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Once Upon a Thyme
The perfect pick-me-up from bestseller Jane Lovering. For all fans of Katie Fforde, Jessica Redland, Beth Moran and Veronica Henry
Can you bloom where your roots are planted?
Since taking over the family herb farm, Natalie has stuck with what she knows, rarely venturing much further than the nearby village where her invalid mother now lives. But then, one day, everything changes with the arrival of unexpected visitors.
First comes Zeb, employed by Natalie’s mother to help with the business but soon hinting at other motives. Then comes Simon with the famous band he manages, wanting to film in Natalie’s beautiful garden. The band causes chaos and the attitude of one particular member throws Natalie’s ordered life into confusion.
Over one magical summer of revelations and of uncovering secrets, Natalie starts to blossom and by the time autumn arrives she knows nothing will ever be the same again. Will she finally get an answer to the mystery of her childhood? And can she embrace the fresh start she so deserves - but which means she’ll have to take one enormous and brave leap of faith?
An uplifting novel about fresh starts, family secrets and finding love when you least expect it.
Can you bloom where your roots are planted?
Since taking over the family herb farm, Natalie has stuck with what she knows, rarely venturing much further than the nearby village where her invalid mother now lives. But then, one day, everything changes with the arrival of unexpected visitors.
First comes Zeb, employed by Natalie’s mother to help with the business but soon hinting at other motives. Then comes Simon with the famous band he manages, wanting to film in Natalie’s beautiful garden. The band causes chaos and the attitude of one particular member throws Natalie’s ordered life into confusion.
Over one magical summer of revelations and of uncovering secrets, Natalie starts to blossom and by the time autumn arrives she knows nothing will ever be the same again. Will she finally get an answer to the mystery of her childhood? And can she embrace the fresh start she so deserves - but which means she’ll have to take one enormous and brave leap of faith?
An uplifting novel about fresh starts, family secrets and finding love when you least expect it.
Audible Audio
Published June 24, 2025
12 people are currently reading
57 people want to read
About the author
Jane Lovering
40 books227 followersJane Lovering was born in Devon, England but, following extradition procedures, now lives in Yorkshire. She has five children, four cats, two dogs and doesn't believe in housework so the bacteria and dust are approaching sentience and now rank among the pets. Incidentally, she doesn’t believe in ironing either, and the children all learned self-defensive cookery at early ages. She works in a local school and also teaches creative writing, which are extreme ways of avoiding the washing up.
Published since 2008, she writes romantic comedies which are often described as ‘quirky’. One day she's going to find out what that means. Jane is a member of the Romantic Novelists' Association and has a first class honours degree in creative writing. In 2012, her novel Please Don't Stop the Music won the Romantic Novel of the Year Award by the RNA.
Published since 2008, she writes romantic comedies which are often described as ‘quirky’. One day she's going to find out what that means. Jane is a member of the Romantic Novelists' Association and has a first class honours degree in creative writing. In 2012, her novel Please Don't Stop the Music won the Romantic Novel of the Year Award by the RNA.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
May 24, 2025
I received a free copy of, Once Upon a Thyme, by Jane Lovering, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Natalie works on her family's herb farm, that is pretty much her life, til summer starts and she starts meeting people. This was a nice story, a bit heavy at times, but a good story.
July 1, 2025
Thank you Netgalley and to Boldwood Books for providing me with this amazing ARC, in exchange for my honest review.
Story follows Zeb and Natalie, Natalie recently bought herb farm from her mother and is navigating owning a farm, while also caring for her selfish mother. Zeb just started a new business. While I enjoyed learning a bit about herbs and the story seemed interesting with a lot of potential, I kept finding myself getting distracted by other books, not wanting to read more than a few pages at a time. I think for me, the way the book was written was just hard to keep reading.
DNF at 19%
Story follows Zeb and Natalie, Natalie recently bought herb farm from her mother and is navigating owning a farm, while also caring for her selfish mother. Zeb just started a new business. While I enjoyed learning a bit about herbs and the story seemed interesting with a lot of potential, I kept finding myself getting distracted by other books, not wanting to read more than a few pages at a time. I think for me, the way the book was written was just hard to keep reading.
DNF at 19%
May 24, 2025
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book, given to me by Boldwood Books via Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
3.5 stars.
A troubled, lonesome heroine finds her HEA with a sweet, caring hero in “Once Upon a Thyme”, by Jane Lovering, a slow burn romance developing amidst an impressive herb garden and family secrets.
I liked how Zeb and Natalie connected and slowly found out they were good for each other. Zeb is going through some major changes and neverthless is eager to help Natalie in new projects for the herb farm.
I loved the slow revealing of his character and how he is truly a knight in shining armour. The clumsiness and lankiness are adorable. He’s also very kind and compassionate even with characters who really don’t deserve it.
Natalie has a hard life, working hard at the herb garden which takes much of her time and energy, while also caring for her selfish mother.
The heroine’s isolation growing up and the present loneliness are heartbreaking.
I found the character of the mother horrible and hiding her condition for so many years a bit unrealistic. The family secrets were a bit forced and Natalie’s compliance with all this was hard to digest.
The animals and the herb farm give an additional interest to the story.
3.5 stars.
A troubled, lonesome heroine finds her HEA with a sweet, caring hero in “Once Upon a Thyme”, by Jane Lovering, a slow burn romance developing amidst an impressive herb garden and family secrets.
I liked how Zeb and Natalie connected and slowly found out they were good for each other. Zeb is going through some major changes and neverthless is eager to help Natalie in new projects for the herb farm.
I loved the slow revealing of his character and how he is truly a knight in shining armour. The clumsiness and lankiness are adorable. He’s also very kind and compassionate even with characters who really don’t deserve it.
Natalie has a hard life, working hard at the herb garden which takes much of her time and energy, while also caring for her selfish mother.
The heroine’s isolation growing up and the present loneliness are heartbreaking.
I found the character of the mother horrible and hiding her condition for so many years a bit unrealistic. The family secrets were a bit forced and Natalie’s compliance with all this was hard to digest.
The animals and the herb farm give an additional interest to the story.
June 28, 2025
Natalie (she prefers Tallie) enjoys running the family herb farm – now owned by her – living her solitary life, taking real pride in everything she does. If only her mother wasn’t such a drain on her time – the constant phone calls and last minute demands, all handled with patience, resignation and sympathy knowing that she’s housebound with an undiagnosed illness. She wishes she knew more about her own past and her mysterious father – but questions only upset her mother, so she doesn’t ask them.
And then there’s the interference – Zeb’s stay, arranged by her mother, is initially particularly unwelcome. He’s apparently there to help with promoting the business – but it might just be that there’s another agenda entirely. But then things take a bit of a turn with the arrival of a folk band, intent on filming their latest video at the herb farm – the perfect opportunity for some real publicity, a touch of glamour and excitement, and one member of the band who makes her heart beat rather faster. But their visit brings a few surprises too – and, in time, some answers to Tallie’s unanswered questions.
The characters, as always, are quite wonderful. Tallie is a little bit broken, and immensely sympathetic – but with a lovely wry take on her world, an increasing bravery to take on life’s challenges, and a self-deprecating humour that so often brought a smile to my face. And Zeb turned out to be someone I really loved too – also a bit damaged by life and others’ expectations, unexpectedly finding the same peace as Tallie in the day-to-day running of the herb farm, and proving to have a particularly gentle touch with its troublesome animals and its owner.
It’s a story full of surprises – some delightful, some life changing – with more than a few twists and turns, and so many emotional moments. And the balance of the story couldn’t be more perfect – laugh-out-loud set pieces followed by a moment so poignant it brings a tear to the eye – no-one does it better. And the storytelling is simply wonderful – I had no idea where the story was going, but I was only too happy to immerse myself in everyone’s lives and see how things turned out. The romance? And the hoped for happy ending? It honestly couldn’t have been better.
With characters I really took to my heart, a perfectly drawn setting, a fantastic story filled with surprises, laughter, tears, and the loveliest romance, this was a book I really loved. My new favourite? But of course it was!
And then there’s the interference – Zeb’s stay, arranged by her mother, is initially particularly unwelcome. He’s apparently there to help with promoting the business – but it might just be that there’s another agenda entirely. But then things take a bit of a turn with the arrival of a folk band, intent on filming their latest video at the herb farm – the perfect opportunity for some real publicity, a touch of glamour and excitement, and one member of the band who makes her heart beat rather faster. But their visit brings a few surprises too – and, in time, some answers to Tallie’s unanswered questions.
The characters, as always, are quite wonderful. Tallie is a little bit broken, and immensely sympathetic – but with a lovely wry take on her world, an increasing bravery to take on life’s challenges, and a self-deprecating humour that so often brought a smile to my face. And Zeb turned out to be someone I really loved too – also a bit damaged by life and others’ expectations, unexpectedly finding the same peace as Tallie in the day-to-day running of the herb farm, and proving to have a particularly gentle touch with its troublesome animals and its owner.
It’s a story full of surprises – some delightful, some life changing – with more than a few twists and turns, and so many emotional moments. And the balance of the story couldn’t be more perfect – laugh-out-loud set pieces followed by a moment so poignant it brings a tear to the eye – no-one does it better. And the storytelling is simply wonderful – I had no idea where the story was going, but I was only too happy to immerse myself in everyone’s lives and see how things turned out. The romance? And the hoped for happy ending? It honestly couldn’t have been better.
With characters I really took to my heart, a perfectly drawn setting, a fantastic story filled with surprises, laughter, tears, and the loveliest romance, this was a book I really loved. My new favourite? But of course it was!
June 15, 2025
Tally is a woman in her late twenties who runs a herb farm. It has always been a part of her family, first belonging to her grandma, then her mother, before Tally buys it outright from her mum.
It's a tough gig, especially as she has caring responsibilities for her mother, unwell with an unknown illness, but she loves being with the plants, and her guinea pigs, and especially Big Pig, her sow.
She ends up with Zeb, a marketing consultant appointed by her mother, tagging along as she goes about her life.
A chance visit from an up-and-coming band who want to use the farm to shoot videos gives Tally the chance of some more income, much-needed funds to continue her small, struggling business, and under the guidance of Zeb, she hesitantly agrees.
But there are lots of things going on, with thinking about a certain band member, as well as looking out for her mother, and trying to quell feelings that are building about someone else.
It's a slow-rumbling romance, with a slightly darker moment when secrets are uncovered; however, it's a lovely summer read.
A gorgeous story filled with love, a twist of mystery and a lot of hope.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for an ARC.
It's a tough gig, especially as she has caring responsibilities for her mother, unwell with an unknown illness, but she loves being with the plants, and her guinea pigs, and especially Big Pig, her sow.
She ends up with Zeb, a marketing consultant appointed by her mother, tagging along as she goes about her life.
A chance visit from an up-and-coming band who want to use the farm to shoot videos gives Tally the chance of some more income, much-needed funds to continue her small, struggling business, and under the guidance of Zeb, she hesitantly agrees.
But there are lots of things going on, with thinking about a certain band member, as well as looking out for her mother, and trying to quell feelings that are building about someone else.
It's a slow-rumbling romance, with a slightly darker moment when secrets are uncovered; however, it's a lovely summer read.
A gorgeous story filled with love, a twist of mystery and a lot of hope.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for an ARC.
June 24, 2025
The storyline was so sweet and the featured animals were so cute. I had a feeling that one of the characters was going to pay a major role but the discovery of her moms I’ll was definitely took me by surprise. I really appreciated Zebs character and how he was intuitive. The conclusion is one of my favorites because it ends with the characters having a conversation allowing the reader to come to a conclusion still with in the story. There is no detachment in the conclusion. It’s tied up with a bow.
This was a sweet book but just took me a little longer to read. It’s really a short 200 page book that was worth the read.
I did have a harder time connecting with a few of the characters. It felt like the story took a while to get going and once it was moving along it still felt slow for me. Some parts felt repetitive.
I would recommend this if you want a slow burn, character growth near the end in a book.
This was a sweet book but just took me a little longer to read. It’s really a short 200 page book that was worth the read.
I did have a harder time connecting with a few of the characters. It felt like the story took a while to get going and once it was moving along it still felt slow for me. Some parts felt repetitive.
I would recommend this if you want a slow burn, character growth near the end in a book.
July 9, 2025
Tallie is tootling along in life, running her herb farm and running round at the beck and call of her mum. She’s ok with her lot in life but then came Zeb.
What Zeb brought with him was chaos to Tallie’s life. Musicians, escaping animals to start with. It made the read fun with a bit of romance – not with the animals mind 😆
Tallie went through a full on journey when Zeb entered her life. He challenged everything. Questioned everything. Both professional and personal. He pushed boundaries which I loved. I could in someways identify with Tallie in being a people pleaser and not question things out loud, not wanting to rock the boat.
Once Upon A Thyme is a gorgeous read with that will they won’t they tension which I love in such a book. I’d not heard of Jane Lovering before but she’s on my list of authors to read more of! Just glorious !
What Zeb brought with him was chaos to Tallie’s life. Musicians, escaping animals to start with. It made the read fun with a bit of romance – not with the animals mind 😆
Tallie went through a full on journey when Zeb entered her life. He challenged everything. Questioned everything. Both professional and personal. He pushed boundaries which I loved. I could in someways identify with Tallie in being a people pleaser and not question things out loud, not wanting to rock the boat.
Once Upon A Thyme is a gorgeous read with that will they won’t they tension which I love in such a book. I’d not heard of Jane Lovering before but she’s on my list of authors to read more of! Just glorious !
June 17, 2025
In the interest of full disclosure, I received an ARC of Once Upon a Thyme from NetGalley in exchange for an unbiased review. I'm giving it a 3.5 rounded up to 4 stars, because despite the flaws, I thoroughly enjoyed the book.
Once Upon a Thyme is a charming, slow-burn romance set on a picturesque herb farm, following Tallie, a hardworking woman juggling her family’s herb business and a difficult relationship with her ostensibly ailing mother. When Zeb, a surprise business consultant is hired to help boost the farm’s fortunes, a sweet connection slowly develops between them amid family secrets, a famous band’s surprise arrival, and a journey of self-discovery.
Things I loved: Zeb, oh Zeb. Despite the wacky name I wasn’t totally sold on, he was a breath of fresh air: wonderfully non-toxic, compassionate, and supportive without ever being aloof or overbearing. His gentle kindness and awkward charm made the slow-building romance feel genuine and heartwarming. The herb farm was quaint and original - I’m not sure I ever read a book in that setting before. I also enjoyed the band subplot. The Goshawk Traders were beautifully absurd (harem pants! washboards! Mika!) and helped spark Tallie’s personal growth in a fun and earned way. Big Pig was a delight, adding humor and a touch of exasperation to the story. The characters felt their age, which made their interactions and struggles feel authentic. The mom, while incredibly unlikeable (as she should be) was believably toxic
Things I didn’t love: The pacing was uneven. The first quarter of the book dragged with repetitive moaning and groaning over Tallie’s burdens and her mother’s illness: “Oh no! I love the farm, I have a secret, I’m the boss, my mom sucks but I love her anyway!” The big family secrets unfolded at a reasonable pace, and the fact that I put things together lots faster than Tallie (and a little faster than Zeb, tbh) felt fair, although the depth of the secret pushed the bounds of believability. The problem was that everything after that point happened too quickly near the end, feeling rushed and crammed. Tallie’s sudden decision to break into the wedding industry came out of nowhere, lacking foreshadowing or buildup, and I wanted more chapters after the big reveal to see how she integrated her new insights into her life before the epilogue.
Overall, Once Upon a Thyme is a sweet, cozy romance with a lot of heart, set against a vivid rural backdrop. It’s not perfect, but it’s a quick and pleasant and summer read.
Perfect for fans of: Herbs, gardening, farms, Days of Our Lives, quirky animals, coming-of-age stories, cinnamon roll heroes, and happily ever after epilogues.
Once Upon a Thyme is a charming, slow-burn romance set on a picturesque herb farm, following Tallie, a hardworking woman juggling her family’s herb business and a difficult relationship with her ostensibly ailing mother. When Zeb, a surprise business consultant is hired to help boost the farm’s fortunes, a sweet connection slowly develops between them amid family secrets, a famous band’s surprise arrival, and a journey of self-discovery.
Things I loved: Zeb, oh Zeb. Despite the wacky name I wasn’t totally sold on, he was a breath of fresh air: wonderfully non-toxic, compassionate, and supportive without ever being aloof or overbearing. His gentle kindness and awkward charm made the slow-building romance feel genuine and heartwarming. The herb farm was quaint and original - I’m not sure I ever read a book in that setting before. I also enjoyed the band subplot. The Goshawk Traders were beautifully absurd (harem pants! washboards! Mika!) and helped spark Tallie’s personal growth in a fun and earned way. Big Pig was a delight, adding humor and a touch of exasperation to the story. The characters felt their age, which made their interactions and struggles feel authentic. The mom, while incredibly unlikeable (as she should be) was believably toxic
Things I didn’t love: The pacing was uneven. The first quarter of the book dragged with repetitive moaning and groaning over Tallie’s burdens and her mother’s illness: “Oh no! I love the farm, I have a secret, I’m the boss, my mom sucks but I love her anyway!” The big family secrets unfolded at a reasonable pace, and the fact that I put things together lots faster than Tallie (and a little faster than Zeb, tbh) felt fair, although the depth of the secret pushed the bounds of believability. The problem was that everything after that point happened too quickly near the end, feeling rushed and crammed. Tallie’s sudden decision to break into the wedding industry came out of nowhere, lacking foreshadowing or buildup, and I wanted more chapters after the big reveal to see how she integrated her new insights into her life before the epilogue.
Overall, Once Upon a Thyme is a sweet, cozy romance with a lot of heart, set against a vivid rural backdrop. It’s not perfect, but it’s a quick and pleasant and summer read.
Perfect for fans of: Herbs, gardening, farms, Days of Our Lives, quirky animals, coming-of-age stories, cinnamon roll heroes, and happily ever after epilogues.
June 27, 2025
I am a big fan of Jane Lovering’s romantic fiction. She never fails to make me smile and often has a cracking first line to catch your interest and draw you in. In this case it’s ‘There was a pig in the kitchen with its trotters on the table and its snout in the fruit bowl’. That’s quite the image! Another line that made me laugh out loud was when she described someone as having ‘a beard that you could have lost a Viking in’!
Natalie, known as Tallie, lives a quiet and fairly solitary life running her family herb farm. I took to Tallie immediately and had a lot of sympathy for her. She is at the beck and call of her mother who is often bed-ridden with a unexplained condition. She carries out her caring duties with a mix of guilt, love and resignation. There is some mystery surrounding what happened to her father many years ago, along with another childhood incident. She’s always been told not to ask questions and, as doing so upsets her mother, she just doesn’t. There are clearly many secrets being held close and I was very curious to find out what they were. She had also been well warned off love as it would only end in heartbreak. I felt for her as she seemed to live quite a small life and, although she enjoyed her work, she didn’t have the opportunity to branch out and experience joy.
Tallie’s quiet life is well and truly disrupted with the arrival of Zeb, sneakily employed by Tallie’s mum to help promote the business. At the same time, a famous folk band arrive and are keen to film their latest video at the farm. One the band members in particular catches Tallie’s eye and she begins to dream of a different kind of life.
How do stories which begin ‘once upon a time’ end? Well, as we all know, with ‘and they all lived happily ever after’ and you will of course want Tallie to have her ‘happily ‘ever after’. The question is, who will it be with? I really recommend you read this lovely book to find out. Another gorgeous romantic comedy from Jane Lovering.
Natalie, known as Tallie, lives a quiet and fairly solitary life running her family herb farm. I took to Tallie immediately and had a lot of sympathy for her. She is at the beck and call of her mother who is often bed-ridden with a unexplained condition. She carries out her caring duties with a mix of guilt, love and resignation. There is some mystery surrounding what happened to her father many years ago, along with another childhood incident. She’s always been told not to ask questions and, as doing so upsets her mother, she just doesn’t. There are clearly many secrets being held close and I was very curious to find out what they were. She had also been well warned off love as it would only end in heartbreak. I felt for her as she seemed to live quite a small life and, although she enjoyed her work, she didn’t have the opportunity to branch out and experience joy.
Tallie’s quiet life is well and truly disrupted with the arrival of Zeb, sneakily employed by Tallie’s mum to help promote the business. At the same time, a famous folk band arrive and are keen to film their latest video at the farm. One the band members in particular catches Tallie’s eye and she begins to dream of a different kind of life.
How do stories which begin ‘once upon a time’ end? Well, as we all know, with ‘and they all lived happily ever after’ and you will of course want Tallie to have her ‘happily ‘ever after’. The question is, who will it be with? I really recommend you read this lovely book to find out. Another gorgeous romantic comedy from Jane Lovering.
June 29, 2025
Rating: 4.5 Stars
Award-winning author Jane Lovering makes her readers laugh and cry with her wonderful new novel, Once Upon a Thyme.
Natalie has always kept herself to herself. Happiest when she’s in her own comfort zone, Natalie rarely ventures out of the family herb farm she has recently taken over or the nearby village where her mother lives. However, Natalie safe little world is shaken up by the arrival of Zeb, recently hired by her mother to help with the business, and band manager Simon who wants to film in her beautiful garden. The band’s arrival upends Natalie’s quiet existence beyond all recognition and throws her whole life into confusion. However, these new arrivals have made Natalie realise that there is far more to the world than the little box she has been willingly kept prisoner in…
As she begins to blossom and gain confidence, Natalie wonders if she will ever get the answers to the questions she has spent a lifetime asking. Will the mystery from her childhood be solved? And more importantly, will she find the strength and courage, to take a chance on herself and grab this opportunity to grab life with both hands a go? Or will her comfort zone prove to be too tempting to escape from?
Jane Lovering’s books never disappoint. She writes about real people in situations her readers can relate to and empathize with and she does this beautifully in Once Upon a Thyme. A heartfelt, witty and emotional story about renewal, opening yourself up to love, friendship and believing in yourself, Once Upon a Thyme touch the heart and will make readers laugh out loud as they find themselves completely invested in Natalie’s story.
A great read from a hugely talented writer, Once Upon a Thyme is another triumph by Jane Lovering.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Award-winning author Jane Lovering makes her readers laugh and cry with her wonderful new novel, Once Upon a Thyme.
Natalie has always kept herself to herself. Happiest when she’s in her own comfort zone, Natalie rarely ventures out of the family herb farm she has recently taken over or the nearby village where her mother lives. However, Natalie safe little world is shaken up by the arrival of Zeb, recently hired by her mother to help with the business, and band manager Simon who wants to film in her beautiful garden. The band’s arrival upends Natalie’s quiet existence beyond all recognition and throws her whole life into confusion. However, these new arrivals have made Natalie realise that there is far more to the world than the little box she has been willingly kept prisoner in…
As she begins to blossom and gain confidence, Natalie wonders if she will ever get the answers to the questions she has spent a lifetime asking. Will the mystery from her childhood be solved? And more importantly, will she find the strength and courage, to take a chance on herself and grab this opportunity to grab life with both hands a go? Or will her comfort zone prove to be too tempting to escape from?
Jane Lovering’s books never disappoint. She writes about real people in situations her readers can relate to and empathize with and she does this beautifully in Once Upon a Thyme. A heartfelt, witty and emotional story about renewal, opening yourself up to love, friendship and believing in yourself, Once Upon a Thyme touch the heart and will make readers laugh out loud as they find themselves completely invested in Natalie’s story.
A great read from a hugely talented writer, Once Upon a Thyme is another triumph by Jane Lovering.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 6, 2025
Once Upon a Thyme is a heartwarming romance with a lot of depth.
I love Jane’s writing, and I am always excited to sit down and read her latest book. What makes her writing stand out to me is that you get that charming, light, and fluffy romance but with a dash of emotional depth or sometimes a mystery. This was a delightful read. I found myself laughing right from the start, and then I became enchanted with Natalie and Zeb’s slow-burn romance. Poor Natalie is overworked trying to run her family’s herb farm and keep up with her demanding mother. However, despite the hard work of running a farm, Natalie loves it and adores being surrounded by her plants. I thoroughly enjoyed exploring Natalie’s farm and the chaotic shenanigans that took place there. I adored the subplot around the band staying with Natalie’s family. They added laughter and light, especially when things got heavier in the book. There are some more emotional moments in this book, which are centred around a secret Natalie’s family has been keeping.
Zeb is an absolute delight as a hero. He is kind, understanding, supportive, and a genuine good guy. He isn’t toxic or overbearing; he just wants to be there for Natalie. This is a super slow, slow-burn romance. It takes a bit for these two crazy love birds to act upon those growing feelings. I’m not always a fan of slow-burn romances, but in this case, it works really well. I appreciated how Natalie and Zeb took the time to get to know each other before becoming romantically involved.
Once Upon a Thyme is another lovely romance by the talented Jane Lovering.
Click on the link to read more of our reviews on our blog: https://romancebythebook.com/book-rev...
I love Jane’s writing, and I am always excited to sit down and read her latest book. What makes her writing stand out to me is that you get that charming, light, and fluffy romance but with a dash of emotional depth or sometimes a mystery. This was a delightful read. I found myself laughing right from the start, and then I became enchanted with Natalie and Zeb’s slow-burn romance. Poor Natalie is overworked trying to run her family’s herb farm and keep up with her demanding mother. However, despite the hard work of running a farm, Natalie loves it and adores being surrounded by her plants. I thoroughly enjoyed exploring Natalie’s farm and the chaotic shenanigans that took place there. I adored the subplot around the band staying with Natalie’s family. They added laughter and light, especially when things got heavier in the book. There are some more emotional moments in this book, which are centred around a secret Natalie’s family has been keeping.
Zeb is an absolute delight as a hero. He is kind, understanding, supportive, and a genuine good guy. He isn’t toxic or overbearing; he just wants to be there for Natalie. This is a super slow, slow-burn romance. It takes a bit for these two crazy love birds to act upon those growing feelings. I’m not always a fan of slow-burn romances, but in this case, it works really well. I appreciated how Natalie and Zeb took the time to get to know each other before becoming romantically involved.
Once Upon a Thyme is another lovely romance by the talented Jane Lovering.
Click on the link to read more of our reviews on our blog: https://romancebythebook.com/book-rev...
June 22, 2025
Once Upon a Thyme is set in a rural English area in a herb garden. Natalie is the owner of this venture, handed down to her from her grandmother to her mother and then Natalie. She has a recalcitrant and rather clever pig, some guinea pigs, and an extensive herb garden with an attached shop. She works hard and is rather hampered by her mother's persistent calls on her time. Natalie was raised mostly by her grandmother, as her mother always seem to have been ill. Her father died when she was an infant.
When Zeb and then Simon and and English band shoot a video in Natalie's garden things begin to become rather topsy turvey for her. Zeb gently challenges her, although Natalie really is quite proficient in her job, however she is struggling on a number of levels. As well as the rather odd and strained relationship with her mother, Natalie wonders if she is really living her life like she would want. A very valid question.
Through a number of challenging moments Natalie finds her way through her struggles and life takes on a better aspect. I could see her going on to living a fulfilling life. I found this an interesting read, I wasn't sure if I liked Natalie at the beginning but as she found herself and began working through her past, I was happy to see her taking control of her life.
When Zeb and then Simon and and English band shoot a video in Natalie's garden things begin to become rather topsy turvey for her. Zeb gently challenges her, although Natalie really is quite proficient in her job, however she is struggling on a number of levels. As well as the rather odd and strained relationship with her mother, Natalie wonders if she is really living her life like she would want. A very valid question.
Through a number of challenging moments Natalie finds her way through her struggles and life takes on a better aspect. I could see her going on to living a fulfilling life. I found this an interesting read, I wasn't sure if I liked Natalie at the beginning but as she found herself and began working through her past, I was happy to see her taking control of her life.
June 26, 2025
I enjoyed getting to know Natalie as she turned out to be quite a complicated character who had been conditioned by her grandmother and mother not to ask questions and to stay close to home. There was obviously a mystery brewing in the background which turned out to be the case. Natalie herself slowly came to a realisation which threw all her opinions into disarray.
Zeb appears in the story, sent by Natalie's mother to look into the business to maximise profit. Starting up a new business, it is soon clear that his heart is not in it and he seems to take to life in Natalie's herb business like a duck to water. He is a rather closed off character at times, but he does observe quite closely and soon has his suspicions about Natalie's past. Life in the herb gardens is further disrupted with the arrival of a band who want to use it as the setting for their latest video. There are quite a few unconventional characters among them and their appearance leads to some huge surprises for Natalie.
I appreciated the humour which was to be found from Natalie's petting area animals and how different people reacted to them. Family relationships are complex and at times frustrating but beneath Natalie's frustrations with her life, you sense a healing environment and a hopeful outcome.
In short: mysteries, romance and laughter
Thanks to the publisher
Zeb appears in the story, sent by Natalie's mother to look into the business to maximise profit. Starting up a new business, it is soon clear that his heart is not in it and he seems to take to life in Natalie's herb business like a duck to water. He is a rather closed off character at times, but he does observe quite closely and soon has his suspicions about Natalie's past. Life in the herb gardens is further disrupted with the arrival of a band who want to use it as the setting for their latest video. There are quite a few unconventional characters among them and their appearance leads to some huge surprises for Natalie.
I appreciated the humour which was to be found from Natalie's petting area animals and how different people reacted to them. Family relationships are complex and at times frustrating but beneath Natalie's frustrations with her life, you sense a healing environment and a hopeful outcome.
In short: mysteries, romance and laughter
Thanks to the publisher
June 29, 2025
Once Upon a Thyme by Jane Lovering
I received an advance review copy for free thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Blurb
Since taking over the family herb farm, Natalie has stuck with what she knows, rarely venturing much further than the nearby village where her invalid mother now lives. But then, one day, everything changes with the arrival of unexpected visitors.
First comes Zeb, employed by Natalie’s mother to help with the business but soon hinting at other motives. Then comes Simon with the famous band he manages, wanting to film in Natalie’s beautiful garden. The band causes chaos and the attitude of one particular member throws Natalie’s ordered life into confusion.
Over one magical summer of revelations and of uncovering secrets, Natalie starts to blossom and by the time autumn arrives she knows nothing will ever be the same again. Will she finally get an answer to the mystery of her childhood? And can she embrace the fresh start she so deserves - but which means she’ll have to take one enormous and brave leap of faith?
My Opinion
Jane Lovering has once again written a delightful novel. Once Upon a Thyme is a book full of surprises. As always when finishing a book by Jane, I wish we could spend more time with these lovely characters. Another stunning book.
Rating 4/5
I received an advance review copy for free thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Blurb
Since taking over the family herb farm, Natalie has stuck with what she knows, rarely venturing much further than the nearby village where her invalid mother now lives. But then, one day, everything changes with the arrival of unexpected visitors.
First comes Zeb, employed by Natalie’s mother to help with the business but soon hinting at other motives. Then comes Simon with the famous band he manages, wanting to film in Natalie’s beautiful garden. The band causes chaos and the attitude of one particular member throws Natalie’s ordered life into confusion.
Over one magical summer of revelations and of uncovering secrets, Natalie starts to blossom and by the time autumn arrives she knows nothing will ever be the same again. Will she finally get an answer to the mystery of her childhood? And can she embrace the fresh start she so deserves - but which means she’ll have to take one enormous and brave leap of faith?
My Opinion
Jane Lovering has once again written a delightful novel. Once Upon a Thyme is a book full of surprises. As always when finishing a book by Jane, I wish we could spend more time with these lovely characters. Another stunning book.
Rating 4/5
May 14, 2025
I want to say thank you to the author, the publisher and Netgalley for allowing me to read this book.
I don't think I've ever said this or thought about it until this book, but this has the best, most perfect and hilarious first page I've ever read. It was perfect, and it completely drew me in. The story is so much more than the description for it, it invokes a lot of feelings. I loved that the characters actually act and seem like their ages too ive missed that so much in a book about characters in their 30s. This is honestly the most real feeling romance book I've read in a while. There is a little bit of heaviness that occurs and one part that is obvious to happen but it completely works and it's something you're really hoping for. This is a story of more than just love, it's also of self-discovery and I loved it!
My only issue with the whole book is the randomly long chapters, that could have been broken up a little more. Other than that I loved this, and I loved big pig, she was the perfect addition. This is a fantastic real read and I loved it! I also loved the doctor who references too especially the mention of my favourite doctor!
Thank you so much from the bottom of my heart for allowing me to read this wonderful book!
I don't think I've ever said this or thought about it until this book, but this has the best, most perfect and hilarious first page I've ever read. It was perfect, and it completely drew me in. The story is so much more than the description for it, it invokes a lot of feelings. I loved that the characters actually act and seem like their ages too ive missed that so much in a book about characters in their 30s. This is honestly the most real feeling romance book I've read in a while. There is a little bit of heaviness that occurs and one part that is obvious to happen but it completely works and it's something you're really hoping for. This is a story of more than just love, it's also of self-discovery and I loved it!
My only issue with the whole book is the randomly long chapters, that could have been broken up a little more. Other than that I loved this, and I loved big pig, she was the perfect addition. This is a fantastic real read and I loved it! I also loved the doctor who references too especially the mention of my favourite doctor!
Thank you so much from the bottom of my heart for allowing me to read this wonderful book!
June 20, 2025
I was totally immersed in this story from the beginning. I am a gardener, and although I don’t possess Natalie’s skill set, I could relate to her passion. The description of her gardens brought wonderful peaceful images to my mind. Well, peaceful, until Big Pig got out his fencing and daintily pranced all over the herbs. I must admit that I am fond of Big Pig, even with her escapes.
The characters are wonderfully created, and I quickly became fond of them. (Most of them anyway.) I had ideas of what I thought would happen, and was somewhat correct, although I had a couple surprises.
Natalie is such a beautiful person, and I thank the author, Jane Lovering for gifting me this forgiving, lovely women to carry around in my mind now. She could have become a bitter human, but she chose love.
The book cover is beautiful book and fits the story so very well. That is important to me. I think the artist has Natalie perfectly drawn and painted. Actually, I would love this cover to be blown up and framed.
A sincere thank you to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for giving me the pleasure of reading the advance reader copy, with no obligation to write a review. My review is written freely as a hobby, and is totally my own opinion, not influenced by receiving the ARC.
The characters are wonderfully created, and I quickly became fond of them. (Most of them anyway.) I had ideas of what I thought would happen, and was somewhat correct, although I had a couple surprises.
Natalie is such a beautiful person, and I thank the author, Jane Lovering for gifting me this forgiving, lovely women to carry around in my mind now. She could have become a bitter human, but she chose love.
The book cover is beautiful book and fits the story so very well. That is important to me. I think the artist has Natalie perfectly drawn and painted. Actually, I would love this cover to be blown up and framed.
A sincere thank you to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for giving me the pleasure of reading the advance reader copy, with no obligation to write a review. My review is written freely as a hobby, and is totally my own opinion, not influenced by receiving the ARC.
August 5, 2025
In this fun new romance novel from Jane Lovering, readers follow Natalie, who has recently taken over the family herb farm and keeps to the farm, her home, and the village where her invalid mother lives. When a series of unexpected visitors -- Zeb, hired by her mother to help at the farm, and Simon and the band he manages, who want to film a music video in the garden -- arrive and start shaking up Natalie’s peaceful and predictable life, she has to adjust to the changes and the revelations that follow as she gets a chance at a new life. Packed with characters and set against a beautiful setting, readers will enjoy this unique and heartwarming novel and its well-constructed characters. Natalie’s individual growth and character arc is particularly rewarding because it is relatable in some ways to readers, and her choice to focus on her relationships and individual growth adds a great emotional storyline. The setting is particularly beautiful and detailed, and it offers a great contrast with the changes and disruption in the storyline. The attention to detail is really fantastic and pulls readers into the story, and this is a great cozy and heartwarming romance novel perfect for summer.
Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the advance copy.
Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the advance copy.
May 31, 2025
I picked this book for the simple facts that I love thyme and I love herbs. And it looked cute.
The story centers around a woman in her late 20s who owns and runs the family herb farm. Her overly involved mother surprise hires her a business consultant/PR guy to help her increase profits, and coincidentally a famous band appears wanting to film a music video on her farm.
The concept was cute, and there were a lot of things I felt were very charming. Big Fan of the graceful and charismatic Big Pig for instance. But there were also a lot of things I was bored by or didn't like. I didn't like Zeb (the business consultant), and I was bored by whole band plot line.
There was a BIG REVEAL of many things at the end, which I felt could have broken up throughout the story to make it a bit more intriguing throughout. Or maybe this could've been trimmed down to a novella. Big Pig escaped her pen many, many times and there was a lot of repetitive dialogue, interactions, and descriptions.
But on the whole, it was still pretty decent and easy to read.
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC!
The story centers around a woman in her late 20s who owns and runs the family herb farm. Her overly involved mother surprise hires her a business consultant/PR guy to help her increase profits, and coincidentally a famous band appears wanting to film a music video on her farm.
The concept was cute, and there were a lot of things I felt were very charming. Big Fan of the graceful and charismatic Big Pig for instance. But there were also a lot of things I was bored by or didn't like. I didn't like Zeb (the business consultant), and I was bored by whole band plot line.
There was a BIG REVEAL of many things at the end, which I felt could have broken up throughout the story to make it a bit more intriguing throughout. Or maybe this could've been trimmed down to a novella. Big Pig escaped her pen many, many times and there was a lot of repetitive dialogue, interactions, and descriptions.
But on the whole, it was still pretty decent and easy to read.
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC!
June 6, 2025
I received an eARC of this book from NetGalley and the publisher, for which I thank them.
“Once Upon a Thyme” is by Jane Lovering. This is a really sweet book about a woman, Tillie, who runs her family herb farm. Not that I ever want to run an herb farm, but man that sounds like an amazing job to have. But I digress. While at work one day, Zeb appears and it’s discovered that Tillie’s mother has hired him to improve the marketing of the farm. Then, later that same day, a famous band shows up at the farm wanting to film their next video at the farm. In amongst all of this, Tillie’s mother is in ill health - so amongst all her duties (running the farm, doing the billing, arguing with Zeb about things, wrangling pigs into their enclosures) when her mother calls, Tillie drops everything to help her. I will agree with other reviewers who said that the pig escapades became a bit repetitive. Also, I quickly worked out how things were related and really felt like the mother was even a bigger piece of work than before (didn’t like her throughout the book). This was a quick okay read for me; descriptions of the farm were lovely!
“Once Upon a Thyme” is by Jane Lovering. This is a really sweet book about a woman, Tillie, who runs her family herb farm. Not that I ever want to run an herb farm, but man that sounds like an amazing job to have. But I digress. While at work one day, Zeb appears and it’s discovered that Tillie’s mother has hired him to improve the marketing of the farm. Then, later that same day, a famous band shows up at the farm wanting to film their next video at the farm. In amongst all of this, Tillie’s mother is in ill health - so amongst all her duties (running the farm, doing the billing, arguing with Zeb about things, wrangling pigs into their enclosures) when her mother calls, Tillie drops everything to help her. I will agree with other reviewers who said that the pig escapades became a bit repetitive. Also, I quickly worked out how things were related and really felt like the mother was even a bigger piece of work than before (didn’t like her throughout the book). This was a quick okay read for me; descriptions of the farm were lovely!
June 17, 2025
When a book starts with a pig in a kitchen eating a satsuma, then you know you're in for a great reading experience!! And that's exactly what I had with Once Upon a Thyme!! I loved it from the first page to last, and I now want to run my own herb farm!!
Tallie is at the heart of the story, running the farm she took over from her Mum, but her Mum is still there in the background 'helping' - often to the annoyance of Tallie, but she's been brought up to not ask questions and to keep her Mum happy as she's suffered ill health for as long as Tallie can remember - anything for a quiet life.
It's only when Zeb shows up at the farm to help out, employed by her Mum!, that Tallie starts to find her own voice and wanting to make some changes to how things are run and how she wants to take the farm forward. There's a few bumps in the road along the way, and she discovers some shocking news that really rocks her to the core.
There's always something going on at the farm to raise a smile - Big Pig is my favourite! - and some worries, and I really loved the setting and characters we get to meet along the way! Highly recommended!!
Tallie is at the heart of the story, running the farm she took over from her Mum, but her Mum is still there in the background 'helping' - often to the annoyance of Tallie, but she's been brought up to not ask questions and to keep her Mum happy as she's suffered ill health for as long as Tallie can remember - anything for a quiet life.
It's only when Zeb shows up at the farm to help out, employed by her Mum!, that Tallie starts to find her own voice and wanting to make some changes to how things are run and how she wants to take the farm forward. There's a few bumps in the road along the way, and she discovers some shocking news that really rocks her to the core.
There's always something going on at the farm to raise a smile - Big Pig is my favourite! - and some worries, and I really loved the setting and characters we get to meet along the way! Highly recommended!!
May 19, 2025
Natalie Fisher has never been able to choose for herself. When she was still very young, she was taking care of her mother who spent most of her time in bed. Later one, she took over running the family herb farm. Choices like going away to college weren't on the menu for her.
Her life changed when a young man (Zeb) showed up, sent by her mother to help her increase the business. Shortly afterwards, she was asked to allow a musical group to create their new album at her farm. It would be good publicity for the farm and they were also going to pay her. Her life had been an unending round of planting, weeding and harvesting and suddenly the world opened up a little for her.
She had always been told not to ask questions about her family situation - her mother bed-ridden most of the time, even her father's full name. Now she wanted the answers, no matter how painful. This book is one I won't soon forget and I highly recommend it.
I received an e-arc from the publisher Boldwood Books and voluntarily read and reviewed it.
Her life changed when a young man (Zeb) showed up, sent by her mother to help her increase the business. Shortly afterwards, she was asked to allow a musical group to create their new album at her farm. It would be good publicity for the farm and they were also going to pay her. Her life had been an unending round of planting, weeding and harvesting and suddenly the world opened up a little for her.
She had always been told not to ask questions about her family situation - her mother bed-ridden most of the time, even her father's full name. Now she wanted the answers, no matter how painful. This book is one I won't soon forget and I highly recommend it.
I received an e-arc from the publisher Boldwood Books and voluntarily read and reviewed it.
May 28, 2025
I was so excited when I began reading this novel. I thought how much fun it was to meet a pig having a snack on a kitchen counter. It reminded me of Katie Fforde's novels which I so enjoyed reading in the past. Unfortunately, Tallie's tale did not continue in that entertaining vein. It's a solid 3.5 Stars, though.
Tallie is a late 20's owner of an herb shop in a small
english village. The shop was once her grandmother's and she now owns it, having bought out her mother. She is subject to her mother's whims and summonses but knows nothing about her (late) father or her own history.
Enter a passing folk rock group who want to rent her property for a new release album video. Also enter a former chef hired by her mother to help manage Tallie's business. From this point on, the rest of the novel is predictable and lacking in suspense. No surprise ending for me here. But it's a quick read anyway.
Thanks to Net Galley and the publisher for the ARC copy of this book.
Tallie is a late 20's owner of an herb shop in a small
english village. The shop was once her grandmother's and she now owns it, having bought out her mother. She is subject to her mother's whims and summonses but knows nothing about her (late) father or her own history.
Enter a passing folk rock group who want to rent her property for a new release album video. Also enter a former chef hired by her mother to help manage Tallie's business. From this point on, the rest of the novel is predictable and lacking in suspense. No surprise ending for me here. But it's a quick read anyway.
Thanks to Net Galley and the publisher for the ARC copy of this book.
June 1, 2025
This quick read genuinely captivated my attention. As I read it, I believed it was taking a more sinister turn. Tallie, the owner and operator of a herb farm, was unexpectedly visited by Zeb one day to work part-time. He quickly became an integral part of her business, and I couldn’t help but worry that this was more of a tale of a “naive farmer falling prey to an interloper” than a budding romance. Fortunately, it wasn’t as sinister as I had anticipated, but it certainly delved into some heavier themes. The central focus was Tallie’s complicated relationship with her chronically ill and codependent mother. As the story unfolded, several intriguing truths were revealed, forcing Tallie to confront and reevaluate her life. This is a closed-door romance with minimal romantic tension. I recommend checking it out.
Thank you, Boldwood Books, for providing this book for review consideration through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are solely my own.
Thank you, Boldwood Books, for providing this book for review consideration through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are solely my own.
June 4, 2025
I love Jane Lovering's books, so I requested this as soon as it popped up on Netgalley.
Tally runs a herb farm (and looks after her sick mother). She's pretty busy keeping the farm running. Then this band turns up and wants to film the video for their latest album in the herb farm - they'll hire the place out for a few days. Tally needs the money, so she agrees.
The band brings with it all kinds of disruption.
There is a romance in the book - with this guy who comes in as a business consultant to help her with the farm (hired by her mother, not Tally!), but the book is more about Tally herself and her relationship with her mother. There's a mystery element that runs through the story as well. I love a good character driven story, so I loved this one. There are animals and shenanigans and funny moments - which I've come to expect with a Jane Lovering book, but most of all it's a heartfelt story about a woman coming into her own.
Tally runs a herb farm (and looks after her sick mother). She's pretty busy keeping the farm running. Then this band turns up and wants to film the video for their latest album in the herb farm - they'll hire the place out for a few days. Tally needs the money, so she agrees.
The band brings with it all kinds of disruption.
There is a romance in the book - with this guy who comes in as a business consultant to help her with the farm (hired by her mother, not Tally!), but the book is more about Tally herself and her relationship with her mother. There's a mystery element that runs through the story as well. I love a good character driven story, so I loved this one. There are animals and shenanigans and funny moments - which I've come to expect with a Jane Lovering book, but most of all it's a heartfelt story about a woman coming into her own.
June 22, 2025
Tilly took over the running of the family herb farm, with just Ollie as a helper. She bought her mother out, just giving her a small allowance each month. She is therfore surprised when Zeb turns up claiming to have been hired by her mother as a management consultant. Things take an even stranger turn when a band turns up wanting to make a music video at the farm.
Tilly comes across as a complete doormat, at the beck and call of her mother who is suffering from a mystery ailment, however I couldn't hold it against her due to her upbringing. Zeb is definitely an oddball, an ex chef turned management consultant, but does come across as a nice guy. Long lost secrets are gradually revealed, leaving Tilly confused. In summary a story I really enjoyed, 4.5* rounded up to 5 *.
I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher through Netgalley, however this did not influence my review of the book.
Tilly comes across as a complete doormat, at the beck and call of her mother who is suffering from a mystery ailment, however I couldn't hold it against her due to her upbringing. Zeb is definitely an oddball, an ex chef turned management consultant, but does come across as a nice guy. Long lost secrets are gradually revealed, leaving Tilly confused. In summary a story I really enjoyed, 4.5* rounded up to 5 *.
I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher through Netgalley, however this did not influence my review of the book.
May 19, 2025
Jane's books always have such realistic characters - quiet, thoughtful people who don't quite fit in with the rest of the world but do their best to get by.
Natalie runs the family herb farm - but there are also a lot of secrets in her past, and she's convinced it's her fault but her mum and her gran have conditioned her not to ask (thereby hiding the truth - which isn't what Natalie thinks it is).
Enter Zeb - who also has a troubled past and hasn't quite figured out what he wants from life. And enter Simon and the band he manages, who turn Natalie's world upside down.
A gorgeous story of discovery and love. We watch Natalie blossom and really root for her to get the happy ending she deserves.
Oh, and I can't not mention Big Pig. WONDERFUL!
As always, a thoroughly good read and an uplifting ending.
Natalie runs the family herb farm - but there are also a lot of secrets in her past, and she's convinced it's her fault but her mum and her gran have conditioned her not to ask (thereby hiding the truth - which isn't what Natalie thinks it is).
Enter Zeb - who also has a troubled past and hasn't quite figured out what he wants from life. And enter Simon and the band he manages, who turn Natalie's world upside down.
A gorgeous story of discovery and love. We watch Natalie blossom and really root for her to get the happy ending she deserves.
Oh, and I can't not mention Big Pig. WONDERFUL!
As always, a thoroughly good read and an uplifting ending.
September 5, 2025
What a charming read! This story is like a warm cup of tea on a cool autumn afternoon. A comforting and tender story of family, self-discovery, and unexpected romance.
Natalie is a relatable, down-to-earth heroine, and watching her gently unfold from her sheltered life is as rewarding as seeing her garden come into full bloom. With quirky and lovable characters, slow-burn revelations, and a few deeply touching surprises, this story had me smiling, sighing, and maybe even tearing up once or twice.
This is a story about courage, growth, and trusting that sometimes the best things in life come when you finally step outside your comfort zone. If you’re in the mood for something uplifting and soul-soothing, then this is the perfect read.
I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving my review.
Natalie is a relatable, down-to-earth heroine, and watching her gently unfold from her sheltered life is as rewarding as seeing her garden come into full bloom. With quirky and lovable characters, slow-burn revelations, and a few deeply touching surprises, this story had me smiling, sighing, and maybe even tearing up once or twice.
This is a story about courage, growth, and trusting that sometimes the best things in life come when you finally step outside your comfort zone. If you’re in the mood for something uplifting and soul-soothing, then this is the perfect read.
I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving my review.
May 21, 2025
One thing author Jane Lovering is wonderful at writing is country settings. Scents, flowers, foliage — she has it down. I can feel the air on my face and the scented hedge brushing against me as I walk because her prose is so good.
Unfortunately, I didn't love this book. It could have been so much better with a good developmental edit. The outcomes were more than predictable. I would have enjoyed a more consistent, fluid feel to the story than the way Tallie and Zeb's story developed. Tallie wasn't likable, and there wasn't much change in her throughout the story. On top of that, her backstory and perspective on it were totally unbelievable.
All in all, a disappointing read but lifted in parts by the lovely descriptions.
Unfortunately, I didn't love this book. It could have been so much better with a good developmental edit. The outcomes were more than predictable. I would have enjoyed a more consistent, fluid feel to the story than the way Tallie and Zeb's story developed. Tallie wasn't likable, and there wasn't much change in her throughout the story. On top of that, her backstory and perspective on it were totally unbelievable.
All in all, a disappointing read but lifted in parts by the lovely descriptions.
May 30, 2025
3.5
This was a lovely story about self discovery, standing up for yourself, learning to live & establish limits.
Tillie certainly needed to learn how to stand up for herself, specially with her mother. It was so refreshing seeing her chance her perspective about that topic and finally confront the truth. The way Zeb helped her, not only to face reality, but to discover her likes and wants was so sweet to read. They complemented each other great, and made each other better.
As for the pacing of the story, I found it at times a bit slow and the chapters were so long. Other than that, the story got handled in a way to keep you captivated in the dynamics and secrets among Tillie’s environment.
Best character: Big Pig. 🐖
This was a lovely story about self discovery, standing up for yourself, learning to live & establish limits.
Tillie certainly needed to learn how to stand up for herself, specially with her mother. It was so refreshing seeing her chance her perspective about that topic and finally confront the truth. The way Zeb helped her, not only to face reality, but to discover her likes and wants was so sweet to read. They complemented each other great, and made each other better.
As for the pacing of the story, I found it at times a bit slow and the chapters were so long. Other than that, the story got handled in a way to keep you captivated in the dynamics and secrets among Tillie’s environment.
Best character: Big Pig. 🐖
June 29, 2025
One day out of the blue at Natalie’s family herb farm
Zeb turns up apparently hired by her mum to help with marketing and to get profits up.
Then a great opportunity comes up when the goshawk traders want to use the farm as backdrop for music video.
When the band leave after finishing the video Natalie gets closer to Zeb and then after revelations come to light about her parents.
How will she get her head around everything and will her relationship continue with Zeb ?
I loved this book. It had all the angst and hurt when Natalie finds out the truth about the secrets that were kept from her and when she was trying to make the farm work and bring new ideas to make it more profitable.
Received as ebook from Netgally
Zeb turns up apparently hired by her mum to help with marketing and to get profits up.
Then a great opportunity comes up when the goshawk traders want to use the farm as backdrop for music video.
When the band leave after finishing the video Natalie gets closer to Zeb and then after revelations come to light about her parents.
How will she get her head around everything and will her relationship continue with Zeb ?
I loved this book. It had all the angst and hurt when Natalie finds out the truth about the secrets that were kept from her and when she was trying to make the farm work and bring new ideas to make it more profitable.
Received as ebook from Netgally
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