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Better than Fiction #2
Butterflies at Blue Hour
Graham Murray hasn’t been home for over a decade and, if Becky Samaras had her way, he wouldn’t be home for long.
The Scabby Dog has been in Graham’s family for close to a century, and is something he left behind when he moved away from Edinburgh the summer he turned eighteen. But when Graham’s father falls ill, Graham is called back home to run the iconic pub.
If he thought that his return would be cause for celebration amongst everyone he’d left behind, he was seriously mistaken.
Four years ago, Becky left the life she knew in favour of the life she’d always dreamed of. And she’d be damned if she allowed the Murray’s ungrateful son threaten the home and family she’d found working behind the bar of the city’s most iconic pub.
But as summer settles over the city, the temperature isn’t the only thing heating up.
Could there be more to Graham than Becky was led to believe? And if there were, how could she protect her heart from the man who’s made it his mission to steal it?
The Scabby Dog has been in Graham’s family for close to a century, and is something he left behind when he moved away from Edinburgh the summer he turned eighteen. But when Graham’s father falls ill, Graham is called back home to run the iconic pub.
If he thought that his return would be cause for celebration amongst everyone he’d left behind, he was seriously mistaken.
Four years ago, Becky left the life she knew in favour of the life she’d always dreamed of. And she’d be damned if she allowed the Murray’s ungrateful son threaten the home and family she’d found working behind the bar of the city’s most iconic pub.
But as summer settles over the city, the temperature isn’t the only thing heating up.
Could there be more to Graham than Becky was led to believe? And if there were, how could she protect her heart from the man who’s made it his mission to steal it?
- GenresContemporary Romance
390 pages, Paperback
First published August 13, 2025
7 people are currently reading
39 people want to read
About the author
Sloane Maddern
3 books10 followersSloane grew up with an avid love for reading and writing, but she never allowed herself to dream of becoming an author. A soul-sucking corporate job made her reach out to capture a spark of joy and rekindle the passion she'd thought she'd outgrown. The spark soon ignited a flame as she found joy and laughter in exploring writing and storytelling.
Sloane lives in London with her husband and their dog, Brinkley, and she can most often be found perusing the Romance section of her local bookstores and buying books faster than she'll ever be able to read them.
You can find her on most platforms @sloanemaddernauthor
Sloane lives in London with her husband and their dog, Brinkley, and she can most often be found perusing the Romance section of her local bookstores and buying books faster than she'll ever be able to read them.
You can find her on most platforms @sloanemaddernauthor
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
July 29, 2025
Thank you to the author for providing me with an ARC copy of Butterflies at Blue Hour. (Side note: I aww'd when I realised what the title refers to).
This book mentions the fertility issues suffered by two characters close to the MMC, so I'd suggest reading the Author's Note to ensure you are able to proceed. It was only mentioned a few times, but always look after yourself first when deciding on your next read.
Graham returned home for the first time in 15 years when we first meet him. As someone who has moved to a different country, away from their family, this one hit especially hard because everything can look the same from when you left, and yet it has all changed in your absence. This is also what Graham experiences. There's some mystery around why Graham left in the first place, but not everything is as it first seemed.
Becky hates change. Becky has been working at Scabby's for four years after giving up her life in London to experience life and not get stuck wasting her life away working in a job she does not love. The irony is that between the long hours she works at the pub and her part-time wedding photography work, she actually has no time left to live her life or work on her own photography.
Can I just take a moment to mention how much I dislike Becky's mother? As someone with dietary requirements, it fills me with rage that her mother is completely ignoring this when it comes to her daughter. This isn't even the worst part about her mother. What a selfish woman!
As someone suffering from a chronic illness, I really appreciated how realistically Becky's flare-up was portrayed. From not wanting to make a fuss to powering through to reluctantly accepting help and the exhaustion you experience afterwards.
The epilogue in particular and some of the later mentions of her sister, Claire, makes me think there will be another book in the series as there is a lot happening off page that Becky us not aware of...yet.
I also liked that it was not an overly dramatic read. I kept thinking it would be, but I am glad it wasn't.
This book mentions the fertility issues suffered by two characters close to the MMC, so I'd suggest reading the Author's Note to ensure you are able to proceed. It was only mentioned a few times, but always look after yourself first when deciding on your next read.
Graham returned home for the first time in 15 years when we first meet him. As someone who has moved to a different country, away from their family, this one hit especially hard because everything can look the same from when you left, and yet it has all changed in your absence. This is also what Graham experiences. There's some mystery around why Graham left in the first place, but not everything is as it first seemed.
Becky hates change. Becky has been working at Scabby's for four years after giving up her life in London to experience life and not get stuck wasting her life away working in a job she does not love. The irony is that between the long hours she works at the pub and her part-time wedding photography work, she actually has no time left to live her life or work on her own photography.
Can I just take a moment to mention how much I dislike Becky's mother? As someone with dietary requirements, it fills me with rage that her mother is completely ignoring this when it comes to her daughter. This isn't even the worst part about her mother. What a selfish woman!
As someone suffering from a chronic illness, I really appreciated how realistically Becky's flare-up was portrayed. From not wanting to make a fuss to powering through to reluctantly accepting help and the exhaustion you experience afterwards.
The epilogue in particular and some of the later mentions of her sister, Claire, makes me think there will be another book in the series as there is a lot happening off page that Becky us not aware of...yet.
I also liked that it was not an overly dramatic read. I kept thinking it would be, but I am glad it wasn't.
August 11, 2025
I liked this book it’s the second book in the series better in fiction, it’s a workplace romance
Blurb
The Scabby Dog has been in Graham’s family for close to a century, and is something he left behind when he moved away from Edinburgh the summer he turned eighteen. But when Graham’s father falls ill, Graham is called back home to run the iconic pub.
If he thought that his return would be cause for celebration amongst everyone he’d left behind, he was seriously mistaken.
Four years ago, Becky left the life she knew in favour of the life she’d always dreamed of. And she’d be damned if she allowed the Murray’s ungrateful son threaten the home and family she’d found working behind the bar of the city’s most iconic pub.
But as summer settles over the city, the temperature isn’t the only thing heating up
Blurb
The Scabby Dog has been in Graham’s family for close to a century, and is something he left behind when he moved away from Edinburgh the summer he turned eighteen. But when Graham’s father falls ill, Graham is called back home to run the iconic pub.
If he thought that his return would be cause for celebration amongst everyone he’d left behind, he was seriously mistaken.
Four years ago, Becky left the life she knew in favour of the life she’d always dreamed of. And she’d be damned if she allowed the Murray’s ungrateful son threaten the home and family she’d found working behind the bar of the city’s most iconic pub.
But as summer settles over the city, the temperature isn’t the only thing heating up
August 8, 2025
Love love love!! Had already fallen for Becky in Terms of Agreement, and it was lovely to read her story! Amazing banter, feet-kicking moments, heartwarming friendships, it has it all. Hope we can expect other books following this friend group, I am hooked!
August 14, 2025
This long awaited sequel to Terms of Agreement made me giddy with excitement when I realised I was lucky enough to get an early read! There are some big themes dealt within the framework of a romcom and I'll freely admit I had a tear or two on occasion with Becky and Graham's story.
Graham has waited until it's almost too late to return to Edinburgh and the family pub. He expects to be welcomes with open arms and walk into a familiar place. Ummmm...he did not count on Becky. Becky thinks he's a selfish bam, who has neglected his family and his legacy. This is her work family and she won't allow anyone, biological son or not, to upset them!
Becky has so many elements of me within her. She hates change, she loves her found family dearly and she'll fight tooth and nail for those she loves. She has kept herself so busy and her life so full that she's not actually living a life, she's just existing. Sidenote - Becky's mum is an absolute beatch! As someone who is vegetarian, with IBS and other dietary issues, I get that it can be hard to feed us but come on!!! She didn't even try and just ignores everything that would have made Becky's life more comfortable!
Again, as someone who suffers with chronic illness and pain - the depiction of flare-ups and powering through when all you want to do is stop and wallow was so on point. We spooines hate to make a fuss and we'll sometimes make ourselves more ill by trying not to let on how bad we actually feel.
I loved the sarcasm, the banter, the subtle and not so subtle digs. There was heart and soul poured into this and I loved every second of it.
TW: Fertility issues (not MC's), home town return after long absence, chronic illness representation, IBS representation, toxic family.
Graham has waited until it's almost too late to return to Edinburgh and the family pub. He expects to be welcomes with open arms and walk into a familiar place. Ummmm...he did not count on Becky. Becky thinks he's a selfish bam, who has neglected his family and his legacy. This is her work family and she won't allow anyone, biological son or not, to upset them!
Becky has so many elements of me within her. She hates change, she loves her found family dearly and she'll fight tooth and nail for those she loves. She has kept herself so busy and her life so full that she's not actually living a life, she's just existing. Sidenote - Becky's mum is an absolute beatch! As someone who is vegetarian, with IBS and other dietary issues, I get that it can be hard to feed us but come on!!! She didn't even try and just ignores everything that would have made Becky's life more comfortable!
Again, as someone who suffers with chronic illness and pain - the depiction of flare-ups and powering through when all you want to do is stop and wallow was so on point. We spooines hate to make a fuss and we'll sometimes make ourselves more ill by trying not to let on how bad we actually feel.
I loved the sarcasm, the banter, the subtle and not so subtle digs. There was heart and soul poured into this and I loved every second of it.
TW: Fertility issues (not MC's), home town return after long absence, chronic illness representation, IBS representation, toxic family.
August 14, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I want to start this off by saying thank you to Sloane Maddern for the e-book arc for this book, as this was part of a series I wanted to read the first one (you can see my review on this book)
Just like the first book I associate this book with a season, the Season being summer, even though I haven’t been on a holiday abroad in many many years I could picture myself sitting besides the pool with a cocktail in hand, so if your going abroad to a hot country this year, this is the book to take with you.
I absolutely loved the main characters in this book (Graham and Becky) this book takes place in Edinburgh, so much like the first book, it was nice to read a book based in the United Kingdom.
Graham moved away at the age of 18 while Becky stayed in Edinburgh working behind the bar of The Scabby Dog. But what brings Graham back is that his father becomes ill
There’s a moment in the book where he takes care of her when she’s sick and it’s one of the cutest moments I have read in a while.
This book does come with some trigger warnings, mainly being there are two characters in this book that struggle with infertility, this is first noted at the very beginning of the book. Even though it’s not something that directly affects me it could with some other reader.
What I liked about both books is that the author speaks around topics that do happen in real life, this book being infertility and the first book being mental health which I haven’t read a lot about so to some people it would make them feel seen as an individual.
The spice in this book was just the perfect amount without taking up much of the plot of the story, not everyone is a fan of spice in books but I am certainly not one of those people.
The tropes of this book are:
💐 Summer vibes
💐 He falls first
💐 Snarky FMC
💐 Cinnamon Roll MMC
💐 Work Place Romance
I want to start this off by saying thank you to Sloane Maddern for the e-book arc for this book, as this was part of a series I wanted to read the first one (you can see my review on this book)
Just like the first book I associate this book with a season, the Season being summer, even though I haven’t been on a holiday abroad in many many years I could picture myself sitting besides the pool with a cocktail in hand, so if your going abroad to a hot country this year, this is the book to take with you.
I absolutely loved the main characters in this book (Graham and Becky) this book takes place in Edinburgh, so much like the first book, it was nice to read a book based in the United Kingdom.
Graham moved away at the age of 18 while Becky stayed in Edinburgh working behind the bar of The Scabby Dog. But what brings Graham back is that his father becomes ill
There’s a moment in the book where he takes care of her when she’s sick and it’s one of the cutest moments I have read in a while.
This book does come with some trigger warnings, mainly being there are two characters in this book that struggle with infertility, this is first noted at the very beginning of the book. Even though it’s not something that directly affects me it could with some other reader.
What I liked about both books is that the author speaks around topics that do happen in real life, this book being infertility and the first book being mental health which I haven’t read a lot about so to some people it would make them feel seen as an individual.
The spice in this book was just the perfect amount without taking up much of the plot of the story, not everyone is a fan of spice in books but I am certainly not one of those people.
The tropes of this book are:
💐 Summer vibes
💐 He falls first
💐 Snarky FMC
💐 Cinnamon Roll MMC
💐 Work Place Romance
August 18, 2025
This book is book 2 and follows on from Terms of Agreement.
I loved this book, set in Edinburgh and follows Graham and Becky. This book dealt with some themes but was done so so well. This for me was definitely a slow burn which i loved and very much a heartfelt romance with a small town kind of vibe
I loved this book, set in Edinburgh and follows Graham and Becky. This book dealt with some themes but was done so so well. This for me was definitely a slow burn which i loved and very much a heartfelt romance with a small town kind of vibe
August 7, 2025
“The way he moved his tongue…yeah, there’s no way he hasn’t gained those skills through years of experience. Experience that I resented and benefited from in equal measure”
Thank you to the author for the ARC opportunity for Butterflies at Blue Hour. Graham (MMC) returns to his hometown after years of being absent in order to help out with the family owned pub. He crosses paths with Becky, one of his employee’s at The Scabby Dog. Their relationship starts off somewhat rocky, Becky has heard rumors regarding Graham and for the most part she keeps to herself at work. Graham on the other hand, can’t stop thinking about Becky and finally gathers the courage to ask her on a date after they kiss at work. We set off on a number of dates involving Graham trying to woo her. It’s a slow burn but once both characters fall for one another, things heat up. There’s plenty of clever banter between them. Graham makes sure to show his love for Becky through acts of service which were very thoughtful and I loved that about his character.
Thank you to the author for the ARC opportunity for Butterflies at Blue Hour. Graham (MMC) returns to his hometown after years of being absent in order to help out with the family owned pub. He crosses paths with Becky, one of his employee’s at The Scabby Dog. Their relationship starts off somewhat rocky, Becky has heard rumors regarding Graham and for the most part she keeps to herself at work. Graham on the other hand, can’t stop thinking about Becky and finally gathers the courage to ask her on a date after they kiss at work. We set off on a number of dates involving Graham trying to woo her. It’s a slow burn but once both characters fall for one another, things heat up. There’s plenty of clever banter between them. Graham makes sure to show his love for Becky through acts of service which were very thoughtful and I loved that about his character.
August 8, 2025
4.5* rounded up - I wanna start of by saying a huge thank you to Sloane for sending me an ARC copy of this book, because without her I wouldn't have fallen in love with the idea of working in a family run pub in Scotland🥹
I just wanna note - the YEARNING😭 my man Graham is obsessed and that's how we like it
point me towards a man who's more in love with their woman and more encouraging than he is & I'll be here waiting🫡
this book also touches on issues that real actual people deal with on a daily basis, so for the FMC to have crippling anxiety made me feel genuinely seen and for that I can only thank Sloane even more❤️🔥
I just wanna note - the YEARNING😭 my man Graham is obsessed and that's how we like it
point me towards a man who's more in love with their woman and more encouraging than he is & I'll be here waiting🫡
this book also touches on issues that real actual people deal with on a daily basis, so for the FMC to have crippling anxiety made me feel genuinely seen and for that I can only thank Sloane even more❤️🔥
August 13, 2025
This was a really sweet read, gave me the cosy cute vibes I needed.
I always love a small town romance so it really does call my name when I see one and this ticked all the boxes that I could ask for.
It had the ups and downs, was kind of enemies to lovers, and there was a few spicy moments throughout but it definitely didn’t over power the whole story.
I always love a small town romance so it really does call my name when I see one and this ticked all the boxes that I could ask for.
It had the ups and downs, was kind of enemies to lovers, and there was a few spicy moments throughout but it definitely didn’t over power the whole story.
August 7, 2025
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I’ve read this book while on holiday on the beach, and kid you not it was the perfect setting, as it just had those vibes of a season-book.
The two main characters are cute, relatable and real, Graham and Becky are sweet together, strong in their vulnerability.
The book has some trigger warnings, especially with the infertility issues, so please be sure to have someone that you can talk to if this triggers you.
The book is dual POV, slow burn in a small(-ish) Scottish town vibes. It’s an easy read that will take you out of those book slump moods.
I’ve read this book while on holiday on the beach, and kid you not it was the perfect setting, as it just had those vibes of a season-book.
The two main characters are cute, relatable and real, Graham and Becky are sweet together, strong in their vulnerability.
The book has some trigger warnings, especially with the infertility issues, so please be sure to have someone that you can talk to if this triggers you.
The book is dual POV, slow burn in a small(-ish) Scottish town vibes. It’s an easy read that will take you out of those book slump moods.
August 4, 2025
I loved this book so much! The FMC Becky is so snarky and funny, I loved her voice and sense of humour, and the MMC Graham is such a lovely cinnamon roll.
What I love about Sloane's writing is that her characters are so well rounded and relatable, the dialogue is sharp and funny. There is also a really nice cast of characters around the main couple that makes the world feel so full! It is such an immersive and fun read.
The story is also set in Edinburgh and I loved all the little details that made me feel like I was there in Scotland.
Overall a fantastic workplace romance and fantastic character rep (Becky has IBS and it's so real) - highly recommend and another great book by this author!
What I love about Sloane's writing is that her characters are so well rounded and relatable, the dialogue is sharp and funny. There is also a really nice cast of characters around the main couple that makes the world feel so full! It is such an immersive and fun read.
The story is also set in Edinburgh and I loved all the little details that made me feel like I was there in Scotland.
Overall a fantastic workplace romance and fantastic character rep (Becky has IBS and it's so real) - highly recommend and another great book by this author!
August 1, 2025
Thank you Sloane for the ARC.
❤️Found Family
❤️He Falls First
❤️Workplace Romance
This was beautiful and so much fun to read.
Becky is a strong woman who just doesn't realise it, she works so hard for everyone around her, she doesn't quite see the love she has from everyone.
I loved Graham and his love at first sight for Becky, he never showed her that he was willing to put her first so many times. The makeshift pizza bar so he didn't make any of her trigger foods, stepping back so she could spend time with her friends and family selfishly... what a damn good man Gray.
Loved reading this and cannot wait for book 3 😁
❤️Found Family
❤️He Falls First
❤️Workplace Romance
This was beautiful and so much fun to read.
Becky is a strong woman who just doesn't realise it, she works so hard for everyone around her, she doesn't quite see the love she has from everyone.
I loved Graham and his love at first sight for Becky, he never showed her that he was willing to put her first so many times. The makeshift pizza bar so he didn't make any of her trigger foods, stepping back so she could spend time with her friends and family selfishly... what a damn good man Gray.
Loved reading this and cannot wait for book 3 😁
June 30, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
The perfect cosy romance read that everyone is sure to love!
This is book two in the Better Than Fiction series which follows Becky (side character from Book one) and Graham as their dynamic grows after that fateful day at The Scabby Dog; with the perfect blend of tension and cute moments shared between the duo that will have the reader rooting for them page by page.
Sloane has incredible penmanship which followed from Terms of Agreement; allowing the reader to be fully amerced from beginning to end. When I read book one I hoped it wouldn’t be the last from Sloane and I’m so happy Becky got to have her moment to shine. This will sure be the next big series!!
If life wasn’t so hectic I would have 100% devoured this in one sitting, incredible read. Thankyou again for allowing me to arc read and I wish you all the best for release day ✨
The perfect cosy romance read that everyone is sure to love!
This is book two in the Better Than Fiction series which follows Becky (side character from Book one) and Graham as their dynamic grows after that fateful day at The Scabby Dog; with the perfect blend of tension and cute moments shared between the duo that will have the reader rooting for them page by page.
Sloane has incredible penmanship which followed from Terms of Agreement; allowing the reader to be fully amerced from beginning to end. When I read book one I hoped it wouldn’t be the last from Sloane and I’m so happy Becky got to have her moment to shine. This will sure be the next big series!!
If life wasn’t so hectic I would have 100% devoured this in one sitting, incredible read. Thankyou again for allowing me to arc read and I wish you all the best for release day ✨
June 26, 2025
"Butterflies at Blue Hour" by Sloane Maddern is an absolute gem of a cozy romance! Seriously, if you're looking for a book that will make your heart happy, this is it.
I was completely captivated by the dynamic between Becky and Graham. The way their tension and sweetness slowly, gradually built into such a beautiful, heartwarming relationship was just perfection. I could honestly devour a whole series just following their journey – it was that good!
And it's not just the main couple that shines. The side characters are truly wonderful and add so much life and warmth to the entire story. They really make the world of the book feel vibrant and lived-in.
Overall, it's a delightful, feel-good read that I highly recommend for anyone who loves a well-developed romance!
I was completely captivated by the dynamic between Becky and Graham. The way their tension and sweetness slowly, gradually built into such a beautiful, heartwarming relationship was just perfection. I could honestly devour a whole series just following their journey – it was that good!
And it's not just the main couple that shines. The side characters are truly wonderful and add so much life and warmth to the entire story. They really make the world of the book feel vibrant and lived-in.
Overall, it's a delightful, feel-good read that I highly recommend for anyone who loves a well-developed romance!
September 19, 2025
“Romance Woven in Reality: Maddern’s Magic Continues”
I thoroughly enjoyed "Terms of Agreement" and had been impatiently counting down the days to the release date of "Butterflies at Blue Hour". And Sloane Maddern did NOT disappoint!
It was like coming home to the comfort of people you know, but so much more. Not only do we get a nod to Charlotte and Aiden's relationship - which, thank goodness, is going well - but we get to learn more about Becky. In the initial novel, Becky is introduced as Charlottes lifelong strong, supportive friend. In "Butterflies" we get to know and love Becky and her irritable tummy. We empathise with her career insecurities and we admire her fierce loyalty to the Murrays, her work 'parents'. We can identify with her loneliness as she carves out a space for herself in a new city and we delight in the relationships she has built with the staff at "Scabby''s" and the customers, while also understanding the complexities of her relationship with her two own parents. ... Becky is a thoroughly likeable and relatable character ... except when it comes to Graham.
As was the case in Maddern's first book in the series, this modern (Maddern) love story is also experienced from the point of view of both characters and the MMC too is well-rounded. He is everything every girl is looking for in a boyfriend - kind, thoughtful, caring, sensitive, in touch with his own feelings, fairly self-aware. Everyone, that is, except for Becky.
Maddern writes with sensitivity and real humanity. The beauty of Edinburgh and the quirky nature of the Scots is delightfully woven into this tale of a love story that takes place alongside all the other aspects of the characters' lives. It is perhaps this that makes her writing so sensitive, so grounding and so real. Love develops while all the rest of life goes on - with all its ups and downs, all its other human experiences - and it is how that love flourishes and grows because of and in spite of 'life' that makes this such a page turner.
Well done, Sloane . Now, when can we expect Book 3? (Would a wish for a Christmas read be asking too much?)
I thoroughly enjoyed "Terms of Agreement" and had been impatiently counting down the days to the release date of "Butterflies at Blue Hour". And Sloane Maddern did NOT disappoint!
It was like coming home to the comfort of people you know, but so much more. Not only do we get a nod to Charlotte and Aiden's relationship - which, thank goodness, is going well - but we get to learn more about Becky. In the initial novel, Becky is introduced as Charlottes lifelong strong, supportive friend. In "Butterflies" we get to know and love Becky and her irritable tummy. We empathise with her career insecurities and we admire her fierce loyalty to the Murrays, her work 'parents'. We can identify with her loneliness as she carves out a space for herself in a new city and we delight in the relationships she has built with the staff at "Scabby''s" and the customers, while also understanding the complexities of her relationship with her two own parents. ... Becky is a thoroughly likeable and relatable character ... except when it comes to Graham.
As was the case in Maddern's first book in the series, this modern (Maddern) love story is also experienced from the point of view of both characters and the MMC too is well-rounded. He is everything every girl is looking for in a boyfriend - kind, thoughtful, caring, sensitive, in touch with his own feelings, fairly self-aware. Everyone, that is, except for Becky.
Maddern writes with sensitivity and real humanity. The beauty of Edinburgh and the quirky nature of the Scots is delightfully woven into this tale of a love story that takes place alongside all the other aspects of the characters' lives. It is perhaps this that makes her writing so sensitive, so grounding and so real. Love develops while all the rest of life goes on - with all its ups and downs, all its other human experiences - and it is how that love flourishes and grows because of and in spite of 'life' that makes this such a page turner.
Well done, Sloane . Now, when can we expect Book 3? (Would a wish for a Christmas read be asking too much?)
July 24, 2025
ARC Review
Butterflies at Blue Hour by Sloane Maddern
Graham Murray hasn’t been home in nearly a decade. But when his father suffers a heart attack, Graham returns to his small Scottish hometown to help run The Scabby Dog pub while his parents take a much-needed vacation. He plans to stay just for the summer—until he meets Rebecca Samaras, aka Becky.
Becky works at the pub and assists a local photographer. Graham is instantly drawn to her, but she isn’t impressed—at first. She’s heard things about him and isn’t eager to get close. But as the summer unfolds and she sees the real Graham, her opinion changes. And when he finally finds the courage to ask her out, both discover something that’s been missing from their lives. But is it just a summer fling… or the beginning of something more?
This is a charming Scottish romance with small-town vibes, a golden retriever male lead, and a slow-burn, enemies-to-lovers spark. The story is told in dual POV, with steady pacing, great world-building, and a touch of local dialect that brings the setting to life.
I absolutely adored this book. Graham is like a skittish animal—gentle, caring, always worried he won’t be accepted. Becky seems strong on the outside but fears rejection deep down. Together, they’re sweet, vulnerable, and so easy to root for. Their chemistry is electric, and the steamy scenes are beautifully written. My favorite parts? Their dates—especially the one where Graham supports Becky’s photography dreams. Heart-melting!
If you love heartfelt romances with depth, charm, and a cast of sassy, lovable side characters, I highly recommend this book.
Butterflies at Blue Hour by Sloane Maddern
Graham Murray hasn’t been home in nearly a decade. But when his father suffers a heart attack, Graham returns to his small Scottish hometown to help run The Scabby Dog pub while his parents take a much-needed vacation. He plans to stay just for the summer—until he meets Rebecca Samaras, aka Becky.
Becky works at the pub and assists a local photographer. Graham is instantly drawn to her, but she isn’t impressed—at first. She’s heard things about him and isn’t eager to get close. But as the summer unfolds and she sees the real Graham, her opinion changes. And when he finally finds the courage to ask her out, both discover something that’s been missing from their lives. But is it just a summer fling… or the beginning of something more?
This is a charming Scottish romance with small-town vibes, a golden retriever male lead, and a slow-burn, enemies-to-lovers spark. The story is told in dual POV, with steady pacing, great world-building, and a touch of local dialect that brings the setting to life.
I absolutely adored this book. Graham is like a skittish animal—gentle, caring, always worried he won’t be accepted. Becky seems strong on the outside but fears rejection deep down. Together, they’re sweet, vulnerable, and so easy to root for. Their chemistry is electric, and the steamy scenes are beautifully written. My favorite parts? Their dates—especially the one where Graham supports Becky’s photography dreams. Heart-melting!
If you love heartfelt romances with depth, charm, and a cast of sassy, lovable side characters, I highly recommend this book.
January 19, 2026
5 ⭐️
2 🌶
I absolutely loved this book.
Becky is such a standout FMC. I adored her loyalty, her sharp wit, and the way she so fiercely believes in and protects the people she loves. She’s unapologetically herself, and that made her an absolute joy to read.
And then there’s Graham — the hulking, golden-retriever MMC I never thought I’d fall for. Yet here we are. The way he takes everything Becky throws at him with a grin and an easy comeback? Completely swoon-worthy.
While I enjoyed the first book in the series, Butterflies at Blue Hour had me utterly hooked. I genuinely couldn’t put it down, and the phrase “just one more chapter” was very heavily abused by me while reading this.
This story put me through the full emotional wringer — from laughing and face-palming, to kicking my feet in delight, wanting to shake both characters, and even getting misty-eyed. Yes, me. Miss “I don’t get emotional over books.” Consider me humbled.
Sloane Maddern has a real talent for writing characters who feel achingly real — the kind you feel like you’ve actually spent time with, sharing drinks and conversations down at the local pub.
I’m diving straight into book three, Notice to Burn, and feel incredibly lucky to have received an advance copy. I’m beyond excited to see where this story goes next.
2 🌶
I absolutely loved this book.
Becky is such a standout FMC. I adored her loyalty, her sharp wit, and the way she so fiercely believes in and protects the people she loves. She’s unapologetically herself, and that made her an absolute joy to read.
And then there’s Graham — the hulking, golden-retriever MMC I never thought I’d fall for. Yet here we are. The way he takes everything Becky throws at him with a grin and an easy comeback? Completely swoon-worthy.
While I enjoyed the first book in the series, Butterflies at Blue Hour had me utterly hooked. I genuinely couldn’t put it down, and the phrase “just one more chapter” was very heavily abused by me while reading this.
This story put me through the full emotional wringer — from laughing and face-palming, to kicking my feet in delight, wanting to shake both characters, and even getting misty-eyed. Yes, me. Miss “I don’t get emotional over books.” Consider me humbled.
Sloane Maddern has a real talent for writing characters who feel achingly real — the kind you feel like you’ve actually spent time with, sharing drinks and conversations down at the local pub.
I’m diving straight into book three, Notice to Burn, and feel incredibly lucky to have received an advance copy. I’m beyond excited to see where this story goes next.
July 28, 2025
(4.5⭐️ rounded to 5)
This gave me total warm, cozy, autumn in a mug vibes. It’s set in Edinburgh so it’s not a small town romance but it feels like a small town romance.
Let’s talk Graham an absolute gem. The way he cared for Becky, especially how he quietly but persistently supported her career? Loved it. He was gentle, grounded, and just the kind of book boyfriend that sticks with you.
That said… the whole “why he hasn’t been back in 10 years” plot point? I get it, it’s explained (no spoilers), but I kept waiting for something bigger. It felt like it was building up to a dramatic reveal, and then… wasn’t.
As for Becky, I didn’t love her at first. Honestly, the way she treated Graham early on had me skeptical. But she grew on me slowly but surely and by the end, I was really rooting for her. She had a nice little arc.
One of my favorite things? No forced third-act breakup, no over the top drama. Just a soft, summer romance that somehow felt like a warm sweater on a rainy fall day.
This gave me total warm, cozy, autumn in a mug vibes. It’s set in Edinburgh so it’s not a small town romance but it feels like a small town romance.
Let’s talk Graham an absolute gem. The way he cared for Becky, especially how he quietly but persistently supported her career? Loved it. He was gentle, grounded, and just the kind of book boyfriend that sticks with you.
That said… the whole “why he hasn’t been back in 10 years” plot point? I get it, it’s explained (no spoilers), but I kept waiting for something bigger. It felt like it was building up to a dramatic reveal, and then… wasn’t.
As for Becky, I didn’t love her at first. Honestly, the way she treated Graham early on had me skeptical. But she grew on me slowly but surely and by the end, I was really rooting for her. She had a nice little arc.
One of my favorite things? No forced third-act breakup, no over the top drama. Just a soft, summer romance that somehow felt like a warm sweater on a rainy fall day.
August 23, 2025
A cute, cosy romance with very little conflict.
I enjoyed reading Butterflies! The low-key IBS representation without it being her whole personality was great, and I loved Graham taking care of her <3
It was an enjoyable, easy read with low stakes and little conflict throughout (other than the miscommunication trope, which was okay but it's not my favourite).
The main 1 star loss was the amount of typos! I know it is self-published but it did sadly take me out of the story a little bit which was sad as otherwise I did really enjoy it otherwise. I also didn't totally understand the whole "Graham has been through so much" and it was just his dad saying he won't get the pub but that's another miscommunication I guess I see where Graham gets it from.
I did admittedly have some other issues but I don't love completely trashing a book, and I usually just wouldn't review it but as it's an arc I need to. It was a perfectly enjoyable read but definitely had it's flaws, if you go in knowing that you can still enjoy it.
Thank you to the author for providing ARC
I enjoyed reading Butterflies! The low-key IBS representation without it being her whole personality was great, and I loved Graham taking care of her <3
It was an enjoyable, easy read with low stakes and little conflict throughout (other than the miscommunication trope, which was okay but it's not my favourite).
The main 1 star loss was the amount of typos! I know it is self-published but it did sadly take me out of the story a little bit which was sad as otherwise I did really enjoy it otherwise. I also didn't totally understand the whole "Graham has been through so much" and it was just his dad saying he won't get the pub but that's another miscommunication I guess I see where Graham gets it from.
I did admittedly have some other issues but I don't love completely trashing a book, and I usually just wouldn't review it but as it's an arc I need to. It was a perfectly enjoyable read but definitely had it's flaws, if you go in knowing that you can still enjoy it.
Thank you to the author for providing ARC
August 18, 2025
2.5🌟
A cute, cozy romance that definitely has a feel-good factor that I’m sure will be really enjoyable for a lot of readers! I would definitely recommend this as a nice palate cleanser when you’re feeling in a slump! But for my personal tastes it was a little too ‘fluffy’ and at times a tough read. Unfortunately, throughout the read the MMC came across quite ‘ick’-inducing and extremely full on, something I found a little uncomfortable. I felt the plot moved on very fast despite little character development to justify it, whereas lots of time and pages were dedicated to more menial parts of the story. In spite of this, I want to emphasise that although this book really didn’t suit my tastes, it was by no means a terrible book and I am sure that if you prefer romance books that are very sweet with little to no strife then you should absolutely give this a read.
A cute, cozy romance that definitely has a feel-good factor that I’m sure will be really enjoyable for a lot of readers! I would definitely recommend this as a nice palate cleanser when you’re feeling in a slump! But for my personal tastes it was a little too ‘fluffy’ and at times a tough read. Unfortunately, throughout the read the MMC came across quite ‘ick’-inducing and extremely full on, something I found a little uncomfortable. I felt the plot moved on very fast despite little character development to justify it, whereas lots of time and pages were dedicated to more menial parts of the story. In spite of this, I want to emphasise that although this book really didn’t suit my tastes, it was by no means a terrible book and I am sure that if you prefer romance books that are very sweet with little to no strife then you should absolutely give this a read.
August 28, 2025
Thanks to Sloane for giving me an Arc and chance to read her book. It was very much appreciated.
It was a great light summer read, enjoyed the storyline & the characters, their quirks/anxiety and how they deal with things etc is all very relatable to every day life and doesnt come across as far fetched funny how some of the things said/happened i could pin point similar in my life.
Being Scottish myself I found it great reading, seeing the book reference places i live close to is brilliant & cant beat a book that has the "slang" on point.
So Aye getting reading folks 😏
Can be read as a standalone so im off to download the first book in the series.... Enjoy everyone 😊
It was a great light summer read, enjoyed the storyline & the characters, their quirks/anxiety and how they deal with things etc is all very relatable to every day life and doesnt come across as far fetched funny how some of the things said/happened i could pin point similar in my life.
Being Scottish myself I found it great reading, seeing the book reference places i live close to is brilliant & cant beat a book that has the "slang" on point.
So Aye getting reading folks 😏
Can be read as a standalone so im off to download the first book in the series.... Enjoy everyone 😊
January 14, 2026
This was a cosy read with great characters & brilliant back and forth between every character, main or side. I love that Sloane always has a relatable edge to bet writing! Whether you've been in that exact situation or not there is always something that makes you feel like you could be that person.
I am not a fan of a mis-communication trope, and I felt there were some elements of that in this read that had me getting annoyed at the FMC/MMC 🤣 but again made sense with the situation the characters were in!
overall a great read.
Thank you to Wings & Words for introducing me to this fav author
I am not a fan of a mis-communication trope, and I felt there were some elements of that in this read that had me getting annoyed at the FMC/MMC 🤣 but again made sense with the situation the characters were in!
overall a great read.
Thank you to Wings & Words for introducing me to this fav author
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 29, 2025
I was so fortunate to get this book on ARC
I loved every page of this book. I was hanging on to every work and dying for the characters to get together.
It was a slow burn but such an enjoyable one, and set in a Scottish pub.
I highly recommend you grab a couple on the 14th August
I loved every page of this book. I was hanging on to every work and dying for the characters to get together.
It was a slow burn but such an enjoyable one, and set in a Scottish pub.
I highly recommend you grab a couple on the 14th August
August 16, 2025
actual rating 3.75⭐
January 16, 2026
Such a cosy, feel good read. I loved the characters and the slowburn romance - it was really easy to get into and so hard to put down!
August 23, 2025
I really enjoyed this book.
It was a good mix of banter, good old classic misunderstandings which lead to thinking the other person doesn’t want them and some good spice.
All the characters bring something to the story.
I loved the setting and could picture everywhere, being a local.
As a fellow IBS sufferer I was pleasantly surprised to see this portrayed in the book. It is the first time I have seen this and it was very realistic. So thank you Sloane.
I recommend this to anyone who loves a cosy, fun romance book with an indipendente MFC and puppy-eyed MMC.
Thank you Sloane for the opportunity to read an ARC of this book.
It was a good mix of banter, good old classic misunderstandings which lead to thinking the other person doesn’t want them and some good spice.
All the characters bring something to the story.
I loved the setting and could picture everywhere, being a local.
As a fellow IBS sufferer I was pleasantly surprised to see this portrayed in the book. It is the first time I have seen this and it was very realistic. So thank you Sloane.
I recommend this to anyone who loves a cosy, fun romance book with an indipendente MFC and puppy-eyed MMC.
Thank you Sloane for the opportunity to read an ARC of this book.
November 14, 2025
👵🏼👵🏼👵🏼👵🏼👵🏼/5 - Grandma Seal of Approval: Overall Enjoyment
🍝🍝🍝🍝 /5 - Pasta Pot Bubbling: Story Magic
🐈🐈🐈🐈 /5 - Cat on my Lap: Comfort Level
👵🏼 - I will definitely be recommending this book to people who enjoy strong, independent FMCs, MMCs who fall first, and a whisper of a miscommunication. Plus it’s set in Scotland, so you can’t go wrong there!
🍝 - This book was very engaging and I found myself reaching for my Kindle, even while working, cause I wanted to know what happens next.
🐈 - It was very easy for me to settle into the story, there were no lulls, and I never found myself losing interest. Very sweet story, highly looking forward to the next one!
🍝🍝🍝🍝 /5 - Pasta Pot Bubbling: Story Magic
🐈🐈🐈🐈 /5 - Cat on my Lap: Comfort Level
👵🏼 - I will definitely be recommending this book to people who enjoy strong, independent FMCs, MMCs who fall first, and a whisper of a miscommunication. Plus it’s set in Scotland, so you can’t go wrong there!
🍝 - This book was very engaging and I found myself reaching for my Kindle, even while working, cause I wanted to know what happens next.
🐈 - It was very easy for me to settle into the story, there were no lulls, and I never found myself losing interest. Very sweet story, highly looking forward to the next one!
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