a fantastic series! I'll miss the Rosedale men. Pete & Jack, Van & Beck, Charlie & Drew, and Shay & Connor are all wonderful characters and couples. Now we can add Kingston & Toby to that list. This is their dance, their love story. I hope we get future stories with the gang from author Elle Waters. Also, Rosedale is a lovely small country town I'd love to revisit.
Kingston is an interesting and peculiar fellow. He's all polished and obsessed with paisley. He's also a fashionista with impeccable and expensive taste. Kingston is confident, yet down-to-earth. He knows what he wants. What, or who, he wants is Toby.
Toby, an English artist, moved to Rosedale with his longtime girlfriend, Ivy, a sculptor. Everyone but him can see his genius. They all encourage and try to bolster him to expose his talent and himself to the world. But paradoxically, he's afraid of failure and more afraid of success at the same time. Toby lacks Kingston's self-confidence. Toby's and Ivy's 10-year relationship has been stagnating for a long time. At this point, they're more best friends than lovers. Is it just Toby's artistic eye that's drawn to Kingston? It's going to be a hard-fought struggle for both men.
I relished reading this book. So much so that I enthusiastically, nay, rabidly recommend reading this book and series!
May 15, 2025
3.5 stars
This story is the very definition of a slow-burn, low-angst, opposites-attract romance. Kingston's confidence in his career choice--he's a literary agent--and lifestyle contrasts well with Toby's uncertainty about his talent as an artist. Kingston is debonair, almost a dandy. Toby is style-challenged. Kingston's body and personality are larger and bolder than Toby's shyer, more sedate demeanor. Kingston's name is a clever nod to his Jamaican heritage, while Toby is an ex-pat Englishman. Kingston is successful, and it shows in more than his dapper dress code. Toby is a struggling artist, afraid to launch himself into the world.
Yet, despite these differences, they have a lot in common, and when circumstances force them to live together as roommates, their lives intertwine almost seamlessly. And both have one more important thing in common--they both start down new career paths that, in Toby's case, helps to build his confidence in himself as an artist.
It was a good story, but I couldn't round it up because, for one thing, Toby's breakup and subsequent relationship with his ex felt awkward. And Kingston's hemming and hawing about how to proceed, once Toby was single, seemed a bit juvenile to me. Also, I know that this is fiction, and we're meant to leave with all the feels at the end, but I also didn't like the way all the loose ends--Toby's first exhibition being sold out and the drama of his father's appearance--were tied up. They felt a bit forced to me.
This story is the very definition of a slow-burn, low-angst, opposites-attract romance. Kingston's confidence in his career choice--he's a literary agent--and lifestyle contrasts well with Toby's uncertainty about his talent as an artist. Kingston is debonair, almost a dandy. Toby is style-challenged. Kingston's body and personality are larger and bolder than Toby's shyer, more sedate demeanor. Kingston's name is a clever nod to his Jamaican heritage, while Toby is an ex-pat Englishman. Kingston is successful, and it shows in more than his dapper dress code. Toby is a struggling artist, afraid to launch himself into the world.
Yet, despite these differences, they have a lot in common, and when circumstances force them to live together as roommates, their lives intertwine almost seamlessly. And both have one more important thing in common--they both start down new career paths that, in Toby's case, helps to build his confidence in himself as an artist.
It was a good story, but I couldn't round it up because, for one thing, Toby's breakup and subsequent relationship with his ex felt awkward. And Kingston's hemming and hawing about how to proceed, once Toby was single, seemed a bit juvenile to me. Also, I know that this is fiction, and we're meant to leave with all the feels at the end, but I also didn't like the way all the loose ends--Toby's first exhibition being sold out and the drama of his father's appearance--were tied up. They felt a bit forced to me.
May 20, 2025
Wow.....what an enjoyable book this is ..... I'll be honest, I got this one as an arc review, so I haven't actually read the previous ones in the series. Are there spoilers, somewhat, but you could really read this as a standalone. Also, I just loved how the author broke up the chapters into seasons ....adds to the charm of the story. So, we have Kingston, a very suave and successful gentleman, who is now realising (and feeling) he's the third wheel amongst his friends. He kinda accepts that.....until he meets Toby. Now, I'll just add, there is definitely NO cheating in this book....but with the change of seasons, other changes happen with Kingston & Toby. This is a beautiful and romantic story. Loved the setting, how the characters slowly (and I mean slowly) developed their friendship that does become more.....after the slow burn and evident pining for each other. This is seriously a lovely book.....now I'm gonna got back to the beginning !!
May 8, 2025
Finally, Kingston gets his HEA.
Kingston has been looking for in all the wrong places for years. He thought Sergio was the answer, but after a couple of years he took off like a shot when he got a job offer at the other coast. He is reevaluating his career goals and comes to Rosedale to get his advice. What he wasn't expecting was to meet up and coming artist Toby Wheatly and his longtime girlfriend Ivy Miller. Kingston is instantly attracted to Toby, but Toby is taken, and Kingston doesn't poach. Resigned to admire from afar, Kingston does get Toby to agree to paint his cottage.
When Ivy decides to end their relationship, Toby is at loose ends about his next step. With Kingston only in town a couple of weekends a month, the logical solution is for Toby to move into the guest room. The fox is now in the hen house and it's only a matter of time.
Kingston has been looking for in all the wrong places for years. He thought Sergio was the answer, but after a couple of years he took off like a shot when he got a job offer at the other coast. He is reevaluating his career goals and comes to Rosedale to get his advice. What he wasn't expecting was to meet up and coming artist Toby Wheatly and his longtime girlfriend Ivy Miller. Kingston is instantly attracted to Toby, but Toby is taken, and Kingston doesn't poach. Resigned to admire from afar, Kingston does get Toby to agree to paint his cottage.
When Ivy decides to end their relationship, Toby is at loose ends about his next step. With Kingston only in town a couple of weekends a month, the logical solution is for Toby to move into the guest room. The fox is now in the hen house and it's only a matter of time.
May 12, 2025
A Small Town Spring by Elle Waters is book 5 in the Rosedale Seasons series. I have really enjoyed this series and was happy to read Kingston and Toby’s story. These two were drawn to each other from the moment they met though Toby was in a long term relationship with Ivy. Both are determined to be friends first even after Toby and Ivy break up. The pining here was top-notch though it did get to the point that I wished these two would just be honest with each other. I did not like Van and Pete warning Toby off. Kingston was old enough to make his own decisions. The little domestic unit these two made before getting together was so stinkin’ sweet. I adored them. I will most definitely miss this little town and the people who made it a wonderful place to visit. I highly recommend this one!
I received an ARC from GRR for my honest review>
I received an ARC from GRR for my honest review>
May 12, 2025
Apparently, I have been missing out on the Rosedale stories! That will be remedied very soon.
It was no hardship following the story of Kingston and Toby (works very well on its own). It's a sweet, slow burn story of 2 men who take their time finding themselves and falling in love.
In Kingston's case, he realises that he wants what his friends have - a person to love and care for; Toby, he realises that he's played it safe in life for too long, if he wants something/someone he will have to get out of his comfort zone. Together, they both get want they need and want. I loved the way their friendship started in spring and went through the 4 seasons, until they were a solid couple by the following spring. One thing that I wasn't keen on was Kingston calling Toby a boy (sometimes), he really wasn't that much older. Otherwise great story, cast of characters, really enjoyed it.
It was no hardship following the story of Kingston and Toby (works very well on its own). It's a sweet, slow burn story of 2 men who take their time finding themselves and falling in love.
In Kingston's case, he realises that he wants what his friends have - a person to love and care for; Toby, he realises that he's played it safe in life for too long, if he wants something/someone he will have to get out of his comfort zone. Together, they both get want they need and want. I loved the way their friendship started in spring and went through the 4 seasons, until they were a solid couple by the following spring. One thing that I wasn't keen on was Kingston calling Toby a boy (sometimes), he really wasn't that much older. Otherwise great story, cast of characters, really enjoyed it.
May 18, 2025
A Small Town Spring by Elle Waters is the kind of slow-burn romance that feels like a cosy exhale. Kingston finally gets his moment, and it's everything. He’s polished and put-together on the outside, but underneath, he’s longing for the kind of connection his friends have found. Enter Toby—a chaotic, talented artist who's just broken up with his longtime girlfriend—and their chemistry? Instant.
What starts as admiration slowly turns into something deeper, full of quiet moments, shared spaces, and unspoken tension. It’s a gentle love story, full of warmth, trust, and the kind of emotional intimacy that sneaks up on you. Watching these two opposites fall for each other in the sweet little town of Rosedale was such a treat. If you're into romances that take their time but make every moment count, this one’s for you.
What starts as admiration slowly turns into something deeper, full of quiet moments, shared spaces, and unspoken tension. It’s a gentle love story, full of warmth, trust, and the kind of emotional intimacy that sneaks up on you. Watching these two opposites fall for each other in the sweet little town of Rosedale was such a treat. If you're into romances that take their time but make every moment count, this one’s for you.
June 15, 2025
Finally, Kingston gets his HEA.
Kingston has been looking for in all the wrong places for years. He thought Sergio was the answer, but after a couple of years he took off like a shot when he got a job offer at the other coast. He is reevaluating his career goals and comes to Rosedale to get his advice. What he wasn't expecting was to meet up and coming artist Toby Wheatly and his longtime girlfriend Ivy Miller. Kingston is instantly attracted to Toby, but Toby is taken, and Kingston doesn't poach. Resigned to admire from afar, Kingston does get Toby to agree to paint his cottage.
When Ivy decides to end their relationship, Toby is at loose ends about his next step. With Kingston only in town a couple of weekends a month, the logical solution is for Toby to move into the guest room. The fox is now in the hen house and it's only a matter of time.
Kingston has been looking for in all the wrong places for years. He thought Sergio was the answer, but after a couple of years he took off like a shot when he got a job offer at the other coast. He is reevaluating his career goals and comes to Rosedale to get his advice. What he wasn't expecting was to meet up and coming artist Toby Wheatly and his longtime girlfriend Ivy Miller. Kingston is instantly attracted to Toby, but Toby is taken, and Kingston doesn't poach. Resigned to admire from afar, Kingston does get Toby to agree to paint his cottage.
When Ivy decides to end their relationship, Toby is at loose ends about his next step. With Kingston only in town a couple of weekends a month, the logical solution is for Toby to move into the guest room. The fox is now in the hen house and it's only a matter of time.
May 1, 2025
This is the romance between Toby, the artist, and Kingston, the book publisher. Toby is on the brink of becoming a major talent, and Kingston has just decided to go into business for himself. Toby has been in a relationship with Ivy for the past 10 years, but they realize it's not going anywhere. He falls for Kingston almost immediately after getting out of the relationship with Ivy, and Kingston falls for him just as fast. This is a slow burn, though, and neither of them admit their feelings until the book hits the 70% mark.
I really enjoyed the slow burn - there was enough plot going on in the book that it held my interest. I also enjoyed seeing the characters from the other book in this series again (although you don't have to have read those books to appreciate this one).
I really enjoyed the slow burn - there was enough plot going on in the book that it held my interest. I also enjoyed seeing the characters from the other book in this series again (although you don't have to have read those books to appreciate this one).
May 4, 2025
This was sweet, but hoo boy, did the author make us waaaaaaaait for them to get together! It has been a while since I read this much of a slow burn (i.e. the MCs don't even KISS in the first 2/3 of the book!) It was quite satisfying, though, watching Toby and Kingston dance around each other for a while before they finally got up the courage to admit their feelings for the other. I was nervous at the start of the book when Toby was in an established long-standing relationship with a woman, but the break-up was handled well and it didn't feel like Ivy was just tossed aside to make room for Kingston in the story.
***
I was provided with an ARC from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.
***
I was provided with an ARC from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.
May 16, 2025
Although whirlwind romance can be fun to read about and intoxicating, this story is a testament to taking the time to move at a pace that works for the members of a couple on their way to creating the relationship each of them needs. For Kingston there is a bit of FOMO as his friends are coupling up and he wants what they have. Toby has been more cautious. Their relationship has a really organic feel in the way that it develops and it takes them four seasons - one spring to the next - to get to where they want to be - secure with one another. What a lovely slow burn romance that has time to develop like a fine wine and get there when it's ready.
I received an ARC from GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received an ARC from GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 18, 2025
A Small Town Spring is a beautiful ending for the Rosedale Seasons series. I enjoyed seeing characters from previous books and knowing they are still happy and moving forward with their lives.
I was curious about Kingston from the first time he popped up in the series. Something about him kept my interest, and I was so excited to see that he got his own story. I was not disappointed.
I loved getting to know Toby and Kingston, separate and together. They are lovely as individuals and as a couple. The extended timeline before they came together was very satisfying to me because they got to know each other better. The slow burn allowed their emotional connection to grow and flourish, even as it built up the tension for their physical chemistry. I loved every bit of this.
I am so glad I found this series. I hate to see it end.
I look forward to more from this author.
I was curious about Kingston from the first time he popped up in the series. Something about him kept my interest, and I was so excited to see that he got his own story. I was not disappointed.
I loved getting to know Toby and Kingston, separate and together. They are lovely as individuals and as a couple. The extended timeline before they came together was very satisfying to me because they got to know each other better. The slow burn allowed their emotional connection to grow and flourish, even as it built up the tension for their physical chemistry. I loved every bit of this.
I am so glad I found this series. I hate to see it end.
I look forward to more from this author.
May 17, 2025
Very sweet, very slow burn, low angst, poetic story between two men who cannot be more different. Kingston is a successful book publisher, carrer driven, but who starts to feel lonely surrounded by besotted couples. Toby is an artist, seems distracted and may be afraid of success. Kingston is immediately attracted to Toby, but Toby is in a decade long relationship with a woman. It's an easy read and entertaining, maybe it bit too slow burn for me, the characters only kiss at 70% of the book.
This is book 5 in the Rosedale Seasons series, and it can be read as a standalone, however it is probably more enjoyable having read the previous ones before.
I got an ARC and this is my honest opinion.
This is book 5 in the Rosedale Seasons series, and it can be read as a standalone, however it is probably more enjoyable having read the previous ones before.
I got an ARC and this is my honest opinion.
May 18, 2025
Kingston is at the peak of his profession.
He's very well put together.
Personally, he's feeling a bit at odds.
Everyone around him has wonderful, committed relationships and he's beginning to realize that's what he wants as well.
Toby is a chaotic whirlwind of an artist.
He's very much a go with the flow type of guy with a long-term girlfriend.
Initially they're just acquaintances and while Kingston might have wished for more, it wasn't in the cards.
That is until circumstances change drastically for Toby and he's left scrambling for purchase and ends up with an offer extended to him and his cat for a roommate situation with Kingston.
I loved the gentle, quiet beginnings of friendship that slowly blossomed into the kind of love that's strong and steadfast.
He's very well put together.
Personally, he's feeling a bit at odds.
Everyone around him has wonderful, committed relationships and he's beginning to realize that's what he wants as well.
Toby is a chaotic whirlwind of an artist.
He's very much a go with the flow type of guy with a long-term girlfriend.
Initially they're just acquaintances and while Kingston might have wished for more, it wasn't in the cards.
That is until circumstances change drastically for Toby and he's left scrambling for purchase and ends up with an offer extended to him and his cat for a roommate situation with Kingston.
I loved the gentle, quiet beginnings of friendship that slowly blossomed into the kind of love that's strong and steadfast.
May 21, 2025
There's a reason for the seasons! Toby and Ivy are good friends. He paints, she sculpts. Toby is in his head and doesn't appreciate the level of his talent. Kingston, is comfortable with his life. He's good at what he does, and he knows it. He's at the stage where he longs for a partner to share his life with, especially since all his friends are pairing up. When he meets Toby, it's like he is struck by a thunderbolt, he's smitten but convinced Toby and Ivy are a couple, so hands off. Their friendship spands the seasons and we get to enjoy it. It is great seeing the other couples and see how they are getting on. Great flow, Toby and Kingston are a delight. Elegant cover art! Good story, nicely done. I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 10, 2025
'I wish with a fierceness that surprises me for a chance to get to know the rest of Kingston’s layers. The more I get to know him, the more I simply want to know him forever.
I want all of Kingston with an ache that startles me— an edge that scares me. Because that desire isn’t going away. And he’s right here— close enough to touch, if I were brave enough to ask his permission.'
I really enjoyed this book. It was a sweet, slow-burn romance. I loved both Kingston and Toby. I liked the way their relationship developed and was paced. Toby was sweet, but with some low self esteem, and I really liked his personality. I liked how encouraging and supportive Kingston was. Great supporting characters. 4 stars.
I want all of Kingston with an ache that startles me— an edge that scares me. Because that desire isn’t going away. And he’s right here— close enough to touch, if I were brave enough to ask his permission.'
I really enjoyed this book. It was a sweet, slow-burn romance. I loved both Kingston and Toby. I liked the way their relationship developed and was paced. Toby was sweet, but with some low self esteem, and I really liked his personality. I liked how encouraging and supportive Kingston was. Great supporting characters. 4 stars.
May 14, 2025
I have loved every book in this series and this one is no different. It appears the the men of Rosdale might be coming to an end and if so, this is the perfect book to end this series. Toby and Kingston start as two men that are opposites yet drawn to one another despite Toby being in a relationship with Ivy. These men bring out the best in one another. My advice is to be patient as this relationship is a slow beautiful dance, and like a volcano it simply builds builds builds, then explodes. My heart was full after finishing it. Read this one and read the others as well. You will be glad you did. I did receive an ARC and leave this honest review.
May 15, 2025
I received an ARC from GRR and want to thank them.
I beautiful finish to a series...
I'm going to miss Rosedale and the found families I met over the last 2 years.
I'll just have to go back and reread them!
Elle imbues each character with flaws, talents and remorse along with deep feelings.
Toby, an artist, and Kingston, a book agent, move around each other until their personal lives settle and alllow them to enter a deep relationship.
You'll agonize over the time they lost but rejoice in their eventual HEA.
I recommend that you dip your toes into Rosedale. You won't be disappointed.
I beautiful finish to a series...
I'm going to miss Rosedale and the found families I met over the last 2 years.
I'll just have to go back and reread them!
Elle imbues each character with flaws, talents and remorse along with deep feelings.
Toby, an artist, and Kingston, a book agent, move around each other until their personal lives settle and alllow them to enter a deep relationship.
You'll agonize over the time they lost but rejoice in their eventual HEA.
I recommend that you dip your toes into Rosedale. You won't be disappointed.
May 17, 2025
Thank you for the book, here is my honest opinion:
I really enjoy how this author writes characters, that has been a highlight throughout the series. I liked this, Toby and Kingston are good together and I appreciate a good opposites attract romance. However, this was way too slow of a burn for me. Toby and Kingston dance around each other so long, I just lost a bit of interest. I also could have done with less focus and time with Ivy, especially after the break up with Toby. I liked this couple, but the wait was too long and the side character drama draws too much focus from development the relationship.
I really enjoy how this author writes characters, that has been a highlight throughout the series. I liked this, Toby and Kingston are good together and I appreciate a good opposites attract romance. However, this was way too slow of a burn for me. Toby and Kingston dance around each other so long, I just lost a bit of interest. I also could have done with less focus and time with Ivy, especially after the break up with Toby. I liked this couple, but the wait was too long and the side character drama draws too much focus from development the relationship.
May 5, 2025
Sweet, seriously slow-burn, low-angst, low stakes, strangers to friends to lovers romance.
I enjoyed getting to know Kingston and Toby (and Luna) over the course of the story. There was some pithy prose that caught my attention, some well-turned phrases. However, their chemistry after such a long build-up was not as spicy as I was hoping for. So if forced proximity, slow-burn, low spice is your jam, you’ll really enjoy this.
This is the final installment of the Rosedale Seasons series, but can be enjoyed as a stand-alone.
I received this ARC from GRR for my fair and honest review.
I enjoyed getting to know Kingston and Toby (and Luna) over the course of the story. There was some pithy prose that caught my attention, some well-turned phrases. However, their chemistry after such a long build-up was not as spicy as I was hoping for. So if forced proximity, slow-burn, low spice is your jam, you’ll really enjoy this.
This is the final installment of the Rosedale Seasons series, but can be enjoyed as a stand-alone.
I received this ARC from GRR for my fair and honest review.
May 14, 2025
While I like slow burns and characters taking their time getting to know each other, Kingston and Toby took it to another level. When you meet Kingston, he's thinking about a change and seeing his friends happily in established relationships makes him think he wants something more. When he meets Toby, he thinks his luck might change, but the man is in an established relationship with a woman. As their friendship grows, both of them feel attraction and longing, but it isn't until Toby's girlfriend breaks up with him that their relationship develops into something more. A sweet read.
May 13, 2025
I've really enjoyed this series, and it was great seeing Kingston get his HEA. I also liked the time taken, as Toby is in a relationship when the characters first meet, and we're given a realistic timeline to deal with an amicable split from a longtime partner. That aspect is something I don't see all that often with romances, and I know some readers hate to ever hear about any former lovers/partners, but I think this was very well done.
Thanks to GRR for the advanced review copy!
Thanks to GRR for the advanced review copy!
May 19, 2025
The final story in this series.
Artist Toby is pretty clueless about what’s going on around him, his relationship is no longer romantic, but is comfortable.
Kingston is very smitten after meeting Toby for the first time but holds back knowing he is with someone.
When Toby needs a place to stay, Kingston’s home is offered and the two men start to develop a strong friendship that leads to them becoming involved.
I received this book from GRR
This is my honest review
Artist Toby is pretty clueless about what’s going on around him, his relationship is no longer romantic, but is comfortable.
Kingston is very smitten after meeting Toby for the first time but holds back knowing he is with someone.
When Toby needs a place to stay, Kingston’s home is offered and the two men start to develop a strong friendship that leads to them becoming involved.
I received this book from GRR
This is my honest review
May 31, 2025
Kingston and Toby ❤️
4 Stars ⭐️
This story is an ultra slow burn so be ready. The heat is low but the relationship build in this book is really where it's at. I have to admit I almost lost my patience with these two just wanting them to get to it lol but that's just me. Both character were fantastic and well written and it ended up being a really sweet opposites story.
* I received an ARC from GRR, this is my open and honest review *
4 Stars ⭐️
This story is an ultra slow burn so be ready. The heat is low but the relationship build in this book is really where it's at. I have to admit I almost lost my patience with these two just wanting them to get to it lol but that's just me. Both character were fantastic and well written and it ended up being a really sweet opposites story.
* I received an ARC from GRR, this is my open and honest review *
May 16, 2025
A Small Town Spring is the fourth book in the Rosedale Seasons series, each can be read as a standalone. This is a small town, slow burn, friends to lovers read about Kingston and Toby. I really enjoyed the characters and the storyline, I will warn you though, when I say slow burn I mean sloooooow burn.
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