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Eye to Eye : A Sage Street Story
Aster Green lives an isolated life in inner Melbourne, her heart closed off to love. Teaching, while rewarding for some, does little to spark her creative fire. She longs to follow her passion for interior design but can’t put her forgotten degree to use until she makes up for her past.
Single father Cole Hendrik’s life feels unbalanced. He juggles carpentry work, his desire for a promotion, late-night studying, and parenting his neurodiverse son, Finn, as best he can. His attention, once perpetually focused on improvement, shifts when he meets Aster, Finn’s new teacher.
Taking a chance on a different future, Aster fights for her place in the design world, unknowingly landing herself a job at the factory Cole is building. As their professional paths cross, Aster can’t ignore his drive, loyalty and attentiveness, nor can Cole deny the pull of Aster’s joy or the sway of her hips when she dances.
As they explore the thrills of a new relationship through food and music, the weight of their pasts starts pulling them in different directions.
Can they learn to see eye to eye?
Eye to Eye, book one in the Sage Street Series, is a love story about holding memories in your heart while living fully in the present.
Single father Cole Hendrik’s life feels unbalanced. He juggles carpentry work, his desire for a promotion, late-night studying, and parenting his neurodiverse son, Finn, as best he can. His attention, once perpetually focused on improvement, shifts when he meets Aster, Finn’s new teacher.
Taking a chance on a different future, Aster fights for her place in the design world, unknowingly landing herself a job at the factory Cole is building. As their professional paths cross, Aster can’t ignore his drive, loyalty and attentiveness, nor can Cole deny the pull of Aster’s joy or the sway of her hips when she dances.
As they explore the thrills of a new relationship through food and music, the weight of their pasts starts pulling them in different directions.
Can they learn to see eye to eye?
Eye to Eye, book one in the Sage Street Series, is a love story about holding memories in your heart while living fully in the present.
313 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 1, 2025
2 people are currently reading
31 people want to read
About the author
Kate Beattie
2 books20 followersKate Beattie is an adult contemporary fiction author, a primary school educator and an observer of the world. Her characters are authentic and brave, and she weaves her passion for sustainability, travel and parenting into her stories. Writing is a creative outlet that allows her to explore and reflect upon life’s shareable moments, and gives her an identity beyond ‘Mum’ and ‘Mrs Beattie’.
Follow her on Instagram @katebeattie.author
Follow her on Instagram @katebeattie.author
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
December 21, 2025
A warm and realistic romance story, set in Melbourne.
‘Sparks fly when Aster Green is happy. Everything around her shifts. Her joy is infectious, almost tangible, and I want to stay forever in its reach.’
I enjoyed the variety of characters in this story, particularly clever Finn, creative graduate teacher Aster Green and hot tradie, solo dad Cole Hendrix. I am also really hoping for a story featuring more of Demi?!
‘Stop glancing in your rearview mirror and keep your eyes on the road. You’re letting your past guide your future. You need to look forward.’
This book tackles a variety of topics with nuance and care. The author particularly noted the inclusion of sensitivity reader/s to assist, which translates well through this story.
I am very keen to read more from Australian author Kate Beattie.
Another great romance read for #AussieAugust2025
‘Sparks fly when Aster Green is happy. Everything around her shifts. Her joy is infectious, almost tangible, and I want to stay forever in its reach.’
I enjoyed the variety of characters in this story, particularly clever Finn, creative graduate teacher Aster Green and hot tradie, solo dad Cole Hendrix. I am also really hoping for a story featuring more of Demi?!
‘Stop glancing in your rearview mirror and keep your eyes on the road. You’re letting your past guide your future. You need to look forward.’
This book tackles a variety of topics with nuance and care. The author particularly noted the inclusion of sensitivity reader/s to assist, which translates well through this story.
I am very keen to read more from Australian author Kate Beattie.
Another great romance read for #AussieAugust2025
July 9, 2025
Kate's second novel does not disappoint.
The Australian relatability, the representation of a tradie MMC, who is doing his best to be all he can for everyone in his world - MOUTH WATERING. Cole, you are divine.
The neurodivergent representation of Finn was tasteful and oh, so accurate. And Cole's parenting of said child - perfection.
Kate, if you write it, I'm reading it.
Loved this as much as I loved A Few Shades Greener.
The Australian relatability, the representation of a tradie MMC, who is doing his best to be all he can for everyone in his world - MOUTH WATERING. Cole, you are divine.
The neurodivergent representation of Finn was tasteful and oh, so accurate. And Cole's parenting of said child - perfection.
Kate, if you write it, I'm reading it.
Loved this as much as I loved A Few Shades Greener.
July 14, 2025
Absolutely loved this book!!
Eye to Eye kept me guessing and wanting to know more. I read in every spare moment I had. It made me feel everything from warmth, love, happiness to pain, sadness and regret. It had heartbreaking moments and wholesome relationships and was very relatable. I cannot wait to read the sequel.
Eye to Eye kept me guessing and wanting to know more. I read in every spare moment I had. It made me feel everything from warmth, love, happiness to pain, sadness and regret. It had heartbreaking moments and wholesome relationships and was very relatable. I cannot wait to read the sequel.
October 9, 2025
Lovely tender romance with a rich Aussie setting and deep characters. Who knew I’d love a bald tradie single dad so much!
August 1, 2025
An emotionally raw, hard-hitting book with heart, giving all the Aussie vibes🇦🇺 thanks so much for the e-ARC!
🌟🌟🌟.8
“Do you want to know a secret?” “I thought you didn’t owe me one...” “I don’t owe you one. But I want to share one, anyway.” “I love you.”
Set in Melbourne, Aster is a teacher who is traumatised and guilt-ridden by her past and has stopped living, just going through the motions and not allowing any happiness in her life.
Cole is a single Dad who is trying to navigate life; working his butt off for a promotion whilst trying to understand how to parent his son with ASD, Finn. In the new school year, he meets Finn’s new teacher Aster and over time comes to appreciate the positive influence and way she handles his son. When she takes up a side job to design the interior at his work site, they form a friendship where they are forced to acknowledge their undeniable chemistry. However, they road block eachother throughout due to both of them not allowing themselves to fully open up. Aster is still guilt-ridden and punishing herself, whilst Cole deals with abandonment issues from his mum and ex.
“Have I been doing it all wrong? Is simply existing enough?”
Eventually, the relationship they form from their friendship is raw and difficult, both trying their best to prioritise Finn and his ASD. I don’t know anyone with ASD, but I could tell the author put her all into understanding it and being true to reality of how tough it is. My heart ached for them all, but watching all three of them grow and face their traumas and come together as this new family brought me to TEARS. Many tears were had.
I especially loved the chapter at the gig, Aster and Cole’s quizzes whilst they worked, Finn’s obsession with world maps, and Aster’s friendship with Demi who deserves the world!! Kate, if Demi isn’t your next book I’ll cry!!! Pleaseeee.
What’s included:
🌍 Slow burn
👷♂️ Strangers to lovers
🌍 Forbidden love
👷♂️ ASD Rep
🌍 Single parent
👷♂️ All things Aussie
🌟🌟🌟.8
“Do you want to know a secret?” “I thought you didn’t owe me one...” “I don’t owe you one. But I want to share one, anyway.” “I love you.”
Set in Melbourne, Aster is a teacher who is traumatised and guilt-ridden by her past and has stopped living, just going through the motions and not allowing any happiness in her life.
Cole is a single Dad who is trying to navigate life; working his butt off for a promotion whilst trying to understand how to parent his son with ASD, Finn. In the new school year, he meets Finn’s new teacher Aster and over time comes to appreciate the positive influence and way she handles his son. When she takes up a side job to design the interior at his work site, they form a friendship where they are forced to acknowledge their undeniable chemistry. However, they road block eachother throughout due to both of them not allowing themselves to fully open up. Aster is still guilt-ridden and punishing herself, whilst Cole deals with abandonment issues from his mum and ex.
“Have I been doing it all wrong? Is simply existing enough?”
Eventually, the relationship they form from their friendship is raw and difficult, both trying their best to prioritise Finn and his ASD. I don’t know anyone with ASD, but I could tell the author put her all into understanding it and being true to reality of how tough it is. My heart ached for them all, but watching all three of them grow and face their traumas and come together as this new family brought me to TEARS. Many tears were had.
I especially loved the chapter at the gig, Aster and Cole’s quizzes whilst they worked, Finn’s obsession with world maps, and Aster’s friendship with Demi who deserves the world!! Kate, if Demi isn’t your next book I’ll cry!!! Pleaseeee.
What’s included:
🌍 Slow burn
👷♂️ Strangers to lovers
🌍 Forbidden love
👷♂️ ASD Rep
🌍 Single parent
👷♂️ All things Aussie
August 10, 2025
This was an excellent Australian slow-burn, dual POV romance that had me hooked from the get-go, and I was immediately invested in Cole and Aster’s journeys. It was well-written and seamless, just as the author’s debut was. I’ve quickly come to learn that Kate Beattie and high quality are synonymous.
Cole, our loveable tradie MMC, felt so real. He’s the quintessential Aussie bloke—one of the good ones—and I loved his strength of character and healthy masculinity, as well as his endless patience and love for his son, Finn. Aster was a beautiful, inspiring FMC. She was kind and equally patient, despite the pain she carried, and I have even more respect for teachers after reading from her perspective.
I adored all the fun Aussie food references, the cool Melbourne city vibe, and the genuine connection and flirty friendship Aster and Cole developed prior to hooking up. It was done so well, and as a result, their romantic relationship felt inevitable and truly earned.
There was something about the live music scene that stuck with me. I loved it. I could see Aster so clearly in my mind. That, and chapter 21! 🔥😉 For closed-door spice, that was pretty darn hot and beautifully written too!
And, ah, the ASD rep. I’m an ASD parent, so I related deeply to many aspects of Cole’s parenting journey. I felt the tension and anxiety when he was trying to get Finn ready for school and out the door on time. The mental toll it takes to stay ahead of meltdowns, and the constant strategies needed to encourage cooperation. The painful aftermath of meltdowns, and the relentless questioning if you're doing a good enough job. To me, it was all handled with care, sensitivity, and accuracy. I loved how Finn's uncle and 'popstar' (love it!) understood and supported him so well too, as sadly, that's not always the case in families. The way Aster connected with Finn and brought new strategies to the table was beautiful too.
I can't wait for the next book in this series. I'm also dying to see this I need the grand reveal!
Cole, our loveable tradie MMC, felt so real. He’s the quintessential Aussie bloke—one of the good ones—and I loved his strength of character and healthy masculinity, as well as his endless patience and love for his son, Finn. Aster was a beautiful, inspiring FMC. She was kind and equally patient, despite the pain she carried, and I have even more respect for teachers after reading from her perspective.
I adored all the fun Aussie food references, the cool Melbourne city vibe, and the genuine connection and flirty friendship Aster and Cole developed prior to hooking up. It was done so well, and as a result, their romantic relationship felt inevitable and truly earned.
There was something about the live music scene that stuck with me. I loved it. I could see Aster so clearly in my mind. That, and chapter 21! 🔥😉 For closed-door spice, that was pretty darn hot and beautifully written too!
And, ah, the ASD rep. I’m an ASD parent, so I related deeply to many aspects of Cole’s parenting journey. I felt the tension and anxiety when he was trying to get Finn ready for school and out the door on time. The mental toll it takes to stay ahead of meltdowns, and the constant strategies needed to encourage cooperation. The painful aftermath of meltdowns, and the relentless questioning if you're doing a good enough job. To me, it was all handled with care, sensitivity, and accuracy. I loved how Finn's uncle and 'popstar' (love it!) understood and supported him so well too, as sadly, that's not always the case in families. The way Aster connected with Finn and brought new strategies to the table was beautiful too.
I can't wait for the next book in this series. I'm also dying to see this I need the grand reveal!
August 5, 2025
This book robbed me of sleep I couldn't put it down but I'm not mad😊
Aster our FMC is a teacher she's stuck herself in this job (you'll find out why). Her dream is to become an interior designer. On the first day of school she is struck upon seeing her new pupil in class. His physical appearance is a painful reminder. She can't help but take him under her wing.
When she comes face to face with his dad she is struck yet again.. he's soo goodlooking! She reins herself in, she's his son's teacher after all!
Our MMC Cole is a "tradie". Next to his job, he is pursuing further education, taking care of his father whose health has taken a step back and he (lovingly) wrestles daily taking care of his neurodivergent son Finn.
His plate is so full of responsibilities at the moment so he appreciates Finn's new teachers positive influence on his son.
When Aster takes a huge step interior designing a yoga studio next to teaching they realise they will be working closely together.
They become close friends and the chemistry between them is obvious. Neither one makes a move, each having a strong reason to hold back.
You can't help but root for these two and hope they work out as there is quite some push and pull.
Finn's ASD was described so well and it all the more increased my respect for families with neurodivergent members.
There is so much to say about this book but I don't want to give much away.
I will say it was an absolute page turner for me and I can not wait for book two!
Tropes:
Single Parent
Teacher - Parent
Strangers to Lovers
Slow Burn
ASD Rep
And a dash of found family
Aster our FMC is a teacher she's stuck herself in this job (you'll find out why). Her dream is to become an interior designer. On the first day of school she is struck upon seeing her new pupil in class. His physical appearance is a painful reminder. She can't help but take him under her wing.
When she comes face to face with his dad she is struck yet again.. he's soo goodlooking! She reins herself in, she's his son's teacher after all!
Our MMC Cole is a "tradie". Next to his job, he is pursuing further education, taking care of his father whose health has taken a step back and he (lovingly) wrestles daily taking care of his neurodivergent son Finn.
His plate is so full of responsibilities at the moment so he appreciates Finn's new teachers positive influence on his son.
When Aster takes a huge step interior designing a yoga studio next to teaching they realise they will be working closely together.
They become close friends and the chemistry between them is obvious. Neither one makes a move, each having a strong reason to hold back.
You can't help but root for these two and hope they work out as there is quite some push and pull.
Finn's ASD was described so well and it all the more increased my respect for families with neurodivergent members.
There is so much to say about this book but I don't want to give much away.
I will say it was an absolute page turner for me and I can not wait for book two!
Tropes:
Single Parent
Teacher - Parent
Strangers to Lovers
Slow Burn
ASD Rep
And a dash of found family
August 1, 2025
Eye To Eye
What an amazing book. Getting to read a fantastic romance novel witten by a fellow Aussie is always a treat. The references made me smile as did the Aussie slang.
The MMC is such a bloke, a bald Aussie tradie who as a single dad of a neurodivergent child, struggles to raise his son in a supportive enviroment which Kate describes and handles beautifully.
The FMC has her own struggles that she has to overcome and it's through her commitment to Cole and Finn that Aster finds her true path forward.
This is such a great read, I finished it in one sitting, so absorbed in the uniqueness and as I said, the Aussieness of it all.
It had me laughing and crying and hankering for some shapes (IYKYK, am I right? Gotta love the cheese & bacon ones). The chemistry between Aster and Cole was amazing and even though I'm a spice girl, I found the closed door aspect of this book was refreshing and suited the story.
Looking forward to Kate's next book in the series. It's a great big yes from me.
What an amazing book. Getting to read a fantastic romance novel witten by a fellow Aussie is always a treat. The references made me smile as did the Aussie slang.
The MMC is such a bloke, a bald Aussie tradie who as a single dad of a neurodivergent child, struggles to raise his son in a supportive enviroment which Kate describes and handles beautifully.
The FMC has her own struggles that she has to overcome and it's through her commitment to Cole and Finn that Aster finds her true path forward.
This is such a great read, I finished it in one sitting, so absorbed in the uniqueness and as I said, the Aussieness of it all.
It had me laughing and crying and hankering for some shapes (IYKYK, am I right? Gotta love the cheese & bacon ones). The chemistry between Aster and Cole was amazing and even though I'm a spice girl, I found the closed door aspect of this book was refreshing and suited the story.
Looking forward to Kate's next book in the series. It's a great big yes from me.
July 13, 2025
Kate Beattie's, Eye To Eye, is a ripper. It's set in and around Melbourne. There's a walk along the Yarra, watching the cricket at the MCG and a barbie in the bush. It doesn't get more Aussie than that.
The story is about Aster, a teacher, who wants to be an interior designer, and has a tragic past. When she meets the dad of one of her students sparks fly. But it's against school policy to date a parent.
The dad, Cole is a hot tradie, and I think my first bald hero? But you know what they say about bald men, right? Anyway, Cole's son Finn has ASD, and, he's got his own tragic past to deal with.
This couple has a lot on their plate and Kate handles it realistically and with great sensitivity. The ASD rep is especially well done and while Aster might not want to be a teacher, she's actually a fabulous one.
There's so much heart in Eye To Eye on this couple's rocky road to love that it makes a wonderful edition to our indie author library. Make sure to grap a copy!
The story is about Aster, a teacher, who wants to be an interior designer, and has a tragic past. When she meets the dad of one of her students sparks fly. But it's against school policy to date a parent.
The dad, Cole is a hot tradie, and I think my first bald hero? But you know what they say about bald men, right? Anyway, Cole's son Finn has ASD, and, he's got his own tragic past to deal with.
This couple has a lot on their plate and Kate handles it realistically and with great sensitivity. The ASD rep is especially well done and while Aster might not want to be a teacher, she's actually a fabulous one.
There's so much heart in Eye To Eye on this couple's rocky road to love that it makes a wonderful edition to our indie author library. Make sure to grap a copy!
July 18, 2025
Oh My goodness Eye to Eye by Kate Beattie sucked me right in, I wasn’t expecting it to. Couldn’t put it down. I truly enjoyed all the Australian references and details right down to Aussie snacks and the mention of cricket and footy.
I had no idea that I needed a story about a hot bald tradie single dad as MMC. The author really made me feel for Cole and his son Finn and wrote about their relationship with such thoughtfulness and care. I laughed out loud and teared up a few times. Parenting is a hard gig!
Aster the MFC has a lot of past trauma holding her back from life and the way she grew and changed with her friendship with Cole was truly inspiring. Asters female best friends played such a good role in the storyline. There were so many complexities of Aster’s character and how beautifully she works with Finn as his teacher. Loved the authors handling of asd in the world of teaching and outside of the classroom!
A beautifully written story about life and love and friendship
I had no idea that I needed a story about a hot bald tradie single dad as MMC. The author really made me feel for Cole and his son Finn and wrote about their relationship with such thoughtfulness and care. I laughed out loud and teared up a few times. Parenting is a hard gig!
Aster the MFC has a lot of past trauma holding her back from life and the way she grew and changed with her friendship with Cole was truly inspiring. Asters female best friends played such a good role in the storyline. There were so many complexities of Aster’s character and how beautifully she works with Finn as his teacher. Loved the authors handling of asd in the world of teaching and outside of the classroom!
A beautifully written story about life and love and friendship
November 17, 2025
A perfect Aussie romance!
Authentic Australian setting + layered female protagonist + swoon worthy male lead + a dynamic cast of supporting characters.
What's not to love?
I was drawn to this one because I enjoyed Kate's first novel A Few Shades Greener so much. Well, lo and behold, I think I loved Eye to Eye even more.
This was such an assured follow-up for Kate, and from the first chapter, I was drawn into Aster's world as a gifted primary school teacher with a burning desire to shift gears in life and pursue her dream of building a creative career as an interior designer. The only thing in her way is a roadblock I really related to: risk.
Add the hot Dad of one of her most challenging students into the mix and you've got a delightfully layered story about facing childhood wounds, stepping into the light, and giving love a chance.
Add this one to your TBR, you won't be disappointed.
Authentic Australian setting + layered female protagonist + swoon worthy male lead + a dynamic cast of supporting characters.
What's not to love?
I was drawn to this one because I enjoyed Kate's first novel A Few Shades Greener so much. Well, lo and behold, I think I loved Eye to Eye even more.
This was such an assured follow-up for Kate, and from the first chapter, I was drawn into Aster's world as a gifted primary school teacher with a burning desire to shift gears in life and pursue her dream of building a creative career as an interior designer. The only thing in her way is a roadblock I really related to: risk.
Add the hot Dad of one of her most challenging students into the mix and you've got a delightfully layered story about facing childhood wounds, stepping into the light, and giving love a chance.
Add this one to your TBR, you won't be disappointed.
July 11, 2025
Another favorite Australian author added to my list.
Frist time reader of Kate Beattie and I wasn't disappointed...
Something about this book drew me in when I first saw it on Instagram I had to read. Thank you Kate for allowing me to be an ARC reader.
Eye to Eye a beautiful, well written romantic novel but with so much real life moments throughout it. Sit back and hop on the roller-coaster of emotions from laughing alongside with the character's to being sad with some of their choices ( should always hear the other side never assume the worst 😏 )
' See something you like? ' Ben calls into my ear. He follows my eyeline.
' um, no I - I protest, but he cuts me off. Mate, you're looking at her like a surfer looks at the perfect swell'.
this made me laugh so much.
Thank you again Kate.
Frist time reader of Kate Beattie and I wasn't disappointed...
Something about this book drew me in when I first saw it on Instagram I had to read. Thank you Kate for allowing me to be an ARC reader.
Eye to Eye a beautiful, well written romantic novel but with so much real life moments throughout it. Sit back and hop on the roller-coaster of emotions from laughing alongside with the character's to being sad with some of their choices ( should always hear the other side never assume the worst 😏 )
' See something you like? ' Ben calls into my ear. He follows my eyeline.
' um, no I - I protest, but he cuts me off. Mate, you're looking at her like a surfer looks at the perfect swell'.
this made me laugh so much.
Thank you again Kate.
November 6, 2025
I absolutely loved Eye to Eye by Kate Beattie!
From the very first page, I was completely drawn in by the story and the characters, especially Asta Green.
She was such a relatable and intriguing character, and I found myself deeply invested in her journey, particularly in the way her relationship with Cole developed throughout the novel.
Each chapter captivated me more than the last. It’s one of those books that’s easy to read but impossible to put down, I just wanted to keep turning the pages to see what would happen next.
The pacing was perfect and Kate Beattie’s writing style made the story feel both heartfelt and authentic.
This is truly one of the best books I have ever read. I’m so grateful to the author for creating such a beautiful and engaging story and I can’t wait to see what she writes next.
Praise to Kate Beattie for a job incredibly well done! 👏🏻🩷
From the very first page, I was completely drawn in by the story and the characters, especially Asta Green.
She was such a relatable and intriguing character, and I found myself deeply invested in her journey, particularly in the way her relationship with Cole developed throughout the novel.
Each chapter captivated me more than the last. It’s one of those books that’s easy to read but impossible to put down, I just wanted to keep turning the pages to see what would happen next.
The pacing was perfect and Kate Beattie’s writing style made the story feel both heartfelt and authentic.
This is truly one of the best books I have ever read. I’m so grateful to the author for creating such a beautiful and engaging story and I can’t wait to see what she writes next.
Praise to Kate Beattie for a job incredibly well done! 👏🏻🩷
July 8, 2025
I absolutely loved this book! It is so much more than a romance novel. Yes there is the forbidden attraction between the main characters that needs to be resolved and delightfully, it is!
But this story is set in a the real world where life is never simple or straightforward. It takes the reader into the world of school and teaching children, and shows a remarkably real and heart warming side to the work that is done there. Once I started this book, I was totally invested in its characters, each with their own baggage (aren't we all?) which gradually unfolds and makes you love them even more. If you're looking for a book that you can escape into, one that will warm your heart and keep you invested and entertained, here it is!
Can't wait for the next one from author Kate Beattie.
But this story is set in a the real world where life is never simple or straightforward. It takes the reader into the world of school and teaching children, and shows a remarkably real and heart warming side to the work that is done there. Once I started this book, I was totally invested in its characters, each with their own baggage (aren't we all?) which gradually unfolds and makes you love them even more. If you're looking for a book that you can escape into, one that will warm your heart and keep you invested and entertained, here it is!
Can't wait for the next one from author Kate Beattie.
July 16, 2025
A bald tradie as a cinnamon roll hero? Who would have thought? I loved the relatability of the setting as an Australian parent, and the fact that this was so down to earth with the characters made it an easy, enjoyable read. References to Aussie snacks and humour
Yes there is a touch of 'forbidden romance' with Aster the FMC who is a teacher to Finn and Cole the single dad to Finn (who has ASD) but the way Kate writes with emotional depth lets the reader connect with the characters, but also keeps you engaged throughout. It also shows people the complexities of parenting an ASD child, and also at school and how appropriate support and training can help teachers make a difference to a child with additional needs.
Thank you Kate! I really enjoyed reading it.
Yes there is a touch of 'forbidden romance' with Aster the FMC who is a teacher to Finn and Cole the single dad to Finn (who has ASD) but the way Kate writes with emotional depth lets the reader connect with the characters, but also keeps you engaged throughout. It also shows people the complexities of parenting an ASD child, and also at school and how appropriate support and training can help teachers make a difference to a child with additional needs.
Thank you Kate! I really enjoyed reading it.
August 3, 2025
This was such a beautifully grounded and heartfelt read. Eye to Eye takes on love, parenting, trauma, and healing in a way that felt both emotionally raw and genuinely hopeful.
Cole,a single dad, cinnamon roll with a tradie twist. His love for his son Finn leapt off the page, and watching his bond with Aster unfold felt real and tender. And Aster? Her growth was such a quiet triumph. You could feel the weight of her past, and seeing her find her footing again especially through her connection with Finn and Cole. It was lovely.
There’s a subtle “forbidden” edge with the student/teacher connection, but it’s handled with care.
Loved the Aussie setting and the authentic representation of ASD in both the classroom and home life, it added such meaningful layers.
A heartwarming, character-driven romance about second chances, connection, and showing up for others and for yourself. Can’t wait for what’s next on Sage Street!
Cole,a single dad, cinnamon roll with a tradie twist. His love for his son Finn leapt off the page, and watching his bond with Aster unfold felt real and tender. And Aster? Her growth was such a quiet triumph. You could feel the weight of her past, and seeing her find her footing again especially through her connection with Finn and Cole. It was lovely.
There’s a subtle “forbidden” edge with the student/teacher connection, but it’s handled with care.
Loved the Aussie setting and the authentic representation of ASD in both the classroom and home life, it added such meaningful layers.
A heartwarming, character-driven romance about second chances, connection, and showing up for others and for yourself. Can’t wait for what’s next on Sage Street!
July 11, 2025
I absolutely loved this book! My favorite arc read so far this year. Kate you balanced the romance with real world perfectly. Who doesn’t love a single dad MMC and the relationship between Cole and Finn was beautifully written. I loved the Aussie style writing, for an American girl it created a fun little scavenger hunt to find out what all those snacks were. 😆 As for the FMC in Aster I found a character I can relate to. She’s down to earth and dealing with grief that was so relatable for someone that has also lost her brother in an unexpected way. Thank you Kate, for writing this book and allowing me to read it! Can’t wait for book 2
July 28, 2025
Aster and Cole. Two names you'll remember. Having never been to Melborne, I definitely want to visit it after reading this book.
Our MMC, Cole, sounds like the most delicious man whonhas a heart of gold. His devotion to his son is so admirable. Cole is the type to take care of everyone but himself.
Then enters Aster, our FMC.nis on het own emotional roller coaster so its no wonder that these two connected with one another. This romamce was a slow burn that was developed at just the right pace. This book took us on the emotional journey with the characters. We laughed, blushed and cried.
I give this 4 out of 5 stars. I truly enjoyed it.
Our MMC, Cole, sounds like the most delicious man whonhas a heart of gold. His devotion to his son is so admirable. Cole is the type to take care of everyone but himself.
Then enters Aster, our FMC.nis on het own emotional roller coaster so its no wonder that these two connected with one another. This romamce was a slow burn that was developed at just the right pace. This book took us on the emotional journey with the characters. We laughed, blushed and cried.
I give this 4 out of 5 stars. I truly enjoyed it.
November 30, 2025
I didn't expect to love this book so much. It is a beautiful love story that is set in Melbourne Australia. The book was told in the point of view of the main characters Aster and Cole and delved deep into their thoughts, pain and feelings as they journey through life's twists and turns.
The way the author portrayed each of the character was amazing. Aster as a teacher was spot on, even down to the way she is with DEmi her coworker. The way she built the relationship with Finn, especially the way she got to know Finn.
I read a chapter a night just so I could draw out finishing this book. Would love to read other books by KAte.
The way the author portrayed each of the character was amazing. Aster as a teacher was spot on, even down to the way she is with DEmi her coworker. The way she built the relationship with Finn, especially the way she got to know Finn.
I read a chapter a night just so I could draw out finishing this book. Would love to read other books by KAte.
July 18, 2025
I absolutely loved this book—when I wasn’t reading it, I was thinking about it.
The characters feel so real, like people we all know, just searching for love and happiness.
Cole, a devoted single dad and tradie, and Aster, a talented interior designer hiding behind a teaching role, both carry scars that make them wary of love. Their slow-burn romance is tender, healing, and beautifully written.
Bonus points for being set in my home state, with a nod to the Yarra Valley!
Highly recommend if you love heartfelt, feel-good love stories. ❤️
The characters feel so real, like people we all know, just searching for love and happiness.
Cole, a devoted single dad and tradie, and Aster, a talented interior designer hiding behind a teaching role, both carry scars that make them wary of love. Their slow-burn romance is tender, healing, and beautifully written.
Bonus points for being set in my home state, with a nod to the Yarra Valley!
Highly recommend if you love heartfelt, feel-good love stories. ❤️
June 28, 2025
Eye to Eye was such a surprise, a layered, emotional romcom that pulled me in from the very first page. I absolutely loved the characters. They felt real, flawed, and easy to connect with, and the emotional depth gave this story so much more weight than your typical light romance.
There’s humour, heartache, growth, and just the right amount of messiness. I read it in two days, I genuinely couldn’t put it down. The kind of book you think about when you’re not reading it.
There’s humour, heartache, growth, and just the right amount of messiness. I read it in two days, I genuinely couldn’t put it down. The kind of book you think about when you’re not reading it.
July 25, 2025
This is a wonderful single dad romance. Cole has abandonment issues. His mother left when he was young, and his child's mom left three years ago. Aster is haunted by the death of her brother who had faced challenges. Cole's son, Finn, faces the same kind of challenges. Aster is one of his teachers. As Aster and Cole explore their feelings for each other, can they each overcome their issues? A good read.
August 1, 2025
Book one in the Sage Street series, Eye to Eye is a book that sneaks up on you and sucks you right in so you can’t put it down.
It’s a book of light and dark, it’s fun with fab banter, but it also covers some heavy topics. Both blend well together to create a heartwarming read.
There are lots of great Aussie references sprinkled throughout this one too which had me chuckling.
Thank you to the author for a gifted digital copy to honestly review.
It’s a book of light and dark, it’s fun with fab banter, but it also covers some heavy topics. Both blend well together to create a heartwarming read.
There are lots of great Aussie references sprinkled throughout this one too which had me chuckling.
Thank you to the author for a gifted digital copy to honestly review.
August 29, 2025
A beautiful love story where you get to adventure through the roller coaster that is love and real life with two characters you can instantly get a feel for. Tricky situations make everything a little more unpredictable and the ways in which two people navigate their own struggles but constantly fight the need to be together is a fun ride to be on. Loved this book and can’t wait for the next to drop!
June 16, 2025
Wow! Fell in love with all the characters straight away. Struggled to put it down. Loved the story line and laughed out loud numerous times. Had some tears as well. Can’t wait for the next book to continue enjoying the lives of these wonderful characters. So well written, glowed easily. Well done Kate
July 28, 2025
4.5 ⭐️ 1 🌶️
I was fortunate enough to receive an advance copy of Eye to Eye from Kate and their team! As always, my opinions are my own.
“I want to touch her. Kiss her. I want… Well, I want what I can’t have. Or maybe I can, but I shouldn’t.”
Oh my god I felt all the emotions with this book; it had me laughing, smiling and by the end I was absolutely sobbing - for a good reason I promise 😉 I loved, loved, LOVED this book, I’d recommend it to anyone! We did lose half a star for the more closed door romance, but that’s all personal preference - otherwise 10/10!! 💯
Aster and Cole weren’t just characters in a book, Kate made them feel real, made them relatable, like someone you know just trying to traverse through life and find love and be happy!! It makes this book so easy to fall into.. I know I finished it in a day 🤭 I absolutely cannot wait to see more from Kate!!
I was fortunate enough to receive an advance copy of Eye to Eye from Kate and their team! As always, my opinions are my own.
“I want to touch her. Kiss her. I want… Well, I want what I can’t have. Or maybe I can, but I shouldn’t.”
Oh my god I felt all the emotions with this book; it had me laughing, smiling and by the end I was absolutely sobbing - for a good reason I promise 😉 I loved, loved, LOVED this book, I’d recommend it to anyone! We did lose half a star for the more closed door romance, but that’s all personal preference - otherwise 10/10!! 💯
Aster and Cole weren’t just characters in a book, Kate made them feel real, made them relatable, like someone you know just trying to traverse through life and find love and be happy!! It makes this book so easy to fall into.. I know I finished it in a day 🤭 I absolutely cannot wait to see more from Kate!!
August 20, 2025
This book made me laugh out loud, smile often, ugly cry and all things in between. The slow burn in this book of slightly forbidden love was just tantalising! Couldn’t have read it fast enough and slow enough at the same time! Kate Beattie is truly an up and coming writer of her age, I can’t wait to read more of her books!
August 27, 2025
What a great read. The characters had me hooked from the start, and the authors ability to hold on to some of the important details until close to the end had me reading well into the night. The storyline of a job being a passion or just a job was though provoking. I look forward to reading any future books by Kate Beattie.
August 29, 2025
This is the first story of Kate’s that I’ve read, and I’m now off to buy the first.
I loved Aster and watching her story grow and develop as the book progressed, the story was engaging and as a Melbourne girl I loved the local references and could then easily see Aster in those settings.
Brilliant book and highly recommend, can’t wait to see where Demi’s story ends up now!
I loved Aster and watching her story grow and develop as the book progressed, the story was engaging and as a Melbourne girl I loved the local references and could then easily see Aster in those settings.
Brilliant book and highly recommend, can’t wait to see where Demi’s story ends up now!
September 8, 2025
Eye to eye is a story that had me captivated from the first page, I finished it so fast. Can’t wait for the next installment! I loved that the story is written in alternating chapters from the perspective of the 2 main characters as you gain an understanding of the thoughts and emotions of both characters.
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