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Balsam Inn #1
Paint the Moon
Six years ago, her brother left me at the altar.
I bundled up my veil along with my stupid dreams of a picture-perfect small town life, and I headed back to the city.
I vowed to never leave again, but when the promotion of a lifetime at my interior design firm hangs on returning to the charming tourist town of La Cloche, I decide to brave the ghosts of heartbreak past.
I never thought I’d be designing for her.
Natalie Sinclair isn’t just my ex-fiancé’s little sister; she’s also the reluctant new owner of the most gorgeous historic home in La Cloche.
A mysterious inheritance has left her reeling. On the one hand, the house is the perfect opportunity to make her dream of running an artsy inn with her best friends come true.
On the other, her latest art show ended in a disaster she’s not sure her confidence or creativity will ever recover from.
If I can convince Natalie to believe in herself, I can lock down the job and get my promotion.
I’ll just need to remember our lingering glances mean nothing. The way her laugh feels like it’s bringing me back to life doesn’t matter at all. Neither does my urge to thread my hands in her hair and pull her into a dark corner of the house we’re both starting to love.
I already fell for a Sinclair. I won’t make the same mistake again.
Paint the Moon is part of the Balsam Inn series, a trilogy of interconnected steamy sapphic standalones by bestselling author Katia Rose.
I bundled up my veil along with my stupid dreams of a picture-perfect small town life, and I headed back to the city.
I vowed to never leave again, but when the promotion of a lifetime at my interior design firm hangs on returning to the charming tourist town of La Cloche, I decide to brave the ghosts of heartbreak past.
I never thought I’d be designing for her.
Natalie Sinclair isn’t just my ex-fiancé’s little sister; she’s also the reluctant new owner of the most gorgeous historic home in La Cloche.
A mysterious inheritance has left her reeling. On the one hand, the house is the perfect opportunity to make her dream of running an artsy inn with her best friends come true.
On the other, her latest art show ended in a disaster she’s not sure her confidence or creativity will ever recover from.
If I can convince Natalie to believe in herself, I can lock down the job and get my promotion.
I’ll just need to remember our lingering glances mean nothing. The way her laugh feels like it’s bringing me back to life doesn’t matter at all. Neither does my urge to thread my hands in her hair and pull her into a dark corner of the house we’re both starting to love.
I already fell for a Sinclair. I won’t make the same mistake again.
Paint the Moon is part of the Balsam Inn series, a trilogy of interconnected steamy sapphic standalones by bestselling author Katia Rose.
414 pages, Paperback
Published March 3, 2025
371 people are currently reading
939 people want to read
About the author
Katia Rose
25 books991 followersKatia Rose is not much of a Pina Colada person, but she does like getting caught in the rain. She loves to write romances that make her readers laugh, cry, and swoon (preferably in that order). She’s rarely found without a cup of tea nearby, and she’s more than a little obsessed with tiny plants. Katia is proudly bisexual and has a passion for writing about love in all its forms.
Join the Club Katia community and grab your romance freebies! katiarose.com/club-katia
Join the Club Katia community and grab your romance freebies! katiarose.com/club-katia
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 165 reviews
April 16, 2025
I walked into this book expecting a nice, pleasant read. I left knowing that Paint the Moon is going to be one of my favorites of the year. Full disclosure. I actually gave up after a chapter or so and returned it to KU because I didn’t think it was for me. But then I decided it was and got it again. Then it was 4am and I had to force myself to put it away.
Brooke is an interior designer with a big firm in Montreal. She’s fighting to become a project manager and her big break hinges on landing a deal to convert a historic home into an inn. But unbeknownst to Brooke, the old home’s new owner is the younger sister of the man who left Brooke waiting at the altar 7 years ago.
What I loved best about the book are the characters. As soon as the author focuses on Brooke and Natalie, there’s a shift into weighty storytelling. Nobody is saving anybody. The point is for the two main characters to grow and evolve, whether that includes each other is only part of the story. They have to figure out what their happiness looks like as individuals before they can imagine a future as a couple. That’s not to say that there isn’t a beautiful romance here because damn. When I say the author captures the moments when Brooke and Natalie start falling, I want to say she does it in the most poetic way that had me swooning and teary eyed. The whole book is beautifully written. Did I mention the story is funny as heck too? Don’t miss this book.
Brooke is an interior designer with a big firm in Montreal. She’s fighting to become a project manager and her big break hinges on landing a deal to convert a historic home into an inn. But unbeknownst to Brooke, the old home’s new owner is the younger sister of the man who left Brooke waiting at the altar 7 years ago.
What I loved best about the book are the characters. As soon as the author focuses on Brooke and Natalie, there’s a shift into weighty storytelling. Nobody is saving anybody. The point is for the two main characters to grow and evolve, whether that includes each other is only part of the story. They have to figure out what their happiness looks like as individuals before they can imagine a future as a couple. That’s not to say that there isn’t a beautiful romance here because damn. When I say the author captures the moments when Brooke and Natalie start falling, I want to say she does it in the most poetic way that had me swooning and teary eyed. The whole book is beautifully written. Did I mention the story is funny as heck too? Don’t miss this book.
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August 29, 2025
Paint the Moon is LIVE! It's release day, and I couldn't be more excited to share this steamy & swoony sapphic love story with the world. The town of La Cloche has my heart, and I can't wait to introduce everyone to the gorgeous Laurentian Mountains and a whole new crew of loveable characters in the Balsam Inn series.
Paint the Moon features my most scandalous trope yet: brother's ex-fiancée! Rest assured Brooke and Natalie's story will make you laugh, cry, and swoon as they find their way to their HEA (with plenty of steamy moments along the way... Can you say 'trapped in an ice storm with only one bed'???)
Grab it now in ebook, paperback, and KU!
Fun fact: Paint the Moon is my TWENTIETH published novel, so it's a real milestone book for me! I couldn't have made it here without my incredible readers, and I'm so happy to have you all along for the ride. There are many more adventures waiting for us in La Cloche soon!
March 19, 2025
╭ ✦ •
│ ⊹ 𝟺 𝚜𝚝𝚊𝚛𝚜, 𝚏𝚞𝚕𝚕 𝚁𝚎𝚟𝚒𝚎𝚠 𝚘𝚗 𝚖𝚢 𝚋𝚕𝚘𝚐! ⊹
╰ ✦ •
Ahhh, it’s been so long since I read a Katia Rose book!! This did not disappoint.
Paint the Moon is the first book in the Balsam Inn series, it's a beautifully written, slow-burn romance that perfectly balances heartfelt emotion, humor, and undeniable chemistry. Set in the charming, small town of La Cloche, Quebec, this novel delivers a cozy, atmospheric escape filled with vibrant characters and a sweet love story.
At the heart of the story are Natalie Sinclair and Brooke Carmichael—two women at personal and professional crossroads. Natalie, an artist, is struggling after a failed art showing that shattered her confidence. Just as she resigns to a small, insignificant life, she unexpectedly inherits her late aunt’s massive home. Meanwhile, Brooke, a talented but underappreciated interior designer, has a chance at a long-overdue promotion—if she can oversee the renovation of Natalie’s new property. The catch? Brooke was once engaged to Natalie’s brother, only to be left at the altar six years ago. Now, she’s back in La Cloche, face to face with a past she’s not quite ready to confront—including the inconvenient attraction growing between her and Natalie.
THEY WERE SO CUTE. Their chemistry was undeniable, and when they finally gave in to their feelings? Absolutely electric. I just wish there had been more cute moments between them! But I did like how natural the tension between them unfolded. There’s plenty of awkwardness (as expected when falling for your ex-fiancée’s sister), but it’s handled with nuance, allowing their relationship to develop at a believable pace.
I've always loved Katia's writing, she has a way with words that makes world-building one of the best parts of her work. La Cloche felt so cozy, with its picturesque mountain views, charming cafés, and a strong sense of community. It’s the kind of town you’d want to visit, filled with warm, eccentric locals and a deep appreciation for art and nature. The supporting cast—especially Natalie’s best friends, her ex-fiancé, and even her late aunt's letter—adds richness to the story, though a little more development for some side characters would have made them even stronger. Also, one thing I wish we got to see was how the Inn came together, the planning stages etc, with some cute moments between the MCs. But it was all in the background, I think It would have added a little depth to the story.
Overall, Paint the Moon was a great small-town love story and I’m already looking forward to the next book in the series!
────── ✧ ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ♡ ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ✧ ──────
⊹ 𝔀𝓱𝓪𝓽 𝓽𝓸 𝓮𝔁𝓹𝓮𝓬𝓽 ⊹
❥Sapphic & steamy
❥Brother's ex-fiancée
❥Interior designer × client
❥Mysterious inheritance
❥Building a dreamy inn
❥Trapped together in an ice storm
❥"Last night can never happen again."
❥Queer friend group
❥Cozy small-town vibes
Thank you for the ARC, Katia♡
_________________________________
Blog ಇ StoryGraph ಇ Instagram ಇ Twitter ಇ Facebook
│ ⊹ 𝟺 𝚜𝚝𝚊𝚛𝚜, 𝚏𝚞𝚕𝚕 𝚁𝚎𝚟𝚒𝚎𝚠 𝚘𝚗 𝚖𝚢 𝚋𝚕𝚘𝚐! ⊹
╰ ✦ •
Ahhh, it’s been so long since I read a Katia Rose book!! This did not disappoint.
Paint the Moon is the first book in the Balsam Inn series, it's a beautifully written, slow-burn romance that perfectly balances heartfelt emotion, humor, and undeniable chemistry. Set in the charming, small town of La Cloche, Quebec, this novel delivers a cozy, atmospheric escape filled with vibrant characters and a sweet love story.
At the heart of the story are Natalie Sinclair and Brooke Carmichael—two women at personal and professional crossroads. Natalie, an artist, is struggling after a failed art showing that shattered her confidence. Just as she resigns to a small, insignificant life, she unexpectedly inherits her late aunt’s massive home. Meanwhile, Brooke, a talented but underappreciated interior designer, has a chance at a long-overdue promotion—if she can oversee the renovation of Natalie’s new property. The catch? Brooke was once engaged to Natalie’s brother, only to be left at the altar six years ago. Now, she’s back in La Cloche, face to face with a past she’s not quite ready to confront—including the inconvenient attraction growing between her and Natalie.
THEY WERE SO CUTE. Their chemistry was undeniable, and when they finally gave in to their feelings? Absolutely electric. I just wish there had been more cute moments between them! But I did like how natural the tension between them unfolded. There’s plenty of awkwardness (as expected when falling for your ex-fiancée’s sister), but it’s handled with nuance, allowing their relationship to develop at a believable pace.
I've always loved Katia's writing, she has a way with words that makes world-building one of the best parts of her work. La Cloche felt so cozy, with its picturesque mountain views, charming cafés, and a strong sense of community. It’s the kind of town you’d want to visit, filled with warm, eccentric locals and a deep appreciation for art and nature. The supporting cast—especially Natalie’s best friends, her ex-fiancé, and even her late aunt's letter—adds richness to the story, though a little more development for some side characters would have made them even stronger. Also, one thing I wish we got to see was how the Inn came together, the planning stages etc, with some cute moments between the MCs. But it was all in the background, I think It would have added a little depth to the story.
Overall, Paint the Moon was a great small-town love story and I’m already looking forward to the next book in the series!
────── ✧ ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ♡ ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ✧ ──────
⊹ 𝔀𝓱𝓪𝓽 𝓽𝓸 𝓮𝔁𝓹𝓮𝓬𝓽 ⊹
❥Sapphic & steamy
❥Brother's ex-fiancée
❥Interior designer × client
❥Mysterious inheritance
❥Building a dreamy inn
❥Trapped together in an ice storm
❥"Last night can never happen again."
❥Queer friend group
❥Cozy small-town vibes
Thank you for the ARC, Katia♡
_________________________________
Blog ಇ StoryGraph ಇ Instagram ಇ Twitter ಇ Facebook
April 21, 2025
This was really good! I've read a few of Rose's books now and enjoyed them all. This was well written, as I've come to expect from Rose, and an excellent start to the Balsam Inn series!
I picked this up because the premise intrigued me. Brooke was left at the altar by Jonas, and six years later starts a romance with Natalie, his sister. I do kind of wish they'd already known each other more (Natalie was abroad for most of Brooke's and Jonas's relationship) as I think that would have added an extra layer to everything, but it was still a good book.
I really liked Natalie. I liked how resilient she was, how she bounced back from the bad art show/reviews because honestly, if that happened to me, I'm not sure I'd ever paint again, lol.
I liked Brooke too, although not as much as Natalie. I grew a little tired of her whole 'have to be self-reliant, can't depend on anyone' thing. While I understand her reasoning (inconsistent mother, left at the altar), I do think she should have realised sooner that people can't go through life totally alone, and that none of those things were a reflection of her.
The secondary characters were great, too! I'm excited to see Jacinthe's and Maddie's romances, and Natalie's parents were lovely as well.
I'm going to sound like a bit of a hypocrite here, as I've also written books in 1st person, but for dual POV, I think 3rd would work better.
I really enjoy small towns, and La Cloche sounds wonderful. Also, I'm learning French and understood everything, woo!
I picked this up because the premise intrigued me. Brooke was left at the altar by Jonas, and six years later starts a romance with Natalie, his sister. I do kind of wish they'd already known each other more (Natalie was abroad for most of Brooke's and Jonas's relationship) as I think that would have added an extra layer to everything, but it was still a good book.
I really liked Natalie. I liked how resilient she was, how she bounced back from the bad art show/reviews because honestly, if that happened to me, I'm not sure I'd ever paint again, lol.
I liked Brooke too, although not as much as Natalie. I grew a little tired of her whole 'have to be self-reliant, can't depend on anyone' thing. While I understand her reasoning (inconsistent mother, left at the altar), I do think she should have realised sooner that people can't go through life totally alone, and that none of those things were a reflection of her.
The secondary characters were great, too! I'm excited to see Jacinthe's and Maddie's romances, and Natalie's parents were lovely as well.
I'm going to sound like a bit of a hypocrite here, as I've also written books in 1st person, but for dual POV, I think 3rd would work better.
I really enjoy small towns, and La Cloche sounds wonderful. Also, I'm learning French and understood everything, woo!
April 4, 2025
Katia Rose just keeps getting better and better with every book. Paint the Moon just blew my doors off. We’ve got the ex-fiancé and the sister of the ex-groom and a gorgeous location. The chemistry between Brooke and Natalie was like lava, bubbling at the surface waiting to break through to create new earth. It was fantastic.
There’s a great group of secondary characters I and I can’t wait to read Jacinthe and Maddie’s stories. The town of La Cloche is like another character, and dammit, now I want to go to imaginary Canadian mountain towns. Katia excels at writing new adult novels, and while this one focuses on adults, the heart and soul of her writing is still deep and meaningful. The yearning and pining are just devine.
So let’s talk spice….this book delves a tad into dom/sub and I AM HERE FOR IT! Natalie and Brooke just fit together. And good gawd, Natalie just says the hottest things. I will never look at a kitchen the same again.
There’s a great group of secondary characters I and I can’t wait to read Jacinthe and Maddie’s stories. The town of La Cloche is like another character, and dammit, now I want to go to imaginary Canadian mountain towns. Katia excels at writing new adult novels, and while this one focuses on adults, the heart and soul of her writing is still deep and meaningful. The yearning and pining are just devine.
So let’s talk spice….this book delves a tad into dom/sub and I AM HERE FOR IT! Natalie and Brooke just fit together. And good gawd, Natalie just says the hottest things. I will never look at a kitchen the same again.
May 14, 2025
4.5 ⭐️The brother's ex-fiancée trope is one I always find a bit awkward. But I read a few, and they were fine. Katia Rose's execution was perfect. Rose did not choose the easy way; Jonas did an unforgivable thing, but he is a good guy. They really address and acknowledge the weirdness of the situation, and it's a real obstacle they have to work through. I loved both Brooke and Natalie. Brooke is trying so hard to be self-sufficient, and Natalie is professionally lost. Their getting close was just the catalyst they needed to get out of their respective mental jails. It was well-written and so sweet. I liked every scene where they got close. My only regret is that Natalie and Jonas's relationship felt almost nonexistent. La Cloche already feels like home, and I can't wait to read Jacynthe and Maddie's stories.
March 19, 2025
Paint the Moon is a small-town romance with a beautiful Quebec setting that adds a cozy charm to the story. The connection between Brooke and Natalie is undeniable, and their chemistry comes through well as the story unfolds. I liked how both characters felt fully formed and flawed, with Natalie’s guarded vulnerability balancing Brooke’s emotional baggage. The setting of the old family inn and the surrounding nature gave the story an atmospheric, almost cinematic quality that made it easy to imagine.
That said, some of the central conflict didn’t fully work for me. The past engagement between Brooke and Natalie’s brother felt unnecessary and underdeveloped—it added tension, but not in a way that felt natural or meaningful to the story. I struggled to understand why Natalie wasn’t more conflicted about that connection, and it felt like a missed opportunity to explore family dynamics. Similarly, Brooke’s ongoing hang-up with her terrible job bordered on frustrating. It was hard to sympathize with her refusal to walk away from a toxic workplace, especially when it created forced distance between her and Natalie.
Despite those issues, I still found the romance enjoyable, and the writing kept me engaged. Katia Rose does a great job of capturing the spark between the two leads, and I appreciated how the story didn’t lean too heavily into manufactured drama. Some side characters felt a little underwritten, but it seems clear they’re being set up for future books in the series. Overall, Paint the Moon is a solid read with likeable characters and a strong sense of place—perfect if you’re in the mood for a scenic, slow-burn romance.
Many thanks to StoryOrigin and Katia Rose for a copy of this novel. ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
That said, some of the central conflict didn’t fully work for me. The past engagement between Brooke and Natalie’s brother felt unnecessary and underdeveloped—it added tension, but not in a way that felt natural or meaningful to the story. I struggled to understand why Natalie wasn’t more conflicted about that connection, and it felt like a missed opportunity to explore family dynamics. Similarly, Brooke’s ongoing hang-up with her terrible job bordered on frustrating. It was hard to sympathize with her refusal to walk away from a toxic workplace, especially when it created forced distance between her and Natalie.
Despite those issues, I still found the romance enjoyable, and the writing kept me engaged. Katia Rose does a great job of capturing the spark between the two leads, and I appreciated how the story didn’t lean too heavily into manufactured drama. Some side characters felt a little underwritten, but it seems clear they’re being set up for future books in the series. Overall, Paint the Moon is a solid read with likeable characters and a strong sense of place—perfect if you’re in the mood for a scenic, slow-burn romance.
Many thanks to StoryOrigin and Katia Rose for a copy of this novel. ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
November 20, 2025
Katia Rose delivers another fantastic beginning with the first book in the Balsam Inn series. Paint the Moon brings together an ambitious interior designer and a disheartened artist in La Cloche, a small town in Quebec, Canada, that they both thought they had left behind.
Well-written, with laughs, awkwardness, mild angst, heartfelt confessions, delicious chemistry, and steamy moments, Rose serves up another rewarding, feel-good love story like we've come to expect. Beautiful setting descriptions ease us into the quaint town of La Cloche, and we relax on the porch to watch the sunset and have a cup of tea while our lovely characters reluctantly fall in love.
The strong supporting cast of family/found family gives our mains a foundation from which they can finally explore the undeniable "something" growing between them. Together, they process past trauma and learn to move forward.
I was excited to get a hold of the ARC for Paint the Moon. And I was not disappointed. I haven't read a Katia Rose book that I didn't love. This one is no different. Great writing style, solid editing, and a happily ever after making this a 5-star read. I recommend it for a sweet and spicy romance that leaves you with the warm and fuzzy feeling of snuggling in front of a fireplace, wrapped in blankets, on a chilly winter's eve. It was a much-needed palate cleanser after the last book I read.
#smalltown #Quebec #Canada #artist #interiordesigner #Inn #thirdactbreakup #birep #cutedogs #foundfamily #supportivefamily #nostrings #HEA #goodgirl #veryveryverygoodgirl
I received this ARC from the author. This is my honest opinion.
Well-written, with laughs, awkwardness, mild angst, heartfelt confessions, delicious chemistry, and steamy moments, Rose serves up another rewarding, feel-good love story like we've come to expect. Beautiful setting descriptions ease us into the quaint town of La Cloche, and we relax on the porch to watch the sunset and have a cup of tea while our lovely characters reluctantly fall in love.
The strong supporting cast of family/found family gives our mains a foundation from which they can finally explore the undeniable "something" growing between them. Together, they process past trauma and learn to move forward.
I was excited to get a hold of the ARC for Paint the Moon. And I was not disappointed. I haven't read a Katia Rose book that I didn't love. This one is no different. Great writing style, solid editing, and a happily ever after making this a 5-star read. I recommend it for a sweet and spicy romance that leaves you with the warm and fuzzy feeling of snuggling in front of a fireplace, wrapped in blankets, on a chilly winter's eve. It was a much-needed palate cleanser after the last book I read.
#smalltown #Quebec #Canada #artist #interiordesigner #Inn #thirdactbreakup #birep #cutedogs #foundfamily #supportivefamily #nostrings #HEA #goodgirl #veryveryverygoodgirl
I received this ARC from the author. This is my honest opinion.
February 22, 2025
This is the 8th book of Katia’s I’ve read, and she never disappoints. With being one of my top favorite authors I didn’t expect anything less than this wonderful start to a new series.
The story follows two point of views, one being Natalie, an artist struggling with the her art career. A few months after moving back to the small town she grew up in her aunt dies and gives her large home and inheritance to Natalie. You follow Natalie as she navigates through learning one failed attempt doesn’t meant full failure.
The second POV is Brooke, an interior designer who trying to get a promotion and forget her past while never having to “need” someone.
With knowing each other from the past, you follow the two work together and slowly find a deep connection between the two.
I can always appreciate the novel more when I can feel the connection the two MC’s have, and even more when I can feel the pain of one. That’s when I know an author has gotten into my heart. It was a bit of a rollercoaster following the back and forth, but the ending was well worth it, tugging at the heart strings.
Also the smut? *chef kiss* It was the perfect amount, and who doesn’t love when characters can’t keep their hands off one another?
Katia yet again has wrote a beautiful story and an amazing start to a new series. It was so hard to put this book down and is definitely in my top 3 favorite book of hers!
The story follows two point of views, one being Natalie, an artist struggling with the her art career. A few months after moving back to the small town she grew up in her aunt dies and gives her large home and inheritance to Natalie. You follow Natalie as she navigates through learning one failed attempt doesn’t meant full failure.
The second POV is Brooke, an interior designer who trying to get a promotion and forget her past while never having to “need” someone.
With knowing each other from the past, you follow the two work together and slowly find a deep connection between the two.
I can always appreciate the novel more when I can feel the connection the two MC’s have, and even more when I can feel the pain of one. That’s when I know an author has gotten into my heart. It was a bit of a rollercoaster following the back and forth, but the ending was well worth it, tugging at the heart strings.
Also the smut? *chef kiss* It was the perfect amount, and who doesn’t love when characters can’t keep their hands off one another?
Katia yet again has wrote a beautiful story and an amazing start to a new series. It was so hard to put this book down and is definitely in my top 3 favorite book of hers!
January 1, 2026
This was giving 5 star feelings until they started having sex.
I don't enjoy dom/sub dynamics (even if it's subtle like in this one) unless I'm specifically reading erotica.
And I just felt like it didn't fit in with the story.
Both of them, but especially Natalie, felt like two completely different characters during the spice scenes and I don't enjoy that. For some reason that makes me extremely uncomfortable and kinda ruins the book for me.
And I genuinely felt like it wasn't necessary for this book to be steamy or for them to have sex so "early" - yes it was 220 pages in but I felt like we weren't far into their story at all.
I don't like spice at all and I do try to skip most of it and not let it interfere with my ratings but if what I read, while trying to skip it, truly makes me uncomfortable I can't look past it and it sadly ends up ruining the book just a little.
I did get a little bored towards the end and the ending wasn't all that satisfying to me - I would have liked to see a little more of them being a happy couple.
Obviously 4 stars is still a very good rating but I was obsessed with the first half and it's disappointing that it went downhill.
But looking past that I really liked the characters and the story.
They did have a lot of good scenes and were actually making an afford to get to know each other.
Bailey was absolutely adorable as well.
I did like Natalies friends and I'll try the other books in the series and some more books by the author.
I really love the cover as well.
I don't enjoy dom/sub dynamics (even if it's subtle like in this one) unless I'm specifically reading erotica.
And I just felt like it didn't fit in with the story.
Both of them, but especially Natalie, felt like two completely different characters during the spice scenes and I don't enjoy that. For some reason that makes me extremely uncomfortable and kinda ruins the book for me.
And I genuinely felt like it wasn't necessary for this book to be steamy or for them to have sex so "early" - yes it was 220 pages in but I felt like we weren't far into their story at all.
I don't like spice at all and I do try to skip most of it and not let it interfere with my ratings but if what I read, while trying to skip it, truly makes me uncomfortable I can't look past it and it sadly ends up ruining the book just a little.
I did get a little bored towards the end and the ending wasn't all that satisfying to me - I would have liked to see a little more of them being a happy couple.
Obviously 4 stars is still a very good rating but I was obsessed with the first half and it's disappointing that it went downhill.
But looking past that I really liked the characters and the story.
They did have a lot of good scenes and were actually making an afford to get to know each other.
Bailey was absolutely adorable as well.
I did like Natalies friends and I'll try the other books in the series and some more books by the author.
I really love the cover as well.
February 25, 2025
I received an ARC of Paint the Moon and just like every other Katia Rose book I’ve read, the first book in her new series was so incredibly delightful! The backdrop of the small Quebec tourist town nestled within the mountains and the trees made for some beautiful visuals and the two main characters were both flawed but very likeable with chemistry that jumped off the page. You’ll be rooting for them while their individual stories unfold because they each deserve a life they’re truly happy living!
I think suspension of disbelief is needed a little bit while reading some of Katia’s stories when it comes to how fast and hard her characters fall for one another in such a short amount of time, and it’s no different in this book, but I’ve never had any issues with that mostly because I just think she writes the romance and the give and take so well.
My only critique and maybe this is just something unique to me but I often felt like the two side characters, Natalie’s best friends, are just sort of thrown into the story and not given enough information to stand on their own as fully fledged characters. I imagine given this book is the first in a new series that they’ll both have a better chance to be fleshed out down the road but when I finished reading this book, I had no recollection of what they looked like or what their individual roles are when it comes to the Inn itself given Natalie owns it and has the money behind it. I would have liked to learn a bit more about them in this book without having to wait to see where they may end up later in the Balsam Inn series given they play such big roles in Natalie’s life.
Overall, the book felt classically Katia so if you enjoy cozy small town romance with incredible 🌶️ and loved her last series as much as I did, this book is a must read!
I think suspension of disbelief is needed a little bit while reading some of Katia’s stories when it comes to how fast and hard her characters fall for one another in such a short amount of time, and it’s no different in this book, but I’ve never had any issues with that mostly because I just think she writes the romance and the give and take so well.
My only critique and maybe this is just something unique to me but I often felt like the two side characters, Natalie’s best friends, are just sort of thrown into the story and not given enough information to stand on their own as fully fledged characters. I imagine given this book is the first in a new series that they’ll both have a better chance to be fleshed out down the road but when I finished reading this book, I had no recollection of what they looked like or what their individual roles are when it comes to the Inn itself given Natalie owns it and has the money behind it. I would have liked to learn a bit more about them in this book without having to wait to see where they may end up later in the Balsam Inn series given they play such big roles in Natalie’s life.
Overall, the book felt classically Katia so if you enjoy cozy small town romance with incredible 🌶️ and loved her last series as much as I did, this book is a must read!
March 20, 2025
I LOVE this book! A FAVORITE! Brooke is a designer in a dead end job. When her boss Eric offers her the manager position on a small job in LA Coloche. Only problem is, Brooke's ex left her at the alter there. But, it's a huge opportunity. When she goes she meets Maddie, who tells her the owner of the house/property is on her way. Then in walks Natalie, her ex's sister. But Natalie has had a wrench thrown in her life too, that she's having a hard time getting over. She says no to Brooke. This is a slow burn, HOT love story!
June 29, 2025
2.5 ⭐️ This was not a good read for me. It starts slow and it was hard for me to follow who was speaking. It alternated characters speaking in first person between Brooke and Natalie for each chapter. I found myself slipping backwards to check. I also didn’t like the mild s/m tone. That’s a trope I dislike
March 4, 2025
Paint the Moon, the first book in Katia Rose’s new Balsam Inn series, brings us to the small town of La Cloche, in the Canadian province of Quebec. Brooke Carmichel used to live what she thought was a fairytale life in La Cloche until she was left at the altar six years ago. Making her home in Montreal and working as an interior designer since then, Brooke’s boss has been putting off her promotion to project manager, but if she can just lead a project on her own the role is hers.
Natalie Sinclair, a painter who is struggling with her confidence and sense of self-worth, has inherited a large house. She doesn’t feel that she deserves it and wants to sell, but her best friends urge her to consider turning the gorgeous old home into the inn they’ve always dreamed of running. Sounds like a match made in heaven, if it weren’t for the fact that the house is in La Cloche, and Natalie just happens to be the sister of the runaway groom.
The story develops slowly, but it feels right for the small-town setting and the wariness and weirdness that surrounds the relationship between Brooke and Natalie. There’s obvious chemistry between the two, but there are also a lot of awkward moments and they both have a lot to work through. Once they cross the physical boundary things heat up quickly, but it also triggers some things, especially for Brooke. The way that Katia handles everything so carefully in her writing really left me feeling connected with both characters, and it’s exactly what I’ve come to expect from her.
Although I've enjoyed everything I've read from her, I think Katia particularly excels in series novels because she spends a lot of time developing the setting and side characters, and that’s no different in Paint the Moon. After all, we'll be seeing a lot more of them, and I can't wait for more of Balsam Inn and La Cloche!
I received a free ARC from the author via StoryOrigin, but my review is unbiased and left voluntarily.
Natalie Sinclair, a painter who is struggling with her confidence and sense of self-worth, has inherited a large house. She doesn’t feel that she deserves it and wants to sell, but her best friends urge her to consider turning the gorgeous old home into the inn they’ve always dreamed of running. Sounds like a match made in heaven, if it weren’t for the fact that the house is in La Cloche, and Natalie just happens to be the sister of the runaway groom.
The story develops slowly, but it feels right for the small-town setting and the wariness and weirdness that surrounds the relationship between Brooke and Natalie. There’s obvious chemistry between the two, but there are also a lot of awkward moments and they both have a lot to work through. Once they cross the physical boundary things heat up quickly, but it also triggers some things, especially for Brooke. The way that Katia handles everything so carefully in her writing really left me feeling connected with both characters, and it’s exactly what I’ve come to expect from her.
Although I've enjoyed everything I've read from her, I think Katia particularly excels in series novels because she spends a lot of time developing the setting and side characters, and that’s no different in Paint the Moon. After all, we'll be seeing a lot more of them, and I can't wait for more of Balsam Inn and La Cloche!
I received a free ARC from the author via StoryOrigin, but my review is unbiased and left voluntarily.
March 27, 2025
if you liked Astrid Parker Doesn't Fail by Ashley Herring Blake, you'll love this.
It is the kind of heart-warming book that everyone loves katie. It is the story of two broken people who unknowingly repair each other. If you are looking for a book to read that contains:
- Small town
- Forced proximity
- Trapped together
- Slow burn
- Queer awakening
- Left at the altar
- Opposite attraction
- Almost kiss
- Found family
- kinda forbidden romance
with the dash of spice we all know Katie for, this is the perfect book for you.
Ps. I'm glad I remember the french lessons I took middle school
It is the kind of heart-warming book that everyone loves katie. It is the story of two broken people who unknowingly repair each other. If you are looking for a book to read that contains:
- Small town
- Forced proximity
- Trapped together
- Slow burn
- Queer awakening
- Left at the altar
- Opposite attraction
- Almost kiss
- Found family
- kinda forbidden romance
with the dash of spice we all know Katie for, this is the perfect book for you.
Ps. I'm glad I remember the french lessons I took middle school
March 5, 2025
A bittersweet romance with very careful and slow steps and approach to love.
But there are reasons for that, of course!
Brooke was once engaged in La Cloche and was already at the altar when she was left in a very formative way.
Since then, she has been focused on her career in Montreal and not prepared for what she has to do, or for whom, to take this career to the next level.
When Natalie Sinclair, at the lowest point in her life and her career as an artist, resigns herself to selling her aunt's surprising inheritance and devoting herself to her small, insignificant life, a ghost from the past appears.
Her two best friends and cousins are already trying to persuade her to take a risk with the inheritance and house and turn it into a business, but it is said ghost in the form of Brooke Carmichael, her brother's ex-fiancée, who seems to be able to persuade her to take this risk. And what's worse, she's just as beautiful and stunning as ever.
It's weird and strange, but strangely enough, they're good for each other and as soon as they admit it, it gets so hot!
Great chemistry. I loved it.
Everything happens slowly, but it's full of wonderful characters who hopefully get their own love story soon and a really beautiful little town that you'd love to visit yourself, get to know its beautiful nature and its people and their warmth.
Beautiful Cover!
Thanks so much to the Author Katia Rose for this beautiful slow-burn romance and the ARC!
But there are reasons for that, of course!
Brooke was once engaged in La Cloche and was already at the altar when she was left in a very formative way.
Since then, she has been focused on her career in Montreal and not prepared for what she has to do, or for whom, to take this career to the next level.
When Natalie Sinclair, at the lowest point in her life and her career as an artist, resigns herself to selling her aunt's surprising inheritance and devoting herself to her small, insignificant life, a ghost from the past appears.
Her two best friends and cousins are already trying to persuade her to take a risk with the inheritance and house and turn it into a business, but it is said ghost in the form of Brooke Carmichael, her brother's ex-fiancée, who seems to be able to persuade her to take this risk. And what's worse, she's just as beautiful and stunning as ever.
It's weird and strange, but strangely enough, they're good for each other and as soon as they admit it, it gets so hot!
Great chemistry. I loved it.
Everything happens slowly, but it's full of wonderful characters who hopefully get their own love story soon and a really beautiful little town that you'd love to visit yourself, get to know its beautiful nature and its people and their warmth.
Beautiful Cover!
Thanks so much to the Author Katia Rose for this beautiful slow-burn romance and the ARC!
February 19, 2025
(rounded up from 4.5)
I keep waiting for a Katia Rose book that's not good and it's just not happening. This is a fantastic and promising start to a new trilogy based around the Balsam Inn. As always, it is a Canadian non-city location, in this case, a queer-friendly small town that feels like a fairy tale setting with charming little cafes, many artists, fun characters and gorgeous natural views.
Natalie is our first protagonist. She recently had a showing of her artwork after a much-coveted residency and the reviews were bad and the art did not sell so she's taken a massive hit to her confidence as a person and an artist. Suddenly, she finds herself the owner of a massive home left to her by her late aunt and is unsure she deserves this inheritance, much less should have it over other members of the family.
On the other side, we have Brooke, an interior designer in the city who was left at the altar by Natalie's brother six years ago and must now project manage the renovation of this charming building left to Natalie to get a promotion at work after being overlooked for so long.
One of the things I loved about this book is that we actually have so many awkward moments, as would be natural when you are working with and falling for your ex-fiancee's sister in her hometown and constantly encountering her family. I also loved Brooke's late in life coming to terms with her own sexuality rather than just leaving it in the past as part of a wild youth after a bad break-up. Sometimes it takes a while and it's nice to have a representation of a thirty-year-old woman coming to that realisation and wondering if it's too late or if she's just late to the party and can never catch up.
I also love how realistically Natalie's artistic eye is depicted. Her descriptions of the lighting in specific spaces she loved as a child and her appreciation for nature and Brooke feels authentic as a person who views the world through an artistic lens. I love all the side characters as well, from the dogs with big personalities to the family, the ex-fiance and even the deceased aunt with her own secrets.
TL;DR: As always, Katia Rose's books are delightful and I look forward to a new trilogy in this charming setting with side characters we already like in future books.
I keep waiting for a Katia Rose book that's not good and it's just not happening. This is a fantastic and promising start to a new trilogy based around the Balsam Inn. As always, it is a Canadian non-city location, in this case, a queer-friendly small town that feels like a fairy tale setting with charming little cafes, many artists, fun characters and gorgeous natural views.
Natalie is our first protagonist. She recently had a showing of her artwork after a much-coveted residency and the reviews were bad and the art did not sell so she's taken a massive hit to her confidence as a person and an artist. Suddenly, she finds herself the owner of a massive home left to her by her late aunt and is unsure she deserves this inheritance, much less should have it over other members of the family.
On the other side, we have Brooke, an interior designer in the city who was left at the altar by Natalie's brother six years ago and must now project manage the renovation of this charming building left to Natalie to get a promotion at work after being overlooked for so long.
One of the things I loved about this book is that we actually have so many awkward moments, as would be natural when you are working with and falling for your ex-fiancee's sister in her hometown and constantly encountering her family. I also loved Brooke's late in life coming to terms with her own sexuality rather than just leaving it in the past as part of a wild youth after a bad break-up. Sometimes it takes a while and it's nice to have a representation of a thirty-year-old woman coming to that realisation and wondering if it's too late or if she's just late to the party and can never catch up.
I also love how realistically Natalie's artistic eye is depicted. Her descriptions of the lighting in specific spaces she loved as a child and her appreciation for nature and Brooke feels authentic as a person who views the world through an artistic lens. I love all the side characters as well, from the dogs with big personalities to the family, the ex-fiance and even the deceased aunt with her own secrets.
TL;DR: As always, Katia Rose's books are delightful and I look forward to a new trilogy in this charming setting with side characters we already like in future books.
February 24, 2025
Disclaimer: I received an ARC of the book in exchange for an honest and fair review.
Let me begin by saying you can read ANY of author Katia Rose's books and be thoroughly enthralled with the complex characters, beautiful settings, witty banter, and the satisfying "happily ever after" endings. Paint the Moon takes all of these qualities to a new level. As with Rose's previous trilogy, The Three Rivers Series, she creates a beautiful setting for the reader to relax and sit back to enjoy the growth of each of these queer characters.
Paint the Moon, follows three lesbian best friends each dealing with personal and professional roadblocks. Natalie and Brooke are the main characters in this first installment of the series. Not only is Natalie the sister to the man who left Brooke at the alter, but years later she is a client with Brooke's design firm.
The plot is fun and heartwarming, exploring issues with self-worth and taking chances with your future. The characters feel real and reflect very relatable issues most of us face. I highly recommend this book if you are someone who loves cozy woodsy settings, taking charge of your future, ride-or-die friend groups, and healing romance.
Let me begin by saying you can read ANY of author Katia Rose's books and be thoroughly enthralled with the complex characters, beautiful settings, witty banter, and the satisfying "happily ever after" endings. Paint the Moon takes all of these qualities to a new level. As with Rose's previous trilogy, The Three Rivers Series, she creates a beautiful setting for the reader to relax and sit back to enjoy the growth of each of these queer characters.
Paint the Moon, follows three lesbian best friends each dealing with personal and professional roadblocks. Natalie and Brooke are the main characters in this first installment of the series. Not only is Natalie the sister to the man who left Brooke at the alter, but years later she is a client with Brooke's design firm.
The plot is fun and heartwarming, exploring issues with self-worth and taking chances with your future. The characters feel real and reflect very relatable issues most of us face. I highly recommend this book if you are someone who loves cozy woodsy settings, taking charge of your future, ride-or-die friend groups, and healing romance.
March 1, 2025
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC copy of Katia Rose's newest book. I truly enjoyed reading Brooke and Natalie's story. The struggles of recognizing one's own worth and talents when there are so many loud opinions in this world is so relatable. I also identified with the fight of balance between being independent and taking the risk to truly allow others in. The spicy moments are spicy and the opening your own inn trope was everything I wanted it to be!
April 15, 2025
It always leads to conflict when reading one of Katia Rose's books: Keep on reading and don't stop because it's so good and great to get into a reading flow or stall a bit because I don't want the book to end. I was done with this one in a couple of days. I couldn't put it away for long. Loved it! And am soooo happy knowing there's two to come in this series. Really looking forward to it already!
March 17, 2025
What a great start to a new series! I really enjoyed Katia's Three Rivers Series and I'm so excited to be back in another picturesque setting with the Balsam Inn Series. I loved the art component to this story, especially because Katia does an incredible job with imagery in her writing. It's beautiful and reading feels like a refreshing escape to nature. I love it. It's a cozy, sweet romance with some good spice. I'm ready for #2!
June 2, 2025
4/5
Nothing can go wrong with Katia!
I decided to pick this book because I needed a cozy read.
The relationship of the main character was so warm and enjoyable, I loved them both too much.
Even though it had all the potential to be awkward and go to hell, Katia managed to pull it off gracefully.
--- spoilers ---
It was a great idea giving the painting to Brooke. Because even if it wasn't said, I like to think that it was Natalie moving on.
It reflects she cheerish was she learned from Brooke but won't wallow in the past and what could be.
It was mature.
On the other hand, I wished we saw Brooke realized she wanted Natalie back. When she was with Jonas, she suddenly needed him for a plan to get her back and I wonder where did that come from?
But, the folio she gave to Natalie to win her over ... Omg I'm on my knees (😏)
A magnificent play.
I shed a few tears when both characters were struggling with their own issues. Numbing and feeling you arent enough hit close home.
I also like to point out the subtle dom/sub dynamics which I loveddddd.
---
All in all, a perfect read if you want to enjoy messy situations but not cringe and with low angst.
(I'm going to be honest and say I wasn't really impressed with Natalie's friends which I assume will be the next characters and it's a bummer for me ;()
Nothing can go wrong with Katia!
I decided to pick this book because I needed a cozy read.
The relationship of the main character was so warm and enjoyable, I loved them both too much.
Even though it had all the potential to be awkward and go to hell, Katia managed to pull it off gracefully.
--- spoilers ---
It was a great idea giving the painting to Brooke. Because even if it wasn't said, I like to think that it was Natalie moving on.
It reflects she cheerish was she learned from Brooke but won't wallow in the past and what could be.
It was mature.
On the other hand, I wished we saw Brooke realized she wanted Natalie back. When she was with Jonas, she suddenly needed him for a plan to get her back and I wonder where did that come from?
But, the folio she gave to Natalie to win her over ... Omg I'm on my knees (😏)
A magnificent play.
I shed a few tears when both characters were struggling with their own issues. Numbing and feeling you arent enough hit close home.
I also like to point out the subtle dom/sub dynamics which I loveddddd.
---
All in all, a perfect read if you want to enjoy messy situations but not cringe and with low angst.
(I'm going to be honest and say I wasn't really impressed with Natalie's friends which I assume will be the next characters and it's a bummer for me ;()
May 20, 2025
I really wasn’t sure how much I’d enjoy this book, especially since the blurb made it clear that the story revolved around a trope that doesn’t necessarily appeal to me—getting involved with an ex of a sibling.
Overall, it was fine, but there were moments when I questioned how quickly the story moved from dealing with what was essentially trauma to just going with the flow and starting a relationship with a relative of the person who caused that trauma.
Overall, it was fine, but there were moments when I questioned how quickly the story moved from dealing with what was essentially trauma to just going with the flow and starting a relationship with a relative of the person who caused that trauma.
August 27, 2025
Another well written, swoon worthy novel from Katia! I absolutely love her style od writing! Can't wait for more!
Read
November 5, 2025Not usually a fan of the sibling's ex/ex's sibling trope, but it didn't bother me too much here and was resolved quite well. Otherwise incredibly charming, love the small town Quebec setting, the inn restoration, the friend group!
April 15, 2025
I didn’t know what I’d want to see in this book before starting it but whatever it was, I’m pretty happy about it! This is a real slow burn romance and it’s been ages I’ve read one. The first lesbian one I’ve ever read, I’ll even say! The “brother’s ex-fiancé coming out as bi and starting feeling things for the sister” trope is something new to me. Throughout the book I was just waiting for the moment Jonas and Brooke would finally face each other. The only regret is that we didn’t get to read their conversation in a deeper way. Other than that, the whole book was just so captivating and beautiful.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 12, 2025
Trama e personaggi carini, bel romance ma son convinta che si potesse tagliare almeno la metà delle descrizioni nei capitoli.
March 2, 2025
So thanks for the advance review copy received from Author in return for a unbiased review. I have read every book by this Author since she moved over to WLW romance books. I have enjoyed them all but her last series in the Campground 1 of them was not a fav. This looks like this is the start of a three book set again as there are two other women in this book that seem to be the subjects in the future. One I look forward too and one not so much. Katia seems to be getting better with each book she releases. The descriptions are done with such clarity. The book gets going fairly quickly and by the end of the second chapter I was into it. This book has a couple pretty steamy scenes in it and I thought more graphic than her normal fare but I may be mistaken. Anyway be prepared this is not PG. I had a little issue with one plot oriented thing. I am not going to spell out what it is but all I will say is closer to the end of the book just remember to think what if the job opportunities had ended different than they did?..what would have happened then? Needless to say I still loved this book and give it a five star..should be released very soon to you all, If you have not read any of Katia's works then this is as good of a place to start as any. Note.. I did not file this review for several days after completing the book. This book kept me coming back and it was a fast read for me.
March 5, 2025
Natalie is an artist whose recent gallery showing was a disaster. She has come into a mysterious inheritance of a gorgeous historic home, and her two best friends want her to fulfil their shared childhood dream of opening an inn, but her confidence is gone and she doesn’t believe they can pull it off.
Brooke is an interior designer who, six years later, is still recovering from being left at the altar. She has decided she can’t base her happiness on anyone else—she has to be independent and make her own happiness. Particularly by proving herself to her boss and getting the promotion she has deserved for years.
When Brooke meets Natalie, she starts feeling a whole bunch of feelings. Which are weird, because she is definitely totally straight! And also, because Natalie is the younger sister of the man who left her at the altar!
This was a fantastic book. Everything felt real, from the details of the historic home, to Natalie’s art, to the emotions the characters feel and the journey they go on together.
I really enjoyed reading this book and definitely recommend it.
Brooke is an interior designer who, six years later, is still recovering from being left at the altar. She has decided she can’t base her happiness on anyone else—she has to be independent and make her own happiness. Particularly by proving herself to her boss and getting the promotion she has deserved for years.
When Brooke meets Natalie, she starts feeling a whole bunch of feelings. Which are weird, because she is definitely totally straight! And also, because Natalie is the younger sister of the man who left her at the altar!
This was a fantastic book. Everything felt real, from the details of the historic home, to Natalie’s art, to the emotions the characters feel and the journey they go on together.
I really enjoyed reading this book and definitely recommend it.
March 9, 2025
Loved it
Another banger by Katia Rose. I haven't read a bad book of hers and this is no exception. It was sweet, spicy, and charming. I wish this inn existed in real life so I could visit it!
Another banger by Katia Rose. I haven't read a bad book of hers and this is no exception. It was sweet, spicy, and charming. I wish this inn existed in real life so I could visit it!
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