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Where Happy Begins
When Emmeline Beaumont grows weary of her city career, she decides to make a huge change by taking a job as a gardener at the gorgeous stately home, Ashington House. Sure, she may have told a little white lie about having a horticultural degree, but this is her summer to embrace happiness.
Welcomed with open arms by the lady of the house, Emmy is looking forward to a season of flowers and sunshine. So she is flabbergasted when Lady Penelope, desperate to save face with a nightmare neighbour, announces that her son, Edward, the Lord of the Manor no less, and Emmeline are engaged.
Desperate to keep her job, Emmy agrees to keep up the pretence, but as the summer days draw longer and she spends more time with Edward, she realises she may have made a big mistake. Because under the veneer of a slightly awkward country gent is hidden a devastatingly handsome and heart-achingly kind man. How is Emmy meant to walk away when the summer draws to an end…
Welcomed with open arms by the lady of the house, Emmy is looking forward to a season of flowers and sunshine. So she is flabbergasted when Lady Penelope, desperate to save face with a nightmare neighbour, announces that her son, Edward, the Lord of the Manor no less, and Emmeline are engaged.
Desperate to keep her job, Emmy agrees to keep up the pretence, but as the summer days draw longer and she spends more time with Edward, she realises she may have made a big mistake. Because under the veneer of a slightly awkward country gent is hidden a devastatingly handsome and heart-achingly kind man. How is Emmy meant to walk away when the summer draws to an end…
344 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 12, 2026
About the author
Maxine Morrey
31 books333 followersMaxine has wanted to be a writer for as long as she can remember and wrote her first (very short) book for school when she was ten. Coming in first, she won a handful of book tokens – perfect for a bookworm!
As years went by, she continued to write, but ‘normal’ work often got in the way. She has written articles on a variety of subjects, as well as a book on Brighton for a Local History publisher. However, novels are what she loves writing the most. After self publishing her first novel when a contract fell through, thanks to the recession, she continued to look for opportunities.
In August 2015, she won Harper Collins/Carina UK’s ‘Write Christmas’ competition with her romantic comedy, ‘Winter’s Fairytale’.
Maxine lives on the south coast of England, and when not wrangling with words loves to read sew and listen to podcasts. As she also likes cake she can also be found either walking or doing something vaguely physical at the gym.
As years went by, she continued to write, but ‘normal’ work often got in the way. She has written articles on a variety of subjects, as well as a book on Brighton for a Local History publisher. However, novels are what she loves writing the most. After self publishing her first novel when a contract fell through, thanks to the recession, she continued to look for opportunities.
In August 2015, she won Harper Collins/Carina UK’s ‘Write Christmas’ competition with her romantic comedy, ‘Winter’s Fairytale’.
Maxine lives on the south coast of England, and when not wrangling with words loves to read sew and listen to podcasts. As she also likes cake she can also be found either walking or doing something vaguely physical at the gym.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 91 reviews
May 18, 2026
3.7 Stars
One Liner: Pretty good, but the ending could have been better
Tired of her career in an advertising agency, Emmeline decides she needs a change. When the change happens before her planning, she ends up applying for the job of an undergardener at Ashington House in a lovely village.
Despite the not-so-positive initial interactions with her bosses, Emmeline is charmed by Lady Penelope, her boss’s mom. But even then, she doesn’t expect to end up as a fake fiancée to her boss, thanks to Penelope’s sudden burst of imagination in front of a rival. Now, she has to continue the ruse for a while, but maybe this was the change she needed—with flowers and interesting people.
The story comes in Emmeline’s first-person POV.
My Thoughts
This is a lighthearted, feel-good, clean romance dealing with a couple of sad themes.
I wish we knew the exact ages of the characters. All we get is that the FMC is nearing 40 and the others are around that age (a few years older/younger/same). Not exactly a definite scale to determine if their actions match their ages.
Lady P is adorable and easily my favorite character, followed by Freddy, Barnaby, and the FMC’s dad. The MCs are pretty good, too, though I’d say the MMC gets more points this time.
In a way, it is realistic that the FMC has issues with ‘rich snobs’ based on her past, but she focuses too much on that to the extent that it makes her appear as prejudiced as they are (albeit in reverse).
Still, there are many lighthearted and funny moments. The darkish themes (death of loved one, death of parent, war/army-ptsd, etc.) are not explored in depth, so the overall vibe is pretty easy and sweet.
I also like that characters become good friends even as we have more than one romantic coupling. Friendship is pretty much the highlight, and I loved that. People need good friends across genders and ages.
While I knew the FMC would make an issue of things (she has her concerns), I didn’t particularly agree with how it was resolved. Instead of reforming a character, it should have been the FMC realizing what she wants and what she is willing to do for it. That is more empowering.
There’s a short epilogue, and I like the idea of gardening for veterans.
To summarize, Where Happy Begins is a steady-paced light read if you are in the mood for something cozy and heartwarming.
Thank you, NetGalley and Boldwood Books, for the eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
#NetGalley #WhereHappyBegins
One Liner: Pretty good, but the ending could have been better
Tired of her career in an advertising agency, Emmeline decides she needs a change. When the change happens before her planning, she ends up applying for the job of an undergardener at Ashington House in a lovely village.
Despite the not-so-positive initial interactions with her bosses, Emmeline is charmed by Lady Penelope, her boss’s mom. But even then, she doesn’t expect to end up as a fake fiancée to her boss, thanks to Penelope’s sudden burst of imagination in front of a rival. Now, she has to continue the ruse for a while, but maybe this was the change she needed—with flowers and interesting people.
The story comes in Emmeline’s first-person POV.
My Thoughts
This is a lighthearted, feel-good, clean romance dealing with a couple of sad themes.
I wish we knew the exact ages of the characters. All we get is that the FMC is nearing 40 and the others are around that age (a few years older/younger/same). Not exactly a definite scale to determine if their actions match their ages.
Lady P is adorable and easily my favorite character, followed by Freddy, Barnaby, and the FMC’s dad. The MCs are pretty good, too, though I’d say the MMC gets more points this time.
In a way, it is realistic that the FMC has issues with ‘rich snobs’ based on her past, but she focuses too much on that to the extent that it makes her appear as prejudiced as they are (albeit in reverse).
Still, there are many lighthearted and funny moments. The darkish themes (death of loved one, death of parent, war/army-ptsd, etc.) are not explored in depth, so the overall vibe is pretty easy and sweet.
I also like that characters become good friends even as we have more than one romantic coupling. Friendship is pretty much the highlight, and I loved that. People need good friends across genders and ages.
While I knew the FMC would make an issue of things (she has her concerns), I didn’t particularly agree with how it was resolved. Instead of reforming a character, it should have been the FMC realizing what she wants and what she is willing to do for it. That is more empowering.
There’s a short epilogue, and I like the idea of gardening for veterans.
To summarize, Where Happy Begins is a steady-paced light read if you are in the mood for something cozy and heartwarming.
Thank you, NetGalley and Boldwood Books, for the eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
#NetGalley #WhereHappyBegins
June 4, 2026
Terrible ending ruined the book
Safe
Safe
May 9, 2026
Thank you Netgalley for the Advanced Readers Copy of Where Happy Begins by Maxine Morrey
This was a very cute and feel good read! It was nice to see an older FMC for once (nearing 40)! Something that drew me to this book was the idea of her being a Gardner. I love plants! Some parts of this story are slightly predictable but nonetheless, still enjoyable. This is perfect for anyone wanting a cute, lighthearted romance. Would recommend!
This was a very cute and feel good read! It was nice to see an older FMC for once (nearing 40)! Something that drew me to this book was the idea of her being a Gardner. I love plants! Some parts of this story are slightly predictable but nonetheless, still enjoyable. This is perfect for anyone wanting a cute, lighthearted romance. Would recommend!
May 30, 2026
Emmeline Buchanan's middle name is DAISY and not a single character commented on that? That's more unrealistic than being fake engaged to a Lord.
June 4, 2026
ARC provided by NetGalley | 3.25 ⭐️⭐️⭐️ | 🫑 no spice
I picked up this book because the synopsis sounded exactly like the kind of romance I usually enjoy: fake engagement, a charming countryside setting, and a grumpy-but-kind lord of the manor. On paper, it had all the ingredients of a perfect comfort read.
One of the book’s strengths is definitely its cast of characters. I particularly enjoyed Edward, whose initial grumpiness and kindness made him an easy character to root for. The novel also features several genuinely funny moments and charming side characters, while the backstories add welcome depth to the characters’ motivations and emotional struggles.
However, while I understood why Emmeline and Edward were drawn to one another, I never fully felt their love story develop in a way that emotionally convinced me. The fake engagement trope created plenty of tension, but after 340+ pages, the romantic payoff felt weaker than I had hoped.
Overall, a warm and entertaining romance with charming characters, but one that didn't resonate with me emotionally as much as I expected.
Tropes and vibe:
Fake Engagement
Opposites Attract
Small Town / Countryside Romance
Lord of the Manor MMC
Slow Burn
Found Family Vibes
My Rating: overall 3
Emotional impact: 3 Character Connection: 3 Setting & Atmosphere: 3.75 Plot: 3 Writing: 4 Romance: 3
Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book. As always, these thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
I picked up this book because the synopsis sounded exactly like the kind of romance I usually enjoy: fake engagement, a charming countryside setting, and a grumpy-but-kind lord of the manor. On paper, it had all the ingredients of a perfect comfort read.
One of the book’s strengths is definitely its cast of characters. I particularly enjoyed Edward, whose initial grumpiness and kindness made him an easy character to root for. The novel also features several genuinely funny moments and charming side characters, while the backstories add welcome depth to the characters’ motivations and emotional struggles.
However, while I understood why Emmeline and Edward were drawn to one another, I never fully felt their love story develop in a way that emotionally convinced me. The fake engagement trope created plenty of tension, but after 340+ pages, the romantic payoff felt weaker than I had hoped.
Overall, a warm and entertaining romance with charming characters, but one that didn't resonate with me emotionally as much as I expected.
Tropes and vibe:
Fake Engagement
Opposites Attract
Small Town / Countryside Romance
Lord of the Manor MMC
Slow Burn
Found Family Vibes
My Rating: overall 3
Emotional impact: 3 Character Connection: 3 Setting & Atmosphere: 3.75 Plot: 3 Writing: 4 Romance: 3
Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book. As always, these thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
May 8, 2026
I started Where Happy Begins with cautious optimism. I had enjoyed Morrey's 2024 Reach for the Stars but found that her 2025 release, Never Too Late, fell short for me.
I am happy to say that Where Happy Begins is the same quality as Reach for the Stars in my opinion.
It took me a tiny bit of time to get in to the idea that this was set in a stately manor house with a Lord and all that entails especially since it is set in present day. But then I found this very enjoyable. I loved the banter that our MFC provided for the story. Emmeline is a relatable main character.
This is what I would label a beach read. It is a fun rom-com that is closed door! Thank you very much. The only real downside to the story for me was that the tension of the storyline was resolved a little too neatly and a bit unrealistic I felt.
I received a ARC of this book from NetGalley and Boldwood Books in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
3.5 stars rounded up to 4.
I am happy to say that Where Happy Begins is the same quality as Reach for the Stars in my opinion.
It took me a tiny bit of time to get in to the idea that this was set in a stately manor house with a Lord and all that entails especially since it is set in present day. But then I found this very enjoyable. I loved the banter that our MFC provided for the story. Emmeline is a relatable main character.
This is what I would label a beach read. It is a fun rom-com that is closed door! Thank you very much. The only real downside to the story for me was that the tension of the storyline was resolved a little too neatly and a bit unrealistic I felt.
I received a ARC of this book from NetGalley and Boldwood Books in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
3.5 stars rounded up to 4.
May 22, 2026
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Wanting a change of scenery, Emmeline accepted a job that, quite literally, changed her life. Edward utterly swept her of her feet with his chivalrous and gentleman like behaviour. The story is easy to read, positive and full of funny banter and nice conversations, which I enjoyed. I was smiling through the whole book, only the epilogue felt a bit rushed.
Overall, I give this book 4 stars.
Wanting a change of scenery, Emmeline accepted a job that, quite literally, changed her life. Edward utterly swept her of her feet with his chivalrous and gentleman like behaviour. The story is easy to read, positive and full of funny banter and nice conversations, which I enjoyed. I was smiling through the whole book, only the epilogue felt a bit rushed.
Overall, I give this book 4 stars.
May 31, 2026
I love all of her books! This was no different. I enjoyed this story, but felt the ending was rushed.
July 4, 2026
Woman gets engaged to the same man 3 times but has only kissed him once in her whole life.
May 25, 2026
A quick and easy and TOTALLY UNREALISTIC fairy tale type of rom com. The characters are all nice (except Verity who has a late story turn). It’s so picture perfect that it’s rather silly but certainly if all your books are on hold and you just need something to keep your mind off the serious things in the world this might fit the bill. I’m curious about how old these characters are.. they acted a bit young for their career descriptions… not a bit of steam in this one it’s entirely super clean… and for that even more unrealistic.
May 25, 2026
Nothing was particularly wrong with this book, but the “I’m just POOR, he’s RICH, he could never love me or understand NORMAL people” got repetitive fast. The last 10% of the book was the best part and I enjoyed the pacing of that!
May 16, 2026
Very well written Morrey book. All of the "clumsy" moments could have been left out, as they really bring down the quality. It's such a trite and over-used "cute" thing. Otherwise, very entertaining.
June 10, 2026
The premise of the book is lovely. I really wanted to like it more however as the book went on the FMC became insufferable with her woe-is-me attitude. She makes her poor self confidence everyone else's problem.
June 6, 2026
2.5. Meh.
May 20, 2026
toooooo unrealistic
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for sending me this ARC!
Who doesn't love a good fake dating/fiance trope? I know I do, so when I read the description of this book I immediately requested it. Mix that with a "small town" romance, and a FMC looking for a change of scenery I was really excited to dive into this story.
It started off quite cute. We have our FMC, Emmeline, looking to make a change in her life after deciding advertising was no longer for her, and then our MMC, Edward, the Lord of Ashington Manor and Emmeline's new boss. As she begins her first days as the new under-gardener, she navigates her grumpy immediate boss, Isaac, and the manor's kindhearted and friendly family. During a visit to the manor one day, Lady Penelope (Edward's mother), declares that her son and Emmeline are engaged to be married in order to save face in front of her snooty frenemy, Fenella. That is where the plot really begins, as Emmy and Edward figure out what it means to be fake engaged and decide how long this ruse has to last.
Like I already said, I LOVE a good fake dating storyline. This, unfortunately, did absolutely nothing for me. I feel that the main characters lacked any chemistry and there was not really any romantic tension. Emmy spent the entire book (literally the entire book until the final chapter) trying to get out of the arrangement because she didn't feel like she belonged with such an aristocratic and wealthy family. She spends such a large chunk of the story talking about how snobby wealthy people are and how they look down on her, only do be doing the same thing to them the entire time and painting them all with the same brush. The Ashington's are perfectly normal and kind people, but Emmy is too far up her own arse to get off her own high horse. Her being upset that she can't flirt and date Krish halfway through the book because she is fake engaged was wild to me. Meanwhile Edward is pining over her and just about begging her to stay with him when the summer comes to an end. I swear Emmy was more attracted to the cars in this book than her supposed love interest.
On top of this, Emmeline was, in my opinion, an unlikeable character. She is such a pick me, "I'm not like other girls" character that I felt my eyes rolling often. She is very bland, and her defining characteristic is that she is insecure and is afraid of being perceived as a gold-digger. Which, valid given the circumstances, but that can't be the ONLY thing your character has going for them.
I felt like the epilogue was rushed, and it was basically a "and then they all lived happily every after. The end." I guess that's what was required though, considering 98% of the story was Emmeline trying to get away from Edward, so all those loose ends needed to be sorted out in a single chapter.
Who doesn't love a good fake dating/fiance trope? I know I do, so when I read the description of this book I immediately requested it. Mix that with a "small town" romance, and a FMC looking for a change of scenery I was really excited to dive into this story.
It started off quite cute. We have our FMC, Emmeline, looking to make a change in her life after deciding advertising was no longer for her, and then our MMC, Edward, the Lord of Ashington Manor and Emmeline's new boss. As she begins her first days as the new under-gardener, she navigates her grumpy immediate boss, Isaac, and the manor's kindhearted and friendly family. During a visit to the manor one day, Lady Penelope (Edward's mother), declares that her son and Emmeline are engaged to be married in order to save face in front of her snooty frenemy, Fenella. That is where the plot really begins, as Emmy and Edward figure out what it means to be fake engaged and decide how long this ruse has to last.
Like I already said, I LOVE a good fake dating storyline. This, unfortunately, did absolutely nothing for me. I feel that the main characters lacked any chemistry and there was not really any romantic tension. Emmy spent the entire book (literally the entire book until the final chapter) trying to get out of the arrangement because she didn't feel like she belonged with such an aristocratic and wealthy family. She spends such a large chunk of the story talking about how snobby wealthy people are and how they look down on her, only do be doing the same thing to them the entire time and painting them all with the same brush. The Ashington's are perfectly normal and kind people, but Emmy is too far up her own arse to get off her own high horse. Her being upset that she can't flirt and date Krish halfway through the book because she is fake engaged was wild to me. Meanwhile Edward is pining over her and just about begging her to stay with him when the summer comes to an end. I swear Emmy was more attracted to the cars in this book than her supposed love interest.
On top of this, Emmeline was, in my opinion, an unlikeable character. She is such a pick me, "I'm not like other girls" character that I felt my eyes rolling often. She is very bland, and her defining characteristic is that she is insecure and is afraid of being perceived as a gold-digger. Which, valid given the circumstances, but that can't be the ONLY thing your character has going for them.
I felt like the epilogue was rushed, and it was basically a "and then they all lived happily every after. The end." I guess that's what was required though, considering 98% of the story was Emmeline trying to get away from Edward, so all those loose ends needed to be sorted out in a single chapter.
May 16, 2026
Emmeline Buchanan has been let go from her job in advertising. She had truly become bored with it all and needs a change. Thus, she answers an ad for an under-gardener at Ashington Manor, a large estate in Herefordshire.
Exiting the train, she is met by a man who introduces himself as Isaac Woodhouse, who will be her new boss. He offers to give her a lift to the estate in his ancient Range Rover. While Emmeline has done some gardening in the past, she has not done all that she stated on her CV. He is cool toward her and she tries to be pleasant.
The estate is very large and beautiful and she will live rent-free in a beautiful cottage called Rose Cottage. She has been left some supplies and will be able to help herself to the garden for vegetables.
When her power goes out that night, she heads to the main house and is welcomed by a woman named Penelope. She assumes the woman is the housekeeper and they enjoy a nice chat. Then, Edward Ashington enters the room and is shocked to see her there with what she soon learns is not the housekeeper but his mother! Emmeline is very embarrassed but Penelope just laughs and says they have had a lovely time together. Edward feels Emmeline has overstepped and lets her know that.
Then she begins work with Issac who soon lets her know she lied on her CV as he checked. She’s embarrassed but carries on with the ridiculous chores he gives her. That’s when she meets Edward’s younger brother Barnaby who is a happy-go-lucky kind of guy and so different from Edward. Before long, a misunderstanding happens when an obviously nosy woman arrives at the big house when Emmeline is visiting with Penelope and introduces her as Edward’s fiancee. Both she and Edward are shocked and wonder how they are going to get out of this. But it’s when they get together to discuss the situation, that he realizes Emmeline is a strong woman and has a mind of her own and will not be pushed into anything. Whoa! Edward has met his match. Now, how do they get out of this situation?
I was taken with Emmeline at first with her brazen try at applying for this new job. But as her interactions with Issac and the Ashington family grew, I felt that she was way too forward, pushy, outspoken and sassy. A little bit of humility would have gone a long way here.
Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Exiting the train, she is met by a man who introduces himself as Isaac Woodhouse, who will be her new boss. He offers to give her a lift to the estate in his ancient Range Rover. While Emmeline has done some gardening in the past, she has not done all that she stated on her CV. He is cool toward her and she tries to be pleasant.
The estate is very large and beautiful and she will live rent-free in a beautiful cottage called Rose Cottage. She has been left some supplies and will be able to help herself to the garden for vegetables.
When her power goes out that night, she heads to the main house and is welcomed by a woman named Penelope. She assumes the woman is the housekeeper and they enjoy a nice chat. Then, Edward Ashington enters the room and is shocked to see her there with what she soon learns is not the housekeeper but his mother! Emmeline is very embarrassed but Penelope just laughs and says they have had a lovely time together. Edward feels Emmeline has overstepped and lets her know that.
Then she begins work with Issac who soon lets her know she lied on her CV as he checked. She’s embarrassed but carries on with the ridiculous chores he gives her. That’s when she meets Edward’s younger brother Barnaby who is a happy-go-lucky kind of guy and so different from Edward. Before long, a misunderstanding happens when an obviously nosy woman arrives at the big house when Emmeline is visiting with Penelope and introduces her as Edward’s fiancee. Both she and Edward are shocked and wonder how they are going to get out of this. But it’s when they get together to discuss the situation, that he realizes Emmeline is a strong woman and has a mind of her own and will not be pushed into anything. Whoa! Edward has met his match. Now, how do they get out of this situation?
I was taken with Emmeline at first with her brazen try at applying for this new job. But as her interactions with Issac and the Ashington family grew, I felt that she was way too forward, pushy, outspoken and sassy. A little bit of humility would have gone a long way here.
Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
June 25, 2026
Thank you @boldwoodbooks @librofm #partner for the gifted copy of this audiobook.
Where Happy Begins absolutely screamed my name because...have you seen that cover?! 😍 I mean how freaking cute is it? It’s pink and those cute vases sucked me right in. Let’s be honest, don’t they all? 😂
This one is about a girl named Emmy who leaves her city career behind for a gardening job at a beautiful country estate. Sign me up because I want that job! Anywho, she finds herself unexpectedly caught up in a fake engagement with Edward (the estate owner) because...welp there is a mom somewhere in there. What starts as a simple arrangement soon becomes a lot more complicated as real feelings begin to develop.
This was such a cute clean romance but it was also more serious than I expected. I really loved that the author didn’t make getting these two together feel inevitable. Even though this is a fake engagement story, there was a lot more struggle and uncertainty along the way than I anticipated. These characters felt mature (they were older, around 40) and were very thoughtful of their choices. I think how genuinely considerate they were of how their choices affected each others made their relationship feel authentic to me.
I did love that their relationship started as more of a friendship and then bloomed into something more. I was honestly surprised by how long it took for them to get together. I will say though....there were only minutes left in the book and I was still wondering how everything was going to work out! 😂 That’s probably my only gripe in this one. I would have loved a little more time with them as an actual couple before the story wrapped up because the ending felt just a tiny bit rushed.
I did think that the epilogue was adorable though and I really liked where everyone ended up. Overall, this was a sweet, feel-good read that left me smiling. 💕
Where Happy Begins absolutely screamed my name because...have you seen that cover?! 😍 I mean how freaking cute is it? It’s pink and those cute vases sucked me right in. Let’s be honest, don’t they all? 😂
This one is about a girl named Emmy who leaves her city career behind for a gardening job at a beautiful country estate. Sign me up because I want that job! Anywho, she finds herself unexpectedly caught up in a fake engagement with Edward (the estate owner) because...welp there is a mom somewhere in there. What starts as a simple arrangement soon becomes a lot more complicated as real feelings begin to develop.
This was such a cute clean romance but it was also more serious than I expected. I really loved that the author didn’t make getting these two together feel inevitable. Even though this is a fake engagement story, there was a lot more struggle and uncertainty along the way than I anticipated. These characters felt mature (they were older, around 40) and were very thoughtful of their choices. I think how genuinely considerate they were of how their choices affected each others made their relationship feel authentic to me.
I did love that their relationship started as more of a friendship and then bloomed into something more. I was honestly surprised by how long it took for them to get together. I will say though....there were only minutes left in the book and I was still wondering how everything was going to work out! 😂 That’s probably my only gripe in this one. I would have loved a little more time with them as an actual couple before the story wrapped up because the ending felt just a tiny bit rushed.
I did think that the epilogue was adorable though and I really liked where everyone ended up. Overall, this was a sweet, feel-good read that left me smiling. 💕
July 16, 2026
This book was provided to me by Netgalley as an ARC
***
Where Happy Begins was such a lovely, comforting read. From the very beginning, I found myself rooting for Emmeline as she left behind her stressful career to start over at Ashington House, and I really enjoyed watching her slowly find both confidence and a place where she truly belonged.
The fake engagement between Emmy and Edward was handled really well. Their relationship developed naturally, and I liked that their romance was built on friendship, mutual respect and getting to know each other rather than instant attraction. Edward was a genuinely kind love interest beneath his reserved exterior, and Lady Penelope completely stole every scene she was in. She brought so much warmth and humour to the story that she quickly became one of my favourite characters.
The countryside setting also added so much charm. It was one of those books that was simply easy to sink into, with a cast of likeable characters and an overall feel-good atmosphere that made me look forward to picking it up every time.
My only real criticism is that the transition from the middle of the book to the ending felt a little too abrupt. The story takes its time developing Emmy and Edward's relationship, but once the final conflict arrives, everything is resolved very quickly. I would have loved a few more chapters to let those emotions breathe and make the conclusion feel as satisfying as everything that came before.
Overall, this was a heartwarming romance with memorable characters, plenty of cosy moments and just the right amount of humour. Despite the slightly rushed ending, I had a wonderful time reading it and will happily pick up more books by Maxine Morrey.
***
Where Happy Begins was such a lovely, comforting read. From the very beginning, I found myself rooting for Emmeline as she left behind her stressful career to start over at Ashington House, and I really enjoyed watching her slowly find both confidence and a place where she truly belonged.
The fake engagement between Emmy and Edward was handled really well. Their relationship developed naturally, and I liked that their romance was built on friendship, mutual respect and getting to know each other rather than instant attraction. Edward was a genuinely kind love interest beneath his reserved exterior, and Lady Penelope completely stole every scene she was in. She brought so much warmth and humour to the story that she quickly became one of my favourite characters.
The countryside setting also added so much charm. It was one of those books that was simply easy to sink into, with a cast of likeable characters and an overall feel-good atmosphere that made me look forward to picking it up every time.
My only real criticism is that the transition from the middle of the book to the ending felt a little too abrupt. The story takes its time developing Emmy and Edward's relationship, but once the final conflict arrives, everything is resolved very quickly. I would have loved a few more chapters to let those emotions breathe and make the conclusion feel as satisfying as everything that came before.
Overall, this was a heartwarming romance with memorable characters, plenty of cosy moments and just the right amount of humour. Despite the slightly rushed ending, I had a wonderful time reading it and will happily pick up more books by Maxine Morrey.
May 29, 2026
It took me about two chapters to really settle into this story, but once it clicked, I absolutely loved it. The British slang and humor are easily the standout charm of this book — genuinely laugh‑out‑loud moments that made the whole reading experience warm, cozy, and so much fun. Emmy’s voice feels fresh, and the setting at Ashington House is exactly the kind of escapist, summery backdrop I adore.
The plot itself is fantastic. Fake engagement, stately home shenanigans, a slightly awkward lord of the manor, and a heroine who is just trying to find her happiness — I was hooked. I found myself hanging on every word once the story found its rhythm, and the chemistry between Emmy and Edward is sweet, slow‑building, and believable.
This had all the makings of a 5‑star read for me… until the ending.
The entire book builds toward what feels like it should be a big, emotional, satisfying payoff, but the final 10% rushes through the third‑act conflict and resolution so quickly that it loses its impact. The execution felt flat and a little ungenuine, especially compared to how strong and engaging the rest of the story was. I wanted more time, more emotion, more oomph.
Still, the journey was delightful, and Maxine Morrey’s writing has a charm that’s impossible to resist. Even with the ending wobble, this was a thoroughly enjoyable read, and I’ll absolutely pick up whatever she writes next.
The plot itself is fantastic. Fake engagement, stately home shenanigans, a slightly awkward lord of the manor, and a heroine who is just trying to find her happiness — I was hooked. I found myself hanging on every word once the story found its rhythm, and the chemistry between Emmy and Edward is sweet, slow‑building, and believable.
This had all the makings of a 5‑star read for me… until the ending.
The entire book builds toward what feels like it should be a big, emotional, satisfying payoff, but the final 10% rushes through the third‑act conflict and resolution so quickly that it loses its impact. The execution felt flat and a little ungenuine, especially compared to how strong and engaging the rest of the story was. I wanted more time, more emotion, more oomph.
Still, the journey was delightful, and Maxine Morrey’s writing has a charm that’s impossible to resist. Even with the ending wobble, this was a thoroughly enjoyable read, and I’ll absolutely pick up whatever she writes next.
May 12, 2026
Feeling stuck and unfulfilled in her city career, Emmeline Beaumont takes a leap of faith and accepts a job as a gardener at the beautiful Ashington House, even though she had to stretch the truth about her qualifications. Hoping for a peaceful summer surrounded by flowers and fresh air, Emmy instead finds herself entangled in an outrageous situation when Lady Penelope announces, without any warning, that Emmy is engaged to her son Edward. Reluctantly agreeing to maintain the charade to keep her job, Emmy soon discovers that Edward is far more than he first appears. Soon their fake engagement begins to feel all too real, and Emmy is forced to confront what happiness truly means.
This is a classic fake-dating trope done really well, as the story has plenty of charm and emotional depth. I found the writing conjured up vivid images of Ashington House, making it easy to get swept up in the countryside atmosphere. The romance built at a satisfying pace, and the chemistry between Emmy and Edward was believable and very sweet. I found myself smiling throughout this lovely romance.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This is a classic fake-dating trope done really well, as the story has plenty of charm and emotional depth. I found the writing conjured up vivid images of Ashington House, making it easy to get swept up in the countryside atmosphere. The romance built at a satisfying pace, and the chemistry between Emmy and Edward was believable and very sweet. I found myself smiling throughout this lovely romance.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 16, 2026
“Where Happy Begins” by Maxine Morrey is a sweet modern fairy tale that provides a read as comforting as a cozy blanket and a warm cup of tea on a winter afternoon. Emmeline Beaumont leaves her job in toxic advertising to start a whole new life: as the undergardener on an estate. At first, it looks like everything is going wrong—it doesn’t take long for people to find out that she wasn’t entirely honest on her resume for her gardening qualifications. And her first night in her assigned cottage is a disaster—the water and electricity goes out just as she is shampooing her hair in the shower. Emmeline tries to hunt down some matches for the candles she’s found and knocks on who she believes to be the housekeeper’s door. At least the housekeeper offered her an enthusiastic welcome and let her warm up in her bath and provided her with a hot drink. But it turns out this friendly woman is not the housekeeper, but the lady of the manor.
What follows is a series of fun events that takes you on a very pleasant ride. Certainly nothing realistic about this book, but that’s what fairy tales are all about.
Many thanks to Net Galley and to the publisher for an ARC of this book. My opinions are my own.
What follows is a series of fun events that takes you on a very pleasant ride. Certainly nothing realistic about this book, but that’s what fairy tales are all about.
Many thanks to Net Galley and to the publisher for an ARC of this book. My opinions are my own.
June 30, 2026
In this rewarding and heartwarming new release, readers follow Emmeline Buchanan as she leaves her city job behind for a gardener position at Ashington House. Though she lied about her degree and experience, Emmy is warmly welcomed by Lady Penelope and looks forward to her work even though her boss and Edward, the lord of the manor, are a bit rude and abrupt. Emmy is definitely not ready for Lady Penelope to claim that Edward and Emmy are engaged and for them to keep up the pretence over the summer. As they spend time together, Emmy soon realizes she might have made a mistake, and Edward is much kinder than he first seemed. Tropey, entertaining, and fun, readers will love the rough first meeting to fake dating arc and the dynamics Emmy has with characters other than Edward (though their relationship is the cornerstone of the story). Ashington House is imposing and well-written, while the details that bring the community around it to life immerse readers in the narrative. The tropes are integrated into the story and help push Emmy and Edward’s relationship along, and modern romance readers looking for a fun new read will love this new title from Maxine Morrey.
Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the advance copy.
Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the advance copy.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
If you are tired of romances that feel loud, chaotic, or emotionally exhausting, this one might be exactly what you need.
Happiness does not arrive with fireworks here, and I loved that. It grows quietly through small decisions, fresh starts, and the courage to let people back in. The story never talks down to you or spells out the message. It just lets the moments happen and trusts you to feel them.
I connected easily with the main character. She feels real, a little flawed, and genuinely trying. Her search for happiness didn’t feel glossy or forced, it felt lived in. The romance unfolds slowly through everyday interactions, good conversation, and emotional trust. No chaos. No unnecessary drama. Just connection building at a pace that actually makes sense. The banter is natural, and the relationship is given room to breathe.
This is the kind of romance I reach for when life feels loud and I want something gentle but still satisfying. A true palate cleanser with strong comfort‑read energy and a calm, reassuring pace. I really enjoyed this one.
★★★★
I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.
Happiness does not arrive with fireworks here, and I loved that. It grows quietly through small decisions, fresh starts, and the courage to let people back in. The story never talks down to you or spells out the message. It just lets the moments happen and trusts you to feel them.
I connected easily with the main character. She feels real, a little flawed, and genuinely trying. Her search for happiness didn’t feel glossy or forced, it felt lived in. The romance unfolds slowly through everyday interactions, good conversation, and emotional trust. No chaos. No unnecessary drama. Just connection building at a pace that actually makes sense. The banter is natural, and the relationship is given room to breathe.
This is the kind of romance I reach for when life feels loud and I want something gentle but still satisfying. A true palate cleanser with strong comfort‑read energy and a calm, reassuring pace. I really enjoyed this one.
★★★★
I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Emmeline becomes disenchanted with her position in a marketing company, when she is made redundant she applies for a position as an under-gardener at a stately home, saying in her cv that she studied at Kew Gardens . When she arrives she realises that she's been rumbled already, but is kept on anyway and makes friends with Penelope, not realising that she's actually the widowed Lady of the Manor. She is then caught up in a fake fiance scheme with Edward, the young Lord of the Manor.
I loved this book, which is light hearted and made a change from some of the more serious, but worthy, books that I've been reading lately. I can see where Emmeline is coming from, I liked her character and understood her concerns regarding being accepted by "posh" society. I equally liked Edward, showing a modern side of the aristocracy and its obligations and a wry smile under the grumpy exterior. A definite recommendation from me for a very pleasant way of passing a few hours and lifting your mood.
I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher through Netgalley, however this did not influence my review of the book.
I loved this book, which is light hearted and made a change from some of the more serious, but worthy, books that I've been reading lately. I can see where Emmeline is coming from, I liked her character and understood her concerns regarding being accepted by "posh" society. I equally liked Edward, showing a modern side of the aristocracy and its obligations and a wry smile under the grumpy exterior. A definite recommendation from me for a very pleasant way of passing a few hours and lifting your mood.
I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher through Netgalley, however this did not influence my review of the book.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A lovely, laid back story with interesting characters.
Emmy has had enough of her city career and on impulse applies for a job as an under-gardener at a stately home, 'slightly' exaggerating her credentials, and gets the job! Once there it's obvious she hasn't got the experience she said she had, but she's a hard worker and wins everyone around with her willingness to throw herself into the job, and also her friendliness with everyone, from the gardener to the Lord of the Manor.
Things take an amusing turn when Emmy accidentally becomes pretend engaged to the Lord of the Manor, Edward, when his mother, Lady Penelope, who Emmy has grown very close to, has had enough of a snobby neighbour! Both take it in good part, and there's a lot of banter between them, and the family. The fake engagement was only supposed to be for a short time though, which keeps getting extended as the situation becomes a bit more complicated.
A real feel-good story, with a HEA in a lovely setting. Very enjoyable.
Emmy has had enough of her city career and on impulse applies for a job as an under-gardener at a stately home, 'slightly' exaggerating her credentials, and gets the job! Once there it's obvious she hasn't got the experience she said she had, but she's a hard worker and wins everyone around with her willingness to throw herself into the job, and also her friendliness with everyone, from the gardener to the Lord of the Manor.
Things take an amusing turn when Emmy accidentally becomes pretend engaged to the Lord of the Manor, Edward, when his mother, Lady Penelope, who Emmy has grown very close to, has had enough of a snobby neighbour! Both take it in good part, and there's a lot of banter between them, and the family. The fake engagement was only supposed to be for a short time though, which keeps getting extended as the situation becomes a bit more complicated.
A real feel-good story, with a HEA in a lovely setting. Very enjoyable.
May 31, 2026
This was a joy to read.
Fed up with her job in advertising Emmeline, Emmy to her friends, decided she needed a complete change of scene and having seen an advert in a magazine applied to be an under-gardener at Ashington Manor in the English countryside. She may have embellished her CV, but everyone did that didn’t they. She was interviewed by Barnaby, the younger brother of the owner, who thought she would be a great addition to the gardens and offered her the job and a cottage on the property.
Unfortunately, the gardener saw through her claims and set her very arduous and smelly tasks in the hope of making her quit, but she didn’t. She was mid-shower when there was a power cut and the water stopped. There were no matches for the candles so she decided to trek to the main house to ask the housekeeper for some matches. She was the lovely lady who had stocked her fridge with food and left gorgeous toiletries in the bathroom. The lady was kindness itself and they were having a lovely time until her son came in and Emmy realised she had been talking to Penelope, Lady Ashington, and not the housekeeper. Edward Ashington was less than happy to see her with his mother and escorted off the premises and her back to her cottage.
This set the tone for their future relationship until Penelope told a fib, which escalated. This was a story of secrets, misunderstandings, outright snobbery and happy events. I enjoyed every minute.
Fed up with her job in advertising Emmeline, Emmy to her friends, decided she needed a complete change of scene and having seen an advert in a magazine applied to be an under-gardener at Ashington Manor in the English countryside. She may have embellished her CV, but everyone did that didn’t they. She was interviewed by Barnaby, the younger brother of the owner, who thought she would be a great addition to the gardens and offered her the job and a cottage on the property.
Unfortunately, the gardener saw through her claims and set her very arduous and smelly tasks in the hope of making her quit, but she didn’t. She was mid-shower when there was a power cut and the water stopped. There were no matches for the candles so she decided to trek to the main house to ask the housekeeper for some matches. She was the lovely lady who had stocked her fridge with food and left gorgeous toiletries in the bathroom. The lady was kindness itself and they were having a lovely time until her son came in and Emmy realised she had been talking to Penelope, Lady Ashington, and not the housekeeper. Edward Ashington was less than happy to see her with his mother and escorted off the premises and her back to her cottage.
This set the tone for their future relationship until Penelope told a fib, which escalated. This was a story of secrets, misunderstandings, outright snobbery and happy events. I enjoyed every minute.
June 13, 2026
This was such a cute story! If you want something to distract you from current world events, I would really recommend this book :)
Emmeline applies for a job whilst fudging her qualifications a little bit. She is a hardworking young woman but just doesn't have those pesky bits of paper that are required, but surely that doesn't really matter at the end of the day, right? Hmm, she is rumbled pretty quickly but she soon finds her feet, working as a gardener for the local gentry. Lady Penelope is a delightful lady who isn't even slightly bothered by the difference in status between them and as the book went on, I really wanted her adopt me.
The only fly in the ointment is a little fib that Lady Penelope has told....well, it is actually quite a BIG fib and has consequences for everyone in her orbit.
I won't go into the ins and outs of the storyline; suffice to say that getting to know these people was really lovely and I can only hope that this is the start of a series. Please?
4.5 stars from me.
Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books.
Emmeline applies for a job whilst fudging her qualifications a little bit. She is a hardworking young woman but just doesn't have those pesky bits of paper that are required, but surely that doesn't really matter at the end of the day, right? Hmm, she is rumbled pretty quickly but she soon finds her feet, working as a gardener for the local gentry. Lady Penelope is a delightful lady who isn't even slightly bothered by the difference in status between them and as the book went on, I really wanted her adopt me.
The only fly in the ointment is a little fib that Lady Penelope has told....well, it is actually quite a BIG fib and has consequences for everyone in her orbit.
I won't go into the ins and outs of the storyline; suffice to say that getting to know these people was really lovely and I can only hope that this is the start of a series. Please?
4.5 stars from me.
Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books.
May 29, 2026
I do love a fake dating / fake marriage scheme. I also enjoyed Emmeline's desire to create a completely different life for herself. I'm sure we've all thought of doing that ourselves at one point or another. It was also pretty funny that she totally lied about her credentials and all the ensuing teasing that went on. I only gave this 3 stars, because although I do love this trope, I found some of it to be a bit too unbelievable. I think they definitely would have fired her for lying on her resume. But even not, the fact that Edward clearly liked Emmeline early on and she just kept using that silly excuse rather than just giving it a go was annoying. I did like the side characters as well, they all brought a bit of fun to the story. Also, as another reviewer said, the epilogue is pretty lack luster and unfulfilling.
I did enjoy the narrator for the audio book version. She did a great job.
I did enjoy the narrator for the audio book version. She did a great job.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This book was such a hoot. I was laughing so much and I just couldn't put it down. It was such a delight.
Emmeline, a woman burned out from her advertising job, decided to apply for a gardening job close to her family, in a Lord's estate, but because she doesn't have any official education or experience for it, she lied on her resume, and got hired.
Edward, the Lord himself, was a bit stiff at first, but then he relaxed and was a very sweet mmc.
Their "engagement" caught them both off guard, but with every new date and interaction they started to understand each other deeper and sparkles started flying.
This book was exactly what I needed. I loved it so much and can't wait to check more books from this author.
Thank you NetGalley, Boldwood books and Maxine Morrey for this ARC!
Emmeline, a woman burned out from her advertising job, decided to apply for a gardening job close to her family, in a Lord's estate, but because she doesn't have any official education or experience for it, she lied on her resume, and got hired.
Edward, the Lord himself, was a bit stiff at first, but then he relaxed and was a very sweet mmc.
Their "engagement" caught them both off guard, but with every new date and interaction they started to understand each other deeper and sparkles started flying.
This book was exactly what I needed. I loved it so much and can't wait to check more books from this author.
Thank you NetGalley, Boldwood books and Maxine Morrey for this ARC!
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