Broken Trails: An Age Gap, Small Town Romance

Wattle Creek #4

by Elle Mariah

A steamy age-gap, small-town romance where love is the last thing they expected to find.

After walking away from a toxic marriage, Zoe De Luca rolls back into Wattle Creek with one rebuild her life––no drama, no distractions, and absolutely no men. Cue Michael Price. Brooding, with a roguish grin, grease-stained hands, and far too young and distracting for a woman who’s sworn off men.

Michael Price is perfectly content with his tools, his motorbike, and the quiet rhythm of small town life. But lately, even the steady hum of the garage can’t drown out the sense that something’s missing.

Zoe De Luca is the spark he never saw coming.

They’re both carrying scars. Both guarding secrets. And neither of them expected their paths to collide––let alone ignite something worth holding on to. But in a town like Wattle Creek, where everyone has a story, even the most broken trails can lead to something worth holding onto.

440 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 4, 2025

About the author

When she’s not curled up in a cosy corner with a good book and an unhealthy amount of coffee, Elle Mariah is dreaming up swoon-worthy stories filled with raw emotion, witty banter, and painfully relatable characters just trying to find their happily ever afters.

A Creative Arts educator by day, she’s spent the past four years teaching young minds to see the magic in art and literature. But in 2024, she finally took a leap of faith—swapping lesson plans for love stories—and began writing the kinds of books she’s always adored. Now, Elle inspires not just in the classroom, but through the fictional worlds she brings to life, one messy, heartfelt romance at a time.

Reviews

[Dani · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is by far one of my top five reads from this year! Elle writes the best romance books and I will forever love and adore anything she does 🥹 Michael and Zoe hold a very special place in my heart and I could tear up just thinking about them ❤️

I felt everything Zoe felt, I fell hard for her character. She’s one of the strongest FMCs and I truly look up to her and her resilience to finding herself again. Her story had me tearing up but it truly pulled every single heart string and I understood her feelings. Watching her confidence grow and see her find love within herself, the people around her and Michael healed a part of my soul. Special mention for Sprinkles because I adore that feisty girl!

Michael is a character that will be on my mind for the foreseeable. His vulnerability with Zoe had me feeling so many things, despite his past he always put her first. His character development with his own mental health made me well up a lot. It was beautiful to see him open up and work through his relationships in his personal life. I connected with Michael a lot, this book truly did speak to my soul.

If you know me, you know I love an age gap romance and this was the ONE for me! Reverse age gap will always be a trope I adore. The bond between these two was undeniable and the sparks were FLYING. And the spice had me BLUSHING! The slow burn was burning hot and I loved every second of it 🤭

Elle knows how to write found family, this group are everything and more. The love and support from every single one of them had me tearing up, I loved being back with my favourite people. The representation throughout this series is something I will forever cherish, you feel seen whilst also reading a 6 star book. This story hit hard, I connected deeply with the characters and it truly hit home. Elle wrote this so beautifully but so delicately, it’s truly such a beautiful book with such impactful and unique characters. I love them so much. Thank you for sharing them with us Elle ❤️

Thank you so much Elle for allowing me to beta & arc read, I’m so grateful for you and the incredible books you write! So much love for you ❤️
And thank you so much love notes PR!

[Charley Fitzpatrick (read_with_charley) · Rating 5 out of 5]

• BETA AND ARC REVIEW •
• BROKEN TRAILS: BY ELLE MARIAH •
• ZOE & MICHAEL•
• 5 ⭐️•

I want to thank Elle and Love Notes PR for the opportunity to read this amazing book once again! I had the privilege of reading this book as a Beta Reader and now as an ARC reader and I’m so very thankful! This is definitely a ride you won’t want to miss!

Soft hate to love
One bed
Healing through love
Slow burn
FMC in hiding
Duel Pov
City girl X country boy
Age Gap (she’s older)
Fur Daddy

Like all of Elle's other books, this one is just as amazing! Michael and Zoe’s story is one of my favourites. It’s full of emotion, banter, healing, learning and love! The characters in this story were both so vulnerable, and I loved how this bought extra to the story. You go to see both their struggles and their healing and it’s just such a special read!

I literally felt all kinds of emotions reading this book and I must say, reading it for a second time definitely bought them all back! I cried, laughed and smiled throughout the book! And all the little stories in between are so special!

I was all in for Zoe from the get go! And it was such a nice vibe to have a character we haven’t yet met! Being a new face to the series really made it spark some more! Her struggles and past have kept her hidden away but coming back to wattle creek changed her for the better! It was such an emotional read, reading about her vulnerability and how she found herself again in these new people she can call family.

I have loved Michael from the start of the series! His whole personality is just such a vibe! And seriously, who doesn’t live a fur daddy heheh. He was literally there for Zoe through everything, and he always showed up when she needed it. And who doesn’t love a man who can realise his own metal health matters too, going through his own struggles and finding peace in his life.

When I saw the quotes I knew it would be a 1000/10,read. And reading and seeing the other characters come back, I just couldn’t stop reading! I missed them all so much and they helped bring this story along as well. Oh and the SPICE ahhh I was obsessed, Elle really knows what she is doing hehe.

I definitely recommend this book, and the whole series! It’s just such a wholesome read and you won’t regret it! Thank you again Elle, so much love for you!

[Ajla Obic · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Elle & Love notes PR for allowing me to arc read yet another book in the Wattle Creek series🤍 I loved being back in this Australian small town w/ this wholesome, entertaining, supportive & loveable found family🥹 Elle is a master at creating heartfelt stories with complex, raw characters, & this was no different.

Zoe is a fighter. She’s strong, brave, resilient, closed-off, cold, stoic, prickly, quiet, & stubborn as hell. I loved her self-growth journey & watching her bloom into a confident woman who opened herself up to love & be loved again❤️‍🩹 Michael has been quite reserved, stoic, & brooding throughout the series, but we get to see his golden retriever, flirty, charming side shine in this book.

This was a true sloooow burn! The tension, chemistry & banter made it almost unbearable, but once these two finally gave in the heat & connection was impeccable😮‍💨 I loved how patient, kind, & protective Michael was with Zoe- how he always showed up & let her know that he was there for her, but also gave her the space she needed at first. I adored their relationship development. It felt real & progressed naturally. They were a very sweet, but smokin’ hot couple. Also, the hospital scene with the candles!? My heartttttt🥺❤️‍🩹

Read if you like: slow burn, reverse age gap, small town romance, Australian setting, found family, soft hate to love, city girl x small town guy, healing through love

[Myah · Rating 5 out of 5]

If I had to describe this book in one word, it would be raw. This story was so emotional and captivating and had me seated. Between Zoe and Micheal’s family background, to Zoe’s divorce, to the found family trope, and more, I absolutely fell in love with this book.

I think this was one of the few books I’ve read where the man is the one yearning for the women and not the other way around, and I loved it. The way Micheal price shows up for Zoe time after time, and not wanting something but showing her that there are good people around, made me shift my standards for men. He was in love since he first saw her!! Definitely top 10 book boyfriends🙌

Zoe’s story really pulled me in, the way she was able to step away and revive her life is so inspirational. Her moving back home and finding an amazing support system is what really pulled me into this book. I loved how Zoe could talk to her new friends and open up without being judged like the rest of the town did.

I recommend this book to anyone and everyone, it has so many great life lessons and really shows you the reality of what a lot of people go through daily. Definitely a 5 star book🫂❤️

[Briana · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you Love Notes PR for providing me with this arc! This was a three stars for me, the story was extremely predictable and cliche but the author has a good writing style. There’s just a couple of things that missed for me, but I’m just going to list pros and cons…

Pros:

-Immersive writing style and detailed writing, I felt like I was able to imagine scenes very well. No detail was missed when it came to pretty much anything

-I liked the characters family dynamic, truly felt like a loving family

- Overall a enjoyable story, this is my first time reading from this author and I think people would like this book


Cons:

- To me, it felt like the mmc and fmc conversations with every other side character for the first half of this book was to insinuate that they had a thing for each other, even when there was nothing there… kind of ruined the anticipation for me

- Outside of the characters we needed to know for the book, I’d think they were the only people who existed. Wish there was more details outside of the characters but I never read the other books in this series, I don’t know how much that affects this point

-I wish there was a timeline, we have to assume how much time passes and you can’t really tell anything unless it’s mentioned briefly . Although this book is slow burn the love or like felt instant but I also think that has a lot to do with the side characters insinuating their like for each other

-So because this book was in first person, the info dump was coming from either Micheal or Zoe, mostly Zoe but it was overwhelming at times and I was just hoping with chapter would end or wishing this was in third person ( I think the author would thrive using third person).

- very few cringy lines, had to take breaks for those

- some dialogue was very repetitive, I’d read the same thing Zoe said in Micheal’s chapters back to back

I overall enjoyed it for the most part but disclaimer, if it counts as one? I didn’t read the epilogue…

[Khaily · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars
Thank you to Love Notes PR for the ARC!
This book had such a cozy, heartfelt vibe that made it easy to fall into. I loved being back in this small-town setting surrounded by a close, supportive family — it really gave the story warmth and depth. The writing was immersive and detailed, and I could easily picture each scene as if I were right there.
Zoe and Michael’s story is a true slow burn. I appreciated their growth and the emotional layers between them, even though at times the romantic tension felt a bit forced by other characters. Still, once their connection clicked, it felt genuine and sweet.
What I liked:
✨ Beautiful, descriptive writing
✨ Found family dynamic that felt real and comforting
✨ A sweet, slow-burn romance with emotional payoff
What didn’t fully work for me:
Some pacing issues and timeline confusion — it was hard to tell how much time passed.
A few repetitive and info-heavy moments in the first-person POV.
The chemistry was there, but it took a while to really feel earned.
Overall, this was a heartfelt read with plenty of charm and emotion. Even though it wasn’t perfect, I really enjoyed the writing and would definitely read more from this author.

[Shanae · Rating 5 out of 5]

Broken Trails was such an emotional and heartfelt read that pulled me in right from the start. Elle Mariah has this way of weaving small-town charm with raw, real emotion that makes you feel like you’re living right alongside the characters.

This story isn’t just about romance—it’s about healing, second chances, and finding the strength to move forward when life feels shattered. The characters are beautifully written; their chemistry feels genuine, but what really stood out to me was how layered and vulnerable they were. You could feel the weight of their struggles, yet also the flickers of hope pushing them forward.

The pacing kept me hooked, with just the right balance of tender moments, tension, and heartfelt conversations. And the setting? Absolutely perfect—it gave the whole book a cozy, homey vibe that made the story feel even more real.

If you love small-town romances with deep emotion, complex characters, and a journey of healing, Broken Trails is definitely worth the read. It’s one of those stories that stays with you long after you turn the last page.

[Paige Rothwell · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

ARC Review

I want a Michael Price of my own 😍

The way Elle Mariah writes makes you feel every emotion right alongside the characters. Zoe’s pain, resilience, and cautious hope blend seamlessly with Michael’s quiet strength and vulnerability. Their chemistry is beautiful, raw, emotional—and yes, undeniably hot.

It’s more than just a romance; it’s about healing, second chances, and finding love where you least expect it. The small-town setting adds that perfect cozy vibe while still delivering all the steam and intensity.

If you love age-gap, small-town romances that balance heartache with heat, Broken Trails will completely pull you in. I couldn’t put it down, and I’m already excited for the next book in the series!

[lili 🎀🦋🌸 · Rating 2 out of 5]

First of all, thank you for @lovesnotepr for the opportunity to read this as an ARC. Always grateful.

Okay so this book was more than 400 pages but felt so rushed at the same time ?
Too many things were happening and not necessary in this story, i think some topics should've been more explored because there is so much potential with this one but again everything was rushed and it felt like every "big" scene was there because it just had to be there.
I love cliche in books but there was way too many in this one and it made no sense at the end tbh.

I didnt feel any chemistry between Zoe and Michael, and for me it wasn't a slowburn at all. Slowburn are one of my favorite things but there was just too much smut passed through the 60% of the book, and i truly didnt felt the slowburn part in it.

Also Zoe is supposed to be 36 but she was so immature at some point... The conflict with her parents felt really unnecessary.

Michael has a lot of trauma but it wasnt explored enough in my opinion, we just had one chapters where he explained to Zoe what happened to him but that's it, and is regretful especially the topic, it could have been so much more in the story

Otherwise it was an easy read still, i enjoyed some part but I think it wasn't my type of book and that's okay.

[Torrance Northfield · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC REVIEW
OMG!! This book was so good! I love the way Michael was so down bad for Zoe and how he understood her and knew exactly what she needed!! I’m so excited for the next book in this series!

[lia · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC REVIEW
huge thanks to the author and lovenotes.pr for the copy
✩✩✩✩✩

i saw a motorcycle. i signed up for the ARC. i read the book. i fell in love. michael had me hooked from the very beginning. i loved how complex his character was, no space for a two-dimensional mmc here <3 his relationship with harrison was sooo precious and i can't wait to dive deeper into this series and read about all of the side characters. he was so thoughtful, supportive and caring on myyyy who doesn't love a tortured hero who knows his way around the cars?
sprinkles the feisty kitty deserves all the love in the world cos what do you mean michael turned all cutie patootie when she was near ❤️
it was my first book in the series and definitely won't be the last!
————————————
obsessed. 5 stars.

[Elle]

Biased, of course, because I wrote this!!! <3
This book is a story of one's journey through life's adversities, and rediscovering yourself by opening your heart again. Michael and Zoe's story is raw, heartfelt, but most importantly, real. ❤️

[Haley Phillips · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC~ First and Foremost I would like to thank the Author and the publishing team for sending me this novel in return for an honest review. I was so excited to jump into this novel and put my current Kindle read on hold so that I could devour this novel in just a couple of days. So without further Ado here are my thoughts on a Broken Trail

Broken Trail By Elle Mariah

🌟 4.95

Official Release Day : October 4 2025 - You definitely don’t want to miss out on this story

Blurb: After walking away from a toxic marriage, Zoe De Luca rolls back into Wattle Creek with one goal: rebuild her life––no drama, no distractions, and absolutely no men. Cue Michael Price. Brooding, with a roguish grin, grease-stained hands, and far too young and distracting for a woman who's sworn off men.
Michael Price is perfectly content with his tools, his motorbike, and the quiet rhythm of small town life. But lately, even the steady hum of the garage can't drown out the sense that something's missing.
Zoe De Luca is the spark he never saw coming.
They're both carrying scars. Both guarding secrets. And neither of them expected their paths to collide––let alone ignite something worth holding on to. But in a town like Wattle Creek, where everyone has a story, even the most broken trails can lead to something worth holding onto.
Can two fractured souls find something whole, or, will the past chase them off course once again?

This story was like glimpsing into a mirror like Michael and even Zoe’s life together made up the whole of my own tragic back story ~ and that did make the book a harder pill to swallow for me. The past is a hard thing to heal from and watching what was practically your whole life story play out on pages between two very separate fictional characters can be both very difficult and both very therapeutic at the same time.

What drew me so far into this book when I was selecting ARC for the month of September that I hoped to be chosen for was the fact that our main male character is a mechanic. The motor bike racer on top of that was just the cherry added to the top of the desert for me. Anyone who has ever met me in reality knows that I have two types for men. Mechanics or Cops there are no in between 🤣 Michael just happening to work at a garage definitely pulled me in. What really solidified this hope of receiving the ARC was that not only was our main male character a mechanic but he was also younger than Zoe our female main character. I have a particular soft spot for age gap where he’s younger than she is.

I adore small town romance as I grew up in a small town and I very much so miss the small town and small world vibes from when I was a kid. Nostalgia definitely hits me hard when I read small town romances— this one could have fooled me as it gave off mountain farm vibes but was actually set in Australia. I’d give anything to one day visit an Australia small town and just wander around to feel the small town wonder that we lost when we became such a big visit destination.

Who said you can’t have a cute animal sidekick in a very reality like way… I absolutely adore Sprinkles and the fact that Zoe and Michael both bonded with this little demon of a critter. Story’s that include cats and dogs or even cute little farm critters make me so happy 😁 and to see these two main characters bond as pet parents before actually diving into anything via a friendship or a relationship was absolutely priceless.

I can’t wait to return to Wattle Creek and will be purchasing the other books in this series by Elle to devour. I look forward to reading about the other ladies in this series because the girls bond was just absolutely heart warming in this series ❤️ I don’t have many girlfriends and would love nothing more then to be welcomed into a little girly family like the one written about in Wattle Creek that Zoe found when she returned back to her little home town.

[Zayneb · Rating 4 out of 5]

𝐀𝐑𝐂 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰

Okay, so Broken Trails is basically your classic small town meets big emotions kind of romance but make it messy, healing, and deliciously slow burn. It’s about two people who’ve been through their own storms, bumping into each other and finding out that sometimes love doesn’t show up when life’s neat and tidy it shows up when everything’s in shambles.

𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗦𝗧𝗢𝗥𝗬

We’ve got Zoe, a woman running from a toxic marriage and rediscovering who she is, and Michael, a small town mechanic with a tough past and a soft heart hidden under a whole lot of attitude. Sparks fly, banter ensues, and slowly like really slowly, they start helping each other rebuild what life broke down. Think trauma, healing, and love that sneaks up when you least expect it.

𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗖𝗛𝗔𝗥𝗔𝗖𝗧𝗘𝗥𝗦
Oh, Zoe. She’s been through the wringer. Picture a classy city girl who’s just realized her “perfect life” was built on manipulation and pain. She’s not running away; she’s starting over. She’s fiery, funny, stubborn, and carrying scars, but what makes her lovable is that she tries. Even when she’s scared. Even when she’s angry. She’s learning that strength doesn’t mean never breaking, it’s about piecing yourself back together, one brave step at a time.

Michael Price, the grumpy, tattooed, grease stained mechanic who pretends he doesn’t have feelings but absolutely does. Underneath the sarcasm, there’s a lot of pain, family trauma, a rough upbringing, and a tendency to keep people at arm’s length. But when Zoe rolls into his world, he can’t help himself. He’s drawn to her strength, her sass, and maybe the fact that she doesn’t put up with his crap.

𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗥𝗘𝗟𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡𝗦𝗛𝗜𝗣 & 𝗥𝗢𝗠𝗔𝗡𝗖𝗘
Their first meeting? Pure chaos. She’s furious, he’s hungover, and the sexual tension? Off. The. Charts.
It’s enemies to lovers energy with a side of “who do you think you are?” banter. But as they start crossing paths, the layers peel back. The walls come down. They’re both healing from completely different wounds, yet somehow they fit.
The romance is slow burn perfection. All longing looks, simmering tension, and emotional honesty. It’s not insta love; it’s two people finding home in each other after years of feeling lost. The age gap adds a little spice (and a lot of maturity), but what really makes them work is how they challenge and comfort each other.

𝗙𝗜𝗡𝗔𝗟 𝗧𝗛𝗢𝗨𝗚𝗛𝗧𝗦
This book is emotional but hopeful, messy, real, and full of those “ugh, my heart!” moments. You’ll laugh, maybe tear up, and definitely want to hug both main characters by the end. It’s not just about falling in love; it’s about earning it, with honesty, growth, and a whole lot of heart.

[Angela · Rating 4 out of 5]

A soft yet sweet romance, that was the perfect find for Michael & Zoe. Two people that have gone through so much pain in their lives, finally able to let down their walls and find comfort in someone else. This book was full of growth, support, affection, friendship and love. From the outside looking in, you would think a book with a broody mechanic and strong-minded corporate girlie wouldn't hold such soft, tender moments. But boy was I wrong. Elle Mariah had a way of making these characters feel so layered. She gave us their hurt, walls up sides and then also gave us their happy and thriving sides too. Definitely one of those couples that had an instant connection, with sparks flying, but then quickly delved into the comfort. A 4.25 ⭐️ read for me overall.

You would think, motorbike-riding, nonchalant, kind of broody, mechanic, hmm not sure if this will be my vibe. Well lets just say, Michael threw that right out the window for me. This man, for a 26 year old, has some serious depth. He is this quiet, calm, emotionally capable man, that somehow through his troubled upbringing he has managed to grow into this man that can be so grounded. He made Zoe feel seen, heard and supported through every turn. From helping her build trust in another person, to helping her through a panic attack, to showing her that she is worth loving. He managed to do it all in the most gentle, soft ways. He was always there, but in a non-pushy way and he allowed himself to open up too while also supporting Zoe through all she had been through. And don't even get me started on what an adorable drunk he was. He was oh so smitten and fell hard and fast for her too. Basically you definitely want a guy like Michael in your life. Kind, gentle, supportive, caring, good with his hands. Honestly he was giving peak book boyfriend material.

And Zoe. Our strong, sassy, fierce fmc. That poor girl went through the ringer in this book. But god was I proud of the way she picked herself up, stood up for herself and recreated the person she kept locked away for so long. So stopped letting herself be pushed around and was able to 100% become herself again. All with a little help, love and affection along the way from Michael, her city friends and her new found family in Wattle Creek. And within the peace of her new home, she was able to find her voice again.

Okay.....but the last 40% of this book??! HECK YES! That was where the magic happened. All the moments between these two, the adorable sides of Michael coming out to play, Zoe leaning into her new friendships and growing her confidence again. It was like the light switch got flicked and everything ramped up so the book could close out in the most perfect way. Can't wait to see more glimpses of these two in the next book. I am so intrigued to see where life will take them next.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Every time I open one of Elle’s books it feels like coming home. I adore her writing, her relatable and loveable characters and the heartfelt stories. The Aussie slang, the references, and the banter is so good every time. Michael and Zoe’s story is a beautiful journey where they heal and grow 𝙩𝙤𝙜𝙚𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧 by opening up their lives and hearts to one another.

I adore Michael and Zoe together, they’re so different but complimented one another so well. He’s this golden retriever of a man wrapped in flannel who rides a motorcycle, whereas she’s dressed in designer brands and prickly after being burned by her ex. They shouldn’t make sense but together they work and I loved their journey.

Fair warning, this is a slow burn but the tension between them? The chemistry? I was 𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘪𝘯𝘨 for their first kiss and it delivered. I was 𝙂𝙄𝘿𝘿𝙔 while also practically fanning myself from the heat between them.

Now for a list of all the things I loved + reasons you should read immediately..
⊹ the immediate verbal sparring was perfect.
⊹ he’s younger and sees no problem.
⊹ he adopts a kitten for her + I damn near melted into my couch.
⊹ she is so determined not to like him but the way she softens? Obsessed.
⊹ he shows up for her, time + time again.
⊹ one of my favourites first kisses. It was built up so well + so HOT.
⊹ the girl gang here is everything. The way they bought Zoe into their fold was beautiful.
⊹ he nicknames her freckles. that’s it.
⊹ he’s vulnerable + opens up to her + only her.
⊹ the little things he did for her that meant so much to her.
⊹ his relationship with his brother, I loved seeing their dynamic again.
⊹ the cameos from our previous characters, I loved their moments.
⊹ the breadcrumbs Elle delivered for book five? I am hungry 👀

𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗲𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗰𝘁: small town, soft hate to love, age gap (she’s older), fmc in hiding, small town boy x city girl, slow burn, fur daddy.

[Shaz · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can not describe in words the roller coaster this book took me one emotionally. DV is not something light and it’s something effecting people all over the world the world but as an Aussie I see how bad it is in my own country. The very country Elle herself lives in and where she chose to set her books. Broken Trails might have just broken me. This book is for survivors - each of you different in your own way and situation but the strength both Zoe and Michael have is something that can be found in everyone.

It was impossible to not fall for Michael for the very first time you meet him in the previous books. I’m so glad to see his own romance come to life! His personality just draws you in (trust me you can’t help but love him).

Zoe is everything a girl should be (minus some trauma). I think she is one of the strongest FMC I have ever seen. The way she carries herself, the confidence, the energy, the power, everything a girl in heels in a small town should be! Not only that but she is independent and doing her best to look after herself while having a good life.

I am now going to take at least 5 business days to recover and rehydrate from being an emotional wreck while reading this masterpiece. But I will say Zoe and Michael’s story may now be my favourite out of all the Wattle Creek couples so far. There is so much I could say about this book but to not spoil too much you should go read Broken Trails (and books 1-3 if you haven’t already!) and go on a journey to Wattle Creek to read Michael and Zoe’s amazing story.

Until next time Wattle Creek 😘

Thank you so much Elle and @lovenotes.pr for allowing me to get my hands on this beauty early.

[Marni Ortiz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Broken Trails Small Town , Age Gap , second chances, soft enemies to lovers, slow burn , one bed , city girl/ country boy , healing through love and all the feels .
Have you ever picked up a series that just sucked you right in , in ways you never would have expected ? That had you falling in love with each and every character / couple from the very first book and where you found yourself completely immersed in the world the author has created ? That had the ability to make you feel so many different emotions you never saw coming? Everything from smiling and laughing out loud , to crying like a baby to actually being speechless at times and screaming outta pure frustration during others . That had you cheering so freaking hard from start to finish . Well this series so quickly has become just that series for me . Elle is a pretty new author ro me , in fact I just across her books this summer - shaking head because where the heck have I been . But all I can say , is that I genuinely have fallen in love with her characters and her writing. Michael and Zoe’s story is no different. It’s so beautiful and so emotional, it’s filled with so many complexities and anger and humor and witty banter there is no way you won’t fall hook line and sinker in love . Both characters have been through their own struggles, both are extremely vulnerable. Watching them open their hearts and fall for one another was quite simply beautiful. I really do feel like I experienced it all right along with them. Smiling and laughing when they were happy . Crying when things were hard . One things for sure though , I cheered for their happy ending the entire way through

[Erin Mackay · Rating 3 out of 5]

Solid read but I felt like the plot was all over the place at times and some things that didn’t need so much attention got it and other things that really could have used more context and information were not given.
I didn’t like that Michael had no real respect for Zoe’s boundaries at the beginning. She says she doesn’t want the cat, he leaves it with her anyway and refuses to come get it when asked. He sends his friends to annoy her when it’s clear she wants to be left alone. Being persistent in inviting someone to things and making an effort to be their friend is one thing, pushing past when someone says no is another.
And I’ve learned that piercings just aren’t something I like, I don’t understand the fascination with them. When Zoe found out about Michael’s tongue piercing that’s all she could focus on and it was talked about way too much when they kissed.
I think Zoe and Michael worked well together and I enjoyed how their story wrapped up. But I wasn’t a huge fan that once they got together you couldn’t have them in a scene without spice, it made it seem like that was a majority of their relationship. And while I agree that the physical aspect is important, it’s not everything.
I did really enjoy the little teasers into Olivia’s story coming up. I have been waiting for her story ever since I started reading this series.
Thanks to Elle Mariah and Love Notes PR for the ARC!

[Priscilla Herchold · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars rounded up to 5

Slow burn and age gap? Immediately, yes!

I had never read an Elle Mariah book before this one, but I had always heard great things about them. When I saw the trope list, it really was an immediate yes for me to pick this one. Like with a bunch of other series this year, I now want to go back and read the rest of these books!

The story between Michael and Zoe is without a doubt a slow burn that picks up momentum as it goes along, but their story needs to be stoked before getting to *that* moment. I wasn't anticipating the deep and profound emotion that Mariah put into this book - I'm not complaining, the payoff was worth it. Zoe is closed off, cold even as she's healing and growing from her past. Michael is there with her, giving her the space she needs while also providing her support in whatever capacity she needs it. It's a complex yet delicate relationship that grows, both of them being vulnerable with each other. Make no mistake, their chemistry is the undercurrent of it all that pulls them together.

Highly, highly recommend if you're looking for a slow burn and you really want those emotions to clutch your heart. This is it and you'll be wanting more!

🕰️ Age Gap
🏡 Small Town Romance
❤️‍🔥 Slow Burn
🤭 Close Proximity
🫣 FMC in Hiding
❤️‍🩹 Healing Through Love
🌆 City Girl x Country Boy

Thank you to the author and Love Notes PR for the gifted copy!

[_ifrahreads · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m honestly at a loss for words on what to say. This book was simply immaculate. Each chapter just had me more and more obsessed with the story line and the characters. This book deserves way more than 5 stars.

The writing for book 4 just pulled me in even more, honestly feel like it’s in a tie with book 2 in my rankings 😭 Elle just has a beautiful way of drawing you in to the book and interweaving the small town romance charm but also drawing focus on the raw aspects which is shown through her characters.

Michael, the protective sunshine. He’s such a sweetheart and I loved how patient he was with Zoe. The way Elle portrayed the love between both MCs was so real, relationships are built on a foundation of trust and good communication and through that I loved how we got to see an element of growth between both characters. Michael being confident to open up about his fears and vice versa.

Zoe, strong, resilient and witty. Girls been through so much and despite her horrible past she’s learnt to grow and bloom into a confident, strong woman and I love that. Both their characters just blend so beautifully together. Their chemistry is so good, raw and shows real emotions.

I love how each book of Elle’s in the Wattle Creek series doesn’t just focus on romance and all the cutesy bits. It’s more than that as she integrates different elements such as healing and taking on second chances for the better.

Also lets take a moment to appreciate the banter and tension both between the MCs and just Harrison being Harrison (Michaels brother) The banter was just hilarious 🤣

Thank you lovenotespr and Elle for giveing me the chance to arc read in exchange for an honest review, appreciate it!

Read if you like:
❤️ revers age gap
🌺 small town
❤️ soft hate to love
🌺 small town boy x city girl

[•Cici• Theory of A Dreamer Book Blog♥ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Having read previous installments in this series I've been looking so forward to more! As soon as this fourth book was announced I added it right to my TBR list. Back to Wattle Creek I went! I so enjoyed this story!

Zoe and Michael's journey captured my attention right from the get go! In the aftermath of everything with her marriage Zoe returns to Wattle Creek. Little did she know it'd lead her to mechanic, Michael. Will Michael and Zoe allow themselves to take a chance and let each other into their hearts?

I enjoyed getting to see Michael and Zoe be brought into each other's lives and the ways they got to each other. I was so glad to get into both of their minds and get the real from them throughout. I wasn't sure how Zoe and Michael would take on their pasts, things in their lives, and everything they made each other feel.

Zoe and Michael had me going through a lot of emotions with them from start to finish! They'd both been through things in their lives and I truly felt for them. Getting to see Michael and Zoe really dig deeper with one another and connect was so wonderful to see. The chemistry between these two was lovely and spicy!

I so enjoyed being back in Wattle Creek and what the other characters brought to the story! Also, I can't forget the adorable Sprinkles.

With Broken Trails, Ms.Mariah has created such a good age gap romance that brought slow burn, relatability, and many feels! I'm so looking forward to more from this author! ❤️

Check out the author's note / content warnings.


*I volunteered to read and review a copy of this book from Love Notes PR / the author*

[Em · Rating 5 out of 5]

2025 Read: #114
Series: Wattle Creek #4
Rating: 5⭐

What you can expect:
✨ Age Gap (9 years, she’s older)
✨ Small Town
✨ Trauma

MY THOUGHTS 💭
✨ This book was fantastic, I loved the two MCs and their banter
✨ Michael and Zoe both have trauma that they’re still dealing with and the way they just kept being present for the other was so lovely, I love watching them become each others safe place

✨ The motorbike racing was cool, it’s been ages since I’ve read a book with this in it
✨ I don’t even like cats but the kitten in this book was so cute
✨ I would need a full series reread to decide for sure but this might be my favourite one yet, I swear Elle just keeps getting better and better!
✨ “Zoe De Luca. My gut says she’s trouble, but damn if trouble’s not the most interesting thing to walk through my doors in a while.”

[Rebecca · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was absolutely everything.

I haven’t wanted to stop reading and slow down just to prolong the experience in such a long time. I’m usually a cover to cover in one sitting kind of gal but this book had me stopping to let the emotions, and story sink in. It was so beautifully written.

Michael and Zoe were absolutely perfect for each other and it was incredible to read their story and see their relationship develop. I was hooked from the first page and this story will stay with me for a long time!

Get yourself a man who will stand up for you in every way possible while simultaneously standing back and watching you be sassy and self assured.

Elle, you have done it again. Small town romance with raw, heartfelt emotions and spice to make you swoon!

[Elcarium · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is everything beautiful and healthy, I finished the book in the wee hours of the morning, by 1-ish, cause after getting past a few chapters I realised it was indeed a very good book, Micheal is everything and I loved him for Zoe (my sweet sweet Zoe) I loved how he was always there for her, how he was in tune with her needs, going at her own pace, being there for her whenever, just the quiet moments, whenever she needed it. I loved it.
I loved how Zoe left her stupid waste of a husband, and focused on herself and her happiness (go girlllll) she deserves a shit ton of happiness and her stupid ex husband deserves to be tortured by me before he's thrown in the wild to be fed on by voltures.
Kay, I've said enough, adiosss
*sprinkles pixie dust and disappears*

[Casey · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was my first book read of the Wattle Creek Series and it did not disappoint.

Zoe is your quintessential working female that shows off with her accessories and clothing that she is doing well for herself. Unfortunately, in her personal life, things are not going well. She is in an abusive relationship physically and emotionally and hasn't been able to pull herself away from it, until she finds her husband in bed with his assistant. She leaves immediately to go back to her hometown of Wattle Creek to figure out what to do next.

Michael is a local who is part owner of the local auto shop with his brother and step-father. He has a past that that he keeps to himself and because of it keeps walls up.

After their first meeting when Zoe gets into town and her car needs worked on, neither one of them can get each other out of their minds. Zoe is using this opportunity to start over and men are not part of that, however life has another say. They both have healing to do and the chemistry between these two is crazy! Small towns are always helpful.

[Laura K · Rating 4 out of 5]

Broken Trails is a small town romance where both main characters aren’t looking for love and end up finding it. Zoe is running away from a toxic abusive marriage and comes home to Wattle Creek. She’s looking for freedom and to pick up the pieces to her life. Enter Michael, the local mechanic, who is content with living his quiet life. However when he meets Zoe he can’t help but feel something is missing. The relationship between Michael and Zoe is beautiful, vulnerable, and very real. Both of them are healing as their relationship grows. I truly enjoyed this book! I am so grateful to have receive an ARC.

[Kayla · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5

Elle Mariah truly outdid herself with Broken Trails! Her writing is so relatable, and Michael and Zoe’s story pulled me in from the very first page. 💕 This book is all about opening your heart, healing, and discovering love when you least expect it.

Michael is the golden-retriever type of hero (who just so happens to ride a motorcycle—who doesn’t love that? 😉), while Zoe is a little prickly after being burned by an ex. Together, they balance and complement each other perfectly.

It’s a slow burn romance, but when the sparks finally ignite… they blaze. ❤️‍🔥💖

Thank you to the author for letting read an ARC of this story.💖

[Kirsty · Rating 4 out of 5]

Broken Trails was such a good mix of steamy and emotional. Zoe comes back to Wattle Creek after a toxic marriage, swearing off men, and then of course she crosses paths with Michael—the younger, broody, grease-stained mechanic who ends up being impossible to ignore. Their age gap, their scars, the way they crash into each other—it just works.

I loved the small-town vibe, the gossip, the secrets, the way it felt like everyone had a story. Zoe’s strength really stood out, and Michael was both sweet and hot in that quiet, unexpected way. Their chemistry is off the charts but there’s also this raw, emotional side that made me root for them.

[Marthe · Rating 3 out of 5]

Broken Trails by Elle Mariah is about a woman who escapes her city life to go back to her (hated) hometown to find it, and the new people in it, are not so bad after all. This is a standalone in an interconnected series and I do recommend reading the other books first because I didn't and it confused me. The MMC did not do it for me, he had good moments but overall I found him arrogant and near the end of the book he said something that I hated, which ruined him for me. I did like the FMC, although sometimes I found her character to be inconsistent. There were other parts in the book that felt contradictory to me as well but the premise of the story is beautiful; it's about overcoming trauma, healing and finding solace and strength in yourself and the people around you. I enjoyed reading the story and that's all!