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Everly Heath #1
Fix Them Up
When self-proclaimed failure Kat moves hundreds of miles to renovate her late Dad's house, falling in love with the grumpy builder wasn't part of the plan…
Kat Williams is well and truly in a rut. She's lost her mojo at work, her estranged dad has passed away, and she royally messed up the eulogy at his funeral after a grumpy, stubborn man stole her parking space and made her late. When her boss suggests she takes a two month sabbatical, Kat moves hundreds of miles to the small Mancunian town of Everly Heath to refurbish her father's childhood home she's inherited. She thinks it will be a quick fixer-upper; a bit of paint, some new carpet and then she can sell up and return to her life in London, profit in hand. She is determined to make the renovation a success and not let her lingering resentment towards her dad or her ADHD goblin distract her.
But Kat arrives in Everly Heath to find her dad's house is falling apart and completely uninhabitable. Worse still, the grumpy builder, Liam, who Kat's well-meaning extended family have enlisted to manage the reno, is none other than the grouch who stole her parking space on the day of the funeral. Near breaking point, Liam offers Kat an olive branch in a place to stay at his while the worst of the repairs take place. Now living under one roof, sparks fly over faulty wiring and Liam shows Kat a whole new perspective on life. But a shattering secret of Liam's threatens to sever any connection they've built.
Will Kat have the courage to stay or are this grumpy-sunshine duo not meant to be after all?
Kat Williams is well and truly in a rut. She's lost her mojo at work, her estranged dad has passed away, and she royally messed up the eulogy at his funeral after a grumpy, stubborn man stole her parking space and made her late. When her boss suggests she takes a two month sabbatical, Kat moves hundreds of miles to the small Mancunian town of Everly Heath to refurbish her father's childhood home she's inherited. She thinks it will be a quick fixer-upper; a bit of paint, some new carpet and then she can sell up and return to her life in London, profit in hand. She is determined to make the renovation a success and not let her lingering resentment towards her dad or her ADHD goblin distract her.
But Kat arrives in Everly Heath to find her dad's house is falling apart and completely uninhabitable. Worse still, the grumpy builder, Liam, who Kat's well-meaning extended family have enlisted to manage the reno, is none other than the grouch who stole her parking space on the day of the funeral. Near breaking point, Liam offers Kat an olive branch in a place to stay at his while the worst of the repairs take place. Now living under one roof, sparks fly over faulty wiring and Liam shows Kat a whole new perspective on life. But a shattering secret of Liam's threatens to sever any connection they've built.
Will Kat have the courage to stay or are this grumpy-sunshine duo not meant to be after all?
352 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 9, 2025
25 people are currently reading
453 people want to read
About the author
Maggie Grant
2 books41 followersMaggie Grant is a neurodivergent writer crafting messy, heartfelt romances about flawed people who fall in love anyway. She lives in the North West of the UK, fuelled by coffee, Gilmore Girls reruns, and the voices in her head.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 134 reviews
August 28, 2024
Okay, this had no right to be the masterpiece that it is! How will I ever manage to narrow down all my favourite quotes?? Haha. But really what a beautiful small-town grumpy meets sunshine enemies-to-lovers slowburn romance! A classic combination of all things hilarious and heartful. I cannot believe this is a debut novel, Maggie Grant has produced something wonderful here. Fans of Tessa Bailey, Tarah Dewitt, and Abby Jimenez will adore this!
[ Contains some spoilers ]
PLOT SUMMARY
27-year-old Kat Williams lives in Reading, Berkshire with ADHD and is a graphic designer working at her friend Willa’s company – or, at least, is *supposed* to be working. After her father’s funeral 8 months ago, where she not only had a mental breakdown but had an obnoxious man take her parking space at the church (which she did not take kindly to), she has not been able to focus very well. Her parents divorced years ago, her mother remarried, and her father never visited or attempted to contact them.
It is revealed, though, that her dad bought a house in Everly Heath, Manchester, that they had seen when she was 10 years old, which she has now inherited. Kat wonders if this is her chance to get some closure by spending time away from work renovating the place to sell. Her overbearing unsupportive mother, who is a teacher and often criticises Kat, disapproves of the idea. Ignoring this, she goes anyway, not telling her mother. After all, Everly Heath is where her aunt Sandra, uncle Brian, and cousin Lydia reside who she has not seen for years.
She discovers the builder is none other than the obnoxious man from the funeral (how very *not* meet cute), single dad and aspiring chef, Liam Hunter. He is bitter towards Southerners, . After getting off on the wrong foot, the two concede that they must work together: Kat because there are no other builders available; Liam because he wants to make up for his behaviour from the funeral, plus he is a friend of the family and offers to do the labour cheaper.
From renovating to dancing with the elderly to sharing his house due to construction to helping with his daughter Abigail, the two become very close. Kat cannot stay as she is only there for 2 months so wants to keep things casual and discreet from the gossiping town. But Liam bets he can convince her to stay, not realising he will fall helplessly in love with her. Will Kat push him away like she has with everyone else? Or will she take the biggest risk in her life? And what happens when her mother finds out where she is?
This is told from the first-person past-tense POV of Kat.
OVERALL OPINIONS
To sum up this book “it was something out of a fucking Hallmark film” – which is exactly why this needs to be made into one!
For a debut, this book is incredible, you have to read it to understand where I am coming from! There are some hilarious sequences like Kat hitting Liam with a lamp thinking he is a burglar (I laughed so hard at this!), or when she insists on camping for the night but the tent rips and she gets soaked and Liam saves her despite her protests. But this is not just your average rom-com, there is so much depth to the characters that a lot of it resonated with me and I could feel it in my soul! In that sense, this reminded me of Abby Jimenez and her work except this book did focus more on the romance which is what I prefer. Hearing Kat’s mother putting Kat down, I felt this. I really hated her mother (surprised that even I liked her by the end of it). I know those sorts of conversations and having to be defensive about it – Maggie captured this perfectly. Nobody deserves to have to defend their dreams.
Maggie Grant acknowledges her own husband in her Acknowledgements thanking him for his “steadfast encouragement when doubt and imposter syndrome sets in”. This is so sweet and a lot like Liam with Kat, so clearly Grant’s own beautiful relationship is reflected in her work.
Indeed, the exploration of healthy and toxic relationships was done very well. We get the toxic relationship between Kat and her mother Paula, but a more positive one between Kat and her stepfather Graham and (bless him) he is always the voice of reason for Paula and helps diffuse situations. Eventually, Kat’s mother sees the error of her ways and tries to be there for her (and has even paid attention to Kat’s designs and admit she’s proud of her). Her friendships with Lydia and Willa are very wholesome and they are supportive.
Liam and Kat’s relationship is so healthy. They communicate all the time which is something couples are not good at. Their conversations flowed so naturally. I especially love their “It’s fine” or “I’m fine” and they respond “No, it’s not. Talk to me”. And they are super supportive of the other person. Kat encourages Liam to finally open a restaurant, and Liam helps Kat find her own self-worth, gain confidence and also follow her dreams. This is so beautiful. Their talk of grief moved me the most.
The descriptions Maggie Grant writes alone are amazing, very witty and poetic. Some examples I love are “She had the energy of the Duracell buny and the spirit of a children’s TV presenter” and “Lydia’s eyes were wide, bouncing between us like it was the final at Wimbledon”. At the end of chapter 2 there is a great repetition of “I didn’t tell her” which strongly emphasises how much she really wants to tell her mother all these things but cannot due to the person she is. A clever one is “Mum’s face flickered with pain, then she schooled it.” – schooled like the teacher she is.
This is the first book of the Everly Heath series. Book 2 will be about Kat’s cousin Lydia and Liam’s brother Ren. There is only one interaction with them, in which Lydia greets him curtly (which Kat notices because that is not like bubbly and bright Lydia). We get a little of their backstory:
Overall, I adored this and I am hope very much to return to Everly Heath soon!
<< Positives >>
🠚The cover is really cute – it has essentially all aspects of the book in one picture. There is the renovation in the background. They are linking their pinkie fingers, something which occurs various times in the book – and I immensely love it when authors include scenes straight out of their book! Kat and Liam make around 7 pinkie promises in this story, starting out as a joke because Kat thinks that a macho guy like Liam making a pinkie swear is funny.
🠚The to-do lists at the beginning of some chapters are both relatable and adorable. I especially like that it goes from “Kat’s To Do List” to just a “To Do List” that she is sharing with Liam (with various things scored off because Liam is the best).
🠚Neurodiversity representation through Kat’s ADHD and dyslexia. This is handled exceptionally well! We have various aspects covered: how getting a diagnosis is life-changing for a lot of people “It all made sense. It all slotted into place. There was a reason for the struggles”, how it can be a nuisance, how it is perceived (through the mother’s lack of sympathy and “just apply yourself more” attitude), how it can be handled but, most importantly, how it is *not* an excuse to deem someone as weak. Grant has written this in such a way that many can relate to, and I love to see that so much. As someone who knows people with these conditions, I know they will appreciate this story.
🠚Bisexual representation through Lydia.
🠚Pop culture references! They were a bonus for me. From The Shining to Clueless, it was fun! I love it whenever people mention Gollum haha.
<< Negatives >>
🠚I expected more spice but what was here was *chef’s kiss*, ‘scuse the pun. Other than that, I found very little fault.
CHARACTERS
-ˋˏ ꒰ Kat꒱ ˎˊ-
↳ When she said “Impatience should be my middle name instead of Jane” I felt that haha. I related a lot to her. I hate when people fuss over me, I am also a people pleaser like her and I like my lists too. I too will forget things unless I write it down.
🠚Seeing her confidence build, the way she stands up to her mother, the person she becomes at the end of the book is so lovely to see. I nearly cried! So proud of her!
-ˋˏ ꒰ Liam꒱ ˎˊ-
↳ No because oh my goodness. Right, I know I say this every time I read a book but I am telling you this time this man right here is the most walking green flag I have ever seen! I like that he was not a perfect man, but now he essentially is. It shows how much he has matured as a person.
🠚Oh, and I love that he wears the colour hunter green. Absolute perfection!
🠚He does so, so much to put Kat first:
• She is uncomfortable at a social event? He asks if she wants to leave.
• She mentions how she loves the art gallery in London? He rents out the art gallery for the day in Manchester.
• He notices she likes caramel syrup because of that one dive-through order? He gets it for her again – and his response is “It’s been hard not to notice you, Red. Even when I tried my best not to.”
• She has a Pinterest board with all the different designs she likes for her dream home? He spends two months while she is away recreating that dream house for her, with everything perfectly so!
🠚Marry that man right now or I will!
-ˋˏ ꒰ Other characters꒱ ˎˊ-
↳ I love Willa she has to be my favourite side character. I love how she is like “I will say this as gently as possible because it’s what you need to hear. And because we have no HR.”
FAV QUOTES
• I’d tried to move on. But this particular brand of grief wasn’t all that straightforward. It was thorny and prickly, and the more I ignored it, the more I bled.
• I didn’t want to work with this man who had seen me at my worst. He’d seen me angry. He’d seen me cry. He’d seen me hungover. If I were a mafia boss, I’d call in a hit on Liam.
• “Let’s make it interesting. I bet you that you end up falling in love with this place. I bet you that you never go back.”
• “Distracted, Red?” Liam murmured, that voice smooth like honey. I glanced up to find Liam much closer than I’d expected. His eyes bore into mine, intense and fiery.
• Liam was clearly an “acts of service” kind of man. I’d always wondered what it would be like to meet one of those. I’d always dated guys who could say lovely, honeyed words but then would inform the barman that we were paying for our drinks separately. Liam seemed the type to pay the whole bill and help you move a sofa into your apartment on a Saturday afternoon.
• Liam smiled at me. It was the first proper smile I’d seen on his face, and it felt like an offering. Tentative and sweet.
• I should have felt exposed, divulging that information to someone I’d only known a week, but something about Liam’s way made me feel comfortable. I knew he wouldn’t try to make me feel better with useless words. He would just listen and I’d never had anyone just *listen*.
• “I like you. I think I’ve liked you since you ran at me with a lamp.” His lips twitched. “Or maybe since you called me a prick in the church car park. I liked you even more when you were determined to renovate a house all by yourself, with absolutely no experience.” He tucked a strand of my hair behind my ear. “And I couldn’t resist helping you because when your beautiful face drops in disappointment, it’s like a punch to my stomach. I can’t stand it.” Liam shook his head, like he still couldn’t quite believe it himself. “So yeah. I like you.”
• Liam’s pinkie wrapped around mine. “I’d pinkie swear my life away to you, apparently.”
• “If you want the designs, we can make it happen, Red. You just tell me, and I’ll fit whatever you want. As long as that look stays on your face, I’ll move mountains.”
• “Don’t make noises like that in public. Or we’ll be paying the bill and going home.”
• I wanted Liam. I wanted him so fucking much. I wanted him, even when I shouldn’t. Even when I’d suppressed it for so so fucking long in a misguided attempt to protect myself.
• I had Liam. Liam, who loved me. Liam, who wanted me to stay. Liam, who looked after me when I was spiralling. Together, we’d be okay.
• Liam leaned forward and kissed my forehead. “Take as long as you need, Red. But come back to me, will you? When the fog is gone.”
• Don’t invite nosy designers into your home if you don’t want them to redesign every aspect of your life.
• “Yours forever,” he murmured onto my lips. “Promise?” | “I pinkie promise.” I gave a watery laugh and wrapped his finger around mine.
══════════ ⋆★⋆ ══════════
I received an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review and I’d like to thank Maggie Grant for the opportunity. This has not affected my opinion in any way.
Liam pulled back and pressed his forehead against mine. “I would have followed you anywhere if I could. But I can’t. So this is my chance to ask you properly. Stay. But stay because you love it here. Stay because you want to. But most importantly, stay because I love you.”
[ Contains some spoilers ]
PLOT SUMMARY
27-year-old Kat Williams lives in Reading, Berkshire with ADHD and is a graphic designer working at her friend Willa’s company – or, at least, is *supposed* to be working. After her father’s funeral 8 months ago, where she not only had a mental breakdown but had an obnoxious man take her parking space at the church (which she did not take kindly to), she has not been able to focus very well. Her parents divorced years ago, her mother remarried, and her father never visited or attempted to contact them.
It is revealed, though, that her dad bought a house in Everly Heath, Manchester, that they had seen when she was 10 years old, which she has now inherited. Kat wonders if this is her chance to get some closure by spending time away from work renovating the place to sell. Her overbearing unsupportive mother, who is a teacher and often criticises Kat, disapproves of the idea. Ignoring this, she goes anyway, not telling her mother. After all, Everly Heath is where her aunt Sandra, uncle Brian, and cousin Lydia reside who she has not seen for years.
She discovers the builder is none other than the obnoxious man from the funeral (how very *not* meet cute), single dad and aspiring chef, Liam Hunter. He is bitter towards Southerners, . After getting off on the wrong foot, the two concede that they must work together: Kat because there are no other builders available; Liam because he wants to make up for his behaviour from the funeral, plus he is a friend of the family and offers to do the labour cheaper.
From renovating to dancing with the elderly to sharing his house due to construction to helping with his daughter Abigail, the two become very close. Kat cannot stay as she is only there for 2 months so wants to keep things casual and discreet from the gossiping town. But Liam bets he can convince her to stay, not realising he will fall helplessly in love with her. Will Kat push him away like she has with everyone else? Or will she take the biggest risk in her life? And what happens when her mother finds out where she is?
This is told from the first-person past-tense POV of Kat.
OVERALL OPINIONS
To sum up this book “it was something out of a fucking Hallmark film” – which is exactly why this needs to be made into one!
For a debut, this book is incredible, you have to read it to understand where I am coming from! There are some hilarious sequences like Kat hitting Liam with a lamp thinking he is a burglar (I laughed so hard at this!), or when she insists on camping for the night but the tent rips and she gets soaked and Liam saves her despite her protests. But this is not just your average rom-com, there is so much depth to the characters that a lot of it resonated with me and I could feel it in my soul! In that sense, this reminded me of Abby Jimenez and her work except this book did focus more on the romance which is what I prefer. Hearing Kat’s mother putting Kat down, I felt this. I really hated her mother (surprised that even I liked her by the end of it). I know those sorts of conversations and having to be defensive about it – Maggie captured this perfectly. Nobody deserves to have to defend their dreams.
Maggie Grant acknowledges her own husband in her Acknowledgements thanking him for his “steadfast encouragement when doubt and imposter syndrome sets in”. This is so sweet and a lot like Liam with Kat, so clearly Grant’s own beautiful relationship is reflected in her work.
Indeed, the exploration of healthy and toxic relationships was done very well. We get the toxic relationship between Kat and her mother Paula, but a more positive one between Kat and her stepfather Graham and (bless him) he is always the voice of reason for Paula and helps diffuse situations. Eventually, Kat’s mother sees the error of her ways and tries to be there for her (and has even paid attention to Kat’s designs and admit she’s proud of her). Her friendships with Lydia and Willa are very wholesome and they are supportive.
Liam and Kat’s relationship is so healthy. They communicate all the time which is something couples are not good at. Their conversations flowed so naturally. I especially love their “It’s fine” or “I’m fine” and they respond “No, it’s not. Talk to me”. And they are super supportive of the other person. Kat encourages Liam to finally open a restaurant, and Liam helps Kat find her own self-worth, gain confidence and also follow her dreams. This is so beautiful. Their talk of grief moved me the most.
The descriptions Maggie Grant writes alone are amazing, very witty and poetic. Some examples I love are “She had the energy of the Duracell buny and the spirit of a children’s TV presenter” and “Lydia’s eyes were wide, bouncing between us like it was the final at Wimbledon”. At the end of chapter 2 there is a great repetition of “I didn’t tell her” which strongly emphasises how much she really wants to tell her mother all these things but cannot due to the person she is. A clever one is “Mum’s face flickered with pain, then she schooled it.” – schooled like the teacher she is.
This is the first book of the Everly Heath series. Book 2 will be about Kat’s cousin Lydia and Liam’s brother Ren. There is only one interaction with them, in which Lydia greets him curtly (which Kat notices because that is not like bubbly and bright Lydia). We get a little of their backstory:
I’d been led to believe that Ren and Lydia had spent their childhood together, inseparable. Liam said they were two sides of the same coin—best friends. But these people weren’t best friends.Then she snorts at Ren saying he is staying for good, claiming he won’t stay because “You never do.”. Later on in the story, Ren is “stealing glances at [Lydia]” while she is with her girlfriend. I love the tension between them, to be honest! I suspect there may be a Book 3 about Willa and Aidan – which I hope I am not getting my hopes up about. We will have to see.
Ren’s gaze finally shifted away back to his dad with a cocky smile. But call it ADHD perception or whatever, but I knew the expression Ren wore on his face was longing. Longing and regret.
Overall, I adored this and I am hope very much to return to Everly Heath soon!
<< Positives >>
🠚The cover is really cute – it has essentially all aspects of the book in one picture. There is the renovation in the background. They are linking their pinkie fingers, something which occurs various times in the book – and I immensely love it when authors include scenes straight out of their book! Kat and Liam make around 7 pinkie promises in this story, starting out as a joke because Kat thinks that a macho guy like Liam making a pinkie swear is funny.
🠚The to-do lists at the beginning of some chapters are both relatable and adorable. I especially like that it goes from “Kat’s To Do List” to just a “To Do List” that she is sharing with Liam (with various things scored off because Liam is the best).
🠚Neurodiversity representation through Kat’s ADHD and dyslexia. This is handled exceptionally well! We have various aspects covered: how getting a diagnosis is life-changing for a lot of people “It all made sense. It all slotted into place. There was a reason for the struggles”, how it can be a nuisance, how it is perceived (through the mother’s lack of sympathy and “just apply yourself more” attitude), how it can be handled but, most importantly, how it is *not* an excuse to deem someone as weak. Grant has written this in such a way that many can relate to, and I love to see that so much. As someone who knows people with these conditions, I know they will appreciate this story.
🠚Bisexual representation through Lydia.
🠚Pop culture references! They were a bonus for me. From The Shining to Clueless, it was fun! I love it whenever people mention Gollum haha.
<< Negatives >>
🠚I expected more spice but what was here was *chef’s kiss*, ‘scuse the pun. Other than that, I found very little fault.
CHARACTERS
-ˋˏ ꒰ Kat꒱ ˎˊ-
↳ When she said “Impatience should be my middle name instead of Jane” I felt that haha. I related a lot to her. I hate when people fuss over me, I am also a people pleaser like her and I like my lists too. I too will forget things unless I write it down.
🠚Seeing her confidence build, the way she stands up to her mother, the person she becomes at the end of the book is so lovely to see. I nearly cried! So proud of her!
“People say that grief is love with nowhere to go. But what happens to all the anger and longing and frustration or the crippling disappointment? Where does that all go? What happens when it’s not as simple as just ‘love’?”
-ˋˏ ꒰ Liam꒱ ˎˊ-
↳ No because oh my goodness. Right, I know I say this every time I read a book but I am telling you this time this man right here is the most walking green flag I have ever seen! I like that he was not a perfect man, but now he essentially is. It shows how much he has matured as a person.
🠚Oh, and I love that he wears the colour hunter green. Absolute perfection!
🠚He does so, so much to put Kat first:
• She is uncomfortable at a social event? He asks if she wants to leave.
• She mentions how she loves the art gallery in London? He rents out the art gallery for the day in Manchester.
• He notices she likes caramel syrup because of that one dive-through order? He gets it for her again – and his response is “It’s been hard not to notice you, Red. Even when I tried my best not to.”
• She has a Pinterest board with all the different designs she likes for her dream home? He spends two months while she is away recreating that dream house for her, with everything perfectly so!
🠚Marry that man right now or I will!
“Did I tell you how beautiful you look when you’re excited about something? Your eyes light up, a bright blue. For the past hour, I’ve wanted to take you home and see how I can make you look at me like that.”
-ˋˏ ꒰ Other characters꒱ ˎˊ-
↳ I love Willa she has to be my favourite side character. I love how she is like “I will say this as gently as possible because it’s what you need to hear. And because we have no HR.”
FAV QUOTES
• I’d tried to move on. But this particular brand of grief wasn’t all that straightforward. It was thorny and prickly, and the more I ignored it, the more I bled.
• I didn’t want to work with this man who had seen me at my worst. He’d seen me angry. He’d seen me cry. He’d seen me hungover. If I were a mafia boss, I’d call in a hit on Liam.
• “Let’s make it interesting. I bet you that you end up falling in love with this place. I bet you that you never go back.”
• “Distracted, Red?” Liam murmured, that voice smooth like honey. I glanced up to find Liam much closer than I’d expected. His eyes bore into mine, intense and fiery.
• Liam was clearly an “acts of service” kind of man. I’d always wondered what it would be like to meet one of those. I’d always dated guys who could say lovely, honeyed words but then would inform the barman that we were paying for our drinks separately. Liam seemed the type to pay the whole bill and help you move a sofa into your apartment on a Saturday afternoon.
• Liam smiled at me. It was the first proper smile I’d seen on his face, and it felt like an offering. Tentative and sweet.
• I should have felt exposed, divulging that information to someone I’d only known a week, but something about Liam’s way made me feel comfortable. I knew he wouldn’t try to make me feel better with useless words. He would just listen and I’d never had anyone just *listen*.
• “I like you. I think I’ve liked you since you ran at me with a lamp.” His lips twitched. “Or maybe since you called me a prick in the church car park. I liked you even more when you were determined to renovate a house all by yourself, with absolutely no experience.” He tucked a strand of my hair behind my ear. “And I couldn’t resist helping you because when your beautiful face drops in disappointment, it’s like a punch to my stomach. I can’t stand it.” Liam shook his head, like he still couldn’t quite believe it himself. “So yeah. I like you.”
• Liam’s pinkie wrapped around mine. “I’d pinkie swear my life away to you, apparently.”
• “If you want the designs, we can make it happen, Red. You just tell me, and I’ll fit whatever you want. As long as that look stays on your face, I’ll move mountains.”
• “Don’t make noises like that in public. Or we’ll be paying the bill and going home.”
• I wanted Liam. I wanted him so fucking much. I wanted him, even when I shouldn’t. Even when I’d suppressed it for so so fucking long in a misguided attempt to protect myself.
• I had Liam. Liam, who loved me. Liam, who wanted me to stay. Liam, who looked after me when I was spiralling. Together, we’d be okay.
• Liam leaned forward and kissed my forehead. “Take as long as you need, Red. But come back to me, will you? When the fog is gone.”
• Don’t invite nosy designers into your home if you don’t want them to redesign every aspect of your life.
• “Yours forever,” he murmured onto my lips. “Promise?” | “I pinkie promise.” I gave a watery laugh and wrapped his finger around mine.
══════════ ⋆★⋆ ══════════
I received an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review and I’d like to thank Maggie Grant for the opportunity. This has not affected my opinion in any way.
August 12, 2024
I received this ebook as an ARC in exchange for an honest review, thank you Maggie for letting me be apart of your ARC team and a massive congratulations on being a published author!! 🥳💗
Overview
Kat is a self proclaimed flop who, by her own admittance, can’t seem to just get things to go right, ESPECIALLY when she messes up her speech at her father’s funeral. She’s left a money pit of a house after her fathers death, and decides to leave London and renovate it, make a quick profit, and hightail it back to London to carry on living her life. Enter, Everly Heath, and the charming cast of characters that live there, especially brooding builder Liam who volunteers to help her in a pinch, but can they stay just professional? 🤔
This review will contain some spoilers! 🫶🏻
Kat 💗
The main character, Kat, has ADHD and dyslexia which make things in life sometimes more difficult for her. I’m so happy that Maggie handled Kats neurodivergence so perfectly, it’s a core part of Kats character and her struggles throughout the book are exacerbated at points by her disabilities, but never in a trivial manner. There was a really good balance of highlighting Kats struggles with her ADHD & Dyslexia, but also the positives that come from being neurodivergent which is such an important balance to have when you’re writing a character like Kat.
Liam 💙
Liam is a great MMC, he’s your typical northern builder; grumpy, overworked, but with a heart of absolute gold. Their building relationship felt very natural, and the way that he accepted and supported Kat in her quirks with her disabilities was done perfectly. He’s a single dad to a pre-teen daughter, Abbie; I wish we got to see his relationship with his daughter a little more and had a few moments with Kat bonding with Abbie, we do get a nice glimpse into their relationship in the epilogue though! I loved that he had a passion for food and cooking, it’s made obvious throughout the book that his love language is acts of service, so when it’s revealed it’s been his dream to open a restaurant it felt natural to me.
Overall Thoughts 🧠
I LOVED this book! It’s such a cosy, charming small town romance. I absolutely adored the setting of Everly Heath, it’s like someone’s picked up Stars Hollow and dropped it in Northern England. I’ve not read any small town romances that are set in the UK and was a little apprehensive at what it would be like to read as a Brit living in the North of England, but Maggie’s done a fantastic job of making you feel like Everly Heath is a real town. Theres a fantastic cast of characters who when they popped up on the page, I wasn’t left rushing back to the main characters.
The plot felt very natural with how it progressed and it was paced, there weren’t any points where I was particularly rushing to get past which is sometimes something small town romances struggle with, but I think having a strong cast of characters helped a lot.
I think their romance felt right for them, I’d of liked a bit more cheeky flirting and banter before they got together and started things up, but once they got going things were perfect. Kat wasn’t afraid to torment Liam, and Liam was not afraid to say or do EXACTLY what he wanted 😏 The spice was really well written with the perfect amount of scenes to show us their growing feelings and relationship!!
🌶️🌶️
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Will definitely be recommending, and cannot wait to read the next one! 💗🫶🏻🏡
Overview
Kat is a self proclaimed flop who, by her own admittance, can’t seem to just get things to go right, ESPECIALLY when she messes up her speech at her father’s funeral. She’s left a money pit of a house after her fathers death, and decides to leave London and renovate it, make a quick profit, and hightail it back to London to carry on living her life. Enter, Everly Heath, and the charming cast of characters that live there, especially brooding builder Liam who volunteers to help her in a pinch, but can they stay just professional? 🤔
This review will contain some spoilers! 🫶🏻
Kat 💗
The main character, Kat, has ADHD and dyslexia which make things in life sometimes more difficult for her. I’m so happy that Maggie handled Kats neurodivergence so perfectly, it’s a core part of Kats character and her struggles throughout the book are exacerbated at points by her disabilities, but never in a trivial manner. There was a really good balance of highlighting Kats struggles with her ADHD & Dyslexia, but also the positives that come from being neurodivergent which is such an important balance to have when you’re writing a character like Kat.
Liam 💙
Liam is a great MMC, he’s your typical northern builder; grumpy, overworked, but with a heart of absolute gold. Their building relationship felt very natural, and the way that he accepted and supported Kat in her quirks with her disabilities was done perfectly. He’s a single dad to a pre-teen daughter, Abbie; I wish we got to see his relationship with his daughter a little more and had a few moments with Kat bonding with Abbie, we do get a nice glimpse into their relationship in the epilogue though! I loved that he had a passion for food and cooking, it’s made obvious throughout the book that his love language is acts of service, so when it’s revealed it’s been his dream to open a restaurant it felt natural to me.
Overall Thoughts 🧠
I LOVED this book! It’s such a cosy, charming small town romance. I absolutely adored the setting of Everly Heath, it’s like someone’s picked up Stars Hollow and dropped it in Northern England. I’ve not read any small town romances that are set in the UK and was a little apprehensive at what it would be like to read as a Brit living in the North of England, but Maggie’s done a fantastic job of making you feel like Everly Heath is a real town. Theres a fantastic cast of characters who when they popped up on the page, I wasn’t left rushing back to the main characters.
The plot felt very natural with how it progressed and it was paced, there weren’t any points where I was particularly rushing to get past which is sometimes something small town romances struggle with, but I think having a strong cast of characters helped a lot.
I think their romance felt right for them, I’d of liked a bit more cheeky flirting and banter before they got together and started things up, but once they got going things were perfect. Kat wasn’t afraid to torment Liam, and Liam was not afraid to say or do EXACTLY what he wanted 😏 The spice was really well written with the perfect amount of scenes to show us their growing feelings and relationship!!
🌶️🌶️
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Will definitely be recommending, and cannot wait to read the next one! 💗🫶🏻🏡
August 28, 2024
For starters, this book pulled me out of my reading slump, so you know it HAD to be good.
The neurospicy representation in this book made me want to cry. I felt so seen. It was done beautifully and so relatable.
The tropes in this book were *chef’s kiss* and the relationship between Liam and Kat felt so real.
I could read about them forever and it wouldn’t be enough.
So thankful for an early copy of this book from the author. This book made my month.
The neurospicy representation in this book made me want to cry. I felt so seen. It was done beautifully and so relatable.
The tropes in this book were *chef’s kiss* and the relationship between Liam and Kat felt so real.
I could read about them forever and it wouldn’t be enough.
So thankful for an early copy of this book from the author. This book made my month.
September 10, 2024
Oh I loved this so much. I can’t remember the last romance novel that made me this warm and giddy. I loved everything about it! Small town? Check! Grumpy/sunshine? Check! Found family? Check! It really was the whole package.
When Kat’s late father leaves her an old, run down house, she moves to the small town of Everly Heath to fix it up. Whilst there, she gets swept up in the nosy neighbours, reconnecting with old family and the grumpy builder, Liam, who offers his help with the house.
Kat was funny, relatable and incredibly loveable. Her growing confidence throughout the book was so heartwarming.
LIAM 🫠🫠🫠 he was constantly raising the bar. He would literally do anything for Kat and he was so good at communicating (miscommunication trope who??). I adored their relationship, Liam always made sure that Kat knew her worth. And I loooved Kat’s bond with Abi!
Of course, it wouldn’t be a small town romance without the nosy locals who were all Kat and Liam’s biggest supporters. I loved the community in this book and how they all welcomed Kat with open arms.
This book was so cosy and heartwarming and perfect to read cuddled up in a blanket that you can blush into. An absolutely wonderful debut from Maggie Grant 🤍
When Kat’s late father leaves her an old, run down house, she moves to the small town of Everly Heath to fix it up. Whilst there, she gets swept up in the nosy neighbours, reconnecting with old family and the grumpy builder, Liam, who offers his help with the house.
Kat was funny, relatable and incredibly loveable. Her growing confidence throughout the book was so heartwarming.
LIAM 🫠🫠🫠 he was constantly raising the bar. He would literally do anything for Kat and he was so good at communicating (miscommunication trope who??). I adored their relationship, Liam always made sure that Kat knew her worth. And I loooved Kat’s bond with Abi!
Of course, it wouldn’t be a small town romance without the nosy locals who were all Kat and Liam’s biggest supporters. I loved the community in this book and how they all welcomed Kat with open arms.
This book was so cosy and heartwarming and perfect to read cuddled up in a blanket that you can blush into. An absolutely wonderful debut from Maggie Grant 🤍
August 15, 2024
I originally saw this book on an Instagram post and was immediately drawn in. Then I saw the author was looking for ARC readers; a completely new concept to me. I applied, not expecting to be chosen but a few days later I got the prologue emailed over. It took me all of 5 minutes to read the prologue and declare this would be my favourite book. Earlier this week, I received the email with the rest of the book and I certainly agreed with past me’s declaration.
The story starts at a funeral - not your typical meet cute - where Kat and Liam meet for the first time under not the best circumstances.
This story discusses many topics including;
- grief and bereavement
- adhd and dyslexia
- pressure from ourselves and others
- following your dreams
I honestly cannot think of a bad thing to say about this book other than I need more of Kat and Liam’s life. The story leaves a possibility for spin off stories with the other characters. Liam and Kat compliment each other perfectly; both bringing the best out in one another
The story starts at a funeral - not your typical meet cute - where Kat and Liam meet for the first time under not the best circumstances.
This story discusses many topics including;
- grief and bereavement
- adhd and dyslexia
- pressure from ourselves and others
- following your dreams
I honestly cannot think of a bad thing to say about this book other than I need more of Kat and Liam’s life. The story leaves a possibility for spin off stories with the other characters. Liam and Kat compliment each other perfectly; both bringing the best out in one another
August 28, 2024
This was such a good read!! The mental health representation was so good and so relatable. The love story was sweet and romantic. And the characters were people I’d want to be friends with.
I loved Kat. I could relate to her in so many ways and I think every reader will be able to as well. Liam is so strong and he knows exactly how to support Kat and give her what she needs when she needs it. Their relationship really is so sweet and nurturing.
Definitely recommend and I’ll definitely read more Maggie Grant!
I loved Kat. I could relate to her in so many ways and I think every reader will be able to as well. Liam is so strong and he knows exactly how to support Kat and give her what she needs when she needs it. Their relationship really is so sweet and nurturing.
Definitely recommend and I’ll definitely read more Maggie Grant!
August 30, 2024
RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
SPICE: 🔥🔥
Kat and Liam were so good together, and when I say as an ADHD girlie that this book made me feel SEEN, I’m not lying. Kat’s struggles are my struggles and I felt like she was reaching through the page and telling me I am not alone.
Also the vibes of this are basically if you took Gilmore Girls vibes dropped them in the English countryside and gave them a renovation project. It’s quirky but it works and the whole thing is endearing.
TROPES ⬇️
✨ ADHD Rep
✨ Forced Proximity
✨ Opposites Attract
✨ He Falls First
✨ Single Dad
If you are someone who loved fall Hallmark vibes with spice, well you are going to love this one. Kat inherits her estranged father’s childhood home, and leaves her life in London to move to the country and renovate it. Ans of course the grumpy contractor that she had a meet ugly with the day of her father’s funeral is the one that can help her.
I loved the attraction between Liam and Kat and Joe her ADHD wasn’t a burden for him but something he accepted was part of her. I loved that she pushed him to follow his own dreams and they both became a safe space for each other.
This book was a quick, easy read, had a dash of good spice and just hit me in all my feels around my own adhd struggles. Put this one one your TBR.
SPICE: 🔥🔥
Kat and Liam were so good together, and when I say as an ADHD girlie that this book made me feel SEEN, I’m not lying. Kat’s struggles are my struggles and I felt like she was reaching through the page and telling me I am not alone.
Also the vibes of this are basically if you took Gilmore Girls vibes dropped them in the English countryside and gave them a renovation project. It’s quirky but it works and the whole thing is endearing.
TROPES ⬇️
✨ ADHD Rep
✨ Forced Proximity
✨ Opposites Attract
✨ He Falls First
✨ Single Dad
If you are someone who loved fall Hallmark vibes with spice, well you are going to love this one. Kat inherits her estranged father’s childhood home, and leaves her life in London to move to the country and renovate it. Ans of course the grumpy contractor that she had a meet ugly with the day of her father’s funeral is the one that can help her.
I loved the attraction between Liam and Kat and Joe her ADHD wasn’t a burden for him but something he accepted was part of her. I loved that she pushed him to follow his own dreams and they both became a safe space for each other.
This book was a quick, easy read, had a dash of good spice and just hit me in all my feels around my own adhd struggles. Put this one one your TBR.
September 2, 2025
My first ever review on Bookstagram was an indie release called The Reno by Maggie Grant. Well The Reno had a glow up and will now be traditionally released as Maggie's debut romance, Fix Them Up on October 9th!
Unashamedly, I couldn't wait to go back to Everly Heath and signed up for an ARC - honestly the squeal of excitement that erupted out of me when I got the approval email, even my dog stopped what he was doing to look up 🤣. So here we go, my completely honest and spoiler free review.
First and foremost, reading Fix Them Up felt like going home. You know the warm fuzzy feeling you get when you get to snuggle up in your favourite pajamas with hot mug of tea? Picture that feeling and extend it to a book.
The tropes contain some of my very favourites and the neurodiverse representation is beautiful.
When I originally read The Reno, I said "I've never read a character that makes me feel as seen as Kat does"... And that still rings true in Fix Them Up, even more so now that I am on the same grief journey that Kat is with losing her dad.
As for Liam, I am always a sucker for a grump who is down bad for his girl especially when he says something like "Anything you want, Kat. Anything. I'll make it happen. You know that, right?". Instant hearts in my eyes!
As always, the side characters really cinched the storyline for me and I can't wait to go back to Everly Heath with Ren and Lydia when Take A Hike! comes out ✨
Tropes:
🔨Renovation Romance
🔨Slow-Burn Tension
🔨Single Dad
🔨Small Town Shenanigans
🔨Neurodivergent FMC
🔨He Falls First And Falls Hard
🔨Grump x Sunshine Gold
🔨Gilmore Girls vibes in the North
Unashamedly, I couldn't wait to go back to Everly Heath and signed up for an ARC - honestly the squeal of excitement that erupted out of me when I got the approval email, even my dog stopped what he was doing to look up 🤣. So here we go, my completely honest and spoiler free review.
First and foremost, reading Fix Them Up felt like going home. You know the warm fuzzy feeling you get when you get to snuggle up in your favourite pajamas with hot mug of tea? Picture that feeling and extend it to a book.
The tropes contain some of my very favourites and the neurodiverse representation is beautiful.
When I originally read The Reno, I said "I've never read a character that makes me feel as seen as Kat does"... And that still rings true in Fix Them Up, even more so now that I am on the same grief journey that Kat is with losing her dad.
As for Liam, I am always a sucker for a grump who is down bad for his girl especially when he says something like "Anything you want, Kat. Anything. I'll make it happen. You know that, right?". Instant hearts in my eyes!
As always, the side characters really cinched the storyline for me and I can't wait to go back to Everly Heath with Ren and Lydia when Take A Hike! comes out ✨
Tropes:
🔨Renovation Romance
🔨Slow-Burn Tension
🔨Single Dad
🔨Small Town Shenanigans
🔨Neurodivergent FMC
🔨He Falls First And Falls Hard
🔨Grump x Sunshine Gold
🔨Gilmore Girls vibes in the North
August 22, 2024
An enormous thank you to Maggie Grant for allowing me to be part of the ARC team for The Reno. I've given it 4.5 stars.
I've never read a book with a female main character with ADHD before, so that alone felt hugely refreshing and interesting to read about.
This was a slow burn, enemies to lovers story with spice that contributed to the book just enough.
I loved Kat's banter and chaotic world, I thought Liam was the ultimate MMC who was simply perfection. There were alot of characters, especially at the social club, but it didn't feel too busy and was easy to know who everyone was.
This book explores the theme of grief and especially the grief of a parent. As someone who has lost a parent and can find some things triggering, I can say that was not the case with this book. The subject was approached with sensitivity and honesty that was emotional, but written beautifully.
Can I just mention the Liam and Dot bit too? My heart melted!!!
I've never read a book with a female main character with ADHD before, so that alone felt hugely refreshing and interesting to read about.
This was a slow burn, enemies to lovers story with spice that contributed to the book just enough.
I loved Kat's banter and chaotic world, I thought Liam was the ultimate MMC who was simply perfection. There were alot of characters, especially at the social club, but it didn't feel too busy and was easy to know who everyone was.
This book explores the theme of grief and especially the grief of a parent. As someone who has lost a parent and can find some things triggering, I can say that was not the case with this book. The subject was approached with sensitivity and honesty that was emotional, but written beautifully.
Can I just mention the Liam and Dot bit too? My heart melted!!!
August 21, 2025
Fix them up is a sweet romance book about Kat and Liam who first meet outside Kat's dad's funeral where Liam steals her parking space. When Kat goes to Manchester to work on the house her dad left her, she realises the builder her cousin recommended is Liam - the guy she called a "prick" as he made her late for her father's funeral. At first the pair don't get along, but it's obvious (although not to Kat) that Liam is drawn to her. He makes her an offer she can't refuse for the renovation and they begin working (and living) together. A close proximity romance but with lots of found family / reconnecting family elements.
I wish the book had been a little shorter and slightly less sickly sweet, but that's just my own preference. I enjoyed the ADHD and dyslexia rep but I did think it was mentioned a lot at the start and then forgotten about later on.
Overall a sweet book!
I wish the book had been a little shorter and slightly less sickly sweet, but that's just my own preference. I enjoyed the ADHD and dyslexia rep but I did think it was mentioned a lot at the start and then forgotten about later on.
Overall a sweet book!
August 28, 2024
To-Do List: read this fun, sweet rom-com debut! Most chapters in this book began with a to-do list which I thought was so unique and enduring, and it give a glimpse of what would happen in the plot next. Kat, a neurodivergent graphic designer, inherited a house from her late father and enlists three help of handsome, single dad, Liam to renovate it. There’s small town vibes (and all the gossip that goes with it), forced proximity, single, first person point of view, and a wee bit of almost closed door spice. I really enjoyed the he falls first trope in this book as well…Liam’s love language is making sure Kat eats the fantastic food he cooks. I simply adored the feel-good ending too…in my opinion all rom-coms should have a Happily Ever After.
Thank you to the author for the #gifted eARC.
Thank you to the author for the #gifted eARC.
August 28, 2024
I’m not blowing smoke when I say this is one of the BEST debut novels I have ever set eyes on.
Maggie, this is absolutely incredible!!
Kat and Liam’s characters are loveable, realistic and fun. The ADHD content is accurate and relatable. The grumpy (but secretly sweet) single dad trope is one of my absolute favourites and you’ve done so well portraying it!
I’m just in awe, right down to the details. You go girl!!!
I can’t wait to see where Everly Heath takes us next… Lydia and Ren up next?👀
Maggie, this is absolutely incredible!!
Kat and Liam’s characters are loveable, realistic and fun. The ADHD content is accurate and relatable. The grumpy (but secretly sweet) single dad trope is one of my absolute favourites and you’ve done so well portraying it!
I’m just in awe, right down to the details. You go girl!!!
I can’t wait to see where Everly Heath takes us next… Lydia and Ren up next?👀
August 26, 2024
I received this book as an ARC.
I loved loved loved this book! It made me cry in chapter 1.
The ADHD representation is spot on. As a woman who was diagnosed in my twenties I felt SEEN. The way the struggle between trying to find a way to live with ADHD and deal with a disappointed parent is just amazing.
I loved loved loved this book! It made me cry in chapter 1.
The ADHD representation is spot on. As a woman who was diagnosed in my twenties I felt SEEN. The way the struggle between trying to find a way to live with ADHD and deal with a disappointed parent is just amazing.
January 2, 2025
First read of 2025! Absolutely devoured this in just a couple hours on the plane ride, couldn’t put this book down. I loved the plot line, the big gestures, and how patient and understanding Liam has been though everything. The only thing that would have made this book better is if we also had dual POV and learned a bit more about Liam’s past too.
4.7 🌟 for me tho!
4.7 🌟 for me tho!
August 18, 2024
This was SO CUTE! Kat and Liam are so sweet. I think a lot of people will relate to Kat in someway, with her ADHD. I know I did. It warmed my heart to be able to relate to someone so much and feel so seen. Kat was so strong and being along for the journey was so fun.
Liam is such a sweetheart…I loved his character so much! He cared sooo much!
The plot was fantastic! I really liked the whole premise of the book in terms of having to move back to renovate this house. I know that there’s some other books out there that have this plot, but this book felt fresh and new! Something about it was so comforting and felt like home.
Highly recommend!
Liam is such a sweetheart…I loved his character so much! He cared sooo much!
The plot was fantastic! I really liked the whole premise of the book in terms of having to move back to renovate this house. I know that there’s some other books out there that have this plot, but this book felt fresh and new! Something about it was so comforting and felt like home.
Highly recommend!
Read
September 3, 2025See this is what i get for looking for a good romance
October 18, 2025
dnf at 70%, 2 stars for the adhd and dyslexia rep and a promising start but none for the mess that followed
November 9, 2025
I have no words to describe how much i loved this book. I’m obsessed with the characters and I saw so much of myself in kat and the fact she is described as how i look also helps lol.
Amazing book
Amazing book
September 11, 2024
This was a lovely ARC opportunity in exchange for an honest review!
Such a fabulous read! I really enjoyed it! For Maggie Grants Debut Novel she should be extremely proud!
A small town romance with grumpy/sunshine trope. It was refreshing to read of a single dad that didn’t appear to be at his wits end with parent hood and the FMC is neurodivergent.
It Took time to build but there was something going on in every chapter, So it didn’t feel so jarring. Liam and Kat are just amazing. Grumpy and Sunshine Trope for the win. I love how even before things began fully rolling there was a sense of understanding and care that was there.
The chemistry was grand! I loved the bantz especially because it didn’t feel overdone! It felt super natural, and natural bantz is just a winner in my eyes! It had a touch of spice (2 on the spicy scale) I’d thought there would be more given the obvious sexual tension but I don’t think it needed it. The cheeky antique moment had me blushing.🤭
I’m wondering if Antony could’ve been described a little better? Wasn’t doing it for me.
I loved the sense of love and community shown throughout the book.
There were some points I felt as though it was a little repetitive I.e the scent of Liam or how the kisses went & some descriptions but… it makes sense because it’s Kat’s POV and how her beautiful neuro mind fixates on certain things. So although I may have felt it was overdone at times I took a step back to see that it’s actually just a step into a neurodiverse mind and how it operates. So I appreciate how Maggie highlighted the tiny things in that aspect. Kat is so relatable even if you aren’t neurodiverse and the way she thought of herself just broke my heart. Because I know that feeling all too well! On the other hand…I think I need to give Liam Hunter a call😜 that man is…. Yes! lol 😂
Overall it’s a great read definitely recommend and cannot wait for the next book! I’m sure it’ll be just as good if not, better!
My favourite quote:
“I want you to listen to me. Really listen, okay? You deserve this and more. You are worthy. You’re a bright, shining light to everyone around you.” 🥹🥺❤️
Such a fabulous read! I really enjoyed it! For Maggie Grants Debut Novel she should be extremely proud!
A small town romance with grumpy/sunshine trope. It was refreshing to read of a single dad that didn’t appear to be at his wits end with parent hood and the FMC is neurodivergent.
It Took time to build but there was something going on in every chapter, So it didn’t feel so jarring. Liam and Kat are just amazing. Grumpy and Sunshine Trope for the win. I love how even before things began fully rolling there was a sense of understanding and care that was there.
The chemistry was grand! I loved the bantz especially because it didn’t feel overdone! It felt super natural, and natural bantz is just a winner in my eyes! It had a touch of spice (2 on the spicy scale) I’d thought there would be more given the obvious sexual tension but I don’t think it needed it. The cheeky antique moment had me blushing.🤭
I’m wondering if Antony could’ve been described a little better? Wasn’t doing it for me.
I loved the sense of love and community shown throughout the book.
There were some points I felt as though it was a little repetitive I.e the scent of Liam or how the kisses went & some descriptions but… it makes sense because it’s Kat’s POV and how her beautiful neuro mind fixates on certain things. So although I may have felt it was overdone at times I took a step back to see that it’s actually just a step into a neurodiverse mind and how it operates. So I appreciate how Maggie highlighted the tiny things in that aspect. Kat is so relatable even if you aren’t neurodiverse and the way she thought of herself just broke my heart. Because I know that feeling all too well! On the other hand…I think I need to give Liam Hunter a call😜 that man is…. Yes! lol 😂
Overall it’s a great read definitely recommend and cannot wait for the next book! I’m sure it’ll be just as good if not, better!
My favourite quote:
“I want you to listen to me. Really listen, okay? You deserve this and more. You are worthy. You’re a bright, shining light to everyone around you.” 🥹🥺❤️
May 17, 2025
I was given the chance to read the ARC of this debut book, in exchange for an honest review ✨️
I can say hand on heart this was a 5 star book for me. From the first page I was completely hooked and it had everything I love in a romance novel from the grumpyxsunshine trope to the small town with the nosey but caring community! It's cosy and charming and definitely had me crying at places. I loved the characters, especially Kat and Liam, and it took me an extra day to finish just because I wasn't sure I was ready to say goodbye to them yet.
I related heavily to Kat, our neurodivergent FMC, and I think it's one of the first times I've had a main character that I could relate to on such a strong level. I loved her story and character progression, as well as the relationship with not only Liam, but also her best friend Willa!
If you love the kind of romance books that have you kicking your feet and giggling, I highly recommend this one!
I can say hand on heart this was a 5 star book for me. From the first page I was completely hooked and it had everything I love in a romance novel from the grumpyxsunshine trope to the small town with the nosey but caring community! It's cosy and charming and definitely had me crying at places. I loved the characters, especially Kat and Liam, and it took me an extra day to finish just because I wasn't sure I was ready to say goodbye to them yet.
I related heavily to Kat, our neurodivergent FMC, and I think it's one of the first times I've had a main character that I could relate to on such a strong level. I loved her story and character progression, as well as the relationship with not only Liam, but also her best friend Willa!
If you love the kind of romance books that have you kicking your feet and giggling, I highly recommend this one!
October 31, 2024
I can’t believe how underrated this book is. It was lots of fun & so so lovely!
Kat and Liam aren’t perfect & their road humps are down to earth and believable. I love love and this book was exactly that.
I can’t wait to recommend this book!
Kat and Liam aren’t perfect & their road humps are down to earth and believable. I love love and this book was exactly that.
I can’t wait to recommend this book!
Read
May 18, 2025story:
spice: /5 🌶️
tropes:
tw/cw:
spice: /5 🌶️
tropes:
tw/cw:
October 27, 2024
Solid 4 stars. This is her debut?? Wow!
First, I cannot fully express how much it meant to see ADHD portrayed in such a way that hit so true to home and my personal experiences. The silly lists, the procrastination, perpetual self loathing and frustration that your brain just doesn’t want to work the way it “should”, and it seeming like everyone around you thinks of it as a weakness or lack of willpower.
Second, the portrayal of grief. There were many absolutely gorgeous quotes I highlighted.
“It was thorny and prickly, and the more I ignored it, the more I bled”
”People say that grief is love with nowhere to go. But what happens to all the anger and longing and frustration, or the crippling disappointment? Where does that go?”
Liam was such a rock steady support for Kat, and it was refreshing to see such transparent honesty and communication between them. There were moments where Kat’s inner dialogue and word vomit was cringe inducing, and by that I don’t mean because it was embarrassing to read, but because I have been there and done exactly that.
My couple notes of critique would be that I thought the pacing could’ve been distributed a little differently, as the timeline seemed a little quick, and I would’ve liked to have seen their journey of love and courage and self acceptance drawn out a little longer than just a few months to really portray the growth and the time it can take. I’ve seen that there will be a follow up novel, whether it’s a continuation of Kat and Liam’s story, or one of the side characters, will be interesting to see. I do feel that some plot points were briefly touched on and then never fully flushed out. Also a few typos on the kindle unlimited version I read- unsure if that’s a publisher thing.
All in all, this was a beautiful and enjoyable read, and incredible for a debut work. I love supporting indie authors and look forward to reading more from her.
First, I cannot fully express how much it meant to see ADHD portrayed in such a way that hit so true to home and my personal experiences. The silly lists, the procrastination, perpetual self loathing and frustration that your brain just doesn’t want to work the way it “should”, and it seeming like everyone around you thinks of it as a weakness or lack of willpower.
Second, the portrayal of grief. There were many absolutely gorgeous quotes I highlighted.
“It was thorny and prickly, and the more I ignored it, the more I bled”
”People say that grief is love with nowhere to go. But what happens to all the anger and longing and frustration, or the crippling disappointment? Where does that go?”
Liam was such a rock steady support for Kat, and it was refreshing to see such transparent honesty and communication between them. There were moments where Kat’s inner dialogue and word vomit was cringe inducing, and by that I don’t mean because it was embarrassing to read, but because I have been there and done exactly that.
My couple notes of critique would be that I thought the pacing could’ve been distributed a little differently, as the timeline seemed a little quick, and I would’ve liked to have seen their journey of love and courage and self acceptance drawn out a little longer than just a few months to really portray the growth and the time it can take. I’ve seen that there will be a follow up novel, whether it’s a continuation of Kat and Liam’s story, or one of the side characters, will be interesting to see. I do feel that some plot points were briefly touched on and then never fully flushed out. Also a few typos on the kindle unlimited version I read- unsure if that’s a publisher thing.
All in all, this was a beautiful and enjoyable read, and incredible for a debut work. I love supporting indie authors and look forward to reading more from her.
Read
September 12, 2025"You’re being brave, Red. I’m proud of you."~Liam Hunter
This is the perfect cute weekend read!
After her father dies, Kat moves to Everly Heath hoping to refurbish the house her late father left her. Hoping that her ADHD will let her focus on this new task, Kat hires Liam Hunter the local building. Wriggling her way into helping Liam and his team with the building work, Kat begins to fall in love with the small town of Everly Heath, and also bond with the community.
But when she begins to fall for Liam will she stick around in this new life she's made or will she turn and run back to her old life in London?
I was so excited going into this book as someone who is neurodiverse I was so excited to find a book not only written by someone else who is neurodiverse but with an MC who has ADHD, and Maggie did not let me down! I loved how accurate the portrayal of neurodivergence was, the highs and lows that we all have to experience. The struggles of feeling like an outsider whilst trying so hard to fit in. Maggie did an excellent job of making it all feel incredibly real!
The pacing was perfect. The story had me gripped in a way that I didn't even notice the chapters flying by! One minute I was on chapter twelve, the next I was on chapter thirty four and it was almost midnight.
I fell in love with Kat from page 1! She had such an amazing range of emotions and I loved that we got to see them all in the duration of the book. The pain and sadness, the heartbreak and rage, but also the joy and love!
And the way she and Liam interacted with each other was perfect. The fact that he gave her time and understood that her brain worked differently. I loved how caring he was, he never pushed Kat he gave her time!
I love the relationships Kat built with the side characters, Lydia, Abi, her aunt and uncle. I loved Willa, the friendship they shared was so sweet!
Overall I really love this book! I can't wait for Maggie to write more!!
This is the perfect cute weekend read!
After her father dies, Kat moves to Everly Heath hoping to refurbish the house her late father left her. Hoping that her ADHD will let her focus on this new task, Kat hires Liam Hunter the local building. Wriggling her way into helping Liam and his team with the building work, Kat begins to fall in love with the small town of Everly Heath, and also bond with the community.
But when she begins to fall for Liam will she stick around in this new life she's made or will she turn and run back to her old life in London?
I was so excited going into this book as someone who is neurodiverse I was so excited to find a book not only written by someone else who is neurodiverse but with an MC who has ADHD, and Maggie did not let me down! I loved how accurate the portrayal of neurodivergence was, the highs and lows that we all have to experience. The struggles of feeling like an outsider whilst trying so hard to fit in. Maggie did an excellent job of making it all feel incredibly real!
The pacing was perfect. The story had me gripped in a way that I didn't even notice the chapters flying by! One minute I was on chapter twelve, the next I was on chapter thirty four and it was almost midnight.
I fell in love with Kat from page 1! She had such an amazing range of emotions and I loved that we got to see them all in the duration of the book. The pain and sadness, the heartbreak and rage, but also the joy and love!
And the way she and Liam interacted with each other was perfect. The fact that he gave her time and understood that her brain worked differently. I loved how caring he was, he never pushed Kat he gave her time!
I love the relationships Kat built with the side characters, Lydia, Abi, her aunt and uncle. I loved Willa, the friendship they shared was so sweet!
Overall I really love this book! I can't wait for Maggie to write more!!
August 17, 2024
I read an ARC copy of this book and I don't know if there are enough good things to be said about it.
This review may have spoilers, but not specific ones?
The simple plot is: Kat plans to renovate the house that her estranged father left her in his will, while also trying to process her grief over the relationship they had (or didn't) and trying to juggle the relationships that she has with her friends, family, etc. Enter Liam, the contractor/handy man. He's grumpy and has his own things going on - but their chemistry is palpable and Kat tries to figure out what to do about that, too.
Kat, the FMC, is such a beautifully written character - full of complexities and such relatable and real quirks. She was diagnosed later in college with dyslexia and ADHD, and we (as the readers) are given glimpses into how difficult her life was prior to having that diagnosis - as well as how hard things were for her trying to navigate her day to day life while being true to herself (and trying to figure out what being true to herself actually means). The way she processes her grief feels natural and believable, too.
And then the relationship with her mom... this was amazing and showed such great character development, as well!
Liam, the MMC, may be one of my new favorite book boyfriends. The attention spent to detail and the overall gooey center that this man has is just so swoony. He's a genuinely supportive person for Kat - and in return she ends up being type of supportive person that he needs, too.
Overall, I'd say that this book has: insta-attraction, slight spice (it gets spicy in parts but it's definitely a more plot/story driven book with spice sprinkled in), grumpy x sunshine.
There are no 3rd act breakups, no major triggers (it does have death of a parent and the aftermath of that).
This review may have spoilers, but not specific ones?
The simple plot is: Kat plans to renovate the house that her estranged father left her in his will, while also trying to process her grief over the relationship they had (or didn't) and trying to juggle the relationships that she has with her friends, family, etc. Enter Liam, the contractor/handy man. He's grumpy and has his own things going on - but their chemistry is palpable and Kat tries to figure out what to do about that, too.
Kat, the FMC, is such a beautifully written character - full of complexities and such relatable and real quirks. She was diagnosed later in college with dyslexia and ADHD, and we (as the readers) are given glimpses into how difficult her life was prior to having that diagnosis - as well as how hard things were for her trying to navigate her day to day life while being true to herself (and trying to figure out what being true to herself actually means). The way she processes her grief feels natural and believable, too.
And then the relationship with her mom... this was amazing and showed such great character development, as well!
Liam, the MMC, may be one of my new favorite book boyfriends. The attention spent to detail and the overall gooey center that this man has is just so swoony. He's a genuinely supportive person for Kat - and in return she ends up being type of supportive person that he needs, too.
Overall, I'd say that this book has: insta-attraction, slight spice (it gets spicy in parts but it's definitely a more plot/story driven book with spice sprinkled in), grumpy x sunshine.
There are no 3rd act breakups, no major triggers (it does have death of a parent and the aftermath of that).
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 1, 2025
Maggie Grant’s debut novel, “Fix Them Up,” follows the story of Kat, a graphic designer who is struggling to find her place in the world. After her estranged father passes away, she inherits his house in the small town of Everly Heath, Manchester. Determined to make more money for a property back in London, she decides to renovate the house before selling it. Here she meets grumpy builder Liam, a single dad and aspiring chef, and sparks fly as they’re forced to work together. Is Everly Heath Kat’s place in the world, or will she run back to what she knows in London?
I thoroughly enjoyed Fix Them Up and I’m already excited for the follow up story about Ren and Lydia. Maggie Grant writes beautiful characters, complete with relatable issues and flaws.
I absolutely adored Kat! She was passionate and funny, and I thought her neurodivergence was portrayed brilliantly. I really resonated with the way she saw herself, so to see how her confidence grew throughout the book was heartwarming and inspiring!
Liam was the perfect complement to Kat. He was grumpy on the outside but totally soft on the inside. His communication was top notch and he was an acts of service king, reminding me of my husband. I love it when the unassuming nice guys have a deliciously spicy side too 🥵
The story is told solely from Kat’s point of view, which I enjoyed as a Kat fan. However, I did miss reading the odd couple of chapters from Liam’s perspective. While it didn’t detract from the storyline, I believe it would have added a bit more depth to their relationship.
If you want a Gilmore Girls inspired romcom full of British wit and authentic ADHD rep, this is the book for you!
My rating: ★★★★½
Thank you to NetGalley and Bedford Square Publishers for the advanced copy. As always, all opinions expressed are my own. This book will be published on 9th October 2025.
I thoroughly enjoyed Fix Them Up and I’m already excited for the follow up story about Ren and Lydia. Maggie Grant writes beautiful characters, complete with relatable issues and flaws.
I absolutely adored Kat! She was passionate and funny, and I thought her neurodivergence was portrayed brilliantly. I really resonated with the way she saw herself, so to see how her confidence grew throughout the book was heartwarming and inspiring!
Liam was the perfect complement to Kat. He was grumpy on the outside but totally soft on the inside. His communication was top notch and he was an acts of service king, reminding me of my husband. I love it when the unassuming nice guys have a deliciously spicy side too 🥵
The story is told solely from Kat’s point of view, which I enjoyed as a Kat fan. However, I did miss reading the odd couple of chapters from Liam’s perspective. While it didn’t detract from the storyline, I believe it would have added a bit more depth to their relationship.
If you want a Gilmore Girls inspired romcom full of British wit and authentic ADHD rep, this is the book for you!
My rating: ★★★★½
Thank you to NetGalley and Bedford Square Publishers for the advanced copy. As always, all opinions expressed are my own. This book will be published on 9th October 2025.
August 16, 2024
Arc Review
5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice 🌶️
This book put me through a rollcoaster of emotions it had me sobbing, squealing,Anxious, & Angry. I don’t know what you put in this book usually I have a hard time sitting down for long periods of time to read, but with this book I just flew through it and couldn’t put it down Absolutely addictive and beautifully written.🥹🥰
Blurb:
When self proclaimed flop kat williams moves miles north to Everly Heath to refurbish her late father’s childhood hom, she thinks it will be a quick fixer-uper . A bit of paint, some carpe, then she’ll sell, make a profit, and get back her life in London
Review:
I related to kat a lot not just because of her adhd but also because of her relationship with her mom and her grief, This book made me feel so seen. I loved the representation and the realistic portrayal of grief, and how that affects someone especially when you become estranged from them.
Love how Kat and Liam help each other he is so understanding and listens to her I love how he simply see’s kat. And Kat encourages him to pursue his dreams and talk to his dad and brother. They are extremely supportive of each other and have a great dynamic both pushing each other to follow there dreams. I think is funny how Kat has Liam wrapped around her little finger from the beginning 😂😂 but its also so adorable this man would do anything for her.
All in all I loved this book so much writing a review has hard cause how was I supposed to summarize all that
I had a blast buddy reading this with another arc reader it made this book 10 times better if possible bc of the back and forth
Tropes:
☀️Neurodivergent FMC
🛠️Grumpy Builder MMC
☀️Grumpy x Sunshine
🛠️Single Dad
☀️Small Town Vibes
🛠️Forced Proximity
☀️He Falls First
5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice 🌶️
This book put me through a rollcoaster of emotions it had me sobbing, squealing,Anxious, & Angry. I don’t know what you put in this book usually I have a hard time sitting down for long periods of time to read, but with this book I just flew through it and couldn’t put it down Absolutely addictive and beautifully written.🥹🥰
Blurb:
When self proclaimed flop kat williams moves miles north to Everly Heath to refurbish her late father’s childhood hom, she thinks it will be a quick fixer-uper . A bit of paint, some carpe, then she’ll sell, make a profit, and get back her life in London
Review:
I related to kat a lot not just because of her adhd but also because of her relationship with her mom and her grief, This book made me feel so seen. I loved the representation and the realistic portrayal of grief, and how that affects someone especially when you become estranged from them.
Love how Kat and Liam help each other he is so understanding and listens to her I love how he simply see’s kat. And Kat encourages him to pursue his dreams and talk to his dad and brother. They are extremely supportive of each other and have a great dynamic both pushing each other to follow there dreams. I think is funny how Kat has Liam wrapped around her little finger from the beginning 😂😂 but its also so adorable this man would do anything for her.
All in all I loved this book so much writing a review has hard cause how was I supposed to summarize all that
I had a blast buddy reading this with another arc reader it made this book 10 times better if possible bc of the back and forth
Tropes:
☀️Neurodivergent FMC
🛠️Grumpy Builder MMC
☀️Grumpy x Sunshine
🛠️Single Dad
☀️Small Town Vibes
🛠️Forced Proximity
☀️He Falls First
August 21, 2024
I was gifted an arc of The Reno.
"You’re being brave, Red. I’m proud of you."~Liam Hunter
This is the perfect cute weekend read!
After her father dies, Kat moves to Everly Heath hoping to refurbish the house her late father left her. Hoping that her ADHD will let her focus on this new task, Kat hires Liam Hunter the local building. Wriggling her way into helping Liam and his team with the building work, Kat begins to fall in love with the small town of Everly Heath, and also bond with the community.
But when she begins to fall for Liam will she stick around in this new life she's made or will she turn and run back to her old life in London?
I was so excited going into this book as someone who is neurodiverse I was so excited to find a book not only written by someone else who is neurodiverse but with an MC who has ADHD, and Maggie did not let me down! I loved how accurate the portrayal of neurodivergence was, the highs and lows that we all have to experience. The struggles of feeling like an outsider whilst trying so hard to fit in. Maggie did an excellent job of making it all feel incredibly real!
The pacing was perfect. The story had me gripped in a way that I didn't even notice the chapters flying by! One minute I was on chapter twelve, the next I was on chapter thirty four and it was almost midnight.
I fell in love with Kat from page 1! She had such an amazing range of emotions and I loved that we got to see them all in the duration of the book. The pain and sadness, the heartbreak and rage, but also the joy and love!
And the way she and Liam interacted with each other was perfect. The fact that he gave her time and understood that her brain worked differently. I loved how caring he was, he never pushed Kat he gave her time!
I love the relationships Kat built with the side characters, Lydia, Abi, her aunt and uncle. I loved Willa, the friendship they shared was so sweet!
Overall I really love this book! I can't wait for Maggie to write more!!
"You’re being brave, Red. I’m proud of you."~Liam Hunter
This is the perfect cute weekend read!
After her father dies, Kat moves to Everly Heath hoping to refurbish the house her late father left her. Hoping that her ADHD will let her focus on this new task, Kat hires Liam Hunter the local building. Wriggling her way into helping Liam and his team with the building work, Kat begins to fall in love with the small town of Everly Heath, and also bond with the community.
But when she begins to fall for Liam will she stick around in this new life she's made or will she turn and run back to her old life in London?
I was so excited going into this book as someone who is neurodiverse I was so excited to find a book not only written by someone else who is neurodiverse but with an MC who has ADHD, and Maggie did not let me down! I loved how accurate the portrayal of neurodivergence was, the highs and lows that we all have to experience. The struggles of feeling like an outsider whilst trying so hard to fit in. Maggie did an excellent job of making it all feel incredibly real!
The pacing was perfect. The story had me gripped in a way that I didn't even notice the chapters flying by! One minute I was on chapter twelve, the next I was on chapter thirty four and it was almost midnight.
I fell in love with Kat from page 1! She had such an amazing range of emotions and I loved that we got to see them all in the duration of the book. The pain and sadness, the heartbreak and rage, but also the joy and love!
And the way she and Liam interacted with each other was perfect. The fact that he gave her time and understood that her brain worked differently. I loved how caring he was, he never pushed Kat he gave her time!
I love the relationships Kat built with the side characters, Lydia, Abi, her aunt and uncle. I loved Willa, the friendship they shared was so sweet!
Overall I really love this book! I can't wait for Maggie to write more!!
October 15, 2025
❤️ Blurb -
Kat Williams is well and truly in a rut. She's lost her mojo at work, her estranged dad has passed away, and she royally messed up the eulogy at his funeral after a grumpy, stubborn man stole her parking space and made her late. When her boss suggests she takes a two month sabbatical, Kat moves hundreds of miles to the small Mancunian town of Everly Heath to refurbish her father's childhood home she's inherited. She thinks it will be a quick fixer-upper; a bit of paint, some new carpet and then she can sell up and return to her life in London, profit in hand. She is determined to make the renovation a success and not let her lingering resentment towards her dad or her ADHD goblin distract her.
But Kat arrives in Everly Heath to find her dad's house is falling apart and completely uninhabitable. Worse still, the grumpy builder, Liam, who Kat's well-meaning extended family have enlisted to manage the reno, is none other than the grouch who stole her parking space on the day of the funeral. Near breaking point, Liam offers Kat an olive branch in a place to stay at his while the worst of the repairs take place. Now living under one roof, sparks fly over faulty wiring and Liam shows Kat a whole new perspective on life. But a shattering secret of Liam's threatens to sever any connection they've built.
💙 Review -
This was such a brilliant and heartwarming read. The author's writing hooked me in from the very first page and I kept reading until the end as I wanted to know what happened. The story was easy to follow, had good pacing and a great cast of characters. Plus I loved the ADHD representation. I highly recommend it and I look forward to reading more by the author.
Kat Williams is well and truly in a rut. She's lost her mojo at work, her estranged dad has passed away, and she royally messed up the eulogy at his funeral after a grumpy, stubborn man stole her parking space and made her late. When her boss suggests she takes a two month sabbatical, Kat moves hundreds of miles to the small Mancunian town of Everly Heath to refurbish her father's childhood home she's inherited. She thinks it will be a quick fixer-upper; a bit of paint, some new carpet and then she can sell up and return to her life in London, profit in hand. She is determined to make the renovation a success and not let her lingering resentment towards her dad or her ADHD goblin distract her.
But Kat arrives in Everly Heath to find her dad's house is falling apart and completely uninhabitable. Worse still, the grumpy builder, Liam, who Kat's well-meaning extended family have enlisted to manage the reno, is none other than the grouch who stole her parking space on the day of the funeral. Near breaking point, Liam offers Kat an olive branch in a place to stay at his while the worst of the repairs take place. Now living under one roof, sparks fly over faulty wiring and Liam shows Kat a whole new perspective on life. But a shattering secret of Liam's threatens to sever any connection they've built.
💙 Review -
This was such a brilliant and heartwarming read. The author's writing hooked me in from the very first page and I kept reading until the end as I wanted to know what happened. The story was easy to follow, had good pacing and a great cast of characters. Plus I loved the ADHD representation. I highly recommend it and I look forward to reading more by the author.
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