When Oscar-winning actress Lilah Paxton torpedoes her career in spectacular fashion, she escapes to the sleepy English village of Bankton to lie low. But country life isn’t quite the cozy retreat she imagined. There’s mud, terrifying sheep, and absolutely no room service.
Blossom Baker, cheerful café owner and lifelong Lilah fangirl, always dreamed of meeting her idol. She just didn’t expect her to be such a grump. Or completely incapable of basic adulting.
Determined to help Lilah find a new purpose (and keep her from starving), Blossom ropes her into small-town life, complete with community theater chaos, an overly friendly bull, and a whole lot of unexpected feelings.
But love isn’t a script Lilah can memorize, and happily-ever-afters aren’t as simple as Hollywood makes them seem. Can she prove she’s finally ready for something real? And can a small-town barista really capture the heart of her teenage film-star crush?
For My Finale is a laugh-out-loud, opposites-attract sapphic romcom about finding yourself, falling in love, and the unexpected magic of second acts frombestselling Sapphic writer Sienna Waters, author of The Wrong Date, Crossing the Pond, and Teaching Hope.
My heart was bursting multiple times while reading this. I was honestly kind of surprised with how much I enjoyed reading this. It had me giggling, grabbing my chest, and kicking my feet.
There were a few grammar and spelling errors, but nothing that could’ve deterred me from continuing on. There was one part in particular that felt a bit awkward to me between characters, but other than that I liked every other second.
Communication is always the problem in books it seems, and sometimes I do get annoyed by it but this one was wrote well so I didn’t feel the need to yell at the pages. This book was all about found family, doing what you truly want, and fighting for it.
Billy is my favorite out of them all, and you’ll just have to read to find out who Billy is.
Lilah Paxton is a top Hollywood actor, a heartthrob for millions. But after many years under the spotlight and being hounded by the press, she craves normality and obscurity. During her Oscar speech she unexpectedly quits, and then disappears from Hollywood life. In the small English village of Bankton, Blossom Baker is opening The Bankton Bean coffee shop, as she has done every morning for many years. Her cafe is supported by many regulars in the village, but still financially the shop is failing. Blossom is trying to find ways to keep the cafe going. Until Lilah arrives in the village, the place she was born. Her family had moved to the states when she was only a few months old, so Lilah knows little about England, and especially about small village life. Lilah moves into the cottage next to Blossom, and from there their romance begins. This is a typical heartwarming and beautiful story, in Sienna Waters’ signature style, with some fun cameos from villagers, especially Billy the friendly bull living in the neighbouring field. Very little angst, the typical third act breakup, well used tropes, but the author makes it her own. If you like the ‘famous woman moves back home’ and ‘small English village’ tropes, this is excellent for you!
Oh my gosh. Full disclosure I picked this book because it seemed like it would be a quick, light read I could read before hopefully getting some NetGalley ARCs approved. But it has taken my heart. It was light and a quick read, but it was so much more than that.
I don’t know how to describe it but I needed this story of Blossom and Lilah. Did it tackle huge issues? Not necessarily, but it was beautifully written with so many relatable quotes that can be applied to life. I wanted to cry when it ended because it was over and because it was such a beautiful love story. It was funny, witty and full of romantic and platonic love.
I’m not doing it justice by this review, because I can’t really put in words what this book meant to me. It might just be a personal thing, with where I’m at in life/where the world is now, but I’ve never been more happier to have given a book a chance. I loved every single character in this book. Yes, even Gloria. I want more. I want to see the next adventure for Lilah and Blossom and all the other villagers as well.
Okay. Everytime I read a Sienna Walters’ book I seek cheap flights to the UK and research quaint villages that have a bookshop. Every time!
This book is a breath of fresh air in our jaded world. And talking about jaded, it begins with an actress who has had enough. She craves freedom and decides to go, where else but home. And surely home has to be the place where she spent the first few months of her life. Right?
Enter the always cheerful owner of the village’s only coffee shop. Well, it is the only one at the moment, and therein lies the lovely Blossom’s problem.
Next we have the lovely array of the story’s ‘extras’, that is, the quirky characters that walk onto the stage, sit down and make things real. Sienna Waters is the queen of quirky characters. They’re always guaranteed to win your heart and make you laugh. I tried to decide who was my favourite in this book and you really can’t go past Billy. (And no, I’m not going to give away any spoilers here. You’ll have to read for yourself.) All I’ll say is Billy‘s first scene is hilarious and continues to be so. Imagine a muddy field, a rustling in the hedgerow. Zombies? Muggers? Maybe a large dog? You’ll have this to enjoy and lots more so get your copy now.
This book was a lovely, easy read. The story is simple and clear. The characters are all fairly up front and honest, which is refreshing. The setting is charming, and the author manages to convey the sense of community found in small English towns very well, without making it overly saccharine. The side characters are funny and contribute to the plot. I love this author’s work. Always a delight and leaves you feeling good.
An Americanised book set in a English village. It was difficult to care about plot and storyline when British characters spoke in American English and sounded not unlike the American character. Also the quote about Gil Anderson stepping in at the National Theatre, where any actor would be privileged to work… this book made me think of the importance of writing what one knows or at the least doing the research. Perhaps next time getting Brits and those who have worked in the entertainment industry as beta readers would be helpful for the integrity of the book.
Wow, this book had me hooked from page one. The drama, the emotions, the twists… it’s like it knew exactly how to keep me turning the pages way past bedtime. Sienna Waters delivered all the feels with characters I couldn’t stop rooting for and moments that hit just right. Totally binge-worthy and so satisfying to read.
3.75 rounded up. it lost points for that third act, i wanted to smack her 😭 and i KNEW it was margot the entire time that sold her out, i’ve read enough of this trope to know😅 but anyways, i really loved their relationship, it was so sweet and lilah was so gentle and soft under the confident exterior, and the way blossom took care of her and treated her like she wasn’t just another person and not the star she was, it made my heart so happy. the animal chaos was HILARIOUS, and i really like all the side characters, tho we didn’t really get to know much about them which was a tad bummer but alas the book wasn’t about them😂 i really liked the ending, and how they showed their love for each other, and it’s cool that lilah is teaching drama now! i will definitely be reading more by this author
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Thank you to Booksprout & author Sienna Waters for this ARC! I am very happy to share my honest review.
I absolutely loved this book! It’s started off with a bang and just got better and better from there! The book begins with Lilah, a world renowned Oscar winning actress, literally quitting acting during her Oscar acceptance speech! Ha! I was smiling wide, laughing out loud & every bit as surprised as the guests at the award show listening to her resignation speech. Lilah just impulsively walks away from a life of fame and praise because she realizes it’s all bullshit. She chooses herself right from the beginning and I think I fell a little in love with her for it. Lilah chooses to leave behind the glitz and glamour of Hollywood for her birthplace, the tiny and tranquil countryside village of Bankton, England. Although she’s only lived there her first few months of life and has never really lived outside of Hollywood, she wants to find a peaceful place and can’t think of a better place. I loved this fish out of water aspect and what ensues is proper shenanigans…along with a very sweet love story.
Blossom is a sweet and simple small town girl who works in a coffee shop and loves her little village and its inhabitants. She is kind and very likable right away. Blossom had a massive crush on Lilah Paxton growing up and still does. To say she’s flabbergasted by finding her Hollywood heart throb in her tiny town would be an understatement! But to have her, the literal woman from her dreams, show up on her doorstep?! That was so fantastic and it’s the type of scenario that makes me want to read more by this author. It also might have made me want to rush to my own door in hopes of a little Lilah Paxton (ehem Margot Robbie) magic moment of my own!
I loved the cast of supporting characters in Bankton. Gloria, Daisy & most especially Ives, Blosdom’s hilarious & loyal bff! They were fun and added such humor and warmth to the story. The writing is simply amazing! It is light hearted and yet wonderfully crafted and beautifully executed. There is depth and humor! I laughed out loud throughout the entire book and was immensely entertained from the first page until the last. Waters created a lovely atmosphere filled with a bunch of loveable and fun characters.
Lilah was strong and brave while maintaining a sense of vulnerability that I could most certainly respect. She embraces a new life with eyes wide open. Blossom was kind and generous and the type of woman I’d wish to be with or at least be friends with. She is supportive, positive, patient and wonderfully sweet. They are both so different but complete each other in the same way that perfect puzzle pieces do. The connection between Lilah and Blossom develops fluidly and organically. Okay so maybe Blossoms intense attraction and long time crush ignites things on her side a bit. But the way things progress between them is believable and so sweet.
I really liked both Lilah & Blossom. Waters does a great job of creating a relatively humble Hollywood starlet that made smile. Blossom is all heart and I was so charmed by her. They were beautifully flawed and yet quite remarkable characters. I became quite fond of them individually and together. I was actually bummed at the end because it felt like I was saying goodbye to good friends. I actually miss them and will definitely reread this book again. I found myself rooting for them early on and was so happy to see them happy together. Okay, I kinda had a feeling that the third act “break up” was a possibility but when Lilah left it felt like a gut punch. I literally yelled “no” out loud! I found the resolution to be quite satisfying & it made me like Ives even more…no spoilers but I will say that she’s a great bff. Luckily, they find their way back to each other and I was thrilled. They’re just right for each other and I was thoroughly satisfied with their HEA.
Highly recommend this fun sapphic fish out of water romantic comedy! A fun & funny light hearted wlw story. I found it incredibly entertaining and highly enjoyable. I will look for more by Sienna Waters!
For My Finale is another sweet British romcom from Sienna Waters. Her books consistently bring me joy when I am in the mood for lighthearted romance with a happy ending. Lilah, an over-the-top American actress, quits Hollywood in spectacular fashion during her Oscars speech. Fed up with the lifestyle, she escapes to the small town of her birth. While struggling to adapt, she grows close to the town's coffee shop owner, Blossom. They discover that opposites attract, and just maybe Lilah can find meaning here in charming Bankton. Complications arise from community theatre, the looming threat of a chain coffee company, lingering self-doubt, intrusive paparazzi, and a pushy agent. Will the lure of stardom be too much for Lilah and Blossom to overcome? Likeable characters, a quirky found family, character growth, a bull named Billy, and a lovely small-town setting make this another feel-good hit for me. I'm a fan. Eventually, I hope to read all of Sienna Waters's catalogue. #smalltown #romcom #British #communitytheatre #actress #Hollywood #coffeeshopowner #foundfamily #cuteanimals #grumpy/sunshine #oppositesattract #femme/femme #thirdactbreakup #HEA #epilogue I received a free ARC from the author through Booksprout. This is my honest opinion.
For My Finale by Sienna Waters is a delightful escape into the quirky world of Lilah Paxton, an Oscar-winning actress who spectacularly torpedoes her Hollywood career and retreats to the sleepy English village of Bankton. What follows is a heartwarming and hilarious journey of self-discovery, second chances, and unexpected romance.
Waters masterfully blends wit and warmth in this opposites-attract sapphic romcom. Lilah’s over-the-top personality contrasts beautifully with Blossom Baker, the cheerful café owner and lifelong fangirl, creating a dynamic that’s both funny and tender. The rural setting—with its muddy paths, terrifying sheep, and lack of room service—adds a layer of comedic charm that keeps the story fresh and engaging.
It is easy to read, entertaining, and romantic, with a satisfying happily-ever-after. Waters’ signature style shines through: witty dialogue, lovable characters, and a feel-good plot that’s perfect for fans of lighthearted romance with depth.
Whether you're in the mood for laughter, love, or a little bit of both, For My Finale delivers a joyful reading experience that lingers long after the final page.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is another rom com set in an unknown small British town/village. It will make you smile as you read it. There's a coffee shop, but not a bookshop (yet), a village pub, a handful of characters all waiting for something to happen. And then Lilah arrives. What does an Oscar winning actress want more than anything? To disappear apparently, and live by herself in the Devon town she was born in. Are they ready for each other? You will just have to read it and see for yourself. There's a wandering bull on the loose, amateur dramatics, and a rival business aiming to move in and make a killing. It will make you laugh, smile, groan and despair.
But it shouldn't be missed - this is what Sienna Waters does best. Honest review in exchange for an ARC
Lilah Paxton at the Oscars declares she's retiring, to the shock of her manager. She's tired of being a product marketed to the masses, and decides to return to her birthplace, Bankton, England.
Blossom, Cafe owner in Bankton, answers someone banking at her door to find a soaked, lost Lilah who just had a run in with a bull. Blossom reassures her and offers tea, hiding the fact she had a crush on the actress when she was younger.
I like that moving to a small town does not go easy for Lilah. Plus it's pretty funny. As she settles in she finds herself admiring Blossom and how capable she is.
Good read, tho third act breakup.
Also SPOILER I was surprised Lilah didn't fire Margot's ass after everything.
Lilac had me laughing from the outset. From the audacity of how she tells the world she’s leaving Hollywood, to the absurdity of her first encounter with Blossom, to her putting Gloria in her place, Lilah was truly a chaos gremlin in every sense of the word.
And Blossom was lovely throughout the entire story, becoming the person Lilah always turned to as she struggled with finding her meaning in life after she’d escaped the clutches of the world of fantasy, lies, and make-believe that was Hollywood.
The book had a predictable moment but the speed and certainty with which Lilah dealt with it was refreshing.
I enjoyed this book and if you like most of what Sienna Waters writes, you should love this one too.
I feel like I wrote more or less the same thing for Sienna’s books but that’s because they are all full of humour, snark and loyal friends. This book is no exception. Lilah and Blossom are fantastic characters and the locals very true to what a small village can contain. Billy the bull was hilarious, the funniest character by a long way. Ok, not really but he made me laugh with his comedic timing. I thoroughly enjoyed this romp in the English countryside and love that Sienna makes all the characters in her individuals so not at all like the others.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Oscar winner Lilah Paxton announces she's quitting Hollywood in her acceptance speech. She moves to her birthplace in England and realizes she hasn't thought it through. She is befriended by Blossom Baker who still has a childhood crush on Lilah. Blossom owns The Bankton Bean and is worried about her cafe's possible demise. She makes it her mission to help Lilah find her meaning so she doesn't leave while thinking of ways to upgrade her cafe'. HEA, opposites- attract, snarky grumpiness is happy sunshine.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Another great book from Ms Waters. Hollywood actress Lilah resigns on stage at the Oscar’s and retreats to her hometown in England to get away. Blossom is a struggling cafe owner, who lives next door to Lilah. Lilah has no idea how the real world works and Blossom finds herself helping grumpy Lilah. Blossom’s cafe is struggling financially and between the two of them they help each other, Lilah to find herself helping grumpy way forward in life and Blossom to come up with a financially viable business plan. As always, well written with good main characters and an interesting plot. A very good read.
Had to finish another book before posting this review so my reading goal for the year wasn't met with a scathing review. This book pissed me the hell off!! So incredibly surface level and I left feeling like I hadn't ever met these characters. And their getting together and subsequent "falling in love" happened in a flash, so quickly in fact I had to go back a few pages and ask myself if I had skipped an entire section of this book. Like what the heckers??? I am thinking this author is just not for me, especially with the rate in which she releases books has me thinking every one of her books will be this surface level.
it's cute, nice, and funny, and if I go into much more detail the review may be longer than the book itself
sorry I get grumpy when a book's under 300 pages
but it's very readable and sweet, and at a lean 240~ pages it doesn't have time for extended misunderstanding or miscommunication story beats. just Lilah thinking there might be a problem, Lilah storming up to Blossom to ask about the problem, Blossom explaining things, and Lilah apologising. and isn't healthy communication what the romantic comedy genre is really about?
It’s easy to enjoy any book by SW and this is right up there with her best. US celebrity Oscar winner hides out in small English village and finds the real meaning of life. Gentle humour and characters you care about in a well paced story. There’s a happy ending and a proper epilogue too. Highly recommended.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I laughed my way through this delightful love story!
Sienna Waters must have been raised in the farm country to have the background on animal behaviors so perfectly represented against the behavior of humans! Billy captured my heart as surly as Blossom and Leligh did. Let’s just say that this is such a quick read with all the right feels; laughter, angst, and tears! Thanks Sienna for this joy.
For My Finale is set in a small English village which happens to be the birthplace of Hollywood star Lilah. When she abruptly quits the industry that is where she heads. After an unnerving encounter with Billy, she meets local woman Blossom and life becomes more interesting. While the story arc is predictable, it’s an enjoyable trip with many amusing moments, wry observations and a diverse supporting cast. This is a good read with the anticipated happily ever after.
Another great book. The theme is similar to other books , superstar gives up on stardom moves to a small village and falls in love. However it beautifully written and as you meet the and get to know the characters you learn to love them and cheer them on. Lots of great small characters which you know you will find in a typical village. Brilliant easy going feel good book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Not sure how Sienna keeps writing such great books. Her characters are always entertaining, cute story lines just a great way to escape. This story was particularly entertaining a lost actress looking for meaning. Her neighbor the town optimist. And Billy who got them together.
Really this is a great way to spend some enjoyable hours.
I really enjoyed this one, an angst free story about a burnt out star finding herself in a lovely village full of welcoming quirky characters. There's lots of laughs throughout and of course a sweet romance. There's no delving into their previous families in fact just getting on with their futures, its a nice short romance tale, lots of fun.
I have a soft spot for celebrity crush that leads to romance. This is an intriguing storyline where worldly meets ordinary, and a selfish manager tries to throw the happy couple off the track. In the end, love conquers all, and the relieved reader can smile again.
A fun romp in the country starring a Hollywood icon and a beautiful village girl. As always, Sienna knows what she's doing in creating likeable, irritating and rounded characters you can invest in. I particularly liked the "supporting cast" in this book - there was a genuine village feel to the narrative and the world building. Also: a cup of tea really DOES solve everything.
I loved this story! The characters are so interesting and likeable, the setting is cosy, and the plot is engaging. It had me awwww-ing and smiling, and even laughing at times. Not to mention a little dose of angst to keep things interesting.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.