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A Picture of Us
Marine Biologist Mia dreamed of something more—so when a job offer from a remote island marine conservation centre arrives, she jumps at the chance. With a new home, new role as lead biologist, and her girlfriend Tash beside her, it feels like life has finally fallen into place.
But even paradise isn’t perfect.
When a journalist twists her words into a divisive headline, the small-town trust she’s built begins to unravel. Forced to lay low while the storm passes, she turns inward, until her girlfriend Tash reminds her that she needs to breathe, and spend some time back in nature, doing what she loves. It’s shared chips on a dock, windblown sketches, and the slow, surprising pull of something magical beginning.
Between reef dives, small-town politics, and windswept sketches that capture more than just sea life, A Picture of Us is a heartwarming novella of salty air, soft kisses, and second chances—perfect for readers who still believe in the magic of a happily ever after.
A cosy, 100-page coastal novella that’s perfect to curl up with.
But even paradise isn’t perfect.
When a journalist twists her words into a divisive headline, the small-town trust she’s built begins to unravel. Forced to lay low while the storm passes, she turns inward, until her girlfriend Tash reminds her that she needs to breathe, and spend some time back in nature, doing what she loves. It’s shared chips on a dock, windblown sketches, and the slow, surprising pull of something magical beginning.
Between reef dives, small-town politics, and windswept sketches that capture more than just sea life, A Picture of Us is a heartwarming novella of salty air, soft kisses, and second chances—perfect for readers who still believe in the magic of a happily ever after.
A cosy, 100-page coastal novella that’s perfect to curl up with.
- GenresRomance
100 pages, Paperback
Published August 22, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
November 10, 2025
A Picture of Us is a quick, light, and fluffy sapphic novella that’s perfect for when you want something easy and comforting. It follows Mia, a marine biologist whose career hits a few waves, and her journey to find balance and clarity again, both in her work and within herself.
I really enjoyed the coastal setting and the gentle, easy flow of the writing. Some parts were a little predictable, but that didn’t take away from the charm, it’s got that warm, “everything will be okay” kind of feeling.
I also picked this up without realising Abigail Mader is an Australian author, which made it an even nicer surprise. It’s a lovely, breezy read about growth, calm, and finding your footing again, perfect for a cozy afternoon with a blanket and a cuppa.
I really enjoyed the coastal setting and the gentle, easy flow of the writing. Some parts were a little predictable, but that didn’t take away from the charm, it’s got that warm, “everything will be okay” kind of feeling.
I also picked this up without realising Abigail Mader is an Australian author, which made it an even nicer surprise. It’s a lovely, breezy read about growth, calm, and finding your footing again, perfect for a cozy afternoon with a blanket and a cuppa.
August 25, 2025
This was such a quick read being a novella but I thoroughly enjoyed it. The story pulled me in right away and I found myself really connecting with both of the main characters. Their dynamic so authentic and I loved watching their relationship develop.
I loved the small coastal town in Australia where the story was set because it made for such a cozy read.
Overall this was an easy, comforting read that I flew through. It’s the perfect book to pick up after a long series or a more emotionally heavy read as it’s light, entertaining and just really satisfying.
I loved the small coastal town in Australia where the story was set because it made for such a cozy read.
Overall this was an easy, comforting read that I flew through. It’s the perfect book to pick up after a long series or a more emotionally heavy read as it’s light, entertaining and just really satisfying.
August 1, 2025
*I received an advanced reader's copy of this book. but have NO to obligation review or rate it in any way. I have received NO payment for this review. All opinions are my own.*
OH MY GOD.
The way i literally dropped everything to read this ARC, it's insane. I've been looking forward to this for so long.
A short summary:
"A Picture of Us" by Abigail Mader is a sapphic romance novella with all the coziness expected from it. The main character, Mia, is an Australian marine biologist who gets an exciting opportunity at a new rehabilitation and research center off the coast of Albany. Her and her long-term girlfriend, Tash, move to Marlin Cove for new adventures and a little bit of small-town political turmoil.
The good:
Tash and Mia are literally the cutest couple in the entire world. Their chemistry dances off the page, even though we don't get a whole lot of backstory about them. Their love for each other is palpable and I adore it so much.
The relationships between Tash, Mia, and their other 3 friends is so sweet. They are all successful in their own ways (we love strong women, am i right?), but they make time for each other to celebrate successes.
I know next to nothing about marine biology or rehabilitation, but Mia's job seems important to her and those around her. She does excellent work in the short time we see her in her job.
Finally, THE ENDING OH MY GOD THE ENDING. Tears tears tears!!! Happy ones at that! I won't say anymore to keep from spoiling anything but omg.
The not-so-good (aka why i didn't give this 5 stars):
The "conflict" mentioned in the blurb was so incredibly avoidable tbh. The way it happened was very stilted and weird and I feel like it could've been written a little differently to make it more believable. Long story short: Mia should've known better than to talk to a journalist, even if they were an old friend. Especially given her work. But I digress.
The sex scene came out of literal nowhere. It read fine and I enjoyed the descriptions and whatnot. But it just literally came out of nowhere with no build-up or warning. I didn't "dock" any points for this, since you can very easily skip the sex if you're not into on-page details (it's only a couple of pages long). The language in the scene contrasted from the rest of the book so wildly, it felt like another person was writing it (even though i know that's not the case). idk, just wasn't my jam i guess.
Overall thoughts:
Phenomenal novella, i will definitely be continuing this saga/series if Mader decides to write more cozy romance. the "problems" can easily be looked past to see the bigger picture and i think it's still a great book.
OH MY GOD.
The way i literally dropped everything to read this ARC, it's insane. I've been looking forward to this for so long.
A short summary:
"A Picture of Us" by Abigail Mader is a sapphic romance novella with all the coziness expected from it. The main character, Mia, is an Australian marine biologist who gets an exciting opportunity at a new rehabilitation and research center off the coast of Albany. Her and her long-term girlfriend, Tash, move to Marlin Cove for new adventures and a little bit of small-town political turmoil.
The good:
Tash and Mia are literally the cutest couple in the entire world. Their chemistry dances off the page, even though we don't get a whole lot of backstory about them. Their love for each other is palpable and I adore it so much.
The relationships between Tash, Mia, and their other 3 friends is so sweet. They are all successful in their own ways (we love strong women, am i right?), but they make time for each other to celebrate successes.
I know next to nothing about marine biology or rehabilitation, but Mia's job seems important to her and those around her. She does excellent work in the short time we see her in her job.
Finally, THE ENDING OH MY GOD THE ENDING. Tears tears tears!!! Happy ones at that! I won't say anymore to keep from spoiling anything but omg.
The not-so-good (aka why i didn't give this 5 stars):
The "conflict" mentioned in the blurb was so incredibly avoidable tbh. The way it happened was very stilted and weird and I feel like it could've been written a little differently to make it more believable. Long story short: Mia should've known better than to talk to a journalist, even if they were an old friend. Especially given her work. But I digress.
The sex scene came out of literal nowhere. It read fine and I enjoyed the descriptions and whatnot. But it just literally came out of nowhere with no build-up or warning. I didn't "dock" any points for this, since you can very easily skip the sex if you're not into on-page details (it's only a couple of pages long). The language in the scene contrasted from the rest of the book so wildly, it felt like another person was writing it (even though i know that's not the case). idk, just wasn't my jam i guess.
Overall thoughts:
Phenomenal novella, i will definitely be continuing this saga/series if Mader decides to write more cozy romance. the "problems" can easily be looked past to see the bigger picture and i think it's still a great book.
August 9, 2025
Disclosure: I was given an ARC copy of this eBook for free, this hasn't affected the opinions in my review.
A Picture of Us is an uplifting short story with characters who feel relatable and real, Mia chasing her dreams felt inspiring to me and I loved the chemistry between her and Tash, how they have each others backs while taking a big leap into the unknown.
The worldbuilding was brilliant in this one too (can I go and live on the island already?) No, really, life on an island surrounded by trees, wildlife and the ocean with other shops just a boat ride away, feels like the ideal place to live to me.
“Not stuck,” – “Home.” is my favourite quote from the whole book.
This story carries an important message about wildlife in our oceans and how we should protect them. I found Mia's job in marine conservation really interesting.
The ending was brilliantly done, I hope we get to read more of Mia and Tash's adventures in the future!
The full review will be posted over on my blog.
A Picture of Us is an uplifting short story with characters who feel relatable and real, Mia chasing her dreams felt inspiring to me and I loved the chemistry between her and Tash, how they have each others backs while taking a big leap into the unknown.
The worldbuilding was brilliant in this one too (can I go and live on the island already?) No, really, life on an island surrounded by trees, wildlife and the ocean with other shops just a boat ride away, feels like the ideal place to live to me.
“Not stuck,” – “Home.” is my favourite quote from the whole book.
This story carries an important message about wildlife in our oceans and how we should protect them. I found Mia's job in marine conservation really interesting.
The ending was brilliantly done, I hope we get to read more of Mia and Tash's adventures in the future!
The full review will be posted over on my blog.
August 11, 2025
Review:
5 stars!!!!!
I did receive an ARC copy but I am in no way forced to review it in any way, all opinions are mine.
This was my perfect book. I loved EVERYTHING about it. The setting, the characters, the love story everything was done perfectly. I felt like I was really there with the characters experiencing it with them, the author does a great job making you feel the story rather than reading it. Especially because I’m going through grief at the moment I’ve had a hard time finding things that make me laugh, smile and feel excited but this book made me feel all that. I read this in 2 sittings because I did not put it down, the only reason I didn’t read it in 1 sitting was because of school. My only complaint was that the conflict was resolved slightly too quickly. 1 or 2 more chapters would have been the sweet spot but I understand why considering this is meant to be short. This is honestly a new comfort read and I’m going to read the rest of this author's works.
5 stars!!!!!
I did receive an ARC copy but I am in no way forced to review it in any way, all opinions are mine.
This was my perfect book. I loved EVERYTHING about it. The setting, the characters, the love story everything was done perfectly. I felt like I was really there with the characters experiencing it with them, the author does a great job making you feel the story rather than reading it. Especially because I’m going through grief at the moment I’ve had a hard time finding things that make me laugh, smile and feel excited but this book made me feel all that. I read this in 2 sittings because I did not put it down, the only reason I didn’t read it in 1 sitting was because of school. My only complaint was that the conflict was resolved slightly too quickly. 1 or 2 more chapters would have been the sweet spot but I understand why considering this is meant to be short. This is honestly a new comfort read and I’m going to read the rest of this author's works.
August 17, 2025
A Picture of Us by Abigail Mader is a warm, heartfelt island romance set against the stunning backdrop of coastal Australia. This beautifully written story weaves together themes of love, hope, and friendship, while also thoughtfully exploring important topics like environmental conservation and same-sex relationships.
Tash and Mia, lifelong best friends, share a bond that’s both tender and authentic. Their connection is the heart of the story, and they’re surrounded by a vibrant, supportive friendship group that adds depth and charm to the narrative.
This was an easy 5-star read for me. I only wish there had been more—more pages, more time with the characters. The story played out so vividly in my mind, it felt like watching a movie I never wanted to end.
Tash and Mia, lifelong best friends, share a bond that’s both tender and authentic. Their connection is the heart of the story, and they’re surrounded by a vibrant, supportive friendship group that adds depth and charm to the narrative.
This was an easy 5-star read for me. I only wish there had been more—more pages, more time with the characters. The story played out so vividly in my mind, it felt like watching a movie I never wanted to end.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 20, 2025
*I received an ARC of this and in no way has that influenced my opinion of this book*
This was a cute cosy sapphic romance about chasing one’s dream.
This is a short 100-page novella but was well written and plotted. The story rounded off nicely, I didn’t feel like it was incomplete. My only downside was I wish it was longer. I was so invested in the world, and the Maine biologist arc, I wanted more.
The support that Tash had for Mia while she was starting her dream job and also through the issues that came about, was beautiful.
Also, friend or foe, always heed caution when speaking to a journalist.
This is a great palate cleanser. I will be getting a copy of this at some point.
This was a cute cosy sapphic romance about chasing one’s dream.
This is a short 100-page novella but was well written and plotted. The story rounded off nicely, I didn’t feel like it was incomplete. My only downside was I wish it was longer. I was so invested in the world, and the Maine biologist arc, I wanted more.
The support that Tash had for Mia while she was starting her dream job and also through the issues that came about, was beautiful.
Also, friend or foe, always heed caution when speaking to a journalist.
This is a great palate cleanser. I will be getting a copy of this at some point.
August 9, 2025
This book is fresh new waters from Abigail. I adore her fantasy series, so I thought I'd dip my toes in this cosy sapphic romance novella.
A Picture of Us follows the story of Mia, who lands her dream job as a marine biologist in a remote island conservation centre. With girlfriend Tash, they move to paradise and navigate a new life hand in hand.
The novella is beautifully written, atmospheric, immersing you into idyllic environments and acts of love. It is a perfect story for those who believe in dreams coming true and happily ever after.
A Picture of Us follows the story of Mia, who lands her dream job as a marine biologist in a remote island conservation centre. With girlfriend Tash, they move to paradise and navigate a new life hand in hand.
The novella is beautifully written, atmospheric, immersing you into idyllic environments and acts of love. It is a perfect story for those who believe in dreams coming true and happily ever after.
August 1, 2025
This short contemporary novella was beautifully written.
With an idyllic setting, wonderful character interactions, and the promise of new beginnings, A Picture of Us is a nice little palate cleanser.
Such a sweet romance between our two female MCs woven around friends, new jobs, relocating, and small town controversy. Their support and love for each other was evident throughout.
I admit I felt hungry on multiple occasions with food dishes mentioned that would make my mouth water! 🤣
With an idyllic setting, wonderful character interactions, and the promise of new beginnings, A Picture of Us is a nice little palate cleanser.
Such a sweet romance between our two female MCs woven around friends, new jobs, relocating, and small town controversy. Their support and love for each other was evident throughout.
I admit I felt hungry on multiple occasions with food dishes mentioned that would make my mouth water! 🤣
August 1, 2025
What a cute little cozy read.
This story was so beautifully written, and the characters were the sweetest.
I loved how the story was well thought out with only a little hiccup when the girls run into an old friend on the mainland and the locals start not believing Mia. But nothing can stop how determined they are to save the marine and reef life, and that ending was just the cutest.
If you are after a cozy romance read make sure you pick this little novella up.
This story was so beautifully written, and the characters were the sweetest.
I loved how the story was well thought out with only a little hiccup when the girls run into an old friend on the mainland and the locals start not believing Mia. But nothing can stop how determined they are to save the marine and reef life, and that ending was just the cutest.
If you are after a cozy romance read make sure you pick this little novella up.
August 3, 2025
A Picture of Us was such a sweet story. Set in coastal Australia this novella reminded me so much of home it was very easy to picture the setting of the book and brought back memories of holidays swimming on the Great Barrier Reef. The cast of characters were super relatable too, and I loved their happy ever after story. Thanks so much Abigail for allowing me to read the advanced copy, this was such a fun quick read! If you are after a feel good story that isn’t too long, this novella is perfect for you.
August 1, 2025
This book was written very well interesting setting but totally relatable the description of the events and scenery were awesome not what I normally read but just the right balance of love and spice will definitely buy this book once it’s released thanks for letting me be an arc reader looking forward to reading more
August 26, 2025
Arc review
I absolutely adored this book it was so well written and the plot is great the characters and their development is wonderful the world building is also great. It has all you can think of when it comes to a cozy island romance, absolutely amazing job can’t wait to see what else you have in store.
I absolutely adored this book it was so well written and the plot is great the characters and their development is wonderful the world building is also great. It has all you can think of when it comes to a cozy island romance, absolutely amazing job can’t wait to see what else you have in store.
April 20, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️
A Picture of Us
@abigailMader
This book is a FF romance Novella. It was easy and comforting to read. I felt the FMC’s were relatable and real and loved their love. It was so sweet and a little 🌶️. The coastal setting sounded incredible. 🏝️
Words that Linger:
☀️“You look…” Unreal.” Like if moonlight decided to walk around as a person.
Tropes:
🌊Sea Life
🌊Scandal
🌊Sapphic
🌊Novella
🌶️
A Picture of Us
@abigailMader
This book is a FF romance Novella. It was easy and comforting to read. I felt the FMC’s were relatable and real and loved their love. It was so sweet and a little 🌶️. The coastal setting sounded incredible. 🏝️
Words that Linger:
☀️“You look…” Unreal.” Like if moonlight decided to walk around as a person.
Tropes:
🌊Sea Life
🌊Scandal
🌊Sapphic
🌊Novella
August 2, 2025
So adorable! It was such a quick and beautiful read that leaves you feeling warm and fuzzy.
Also the food descriptions made me so hungry that I ended up having my husband pick me up some Chicken Wings.
Also the food descriptions made me so hungry that I ended up having my husband pick me up some Chicken Wings.
August 15, 2025
I received an ARC but all opinions are my own. Loved this little novella. The perfect palette cleanser. I loved the characters, their story and relationship. It was an easy, cozy read and I can’t wait to hear more stories in this series.
August 23, 2025
A sweet, cosy novella set on the beautiful coastline of WA, this book is a lovely read. It is a feel good romance, with a side of environmental awareness, sure to leave you feeling warm and fuzzy. I was lucky enough to be given an ARC copy to review. Thoroughly enjoyed this book.
August 12, 2025
3.25 🌟
Such a sweet story and such a good pallet cleanser. Really enjoyed this novella and thankful for an archive copy. Enjoy Reading Everyone!
Such a sweet story and such a good pallet cleanser. Really enjoyed this novella and thankful for an archive copy. Enjoy Reading Everyone!
November 16, 2025
A very quick and cute story about chasing your dreams and the importance of having a partner who supports and cares for you.
December 24, 2025
I really loved this!
Great chemistry with the main characters and a very wholesome story. I was smiling all through my reading, I enjoyed it very much.
Great chemistry with the main characters and a very wholesome story. I was smiling all through my reading, I enjoyed it very much.
January 11, 2026
A Sapphic Novella that filled the "Sweet Spot" plot. I loved the insightful message about Ecosystem awareness with Marine wildlife and how we can make a difference. A light enjoyable read!
September 18, 2025
This book was really good, I've recently gotten into the romance genre. This little cozy romance was perfect, the characters of Mia & Tash are relatable and are very cute characters. If you're into cozy romances, please check this book out, along with the other books by Ms. Mader.
August 22, 2025
Mia received good news, a dream come true, she got accepted as lead marine biologist in Australia. The ocean was always home to Mia at a young age. Mia and Tasha were moving to Australia. Mia's hard work and determination paid off. She had received her dream job. After arriving in Australia, the reaction was priceless, "Australia is a stunning place to live." (I have never been, I can just imagine what they saw.)
This book is about a young girl who embarks on the job of a lifetime. She comes across a reporter (she once knew) who took her words and twisted them. (Never trust reporters) She finds a way to salvage her job and her happily ever after.
This book is about a young girl who embarks on the job of a lifetime. She comes across a reporter (she once knew) who took her words and twisted them. (Never trust reporters) She finds a way to salvage her job and her happily ever after.
August 13, 2025
This is the perfect curl-up-on-the-couch-and-read-’til-you-finish kind of book. It’s cozy, low-stakes, and set in an awesome island paradise. I loved the water theme throughout. The relationship between Mia and Tash was well-established, so this wasn’t a strangers-to-lovers story, but two lovers going on an adventure together. Their relationship was authentic and healthy, which I loved.
Warning: do not read this book on an empty stomach. The food descriptions had my stomach growling. Overall, the descriptive language was brilliant.
If you’re looking for Aussie novellas during Aussie August, this is perfect!
Warning: do not read this book on an empty stomach. The food descriptions had my stomach growling. Overall, the descriptive language was brilliant.
If you’re looking for Aussie novellas during Aussie August, this is perfect!
August 6, 2025
A cosy, feel-good romance with heart, a touch of heat, and a hint of environmental drama.
When a couple relocates for a dream job at a Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre, they never expect to find themselves in the middle of a local environmental problem. As they work to uncover the facts and rally the community to address the problem, the media stirs up trouble.
But amidst it all, love grows stronger—and yes, there’s a happy ending, with just the right touch of spice.
When a couple relocates for a dream job at a Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre, they never expect to find themselves in the middle of a local environmental problem. As they work to uncover the facts and rally the community to address the problem, the media stirs up trouble.
But amidst it all, love grows stronger—and yes, there’s a happy ending, with just the right touch of spice.
December 27, 2025
This is a sweet little sapphic novella that is truthfully more of a love letter to the coasts of Western Australia. It follows Mia as she fulfills her dream to become a lead marine biologist. The discovery of damage from overfishing is a call to action, but tensions run high in the community when a reporter misquotes Mia.
Showcasing the easiness of a long term relationship where your partner is your best friend, Tash is Mia’s constant support. There is one spicy open door scene.
This is a low drama, high dreamy description book that will make you want to book a trip to Western Australia immediately. It’s an easy read to knock over in a couple of hours for any contemporary romance fan.
Showcasing the easiness of a long term relationship where your partner is your best friend, Tash is Mia’s constant support. There is one spicy open door scene.
This is a low drama, high dreamy description book that will make you want to book a trip to Western Australia immediately. It’s an easy read to knock over in a couple of hours for any contemporary romance fan.
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews